MCCLATCHEY’S PROTOCOL

for eliminating undesirable behavior in dogs:

PREVENT PROVIDE PROHIBIT PRACTICE PRAISE

• PREVENT the dog from having the opportunity to do the unwanted behavior.

Example 1: When housebreaking, crate the dog when you cannot watch him.

Example 2: If the dog chews your shoes, put the shoes in your closet and close the door.

• PROVIDE the dog with an equally attractive alternative.

Example 1: Take the dog on leash to where you want him to urinate and defecate.

Example 2: Give her a sterilized beef bone with a piece of "marrow" (such as Rollover) in it.

• PROHIBIT the wrong behavior as soon as the dog begins to think about it.

Example 1: When the dog starts to squat or lift his leg in the house (you’re watching him, remember?), shout "NO!" and rush him outside.

Example 2: If the dog does get hold of a shoe, say "Ah-ah-ah!" and take it away.

(But don’t try to scold if you find the already chewed-up shoe. This works only if the dog is caught in the act.)

• PRACTICE a command that the dog knows or is working on learning.

Example 1: Use the command word you want for urination or defecation, such as "Go pee." or "Big business."

Example 2: Tell the dog to sit (and be sure she does it).

• PRAISE the dog enthusiastically for the good behavior of obeying your command.