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Originally Posted by Brendajoyce  I have just read from several sources about the NILIF program and just tried one for the first time. He wanted to be picked up for a belly rub, he sat still but I didn't respond as the sit is for when he gets food treat. Then he did a bow. I responded to it and used word bow. Bow will be the command he has to do when he wants pets. |
I'd use a different word for every thing he must do before he gets his reward of dinner or to jump up on the couch, gets a kiss or to get a toy or go outside or whatever and in time he will learn a whole language that he readily and happily responds to. Dogs just love NILIF and love to show you how eager they are to learn what you want them to do in order to get their gratification. If they mess up and jump up or don't do what you are asking - they get nothing and soon begin to learn that doing what you ask, sitting before they get their dinner or stopping and waiting before they get to go out back to potty, etc., is what eventually brings them the thing they so desire. Slowly, during the use of the program, they learn self-control and become more self-confident and learn the joy of keeping you happy and how it benefits them. That program, combined with some obedience training and setting boundaries that you unemotionally and using no fear tactics or other objectional aids(not recommended for highly nervous/fearful dogs) , will put almost any formerly wild-acting but healthy dog to rights in pretty short order.