Monitors: When first training your dog to be responsible in your home, you want to be aware the moment an inappropriate behavior occurs because corrections long after the fact are worthless. As a behavior is occurring is the time you can teach your dog right from wrong. There are commercially manufactured motion sensitive devices that blurt out a sound to let you know that Rover is in the wrong place and there are even seen elaborate camera systems designed to "spy" on mischievous pets. If your dog is sneaking up onto counters, tables, and furniture, these sensor devices might be worthwhile.
Audible: There are a wide variety of audible remote devices on the market. Some have ultrasonic frequencies that are inaudible to humans, while others are detectable by the human ear. There are audible hand-held units that are pressed by you for off-leash control, and others that emit the sound when motion sensors are remotely triggered by your dog.
The distance that each unit will be effective should be taken into account. Ultrasonic units are most effective at the shortest distance and lose efficacy as distance increases. Keep in mind that the units that squelch audible sounds will scare you too when you press the button. A friend of mine used to use boat horns to get focus from dogs that were running away from him during dog shows. The problem was that he ended up getting focus from everyone within a one-mile radius.
Physical: Physical correction tools are amazingly effective. They include electrically charged mats, mousetrap-type devices, and horrifically odoriferous products such as ammonia or pepper. Setups include a wide variety of inventive procedures as well. For example, place a small bit of bread on your counter top and run a few strips of double-sided carpet tape along the edge. When your dog jumps up onto the counter and gets his feet stuck he will not be quick to return to the counter-top.
Some dog breeds are less tactile and sensitive and may require a stronger correction. Electric mats offer a few levels of stimulation, and when your dog puts his feet on it, it will sting. Remember, to the dog you should not appear involved in this. T he sting came as a result of your dog's behavior, which is unrelated to you. Say nothing or if anything console the dog when it comes to you for safety. You remain safe to your dog as the counter begins to appear dangerous.
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