Regardless of whether you are just starting to train your dog or have been training your four-legged friend for a while, the question remains: How do I get my dog to trust me completely and to look to me for guidance? So that the other dog, the deer in the bushes or some other stimulus is not more interesting than me?
The answer is as simple as it is essential: clear rules and lovingly set boundaries – or as I call it: orientation .
But before we go into more detail, let's make one thing clear: This is not about dominance or strictness. Rather, it is about giving your dog security and showing him what you expect from him. Because orientation creates trust - and trust is the basis for a harmonious human-dog relationship.
Why clear boundaries are so important
Dogs learn through associations. They associate every action they perform with a consequence – be it positive or negative. Their behavior is based on whether it is worthwhile for them or not.
Clear boundaries and rules help your dog understand what is allowed and what is not. They give him security and prevent him from having to make his own decisions in uncertain moments that could put him or others in danger.
With orientation, you can not only build trust, but also create the basis for a relaxed relationship - on walks, in everyday life or in new, challenging situations.
Three Steps to Clear Boundaries
How do you put this orientation into practice?
1. Act with foresight
Observe your dog closely. Recognize patterns and learn to anticipate situations in which undesirable behavior could occur. For example, if you know that your dog reacts to game, you can intervene in time before he charges off.
The better you understand your dog, the more effectively you can help him make the right decisions.
2. Consistency is key
Rules only work if they always apply. If a certain action is allowed one day and not the next, you will confuse your dog.
Consistency gives your dog reliability – and this is exactly what he needs in order to be able to orient himself towards you.
3. The right timing
When training a dog, every second counts. A reward or consequence should be given within 1-2 seconds so that your dog can understand the connection.
If you react too late, your dog may associate the consequence with the wrong action – and this can lead to misunderstandings.
Setting boundaries means providing orientation
Clear, lovingly set boundaries are not a sign of harshness, but an expression of responsibility. They show your dog that he can rely on you and that you are taking the lead.
By giving your dog guidance, you lay the foundation for trust, respect and a deep bond. Your dog will feel safe and will be less distracted by external stimuli - because he knows that you are the one who shows him the way.
Conclusion: A harmonious relationship with your dog starts with you.
Create orientation through clear rules, consistency and proactive action – and watch as the trust between you and your dog grows.
Always remember: setting boundaries does not mean restricting your dog, but giving him the freedom to move safely and relaxed in your world.