Dog Health Questions: My dog started the irritating habit of whining about a month or two ago...is there an easy way to stop this?

My dog will be ten in March. She is healthy and will run down the long hall in my apartment building. Lately, however she has started the irritating habit of whining. If I stop anywhere while walking her she will whine ( when I stop I will be talking to other people), it really started with that a few months ago, now whenever I cook she will whine (for food). She is getting fed enough and has even gained weight in the past few months. Tonight I told her to lay down when the whining started. I really want to give her a little piece of steak, but am getting sick of the whining. Otherwise, no problems. She has extra biscuits on the floor now to eat as needed. She seems to eat those only when I'm out. Two other brands I give to her occasionally. Like any dog she will eat nonstop. By the way I had to feed her canned when I got her a year ago - the person who had her passed on - she refused to eat dry - wouldn't eat for five days plus... She's very smart, housebroken and well-trained and is a Cairn Terrier mix... any advice would help - I don't know much about dog training.

Choosing an Online Dog Training Program

Recommended Answer:
Whining often signals pain. Witha 10 year old i would suspect arthritis. Running , lying down hurts.

I use a heated dog bed, glucosamine/chondroitin supplements and pain meds from the vet.

Sounds like a Senior dog Wellness check is needed.

Learn the Secrets to Service Dogs Training & Get Immediate Results

• When i saw this q i immediately thought your dog was being naughty, but she's ten. Somethings wrong and she is clearly in a form of discomfort. Go see your vet and help an old dog out!


• Perhaps your dog has some sort of condition, like arthritis? She's getting up in years, and sometimes arthritis can be painful. Perhaps your vet can help.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Should I get rid of my dog?

My dog has destroyed my house....He goes to the bathroom all over the place all day everyday. We have spent $500 dollars on dog training and it didnt do anything and people have recommended these trainers! his morning I walk downstairs ad he chewed my livingroom pillow on my very expensive furniture. He eats all of my daughters toys and this morning he chewed her boppy pillow. This dog cannot cost us anymore money. We have tried crating him and he yelps and screams(not good with a baby in the house). We tried locking him in the kitchen and he jumps over the gate. oh and he also goes to the bathroom in the crate and rubs himself in it. Here is the catch, my husband loves him!!!! he knows that we are probubly going to have to get rid of him but he is soooo heartbroken. i dont want to hurt my husband. i don know what to do.

Do You Make These 4 Common Mistakes in Dog Training?

Recommended Answer:
Not even the best dog trainer in the world can stop a bored and frustrated dog from chewing up very expensive furniture! How old is this dog? It also takes a couple of weeks to house train a dog if done correctly. He obviously was never correctly crate trained, he's likely not getting near enough exercise and for sure, not getting any obedience training or anything else to keep his mind active.

You need to start all over again and train this dog - a good breeder is an invaluable resource. Get a book on basic dog training - Tamar Geller has a book called "the Loved Dog" that's really good for novices - gives step by step, very clear instructions.

However, if you won't invest the time a dog needs, it would be a kindness to him to find him a good home now where he'll get the care, love and training he deserves.

Dog Training - You and Your Dog

• plz don't give him anpther try...it's just a stage...he'll get out of it


• what kind of dog is it and how old your husband needs to train his dog


• You could ask your husband if he has a friend or a relative who'd be willing to keep the dog, so he doesn't lose it completely.


• Well in my opinion i think you should get rid of the dog but then again if your husband really wants the dog maybe he should try harder to train the dog if he really loves the dog. But that is not my choice but it is just a idea.


• try to take him on a lease in the house for a wile and when he bits on ur stuff tell him no bad dog and he might no what his doing!!!! wrong if that doesnt work try keeping him outside!!!


• Is your husband who loves this dog so much taking him outside to go to the bathroom every 2-3 hours? Is your husband taking him on at least 2 30 minute walks a day? This dog needs exercise and to be taken outside to use the bathroom. If a dog is well exercised and has chew toys he will not destroy the house. A dog that is supervised in the house and taken outdoors every 2-3 hours will not eliminate in the house.
  So many people get a dog and expect it to come perfect. Dogs are hard to train and a lot of work to exercise. You have to include this dog in your everyday activities as if it is another child. He sounds frustrated and bored.
  Tell your husband if he wants to keep the dog he is going to have to start taking care of it. If he isnt willing to do those things then you will have to rehome him.


• Yup I would enough of that.


• What was it about the training program that you weren't able to follow?
  You need to put your dog on a schedule for pottying and watch him carefully. The habit of pooping in the crate must be stopped ASAP.
  http://www.inch.com/~dogs/cratetraining.…
  Your dog needs a LOT more exercise and needs to be *rewarded* when he has successful potty trips outside. Your puppy must never be allowed access to things that he can destroy. I strongly urge you to review the materials that the training school gave you and if you have questions, call them and ask. Are you aware how hard it is to place a dog with another home?


• You should keep him becasue I have a dog too thats 8 years old now and very calm, when he was a puppy he destroyed and chewed up our carpet, and everything else in sight,which caused my parents to lose a lot of money like u but he's callmed down now, and we love him. A tip for right now though, is @ petco u can buy training pads which are these water absorpant pads that if your dog goes in the house, then it won't be a mess u throw that pad away, also if you buy "gates" so your dog can only stay in 1 room (like the kitchen) is where we put him becasue the floor is tile and there's nothing on the floor to chew so he can't ruin the house. gate off archways and usually you can buy gates that are like high enough so the dog can't jump, ut low enough where it's convinient 4 you to get around the house.


• ok, the dog chews up your things. dogs do that, they chew. especially puppies. what means more to you an object that is incapable of loving you back, that you will throw away in the next 5 years more then likely anyway, or a dog who will love you unconditionally for the rest of it's life? someone who, no matter what happens in your life or it's life, will be there with kisses for you and a wagging tail, someone that will more then likely lie down his life to save yours or your child's? a friend for your child who will never hurt their feelings and will do all they can to cheer your child or you or your husband up during times of sadness or illness, doesn't that mean more to you then having to clean up after the dog while he is training?
  
  ok, here are tips for housetraining, walk the dog often and long walks. walking stimulates the dog to have to go to the bathroom. bring treats and reward dog EVERY time he goes to the bathroom outside. DO NOT STICK DOG'S NOSE IN IT IF HE MESSES UP INSIDE. You will end up with a dog afraid to go to the bathroom because they think that is what they are in trouble for. This will lead them to not wanting to go in front of you ever, including on walks. Forget putting the dog out in the yard to go while training, dog won't learn that way. You must WALK the dog. Keep the dog in the same room with you, and if you see dog sniffing, take for walk immediately.
  
  Chewing advice, buy things that the dog would prefer to chew (bones, rawhide, kongs with treats inside, toys that squeak, balls, rope, etc.) When the dog chews his stuff, reward him for it, when he goes for something of yours, tell him no in a firm voice and take the item away. I would also teach the dog the command drop it.


• Change his diet, we had the same problem with our dog, so a breeder recommended to change his food to some thing with less protein in it, we did this and now he is a totally different dog. Try chappie, it comes in a few different flavours to suit your dogs taste.


• How old is the dog? Did you have a child after the dog was already in the house? Sounds like he needs lots of attention.
  He should be crate trained. It is not cruel, did it with my dog and the destruction was minimal. He is demanding attention from more than just your husband and it sounds like he is jealous of the baby. He needs a regular schedule of exercise, training, play etc. He should go outside shortly after eating. Need to reward the good behavior to reinforce. Try a different trainer if you don't have any luck setting a better schedule.


• It sounds like your dog has too much energy, have you ever watched the Dog Whisperer on tv? Dogs need exercise daily, and not just a little walk, exercise that will tire them out, so they won't destroy your house. When he chews everything up, it's because he is bored and has too much energy. I have dogs, and if they don't get their daily exercise, you best bet that my shoes are the first thing in their sight! You need to start exercising your dog with a constructive walk, have him walk beside you, don't let him pull you and be crazy, then go home and play with him, so he'll be too tired to do anything else. I would suggest buying Cesar Milan's books, he's the dog whisperer, and you'll understand your dog's bad behavior for it!
  Good luck!


• Pent up energy...this dog need more exercise......he needs long walks, runs, a couple of times a day.....Rollerblade with him......like Cesar Milan does.....ever watch The Dog Whisperer? Alot of his techniques do work....


• You should doggy proof your house. Your dog is spoilt. The only way is to show him who is the boss and who is the dog.
  
  Read my blogspot http://woofwoofdiary.blogspot.com for tricks and tips on raising up a doggy.


• Displaying puppy lonelyness! to think of is he trainable? and maybe he needs the great outdoors? as far as him going in the house does he have exscape a (DOGGY) door/ or have trainedhim to hold it? if thats the case don't leave water out except bathroom and don't feed him after 6PM. make sure you take him out for long walks before sleep time...1-2 miles....if you have get rid of him do it though a shelter? and give all his toys,food etc.


• Well, sounds like a delema for you. The thing is I don't think you spent enough time with the trainer. How long was the training, and most importantly did you do what the trainer told you to do. You have to follow up on what the dog trainer told you to do. It does not sound like you did that.
  
  I would suggest this, you don't want to disapoint the hubby, so try this. Tell him he must handle the dog. Try another trainer, and send hubby with the dog, for dog training.
  Make him responcible for the dog, if in 2mo you notice no improvement with the dog, and you tell hubby about the two months, then the dog must go.
  
  Good Luck


• The difficulty is that no-one will take on a problem dog. Your dog is completely "fixable" but needs a lot of time and attention. I'm thinking if you have young kids then it's hard for you to find the time to do that.
  
  Basically he needs a lot more exercise to wear him out (morning and night), and he needs to be supervised in the house. Take him outside on a leash at regular intervals and walk him around until he pees, then bring him back in. If he pees inside then say NO and straight outside. When he is inside it would help to keep him on a leash and with you so you can supervise his behaviour and correct him when he does something wrong.
  
  He will outgrow this stage I'm sure. You can get him a belly band so he doesn't pee on everything and you might hope he grows out of it. I'm assuming he's an active breed like a terrier or some sort of working dog? If so you need to really work on keeping his mind active with walks and toys.
  
  If it's all too hard then you should rehome him, but what kind of person is going to take on a dog like this? If you do a bit of work with him you might have a better chance of finding someone to keep working with him.
  
  I know a lot of people aren't a fan of the dog whisperer (Caesar Millan) but check out his website, he has some good tips.
  
  Good luck - and tell your husband he has to start working with this dog!


• Keep on trying eventually he will grow out of this stage. Keep on pratcieing to and maybe see if he'll wear a muzzle or something.


• Did you go to a class? Have you read any books by Patricia McConnell, Ian Dunbar, Pat Miller, Jean Donaldson, Trish King...... YOU need to learn how to work with this dog, not count on a trainer to fix him. You don't mention what kind of training you've done with the dog, so it's impossible to comment on alternatives. What does the dog like to do when he's not being 'bad', run, catch balls, chase sticks, etc. Does the dog's mind and body get stimulation from learning new behaviors and commands?
  
  If the dog is young and just untrained and you don't intend on working with this dog to teach it appropriate behaviors (spending money on a trainer is grand but living and with a dog requires 24 hour training since dogs are learning from us every minute), find a new home for it before it gets older and inexperience and immaturity are replaced by adult dog inappropriate behaviors, not just puppy wildness. If you think the dog is untrainable, put the dog down, don't pass him off to a rescue system that causes dogs' behaviors to usually get worse and the dogs are stressed until they get adopted out to another a home that can't manage them or they get euthanized. Too often a dog that needs special training doesn't get it and ends up chained up to tree and lives out it's life alone and miserable.
  
  Loving a dog isn't enough if you're not willing or able to put time into learning how dogs learn.
  
  www.fearfuldogs.com


• I bet this is a small dog right?
  
  Buy Ed Frawleys Obedience training dvd from Leerburg.com.
  Theres really no point sending a dog to a trainer, they don't work usually.
  
  I have a similar problem with a Dobe. I know how much money you waste trying to rctify the problem.
  
  Don't let him have free run of the house! Come on! If he's like that the Kitchen should be the only room for him.
  
  Now housetraining? Thats simple and it should have been done the second you brought him home! Its gonna be a lot harder now.
  
  I think this is just a simple training problem, YOU have to train him, this does come more naturally to some than others, but work at it with the help of Ed Frawleys DVD. I wouldn't bother with any other trainer, I think this guy is really good.Good luck!


• i dont understand. why would you want to get rid of your dog because he's destroying your house? this basically is the same thing that happened to my aunt. its not the dog's fault. this is yours. you need to understand that this dog needs to be trained correctly. nothing will turn out right if you dont. crate training is the best way to control your dog. unless you dont take him outside to do his business every 2-4 hours, he'll basically go insane and mess up the house. what do you expect? a dog is not capable of controlling themselves when they need to go to the bathroom. you need to remember that these are dogs and they are like babies. you cant just get rid of a baby if they mess something up in your life. basically, you're trying to say that your dog you have is not 'good enough' for you. if you cared about the dog, you'd start over again and try harder. its not easy but its not difficult. you need patience, my friend, and i promise you with my heart, he will listen to you with correct training. dont praise him whenever you want, dont give him food every second, and don't scold him harshly. he will basically stress out and wont know what the 'right' thing is. i understand your problem but you cannot get rid of a dog that is trying. if he's only a puppy, okay. i understand that. if he's an adult dog, the reason can definitely lead to the owner. the dog is not to be blamed for. he is trying and isnt succeeding because you're not training him correctly. look online for crate training or housebreaking tips, go to stores or the vet for suggestions, do something. from the sound of it, you're not trying. when he barks, make a strange noise he's never heard of because basically he'll be too interested into the noise, not barking. if he needs to pee, take him outside. if you're not home, put him in the crate if you have one. if not, BUY one. there's always an answer to your questions. try at least, hun. everything will be fine if you start small!


• you obviously spent a lot of money getting your dog trained.
  Problem is that a good trainer will not train your dog for you. You will still not have a well behaved dog that way.
  In my classes you must demonstrate every class that you know the exercises taught that day before leaving.
  Training a dog does not come down to what it is taught once a week in class. You must go home and at least spend 2, 15 minute sessions daily between classes reviewing and training what was taught to you.
  Don`t give up on your dog, find a trainer that is willing to work with you. In my classes , I am very hands on, that is , if I see you having problems learning an exercise I step in to help you.
  You may also want to find an obedience club that offers classes. Yes they are far more regimented but it sounds to me like your dog could use it.
  Find a class with a small amount of dogs enterd in it, or you won`t get the attention you need.
  With so many trainers out there, for some it has become about the numbers of dogs entered in a class and the money they charge.
  And bottom line after reading your frustration, If your husband wants to keep the dog, make sure he takes him out to class, play, teach, and do it`s business on a daily basis.
  Their should be one Alpha for a while with a dog like this, give him the job, and make sure he follows through if he wants the dog.
  If he balks at it, tell him that the reason the dog is doing these things is that it is bored, and if he wants a dog he should be willing to sacrifice the time to properly train it.
  Good Luck


• put him out of the house. Training has not helped him and you should not feel bad. Some dogs just do not do well in the house. He could have a problem with you are your daughter. If you are not the boss he does what he wants. This is simple and alot of people do not become the boss. You have to take control and whip him when he does wrong. Dogs in the house should be small get them as pups so you can be the one that decides how things run in your house. What kind of dog is it ? Does he like the out doors? Build him a pin outside. Another thing that you can do is get him a playmate. If he is a big dog you might want to put them outside in a pin. I have chihuahua's and they play and sleep together all daywhile we are gone. One is perfect and the other makes me crazy. Abby has heartworms and she came from somewhere else and it was to late to treat her. So we love her all that we can but she does get on my nerves. She hates my 19 year old daughter. She messes where ever she wants. I close off certain areas where i do not want her to be. Maddy is a gift from dog heaven. The advice is find a playmate, or put it outside or find a home for him and get something else.


• Em.. I'm not really a dog expert or anything but i think he just wants attention. Try buying him/her a few chew toys for it to chew on. Maybe that might help a little. And if you want to abandon it please please dun leave it to stray, put him/her in a proper pet shelter where he/she will be taken care and *loved. GOOD LUCK ANYWAY!!
  
  *cant be sure of that...


• I don't know how your dog trainers worked, or if they involved your family, but your dog really sounds like he doesn't respect any of you as Alpha Pack Leader.
  
  Your entire paragraph poses questions in my mind.
  1) do you give him positive attention? If so, do you give enough?
  2) do you give him enough exercise? If so, is it enough.
  3) you don't say what breed or size he is
  4) you don't say if you've joined a yahoo group on this breed of dog
  5) you don't say what the dog's age is
  6) since your husband loves him, I can't just say "rehome him" but that may be what you need to do. You don't say ANYTHING about what your HUSBAND has done:
  ... a) to be Alpha Pack Leader
  ... b) to train the dog
  ... c) to exercise the dog
  
  Dogs that are destructive are often either confused or bored.
  
  Dogs are Pack Animals and need to know their place in the pack.
  Not knowing causes confusion.
  
  Dogs need a JOB to do. Has your husband attended obedience and training classes WITH the dog to learn how to train the dog to Sit, Stay, Lie Down, Roll Over, Leave It, Back Off, and other such important commands?
  
  Has your husband tried to train the dog to do Frizbee competition? That's very rewarding for dogss.
  
  How you work with a dog depends to some extent on what breed(s) the dog is. Some breeds are easier to train as they are geared towards working with their human. Some breeds are more independent and harder to train.
  
  You only say you spent $500 on a trainer... you don't say what the trainer did, if you actively participated, if your husband actively participated, or what the trainer said about your dog's training, capabilities or problems with training. If you just handed the dog over and said "train him for me" that doesn't hack it. The dog needs to be trained by and loved by it's owners, and I don't think the dog is getting the interaction with you all, and ESPECIALLY with your husband that he needs.
  
  So, you need to read my notes, and write a list of what you don't do and what you do do... and review it... and decide what you didn't do that you need to do if you are to keep the dog... then you must discuss and decide (we cannot do that) IF you will try to do some of the things you have failed to do so far or if you are ready to give the dog over to rescue, ASPCA, or your local Humane Officer. The dog will not be rehomed (hopefully) until he's tested and his problems fixed.
  
  Karen had a good point, but it took time to decipher since she kept referring to a "pin". If your dog is a breed that needs to be OUTSIDE, a kennel of "pen" would help, but again, it has to be large enough for the dog to get lots of exercise. Then the dog could run in the pen outside much of the day. Two of my dogs insist on staying outside on guard each night, but I'm in the country and their barking wards off the coyotes for us. A WELL fenced yard or a kennel (pen) can work, BUT ONLY if you also give the dog personal time and attention and exercise. If you don't have time for the dog, you should not have the dog. It's like raising a child....!!!!


• Yes.
  
  The first reason I say this is you have already given up.
  
  I don't know what breed you have or how hard this dog will be to find a home for. I'm hoping there is a reputable rescue in your area.
  
  The second reason I'm saying to surrender your dog is that I don't believe you are committed to having a dog and making it work. I'm going to say some things that may sound harsh and I'm not trying to be rude but if you disagree with me, then prove it by changing things in your home.
  
  If the dog is going to the bathroom all over your house, that's your fault. You aren't supervising your dog. I have 5 dogs in my house. No one potties in my house ever. They are all house trained AND crated trained.
  
  No one destroys anything here either. They are supervised, corrected if their behavior is incorrect and they are trained. I reinforce good behavior and I correct bad behavior.
  
  If he is pottying in the crate, he's being left in it to long.
  
  The dog is in charge of you and not the reverse.
  
  Dogs need schedules, rules, discipline, activity, training, supervision and affection. In fact, if you look at this, it's much like having a child. You can't let up at all. If the dog realizes you will let him out of the crate at night if he cries, he will cry.
  
  If you leave him too long without potty breaks, he will go in his crate.
  
  Do you have a fenced yard? Is that why he's going to the potty in the house? You have to walk him to potty instead of letting him out on his own?
  
  If you aren't 100% committed to making major changes, he's better off going to someone else who can. And if you have a baby in the house who is demanding all that attention from you, the dog is getting very little attention now. I'm sure that's part of what's going on.
  
  As I said, I'm not trying to be mean, but loving a dog isn't all there is too it. Loving your child is great but there's a ton of work that goes with having a baby. The same goes with having a dog. You have to do the work to get them to turn into good well behaved dogs. Depending on the breed, it may take a little more time. Some breeds are more active, some need more exercise etc. I don't know what you have so I can't help with that.
  
  I'd start looking for a good rescue unless you are willing to REALLY change your lifestyle.
  
  Good luck.


• In my opinion you sound like a very busy mom and have no time to watch and or give attention to the dog. Since your husband wants to keep him, he should walk the dog for at least an 1 1/2 before going to work and in the evening. The dog needs someone to be there BEFORE he destroys anything rather than AFTER he already destroy the item. You and or your husband need to catch the dog in the act (destroying) and yell no and put him in the kennel so you can clean up the mess without having to worry about him being in the other room. Every time he goes in the kennel and does not bark and is calm give him a treat, he will start associating the kennel with treats. Once he gets the hang of it you can stop giving him treats. Overall you husband needs to spend more time with the dog...playing,fetching,walking,running daily exercise is what the dog needs! Good Luck.
  
  Add: With defecating all over the house problem, you need to pay attention to the dogs motions, when you see he starts sniffing around the entire house non-stop means he is looking of a place to defecate and when he starts circling that area means he already found the spot. When you see this motions take the dog outside to relive himself! Also when you hear him wining he needs to go outside right away! consistent housebreaking must be done.


• Jessica, you have just described every puppy on the planet. It's totally normal for a puppy to act like this, and the only thing that can be done is for you and your husband to work together on training.
  
  He chews because you're not watching him (try keeping him on a long leash in the house for a while, you'll notice when he has to potty, and you'll also notice what a short time it takes for him to get bored and go find something more fun to do...like chew stuff up). Keep on using the crate, and use it consistently...it won't take long for him to stop eliminating in his crate, especially if you commit to using it regularly.
  
  The yelping and screaming when crating is also normal...he wants you to come open the door and let him out to chew on more stuff! Don't pay him any attention when he is in the crate, and he'll learn soon that he needs to be quiet. Try crating him for short periods when the baby is awake, so he won't wake her.
  
  You don't HAVE to get rid of this dog, he's like every other puppy out there...believe me, the "good" puppies are the exception, not the rule...they're like human children, they need someone to guide them in manners, and that would be your job. It would be a very lazy way out to dump this dog.


• I think it would be easier and cheaper to buy a fifty dollar crate to keep the dog in when you are otherwise busy.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Should I change dog food from wet to dry? in UK?

I have 3 years old female small sized border collie (a slightly bigger than jack russells size). She has lost awful of weight for not eating her food while I was away for my guide dog training for 2 weeks, a relative tried to make my pet dog to eat.. don't jugdement!. its not my relative's fault, they did everything they could she still would not eat, she just missed me so much. so when I got back home with new guide dog, my pet dog was really happy to see me be back home and made new friend with my guide dog and, she started eating well again. so I noticed my dog got alot thinner and I don't think wet food is good for her, I am thinking to switch dry food for my dog to lamb dry food for small breed, would it help her to grain weight? as my dog is only 10kg I could feel her ribs and spinal

since, she has started to eat normal again for 2 months, she still haven't grained any weight on

I feed her twice a day

Dog Training Tips - When Should Dog Training Start?

Recommended Answer:
Since it has been quite some time I would recommend you take her to a vet. She may have an underlying condition affecting her weight. Explain the situation to your vet.

Choosing Dog Training Equipment

• you should be able to switch to dry at that age!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: What's your favorite agility training tool?

In about a year my family will be moving closer to the in-laws in Mississippi. My MIL breeds Australian Shepherd's and has asked me if I wanted to start dog training with her, focusing on agility.

We are both new to agility training and I wanted to know what are some tools that you suggest and cannot live without?

*We will be building our course at home with the obstacles being the same as a standard course.

Thanks so much!

Dog Training: Tips and Tricks the Professionals Use

Recommended Answer:
the Clicker is a great trainng tool.
you can start clicker training now so you will be ready to start agil training when you move. Here is a site with a bunch of links about clicker taraining http://www.inch.com/~dogs/clicker.html

Also a lid or target ( small round item). this will help in trianing the contacts on the obsticles. Obsticles with contacts are the A frame, Teeter, and dog walk.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Agility_Training…

Also when you go to buy or make your equipement there are lots of sites offering low cost obsticles.
http://www.affordableagility.com/

do it yourself agil. equipment book
http://www.smartpakcanine.com/ProductCla…

http://www.weave-poles.com/?crtag=Google…

Also here is a link with articles about agility and training
http://www.carlson-agility.com/articles.…

just do a search and you will find all kinds of good stuff.
I LOVE AGILITY

http://www.leapdogagility.com/library.ht…
this site has a lot of good video training lessons.
many you can do now before having all or any of the equipment.
it has a clicker video, target,beginning training and many more.
you have to buy the sessions though. But you get like 4 or 5 videos with your purchase.

Crate Training Your Dogs - Ultimate Dog Training Method

• bbgun... I'm kidding. Stairs and tunnels, the shalom poles.


• i love agility!!!!!!!!!!! i have a shihtzu and shes pretty good at agility and I'm 8 and were gonna go in agilty and dog shows and my shih tzus the only dog i have and i like all the agility equiment


• We love the seesaw & the tunnels.
  
  Hurdles are great to have at home.


• Bindi loves to work for her squeaky duck. Its her favorite toy, she'll take that before yummy treats. To keep it special she only gets it for a reward when we're working.
  
  Max being a lab will do anything for food.
  
  It really depends on the dog. Find what really gets your dog motivated and use that as a reward.


• As far as training tools are concerned, you will have to figure out what works best for your dog, because each is different.
  One of my shelties just loves treats and works best with high value treats for a reward. Her brother/littermate could care less about the food he likes his frisbee, so we reward him with that.
  Our third sheltie is quite shy (he is a rescue) so toys don't work for him either. He likes treats, but mostly wants to please me so lots of "good boy!'s" works along with pets and sometimes treats.
  I started my first two with a clicker. It works great because you can mark the correct behavior immediately. Most trainers today start their puppies off with clicker training.
  
  Good luck and have fun. Aussies are great agility dogs!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training tips!? HELP!?

I've been trying to get my now 6-7month old to stop barking when its unwanted.
I do the "enough" tapping it gently on the nose saying enough (it "enrages" her and gets her barking more) my father bought a box that lets out a high pitch noise when the dog barks, didnt work.

She bites whenever she thinks im playing with her (really im telling her to stop barking, or to get off the couch or trying to pet her gently, and give affection) f
She is not yet spayed , so she still has so much energy etc in her, and she sadly doesn't have the "calm" nature in her yet. When I tap her nose GENTLY ( i am against slapping, or hard hitting of dogs. ), for no biting, she barks louder and makes a "angry scrunched up face " and continues to try to bite. ( she shows no signs of anger, that is the only way i can describe her face when she barks louder)

I REALLY REALLY need help! She is getting and is somewhat at the age, she is too big to be rambunctious

notes:
I have taken to her to an obediance class as a puppy, and it was only really for commands. sit, stay, etc how to walk them. But the lady never really gave any useful advice with barking or biting.

Her name is holly, and she is a Newfoundland dog, big big dog. I need her to be trained properly, as shes a big breed, and bad things are sure to happen if the problems aren't delt with.
I had a nerveous Berner whom my dad gave off to a farm (dads fault he got timid) I am not emotionally stable to lose another dog. I am still re cooperating from my other leaving my life.

Dog Training - Getting the Basics Right

Recommended Answer:
Apparently tapping her nose is the wrong way to go. By doing that she is even considering that playing or some sort of positive reinforcement, you are feeding into her excitement. You should stop play before it gets that rough. When she bites say no and ignore her until she calms down, when she is barking do the same thing.

She sounds bored and a bored dog is a destructive dog. More exercise and work on the obedience training you have been through.

Bad Dog Training Tricks - How to Correct Bad Dog Behavior

• Here is a site I recommend to pet puppy owners for training advice. The site owner is a well-known obedience trainer that uses positive methods. You can find an article here that can help you with most anyting you are having a problem with.
  http://www.dogtrainingbasics.com


• To train your dog to a well behaved one,i found this site to be quite interesting and informative,
  http://secretsondogtraining.blogspot.com/


• Oh dear, you are having a hard time. although I don't understand why you feel you should have to rehome her for this. You also don't say how old you are, or what made you consider getting such a large breed, although whatever the size of the dog, the principles remain the same. You need to be firm but calm when you deal with her. Reward good behaviour & ignore her when she does something you don't want her too. Reward with lots of love & attention, treats work well with some dogs depending on how food orientated she is. So if she starts to bite when you play with her, stop immediately, tell her NO in a very firm voice & then walk away from her. To deal with the barking I would suggest lots & lots of exercise. If you wear her out, she will be too tired to bark. There are several ways to do this, you could use a bike or skates. We have a staffie/boxer cross, who I get to run alongside me 2 or 3 times round the block with her running flat out. Chloe was destructive, rather than noisy & only when I left her. After running round the block, she would then just lie down & sleep for the whole time I was out although she had eaten rather a lot of the bannisters & large chunks of the skirting before we attempted this method - but the point is, you keep trying different methods until you find the one that works for you & your dog. My partner did say she would have to go after she ate his brand new glasses, but knows that he would be out the door before the dog & was only letting off steam (they were expensive glasses)!. I am surprised that the'box' didn't work, but again, try the training classes again & explain to the tranier what your problem is, they normally have several ideas, or possibly your local vet. Newfoundland's have fantastic temprements & there is no reason why you can't work round this. You also don't say exactly when she barks. Mine bark like mad at the postman, anyone coming to close to the front door - such as leaflet deliverers or if they hear anything on a night when my daughter is in bed. These are all perfectly acceptable times to bark, as they are protecting their home & their pack. You need to show your dog that you, not she, is the boss of her pack & what you say goes. Good luck & enjoy your dog.


• we are training our dog to stop barking, we have tried different types of bark collars, but that never seems to work. so now what we do that really works is whenever she barks, we say "mud room" which is where the laundry machines are. then once she is in there we say stay and don't give any attention for a couple of minutes. after that we say "good quiet" and give her a lot of attention.
  
  i would recommend this for your dog. put her in an area that you dont go in a lot, but dont close the door. (also get her to learn the "quiet" command, by whenever she is quiet, say good quiet and give her a treat.)
  if she keeps coming to you after you say "stay" then use a little doggy gate. make sure that she can still see through the gate. if you don't have one then make an alternate one. you could her in a cage. this works for us because whenever she barks she starts to know where she's going, so she doesn't bark as much.
  
  as for the biting, whenever she bites turn around and don't give any attention and get her to learn the "no bite" command the way she laerns the "no bark" command.
  
  HOPE THIS HELPS!!!!!! :^)

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training advice!!?

i have a 5 month old German Shepherd, he is such a trouble maker. He has a habit of biting our garden decorations, chewing on the hose, and digging out our plants. He has toys but he prefers to ruin the most expensive items -___- anyway i need advice on how to train him, should i buy him a muzzle or what?
(Ps. no training classes i am 15 i cant pay for those xD )

Is Dog Training Necessary? Part 1

Recommended Answer:
haha sounds just like my lab when she was a puppy .. it's just a phase that he will grow out of ...

in the mean time, make sure he doesn't get bored (dogs tend to get into more trouble when they're bored / under-exercised) .. make sure to take him for a couple walks every day (e.g. after breakfast and after dinner) and since he's a puppy he's got a TON of energy (so these walks should include some running / fetch ---> enclosed areas only!) as for the chewing, that too is normal, puppies chew on things b/c their adult teeth are growing in, and chewing helps their gums feel better (human babies do the same). if he isn't interested in chewing on his designated chew toys, then try getting him a kong (a hollowed out cone of thick rubber that come in different sizes for different breeds) and you can fill it with some peanut butter or cheese whiz and that should hold his attention for a while

it's also important to set aside some time every day to work on training. you don't want to overdo it, otherwise your dog will lose focus and you'll lose patience, keep it to ~20min sessions. work on commands like "sit" "lie down" etc. this will get him thinking and it's a great way to bond and establish your role as alpha in the family

good luck :)

How to Explore the Numerous Advantages of Online Dog Training

• Good grief, he is a 5 month old puppy, he is like a human toddler, the only way he can explore and learn is to examine things. He doesn't have hands so he uses his mouth, just like a toddler. You and your parents need to puppy proof his environment. Remove the garden ornaments (to him they look like toys) put the hose away out of reach, fence off any treasured plants or garden beds and you must give him an area that is his to dig in and buy his stuff like a doggy sandpit. DO NOT muzzle your puppy this will only make this worse, if he has lots of toys change them around regularly put some away for a week or so and then change them over, he will think he has new toys. Obedience training classes are a must as you are not experienced in training an active, large puppy. Group lessons are quite affordable, do some research around the obedience clubs in your area. Some breed clubs also offer obedience training for owners of their breeds so check with the local GSD club. Training classes are part of the cost of raising a happy healthy family pet, if you spend 6 months now training him correctly you will have a wonderful companion for the rest of his life. Don't end up like some of the idiots who put questions on here, make an investment in your families and you dogs happiness and enrol in obedience classes now. I am sure your breeder will have recommended this as well. Good luck and happy training.


• He is a puppy! He needs to have plenty of exercise and lots of interaction with you & the family!! All puppies chew things they are teething & they hurt!! Take your puppy for walks, run & play catch in your yard, teach him simple commands, a puppy needs to be occupied, and taught how to behave correctly... NO you do not need to buy him a muzzle, that would be the worse thing you could possibly do!!! Your puppy should go to obedience classes, all dogs should go, it not only is good for your pup but also good for you!! You can learn A LOT!!!!! It is part of being a responsible owner, ask your parents to pay, it is the right thing to do!! Hope this helps good luck!!!


• He sounds like a normal GSD puppy doing exactly what young puppies do.
  
  If you can't afford obedience classes this is not a suitable breed for you. GSD's are very intelligent and need to be physically and mentally stimulated or they get up to mischief. The breed is quick to learn but the owner needs some training knowledge or the dog will find things to do to amuse himself. That is exactly what's happening here.
  
  Do not muzzle a puppy. Especially for behaving like a normal puppy. Muzziling a puppy is not a subsitute for proper training. You will cause the pup to become frustrated which will lead to behaviour problems.
  
  Ask your parents to pay for you to take the dog to training at your local obedience classes. They're not very expensive.


• This is normal puppy behavior. He needs plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and some safe chew toys. My dogs love Nylabones, which you can get at any pet store and some grocery stores. He also needs a crate where he can stay when you can't supervise him.
  
  It would be good if you could take a set of classes with a trainer. It's not terribly expensive if you take a class--maybe $100 or so for six lessons that cover a lot of ground. Some pet stores, e.g. Petsmart, offer classes. Look for a positive, clicker-training class. Once you learn some basics you can keep going on your own.
  
  If you can't afford training classes, look up "foundation obedience training" on youtube; some excellent trainers have posted videos there. Or go to the library and get a book on basic puppy training. The training will teach him how to behave, it will get him using his mind, and it will also strengthen his loyalty to you as you work together.


• i have a 5 month old lab who does the same thing, and i have had 6 other dogs, 2 were GSDs, and they all did this and they all grew out of it. you will just have to wait it out. if he is ruining your plant decorations then i would teach him the "leave it" command, look it up on youtube and work on that with him. thats what i do with my pup when i dont want him to have something


• no, muzzles will just annoy him. Anywho, try, walking him away when he bites or chews up something or digs, also tell him no when he does that, then walk him away, then give him his toy.


• When the dog does something bad like chewing on things he isn't supposed to chew on, spray him with the water hose and sternly say "No" or "Bad" or something of that sort. Maybe try the muzzle approach, that would stop the biting, chewing and barking and it's a cheap, easy and relatively effective method. Or you could attach your dog to some kind of line and limit its distance of travel and you could leave items of value out of reach of the dog.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training problems....?

I have a 1 year old German Shepard in one of my training classes, but he is afraid to walk in the door. Nothing bad has ever happened to him in the store, or any store in fact. He is fine when he walks onto the carpet, but freezes before he will walk on the regular floor. The only way we can get him into the training ring is to carry or drag him, which we don't want. Once he gets into the ring, he is fine. I am sure it is the floor that bothers him. It is just like any other store floor. We have tried treats, coaxing, commands he already knows, distracting him, getting him all excited on the carpet, tossing balls, everything I could think of. We even tried steak! Any realistic ideas to help him? I have been a dog trainer for 3 years and never seen this problem this bad. Help!

So You Want a Guard Dog, Eh? (Basic Dog Training)

Recommended Answer:
Get him moving really good and then just keep walking. The dog needs to move past the shiney floor problem. Keep him going forward, even if you feel you are dragging him. Giving him treats while he is freaking out is only making him think that freaking out is ok. Once on the floor, stop and let him deal with it a while then keep him moving forward. Be calm and don't get him all excited. Good luck.

Mat Or Place Training is an Important Dog Training Tool - Part Two

• First, a lot of idiots are going to suggest Cesar's methods, which are to force him to walk on the floor. AVOID THOSE!
  
  Try getting a carpet runner, something that changes the texture of the floor. See if he'll walk on that. As he gains confidence, you can start moving it so that more and more of the floor is exposed. Enough to challenge the dog, but not enough to cause him to refuse.


• My freinds dog is just like this. It mihgt be what your you are cleaning the floor with. If it has bleach or anything with a really strong smell dogs will hate it (wich you should know). You would hate the smell if had a nose like theres!


• I saw that on dog whisperer. I don't understand why it is so horrible to accept advice from Cesar? Some say it is abusive, but those are the same who say that you should not discipline your children.


• I have Jack Russel and she doesn't like tile floors. I put his food and water on the tile floor and at first he would get a bit of food and go to the carpet but he soon got over it and ate on the tile floor. He still doesn't like the tile but he will walk on it.


• He's afraid of slipping. Are his nails too long? If so, that will make him more afraid of slipping.
  
  You can try Cesar's methods, but if you have the patience I'd do something less drastic first with this young dog. Put down some throw rugs and walk him in normally a few times. Then try running him in. Then take out 1 of the rugs so he's taking a couple of steps on the floor without really realizing it until he's done it. Increase the distance gradually - depending on how he does.
  
  Do not coax or give treats to try to get him to walk on the floor - you're reinforcing his belief that he should be afraid. Give him treats and lots of over-the-top praise for taking a step or two on the floor and I think he'll overcome his fear quickly. You have to try to kind of trick him into it in the beginning; with repetition he should forget to be afraid and see nothing's going to happen to him.


• You are right, it is his footing. He needs to be lead over different surfaces so that he is not afraid of a slippery floor.
  
  With the dog on a leash have the owner sit just inside the door and let the dog stay out side. Have the owner pet and admire other dogs loud enough so that his dog can hear him. Keeping his voice sweet and inviting and soothing. When the dog outside wines or scratches at the door give him an opportunity to enter.
  
  He may choose not to come in, but is OK because he will be given many opportunities to enter. When he does it will be HIS choice. Then just let the owner and the dog sit there. Let other dogs come up to say hi and the other dogs will help him get used to his footing. Don't make him get out on the floor, for the time being he has done a great deed and sitting there is a little scary.
  
  You will have to do this in small steps and let him make the choice but make it very very inviting and worthy and interesting.
  Praise him ! ! ! ! It will take a quite a few trips to earn his trust.
  
  Good luck, I hope I was able to help You can contact me for more specific information. You are a trainer, think like a elephant on ice. Put something on the pads of his feet to help with grip, have him walk over a piece of flooring (several steps),
  
  Look at it like little duckling taking their first swim. Mom goes in first and one by one the little ducklings join her but there is always one little guy that is scared to death to jump. Mama can't entice him in, his siblings can't get through to him, they call and call and soon the little guy jumps out to be with the others.
  
  Time, behavior modification and reasurance will bring him around.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Can anyone please recommend me a good dog training book?

i want to buy a book that really describes well how to train from the puppyhood. with a lot of pictures if there is...........please~

Dog Training is a Priority

Recommended Answer:
I firmly believe that before you can be a good dog trainer you NEED to understand the way dogs think and communicate. I would start off by reading Patricia McConnell's "The other end of the leash" or Stanley Cowen's "The way dogs think". Next I would read any pamphlet or book by Patricia McConnell or Brenda Aloff. Brenda actually has a puppy training DVD available on Amazon - it's wonderful! Good luck, I know it's hard work but once you understand dogs you will be a much better owner and trainer!

Dog Training Techniques - Which Ones Work?

• I think there is a book called puppy training for Dummies(I am serious) it is one of those Dummy books it was really helful for us . I think we got it at Petsmart and if you have one near you they offer puppy training classes which we found supremely helpful.


• I can think of a few, but here's one I like ...
  
  Good Owners, Great Dogs - By Brian Kilcommons


• I was not a big fan of "Dog Training for Dummies". nixed.
  "The Everything Dog Training & Tricks Book" series are fairly decent, but lack pictures.
  "When Pigs Fly: Training Success for the Impossible Dog" is awesome - not many pictures, but really, really cool training techniques.
  
  Honestly, I would go park your bum in a bookstore for half an hour and do some in-store research. Make sure you can understand what the book is having you do, and you agree with the training techniques.
  There is no better trainer than a real one. You may find that enrolling in a class is well worth your time, especially starting out from scratch.


• Here is a link to Dogwise where you can find this book "Competition Obedience: A Balancing Act"
  
  http://www.dogwise.com/ItemDetails.cfm?I…
  
  My obedience instructor highly suggested this book and tells me you can learn almost everything from it to get you all the way up to Utility level obedience.
  
  Personally, I do much better in a class type setting for obedience tho. I learn alot watching my fellow classmates and their dogs as well as from my instructor. Nothing like a good teacher to take you even further.
  
  ADDED: I just saw Brenda Aloff yesterday for a private training session and she is awesome! I would also HIGHLY recommend her DVD as suggested above (I have it and it has really helped with new puppy) and her new book "Get Connected with Your Dog" that I just picked up from her yesterday as well. You just can't go wrong with Brenda Aloff!


• http://petvideo.com
  http://dogbreedinfo.com/care.htm
  http://k9web.com/dog-faqs/


• trust me. a class would be SO much better!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: What is the Movie with plot -Guide To A Happy Marriage = Dog Training Book?

Guide To A Happy Marriage = Dog Training Book?

There was a movie comedy around 1969 (no later than '72) where when the girl got married, her mother gave her a book on training your dog. Each step was outlined in the book, and the implementation with the husband was illustrated in the movie.

Funny movie, I liked it, still makes me smile. The steps in making your dog a loyal well behaved animal also applied to making a man happy, co-operative. At different segments, the book was referred to, reading from it, applying that lesson. Some made me recognize that women often treat their husband badly, without the respect or words, approval shown a dog in training.

The movie showed a well appointed daughter and mother, well off (rich or semi rich), usually talking by phone, mother instructing the daughter about applying the lessons. Might have had a slight French accent. I recall well dressed in woman suits, hats. The girl was somewhere between 20 and 30 or so.

The movie name was something like Guide to a happy marriage, or perhaps "perfect marriage" but the title might have been "How to have a Happy marriage".

My wife at the time didn't *get* the movie, the points it was making about how to treat people, I did. She didn't understand lots of things, self centered.

Explains in after sight why she is on her 4th husband now, and I have another wife that has more understanding.

Would like to find it on DVD, watch it with my wife.

What is the movie, related info, actors?

Training Your Dog at Home - Save Thousands of Dollars on Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
It's "If a Man Answers" with Sandra Dee and Bobby Darin.

Secrets to German Shepherd Dog Training

• It is If a Man Answers with Bobby Darin and Sandra Dee, Dee marries Darin and to keep him happy her mother suggests a book on dog training saying that is how she trained her father to be a good husband. It's a ggod comedy. I have it on DVD and got it thru Columbia House DVD movie club.


• I believe it had Marilyn Monroe in it. (I've seen the movie, but I can't remember the title. I want to say How to Marry a Millionaire, but I don't think that's right)
  
  Might be a cool movie to remake given how most people treat there dogs like little people nowadays (and treat other people like crap)

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: What are the basics of dog training? Rescue dog with training already? please read whole question?

I want to get a dog from the Humane Society and will opt towards an easily trainable dog and/or one who is already trained. If he is already trained, what will I personally have to do to so he responds to me? Also, what exactly are the things I would train him? Basically, if he listens to me and can understand the commands, he will be able to understand most of what I want him to do, right?

Animal Husbandry And Other Unnatural Acts: A Career in Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
I agree, there is an advantage to a dog that already has the basics down. That said, read about the types of dogs you may want and the ages, as well. Often the behavior of a dog will change after a couple of weeks at home...the shelter is not the most "normal" of environments. And there are certain ages a dog goes through, just like people. Puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, geriatrics. It might be nice to know what to expect.

Training Classes:
Also, I highly recommend training classes, even for experienced people and experienced dogs. I still take my dog from time to time for a refresher. It is really fun, I learn new stuff, she learns new stuff, we refresh old stuff, others learn stuff from us, we meet new people and dogs...the list goes on and on. Training class is really is a good experience all the way around.

The Basics:
A good book or two would help. An author recommendation is below. The basics are sit, stay, leave it, and walking nicely on a leash. With a book, you will get idea of other things, and if you have access to the training classes, you'll get even more ideas. Training your dog is very enjoyable. They are so pleased to please you, and the teamwork is very bonding.

cheers!

Train Your Dog - Don't Let Your Dog Train You

• http://www.seefido.com/html/how_to_becom… good luck.


• The basics of dog training boil down to establishing yourself as the leader of the pack. You can train your dog to do as much or as little as you find necessary. The come and stay commands are really important because they have an affect on the dog's safety. Also, you want a dog who is socialized (good with people and other animals.) If a dog understands commands and respects you as a leader, he'll follow your commands.


• An already trained dog will be able to respond to your basic commands.... sit and stay. If it was formally trained ie with obedience classes it will help if you know the correct commands and hand signals so as not to confuse the dog. Personally my preference would be to select a young, untrained dog of an intelligent breed and start from scratch.


• Thank you for thinking of getting a shelter dog!
  I would suggest
  #1 get the right kind of dog for your lifestyle. If you only have a certain amount of time (due to working schedule) do not get a high maintenance dog such as a Lab or Border Collie, etc...the shelter consultants will be able to help you with that decision....
  #2 Make sure you understand this an animal.... not a human...YOU are the LEADER of the Pack.....A Pack will be the 2 of you... and you are the leader...
  #3 Basic Manners are essential....He must wait for your command....ex=going for a walk...he must come to you for the collar and leash and he must sit before it is put on, and he must wait before going out the door. Before going for a ride in the car, he must wait until you give him the release word ex=OK!...He must sit and wait before eating his dinner(do not just leave the food for him to eat at his will)....remember YOU are the leader! The follower (which is what a happy dog is ...) will respect you....
  ANY dog MUST have EXERCISE....DISIPLINE, next and then when he is calm...AFFECTION
  There is a great book by Caesar Milan (the dog whisperer) that will make all this very clear! Caesar's Way (just an example, there are plenty of other great books on dog behavior)
  If the dog is already trained in certain commands I would say that the first thing you must get from his is to "Focus" on YOU!(He should be able to look at you and wait until you give him the next command or release word)
  Training will teach you that!
  Even if he is already "Trained"...you should take him to a class and learn "together"..... Training is a personal bond between the 2 of you! also research crate training (this will give him his own personal space), and check out vets for his health and future visits. and the very last thing I will say is....Training is NEVER over....there is a world of knowledge in the library and the internet...READ, READ, READ....
  Good luck and stay calm and assertive! (from Caesar Milan)


• I would recommend that you do a bit of reading first, before getting a dog. Learning about operant conditioning, clicker training, and reward-based training is fun and you'll be amazed at the things that dogs can do when they are taught in a positive way.
  Karen Pryor, Patricia McConnell, Susan Garrett, Melissa Alexander, Suzanne Clothier and Jean Donaldson are all great to study.
  
  ***No animal behaviorist or trainer who has actually spent time to understand how dogs learn would ever choose to bully or intimidate a dog using punishment. ***

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Does anyone know where i can get money to go the School of Dog Training in ny besides borrowing?

I'm wanting to enroll in a dog training academy in ny and was wondering if anyone knew if there is any source of financial aid out there besides loans?

Clicker Training as an Effective Dog Training Tool

Recommended Answer:
Besides a loan from a bank etc. try friends and/or family.
Talk to the academy, they might offer a loan etc.
Then there is working and saving for it in the future. Not trying to be cute here but Those are the only ways you MAY get the cash you need.
That training is not considered on the high end of the educational block so resources are limited.

Revealed - Boxer Dog Training Secrets

Read More...