Train your dog to stay on command.
Humans and animals alike seek reprieve from the hottest parts of summer. Homeowners with a screened porch can take advantage of the shade and concentrated breeze afforded to them, and may wish to share it with their canine companions. Screens, unlike solid walls, provide little obstacle to a determined dog wishing to escape. Training your dog to follow commands and providing incentive to stay on the porch -- where it's cool and shaded -- affords homeowners and their dogs alike peace, safety and security. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Obedience-train your dog. Teach basic commands, including sit and stay. Make sure your dog masters these tasks completely. Command your dog to stay on the porch.
2. Supervise your dog when on the porch. Start with complete supervision. When your dog tries to escape or tear at the screen, make a loud noise or squirt the dog with a water bottle while correcting the behavior verbally, such as saying "no."
3. Give your dog more time unsupervised as it learns to behave. Go indoors and observe from a hidden location, if you feel more confident doing so. Start with five minutes of unsupervised time. Gradually increase the time your dog is alone on the porch.
4. Reward your dog for a job well done. If the dog remains on the porch unsupervised for a period of time, reward it with pets and praise and treats, if desired.
5. Provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulus. Give your dog ample toys. Provide treats around the porch for your dog to hide. Destructive digging and chewing behaviors that can lead to an escape are sometimes the results of boredom.
6. Eliminate temptation. Dogs with high prey drives can barrel right through screens in an attempt to chase smaller animals. Hide your dog's view of the outside world with blinds or curtains.
7. Add restraint. Consider putting up an electronic fence around your porch, or keep your dog on a tie-out cable when on the porch.
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