What is an independent dog?
They do their own thing on their own schedule. If you are upset or pleased, that’s nice but don’t expect them to seek your applause or care deeply if you’re upset.
Breeds who might have this Tendency:
Independent dogs can be born or made, but the Nordic and Hound groups often have a few more of these than others do. Akitas, Chows and Lhasa Apsos can also be quite independent.
What helps?
Your goal is to engage this dog as a partner, to make it HIS idea to do what YOU want.
What does NOT help?
Getting emotional with him, forcing him to do things, begging, pleading or punishing him by ignoring him. Forget "time outs" - he loves time outs - a correction for him is more like a "time in".
This dog can excel at:
Anything – if they think it is their idea.
Suggested Training Approach:
Click and treat. The clicker makes the dog a willing partner (as all training should), which is perfect for an independent dog. Effective leash and collar work will involve high praise/reward for willing obedience and neutral, quick corrections for attention drifting with fabulous rewards for staying connected. Short sessions, act the way you want him at act: Excited, thrilled, engaged!
Praise/Rewards
Use whatever works and don’t be embarrassed. If he likes hotdogs, buy a five-pound bag! (Use tiny pieces, just get a good supply.) Tennis balls? Talk to your local courts or gym and see if you can get the old ones. Keep verbal and physical praise brief - try to withdraw first. Leave him wanting more! Taking a big step away as you withdraw will keep him from turning and leaving.
Corrections
Proceed with great caution with any corrections other than simply ignoring the unwanted response. Since these dogs are geared to mentally and/or physically leave anyway, they do not have the social ties to hold them to you if you do things they dislike. They can be helpful - done well which means the right intensity at the right time and that's the trick of it, isn't it?
Equipment
Whatever gets you the results you desire, but either the flat buckle collar or the head halter may be useful.
Command Hints
Link commands to everything this dog enjoys. If an independent dog sees the reason to do things, he will often comply but do not practice a routine for ten minutes every afternoon. He will probably hate that. In the same vein, avoid classes where you walk in circles for an hour. That’s a great way to demotivate any dog but it will really do in your independent companion.
Parting Advice
Give this dog a reason to do what you ask and he will happily do it. Link commands to everything this dog loves in life and you will see is innate intelligence shine through.