Saying Please

Saying Please

I’m sure you could offer many instances of the need to teach your dogs some polite behaviors, to say, “Please.” 

Let’s ask our dogs to say please and ask for privileges such as access to outdoors, access back indoors, a favorite toy, a nice meal in their bowl, a trip to Wendy’s, a ride in the car, a trip to the dog park, having their leash put on, getting a treat, or whatever is of interest toyour dog…even getting on the sofa.  This part is easy. For instance, before placing Rover's dinner on the floor, ask for a sit. By doing so, s/he will be saying “please.” Do the same before opening the door, before getting in the car, getting out of the car.  Sometimes you may want them to sit and wait a few moments. That’s practicing some impulse control also, which will help them out greatly on many occasions.

If we ask our dogs to sit and they don’t comply, what do we do? Push their butts down?  Heck no! It is their choice.  Seems to me if they don’t comply, they lose the privilege of a treat, attention, going out the door, or whatever is to be gained. So the answer to their choice is, “Sorry”  (as in, “You blew it”).  Then walk away. You can certainly ask again in a few moments if they’d like to try again and I’ll bet they’ll eagerly comply.  This is non-confrontational.

You will need to be alert and to increase your awareness of those opportunities for dogs to say please.

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