Blog

No Such Thing as Velcro Dogs

Bob is an eight month old Hungarian Vizsla with no basic commands, recall or focus. He pulls his owner, Lucy, when he is on the lead and is dominant towards her. The first thing I did in this dog behavioural lesson was to swap to a lead that corrects not restrains. Bob was not happy with the slip lead, spinning, barking and biting. Remaining calm, I waited for him to settle and then  walked him on the lead to heel.

Breeds such as the Hungarian Vizsla and the Pointer are often described as velcro dogs because of their attachment to their owners. This reputation can lead owners to be over-loving towards their dogs, believing they cannot leave them alone as the dog will have separation anxiety. Quite the opposite is true: there is no such thing as velcro dogs. Just treat your dog as a dog, put expectations on behaviour and manners. Treating them according to stereotypes only causes behavioural problems, leading to the dog being confused as to where they stand in the household. Never let a dog’s perceived needs run your life; train them appropriately and they will become a great companion.

dog behavioural problems hungarian vizsla