Dog Behaviour Training: Why Boundaries Are Key to Success

You turn your back for just a split second, and suddenly your dog is on the counter, devouring your roast chicken dinner or dashing out the front door and down the street. Does that sound familiar?

Whether it’s sneaking food, destroying furniture, bolting through doors, jumping up on guests, or following you around the house like a shadow, dogs can certainly create a whirlwind of chaos. However, dogs flourish when provided with clear boundaries, as these guidelines foster a sense of safety and security. It’s not about exerting control; it’s about cultivating a structured environment where both you and your furry friend feel secure and understood.

Today, we’ll explore the importance of establishing boundaries for our dogs while addressing common misunderstandings and mistakes related to rules in canine behaviour.

What is a Boundary?

Boundaries are important in all aspects of life, for all living animals. But what is a boundary?

A boundary is a clearly defined rule or limit. Where one thing starts and another ends.

Boundaries can be categorised as physical, behavioural, or emotional. For example, the fence surrounding your back garden serves as a physical boundary. Similarly, if you prefer not to be touched by certain individuals, that constitutes an emotional boundary.

For your dog, physical boundaries include crates, gates, fences, and leads—these tangible barriers help keep your dog secure and prevent them from escaping or wandering.

Behavioural boundaries consist of the rules you establish and teach your dog, such as refraining from jumping on guests or begging at the dinner table.

Emotional boundaries are unique to each dog and their owner. Some dogs thrive on human interaction, while others may tolerate it, and a few might prefer not to be touched by anyone other than their owner. These emotional boundaries are expressed through their behaviour, and it’s our responsibility to interpret their body language and respect their limits. We must advocate for our dogs in public spaces, as they depend on us to communicate their needs effectively.

Why are Boundaries Important?

Providing boundaries can reduce destructive behaviour

Rules and limits are crucial for dogs for many reasons, yet they are often underused or overused. Many people expect their dogs to simply know the rules and follow them, leading to confusion, frustration, and anger when the dog does not comply. But without proper training, how is a dog meant to know what is expected of them?

Boundaries are important because:

• Keeps your dog safe - Some dogs may not be reliable off lead or might dash through an open door. Physical boundaries help ensure your dog’s safety by preventing unwanted accidents. For dogs that can’t be trusted off lead, it’s best to keep them on a lead for their own safety, as well as for the safety of other dogs, wildlife, and people. If your off-lead dog were to bite an on-lead dog, it could lead to serious consequences for you and your dog, including potential law suits or your dog being put down. Crates or baby gates are great options for containing a dog if the doors are open and there’s a flight risk.

• Makes your dog feel safe - Physical safety and emotional safety are two different concepts. Boundaries help create routine and provide dogs with a clear understanding of what is expected of them, which fosters confidence and reduces anxiety. Dogs without rules and limits often feel confused and may display destructive behaviours.

• Encourages good behaviour - Clear rules that have been reinforced through training can prevent unwanted behaviours such as excessive barking, stealing food, or jumping up. Using positive reinforcement, training can teach your dog what is expected of them and help them become the best version of themselves.

• Supports their independence - A dog who is confident in their safety and understands the expectations placed upon them is better able to self-regulate. When a dog's needs are met, they are more likely to feel secure and self-assured. Confident dogs are less anxious, more self-reliant, and don’t need to be underfoot constantly. They can comfortably be themselves, which also reduces the likelihood of destructive behaviours when left alone, such as separation anxiety.

• Builds a strong bond between you and your dog - Dogs that feel safe and understand that you are in charge will trust you and respect you, and that respect goes both ways. If your dog has all their needs met, they will look to you for guidance. You are their companion and having a strong connection will make training easier and create a beautiful relationship.

• Prevents frustration or displacement behaviour - Displacement behaviour happens when a dog doesn't understand the command or doesn't want to comply, and frustration behaviours are often similar. Barking, sniffing, rolling over, trying to play are all examples of a dog trying to avoid a command. This isn't because they are being naughty, normally the command isn't one they know or the motivation isn't rewarding enough (the reward for the behaviour.)

  
  

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions in Establishing Boundaries

Establishing boundaries with your dog will not damage your bond; nor will it instill fear in your pet or leave them feeling depressed or confused. However, it is essential to implement these boundaries correctly to ensure a positive outcome.

Many dog owners mistakenly believe that setting boundaries is unkind and detracts from the joy of having a dog. In reality, failing to establish rules and limits can lead to chaos both at home and beyond. Dogs without proper guidance may become destructive, anxious, reactive, and challenging to live with. When they are unsure of what is expected of them, they may feel unsafe and unstable, which can even lead to aggression.

Boundaries do not harm your dog if introduced correctly and not overused or underused

On the other hand, dogs subjected to overly strict boundaries can also experience anxiety, heightened arousal, or may even shut down entirely.

The key lies in providing clear rules and boundaries while teaching them what is expected, all delivered with gentleness and compassion. It’s vital to learn to read your dog’s body language and understand their unique forms of communication.

Additionally, it’s important to recognise that boundaries can evolve over time, sometimes even within a matter of minutes. Being flexible with your boundaries is not a sign of weakness; it won’t undermine your bond with your dog. Consistency is crucial, however, and everyone who interacts with your dog should be aligned with the established rules and methods of reward or correction.

Boundaries Do Work: A Real-Life Example

Let me share a real-life example to illustrate the effectiveness of boundaries.

When I rescued my dog, Anayah, she was pure chaos—a lively Tigger who bounced on her hind legs instead of walking, with enough energy to power my entire village if I could just harness it in a hamster wheel.

Anayah had spent four months in a shelter, lived in a car for a year prior, and before that, she came from a Covid-19 lockdown litter. She had no understanding of boundaries and was frightened by everyday items like tea towels and spray bottles. It was clear that her previous family had attempted to use these "tools" to curb her barking (she's half husky, and quite chatty), but instead of helping, they made her anxiety ten times worse.

Giving Anayah a structure improved her behaviour and confidence!

When she arrived home, I focused on crate training her, establishing clear rules, and teaching her how to behave. I provided outlets for her boundless energy and engaged her mind to help tire her out.

Fast forward three and a half years since her rescue, and Anayah has made remarkable progress. She can now settle comfortably in the house, happily chilling in her crate, and she understands the household rules—mostly! While she does enjoy pushing those boundaries from time to time, the structure I’ve provided has significantly reduced her anxiety and arousal, allowing her to focus more easily. She can munch on her chew toys without needing to be in the same room as me, and she loves sunbathing in the garden while I’m inside.

Establishing rules and boundaries has given Anayah a sense of safety and has greatly built her confidence.

She now has clarity, she is her own dog and our bond is incredible. She is my companion, and I am her leader.

Dog Behaviour Training: How to Introduce Boundaries

The ideal time to introduce boundaries is on the very day you bring your dog home. However, it’s important not to overwhelm them by throwing all the rules at once. Instead, start as you mean to go on. If you don’t want your dog on the furniture, begin enforcing that rule the moment they walk through the door. Similarly, if you prefer they stay out of the room while you eat, establish that boundary right away. Though, it is never too late to introduce boundaries and rules, you might just experience a bit of resistance when introducing them.

Remember, dogs only know what you’ve taught them.

The best method of training your dog is using Operant Conditioning, on which I have done 4 blog posts about. The most commonly used technique is Positive Reinforcement, and you can read all about that here, though all training will use different aspects of Operant Conditioning.

You can read about Positive Discouragement here, Negative Reinforcement here and Negative Discouragement here.

Teaching your dog boundaries will take time, and your timing and consistency are crucial for achieving the results you desire. For instance, if you teach your dog “Off the sofa!” but your partner or children allow the dog on the sofa, it will only lead to confusion and anxiety.

Using physical boundaries can be an effective way to introduce behavioural boundaries. For example, if you don’t want your dog on the sofa, consider clipping a lead to their collar. When they jump up, give the lead a gentle tug to encourage them off. You can also use hand signals or physically step back, as this movement helps them focus and engages their brain. Once your dog is on the floor, mark the behaviour with a clicker or a marker word (more on this in the Positive Reinforcement blog post) and reward them with a treat, praise, or a toy—or a combination of these. Once your dog understands the behaviour, you can introduce a command word like “Off.” Avoid using “Down” for this command, as it can create confusion when teaching them to lie down.

Once your dog is comfortable with the command, you won’t need to rely on the physical aid (the lead).

It's essential to associate any boundary or rule with a positive outcome. The result of the desired behaviour must be more rewarding than the alternative. For instance, your dog may enjoy being on the sofa because it brings them closer to you and earns them attention. If you want them to stay off the sofa, demonstrate that they will receive your attention when they are on the floor instead.

Crate training your dog is also a valuable aspect of training, despite the common misconception that crates are abusive or cruel. They can be an invaluable tool, especially if your pet ever needs to be crated at the vet or at home due to an illness or injury. To learn more about crate training, check out my blog post on it here.

Emotional Boundaries

Emotional boundaries pertain to your dog’s social needs, and it’s important to recognise that each dog is unique in how much contact they enjoy. Additionally, their desire for hugs, touches, and interaction can fluctuate.

As their owner, it is our responsibility to respect these boundaries, just as we appreciate having our own space when we are busy or feeling frustrated.

Dogs will communicate their need for affection, but they will also let you know when they’ve had enough—though these cues aren’t always obvious. It’s crucial for us to respect their boundaries and to teach our children and other household members to do the same. Ignoring a dog’s signals that they need space can lead to them feeling unsafe or disrespected, and may even result in snapping.

This can be tricky at times! For instance, Anayah often comes to sit or lie next to me or even on me, but she may not want me to fuss over her. Over time, you will come to understand your dog’s wants and needs.

Some dogs thrive on full-on cuddles, while others prefer a simple scratch. Anayah dislikes being touched when she’s asleep or tired unless she instigates the interaction. She will often turn her head away when she’s had enough attention.

Signs Your Dog Wants Attention:

• Nudging you with their nose

• Bringing you a toy

• Looking at you with those “puppy” pleading eyes, often accompanied by a slow wagging tail

• Turning their back or hindquarters to you for scratches

• Rolling onto their back for belly rubs

• Pawing at your hand

Signs Your Dog Does Not Want to Be Touched:

• Looking away—sometimes just their eyes, other times their whole head

• Moving away from you

• Displaying “whale eyes” (showing the whites of their eyes)

• Lip licking

• Panting

• Yawning

• A tucked tail

While these signs provide a rough guide, it’s important to remember that a dog’s body language is complex and requires consideration of the entire situation rather than focusing on one aspect alone. For example, a wagging tail can indicate a happy dog, but in some contexts, it may express discomfort or even aggression.

A good rule of thumb is to allow your dog to instigate attention. Avoid approaching your dog’s personal space uninvited. Their bed, crate, or mat should be a safe haven where they can decompress without interference from humans.

Conclusion

Establishing boundaries for your dog is not just about rules; it’s about creating a harmonious environment where both you and your furry friend can thrive. By setting clear expectations and respecting your dog’s unique needs, you foster a relationship built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect.

Remember, boundaries are not limitations but opportunities to guide your dog towards a happier, more confident, and well-adjusted life. With patience, consistency, and compassion, you can help your dog become the best version of themselves while strengthening the bond you share.

What boundaries do you have in place for your dog? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on social media!