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An older man in a fishing vest holds birdseed in his palm beside a seated Dalmatian, with sparrows on a feeder behind. 11 / 21

Sparrows Crowded the Feeder, and Not One Flew Off. Thank the Dalmatian.

AI imagedalmatianbird feederdog training

A row of little brown sparrows lines the edge of the wooden feeder, and not a single one has flown off. That's thanks to Domino, who sits perfectly still beside Grandpa, spotted head turned away from the birds as if determined not to cause trouble. Grandpa crouches in the yard in his worn fishing vest and plaid shirt, a handful of seed resting in his open palm, his white mustache curving into a gentle smile. Around them, the backyard is pleasantly cluttered with clay pots, watering cans, a coiled green hose, and a tarp tossed over something by the fence.

Holding still around tempting birds takes real self-control, and that's a skill dogs can learn. Impulse control training, using cues like sit, stay, and leave it, helps dogs stay calm around distractions such as wildlife, food, or visitors. Start in a quiet place with low distractions, reward your dog generously for staying put, and gradually build up to more exciting situations. Dalmatians are intelligent and eager to work with their people, but they can also be energetic and easily excited, so short, upbeat training sessions tend to work best. Regular exercise before training can make it easier for a lively dog to settle and focus.

Domino has clearly been practicing, and the sparrows are reaping the rewards. Grandpa might just have a pocketful of treats saved for his very patient friend.

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An older man in a cap and fishing vest pins a white shirt to a clothesline as a Dalmatian runs happily past him.Grandpa Was Pinning Up a Shirt When the Laundry Line Became a RacetrackAn older man in a fishing vest walks down a dirt country road at sunset next to a happy Dalmatian.A Dirt Road, a Setting Sun, and Grandpa's Favorite Walking PartnerAn older man with a white mustache works on a jigsaw puzzle at a wooden table while a Dalmatian sits on a chair beside him.Half the Jigsaw Border Was Done When Domino Pulled Up a ChairAn older man in glasses and a fishing vest holds a ball as a smiling Dalmatian bounds toward him across a backyard lawn.The Ball Hadn't Even Left Grandpa's Hand, and Domino Was Already Airborne