First, let’s work out why your dog is displaying attention seeking behaviours. Make sure their needs are met, including physical and mental exercise, breed specific outlets, human attention and inclusion, adequate sleep, and diet.
Then you can address some training skills:
There are several cues you can teach your dog while training that signal the end to a session. I like to use ‘finish’ and show my own hands like a card dealer – I have nothing more, no more treats, no more cards to play.
You must stay true to this and not be convinced to do another rep or throw the ball one more time! Finish means finish.
Teach an alternative behaviour – in the case of a dog pushing into you or pawing for attention, you can teach an ‘enough’ cue and simply get up and ignore for a short while or ask your dog to do something else. I like to use ‘go and lay down’ which signals to my dogs to go and rest somewhere.
Be aware that some dogs will perform the attention seeking behaviour (such as pawing for attention), you give them attention by redirecting them such as asking them to go to their bed and give them a treat, it may make it worthwhile for them to do it again, creating a behaviour chain or pattern. In this case try taking their mind off the behaviour such as creating a longer duration diversion – e.g. licki mat on their bed or manage it in a way your dog cannot repeat the attention seeking behaviour.
The key is to be consistent and communicate calmly and kindly. Even though attention seeking behaviours can be very frustrating, it is important to work out why your dog is showing them first.
As always if you are concerned about your dog’s behaviour, particularly any sudden onset behaviour, your first step is to consult with your veterinarian.
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