Cesar Milan, the "Dog Whisperer" has a philosphy that I agree with: Exercise, Discipline, and Play... in that order. I use gentle negative reinforcement, particularly for letting Bailey go outside. Even in the enclosed back yard. Combined with a treat ("cookie") it seems to work. He doesn't go outside until I tell him it is ok. Slow process, but if you are consistent, I am sure it will work.
Leaving the gate opened, all bets are off. I keep a lock on my back yard gate so it requires a conscious effort to go in and out of the back yard. |