Dog Health Questions: I need some dog training help?

I have two one year old 50 pound dogs, and they're sisters. We've had them since they were puppies but they are so hard to train because they always want to get more attention than the other! They are inseparable, so I am going to work on separating them sometimes so they become more independent. I know it's a little late, but I didn't realize how bad it was until recent events. So, they know how to sit, but ONLY when you have a treat. That's the problem. They have no idea what I am saying when I don't have one. Plus, they get so distracted by each other, it's nearly impossible to get them to focus! Another problem I have is when I am trying to teach one of them (without treats) she just rolls on her back every time. I don't know how to get her to stop this!
If you can help me with ANY of this, or have some training tips, please share. Also, I am considering obedience classes. Will that help with any of this?

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Recommended Answer:
Yes - obedience classes would help you - but I would suggest you ask the instructor if you can bring one girl one class and the other the next etc. You need to get them apart and get some one on one time with them. Litter mates are notoriously hard to train when they have been raised together! They are very bonded and are constantly jostling for position in the "pack".

The dog that is rolling on her back is showing submission to you...my guess is that the other dog is dominant over her, so she has become submissive. The good news is - she is probably the most trainable in the long run.

So you are absolutely on track with your idea to separate them and build some independence! If you can, take turns taking them somewhere off the property individually for some play or training sessions - to a park or a field or even a friend's house (without dogs preferably). Let them learn to concentrate on you rather than each other.

As for training tips - I find the books by Brian Kilcommons to be very good. Hang in there and good luck!

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• A best way to train 1 year old dogs would be through an expert dog behaviorist, who might have unique strategies to train the dogs effectively. If you are looking for a professional dog behaviorist, visit.. http://www.houstondogbehaviorist.com/


• You could try clicker training. This is very effective with most breeds. Try looking on http://www.clickertraining.com/