A dog trainer has shared an easy method for owners to stop their pets from displaying needy behaviour. Adam Spivey, Director and Head Trainer of Southend Dog Training, explained that many owners inadvertently encourage attention-seeking by petting their dogs when they misbehave.
In a video on his TikTok page @Southenddogtraining1, which has over two million followers, Spivey demonstrated a training exercise. He said: 'This dog is incredibly pushy and needy. So this exercise is about waiting before you stroke and cuddle to achieve what you want.'
Spivey advised owners to block their dog's advances until the pet calms down, then reward them with attention. He added: 'The reason so many dogs misbehave is because they get everything without having to work for it.'
The trainer emphasised that this method does not mean withholding affection entirely. 'It just means behave a certain way, and then I'll give you what you want,' he said.
The video gained over 20,000 views and hundreds of likes, with many owners thanking Spivey for the advice. One commenter said: 'This is my pup through and through. The minute I sit down, he’s climbing over me.' Another added: 'I sat on the floor while watching this and tried it. One sat next to me, the other sat in front of me without jumping on me. Thank you.'
