Dog Health Questions: I adopted my dog late January from the Animal Rescue Foundation...?

I adopted a three year old rat terrior/chihuahua in January. I love her to death and for the most part she's a "good dog". The thing is, I'm 5 months pregnant and my dog will jump on my stomach, climb on my face when I'm sleeping, or lay on my stomach or chest (which that I don't mind). I was wondering if it is too late to get her trained before the baby comes or is she too old! She doesn't understand commands, and I have no idea what she's gone through prior to me adopting her. I have potty trained her but I don't want her jumping on my baby or laying on my babys face when he comes home. Is it too late to have her trained? Is there anything I can do myself? And if its not too late to get her trained, should I get "basic dog training" or what should I look for when I'm looking for a trainer? Thanks

Dog Training Programs - How Do You Decide?

Recommended Answer:
Your dog is not too old to be trained. It sounds like she needs some basic obedience training. You should be able to find a trainer in your area to work with you and your dog. Some pet stores like Petco and Petsmart have trainers on staff that periodically conduct group training on a weekly basis and it is not expensive. If your do not have time to attend training classes with your dog, you may be able to train her yourself. Many books have been written about basic training that are easy to follow. "Dog Friendly Training" by Andrea Arden is one I use. Also, your vet can probably recommend someone who can work with you and your dog at your home. Good luck!

7 Top Dog Training Tips

• you definitely should get basic dog training.
  As for in the house, i would get her a small cozy bed that she will feel safe in so when need be you can point to the bed and say "Go lay on your bed" and she'll go. tell her STAY and thats that.
  But basic commands are the basic for any sort of training.


• There are baby gates for dogs. Some rooms can be off limits. My dogs are gated into their kitchen. I am in there to let them out plus with laundry, dishes and cooking I am in there a good deal. They are invited into the living room for a nap or TV viewing after dinner. Dogs don't have to be like velcro. They can play with toys and have some quiet time. Pregnant I used to take an afternoon nap, without dogs.


• If you hurry you might still be able to train your dog. I would try and find a professional dog trainer near you, by looking online or asking around to the people you now.You could even try training her yourself but that might be a lot of work.


• Make her get down. You can watch It's Me or the Dog on Youtube.
  
  Petco and Petsmart offer basic obedience classes as well. For this, you really don't need anything special, just $100 or so.


• Nope, it's not too late. And yes, you should start with the basics. And quickly. You've only got 4 months!