A leading dog trainer has unveiled a surprisingly simple technique that owners can employ to effectively curb attention-seeking or "needy" behaviour in their pets. Many dog lovers inadvertently reinforce undesirable actions by providing affection at the wrong moments, but this easy method focuses on rewarding calmness instead.
The Common Mistake Owners Make
Adam Spivey, Director and Head Trainer of Southend Dog Training, highlighted a critical error that numerous pet owners commit. While it is natural to want to spoil and cuddle dogs, offering physical attention such as petting or stroking when a dog is misbehaving actually encourages that very behaviour. This creates a cycle where dogs learn that being pushy, climbing, or getting in their owner's face results in the affection they crave.
Demonstrating the "Waiting" Exercise
In a popular TikTok video titled "How to stop needy behaviour," which has amassed over 20,000 views, Spivey sat on a door with a demonstratively needy dog. He explained that the core of the exercise is patience and timing. "I'm not gonna give him what he wants right now," Spivey stated, "so I'm just gonna block until he does something I like, which is stop getting in my face, stop climbing all over me, stop being pushy, stop being needy."
The method involves physically blocking the dog's advances without aggression, then immediately providing attention once the animal calms down. If the dog resumes misbehaving, the owner should stop the affection again. This teaches the pet that calm behaviour is the key to receiving cuddles and fuss.
Why Dogs Develop Needy Tendencies
Spivey clarified that the issue stems from dogs receiving everything they desire without having to earn it. "The reason so many dogs misbehave is because they get everything without having to work for it," he noted. By implementing this training, owners establish clear boundaries, showing their dogs that appropriate conduct leads to rewards. Importantly, Spivey emphasised that this approach does not mean depriving dogs of affection. "It doesn't mean that I'm taking the fuss or affection away," he said. "It just means behave a certain way, and then I'll give you what you want."
Positive Reactions from Pet Owners
The video resonated strongly with dog owners on social media, garnering hundreds of likes and numerous thankful comments. One viewer remarked, "This is my pup through and through. The minute I sit down, he’s climbing over me. On my head and all sorts, it’s very exhausting." Another expressed gratitude, stating, "I needed to see this video! Thank you." A third commenter identified with the scenario, saying, "This is literally both my dogs."
Remarkably, some owners reported immediate success after trying the technique. One individual replied to Southend Dog Training, "I sat on the floor while watching this and tried it. One led next to me, the other sat in front of me without jumping on me. Thank you." This feedback underscores the practicality and effectiveness of the method for everyday pet owners struggling with overly demanding dogs.
Adam Spivey's TikTok account, @Southenddogtraining1, has attracted over two million followers by sharing such accessible training tips. His advice focuses on fostering better relationships between dogs and their owners through consistent, understandable strategies that address common behavioural issues without harshness.
