How to Train Your Dog to Respect Your Boundaries

If you've had trouble getting an unruly pooch or hyperactive puppy to respect boundaries, there are a number of steps you can take to improve your canine's behavior. Through a practice known as boundary training, you can make sure your pooch never strays from established boundaries. Certain pet owners may be apprehensive about engaging in boundary training in light of the perceived difficulty, but with a little consistency, you'll have your dog respecting boundaries in a timely manner.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog leash
  • Dog toys
  • Baby gates
  • Rope
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place physical barriers around the boundary you'd like your dog to respect. These barriers can come in the form of baby gates, rope or plastic cones.

    • 2

      Attach your dog's leash to her collar. Take your dog for a walk around the outskirts of the sealed-off area. Whenever she attempts to cross the boundary, lightly tug on her leash, point your finger directly at her and deliver a firm "NO." Repeat this process until your dog appears to understand that the area is off-limits. Whenever your dog promptly obeys your command, reward her with a small treat.

    • 3

      Place a treat or one of your dog's favorite toys on the other side of the boundary. Continue to lead her around the outskirts of the boundary. Once again, administer a light leash tug and a firm "NO" whenever the dog attempts to cross the boundary. Continue in this fashion until the dog understands that she is still not allowed to cross the barrier.

    • 4

      Release your dog from her leash. In much the same fashion as the previous steps, motion for your dog to follow you around the outskirts of the boundary. If she shows any interest in crossing the boundary, tell her "NO" and reward her with a treat if she obeys. If she chooses to ignore your command and cross the boundary, repeat the second step until you feel the dog is ready to move on.