Alice White
#13 The attention of the Rhodesian Ridgeback can and should be trained, which will then greatly facilitate the work with him.
The classic technique for fixing this property of the psyche looks like this: the owner treats the dog with a treat, after which he squeezes the rest of the treats in his fist, raising his hand high up. An interested puppy will immediately try to get hold of the object of gastronomic lust, jumping up and hypnotizing the human hand with a glance. When attempts to get a delicacy to prove unsuccessful, the Rhodesian Ridgeback will use the last resort - he will look pitifully at the owner. It is necessary to keep the puppy's gaze as long as possible, after which the "sufferer" should be well treated.
#14 Cynologists recommend starting the training of basic commands with the Rhodesian Ridgeback from 4-5 months.
By this age, the puppies have become relatively stronger and more independent. How appropriate it is to learn all the commands from the General Training Course, everyone decides for himself, but the call "Come to me!" and the ban "Fu!" The Rhodesian Ridgeback must be learned by all means. Otherwise, the dog's life will be very short.
#15 As for the methods of education and training, then positive reinforcement is more suitable for representatives of this breed, and this does not have to be a delicacy.
Among the Rhodesian Ridgebacks, there are real gamers, for whom the best incentive is the opportunity to chew on their favorite toy. Other dogs are satisfied with the master's praise and patting on the head. Negative reinforcement in the life of a Rhodesian Ridgeback also takes place, but it should be used in exceptional cases when the animal demonstrates a clear disregard for the rules or tries to measure strength with a person. No, it is strictly forbidden to beat a pet, but patting it by the ear, pulling the collar, or throwing it on its back, pressing it to the floor is quite acceptable. It is highly desirable to accompany the "execution" with a verbal prohibition, for example, the command "No!" And please, no slapping with a wet towel, quilting with a twig, or any other offensive physical impact. Such humiliation for a Rhodesian Ridgeback will remain in memory for a long time and will significantly undermine your authority in his eyes.
