Dog Health Questions: What kind of dog should we adopt?

Me and my fiance are adopting two dogs from the pound this summer. They have to be young because the dog training college we are going to requires that you being your own dog. I already have my heart set on a rottweiler and our local pound always has plenty so that's what I'll be adopting. My fiance didn't really care what breed he got because he loves all dogs he just wanted a bigger breed. Then he started looking and went nuts over treeing walker coon hounds and bloodhounds...But we have an 11 year old siberian husky and he has this soft spot for huskies (pet finder.com always has plenty huskies too) So we can't decide. I mean all breeds would be great but which would you get...the siberian, the treeing walker, or the bloodhound.
Personally I love to get two siberians but I know I'd regret it if I didn't get a rottweiler.

The Benefits Of Positive Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
First thing, puppies and young dogs have the greatest chance of being adopted from the pound. Older dogs have the best chance of being killed. All breeds don't really begin to mellow until they are about 5 years old. On the other hand, any 11 year old dog may find it difficult to adjust to a new one. I've found that older dogs will nurture a puppy, but may oppose an adult. I love Rottweilers and had a super-super Rotty-Great Dane mix. However, an adult Rottweiler may not adjust well to another adult male dog. I recommend bringing a friend's adult dog to your home to find out how your Husky responds. Once you have adopted a dog -- old or young -- it's painful to have to take them back if things don't work out. Good luck.

Free Dog Training Tips

• A Rottweiler may not be the best idea. They are not great with other dogs,but the pound will likely check the dogs temperament. If you live where it is very cold,a husky or other heavily furred dog is a good idea. If not,a husky and bloodhound are equally good dogs. Bloodhounds are very active dogs,but do love to follow scents.Another husky may be easier for your husky to accept. Also,keep in mind the breed you want may not be at the pound.


• try a labrador retriever or get the siberian and rottweiler


• Hi! Visit the website below to check and find out which breed matches your criteria.
  
  http://ooteat.notlong.com
  
  Enjoy searching!
  
  Thank you.


• bloodhounds are good for hunting and sniffing things
  huskys are athletic so yea i would like a husky


• Well, I have a pure German Shepard and he's REALLY cute and loving and BIG.

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Dog Health Questions: Help with 4 month old dog?

So my 4 month old German Shepherd/Black Lab mix has a problem with growling and getting aggressive towards my family if he hasn't seen them for a short time. An example would be I'm in the computer room for an hour with him then my son or wife walks in and immediately the dog rushes forward growling and barking (I always snatch him up before anything happens). I just received the dog yesterday and understand that it will take time for him to get used to the family.

What can I do stop the behavior and tell him that it is bad? I really don't want to go old school, but it is the only way I know to teach a dog not to do things. Anyone know a good way to reinforce good behavior and stop bad behavior?

Also does anyone know how pricey personal at home dog training is (on average)? I couldn't find any sites with rates.

Do You Need Dog Training Tools When You Train Your Dog?

Recommended Answer:
I really agree that a shock collar would be best for this situation. It doesn't hurt as long as you keep it on a low level (I should know, I try it on myself before I ever put it on any of my dogs)

When he is behaving, give him a treat and praise. This needs to be nipped in the butt now, otherwise you are going to have a full grown monster.

Ignore the other comments that say Shock collars are cruel, because I have had so many dogs that I train competitively. I have had dogs that tried to be dominate, but one shock and they usually never do it again then are happy for the rest of their lives.

It is better to stop this now than to have this dog end up getting put down for biting.REMEMBER TO KEEP IT ON A LOW LEVEL.

Show Dog Training

• Well, I would try putting him on a leash go into a room with him with 1 family member at a time. First you will lead your dog to the person~if he makes a move quickly take him out the room,wait till he calms down for a minute and re-enter. Doing this process enough times will get him used to each individual person. Once he is right there next to them and they can pet him, praise him and you may let the other person give him a treat. Hope this helps!


• Hi there,
  
  What you could try is watch some videos on Youtube of the series "It's me or the dog" and try and get tips from it....
  Once I saw the woman make a sharp shout noise, and surprisingly the dog stopped....
  
  Give it a shot....
  
  Good luck!


• Try a remote trainer. It has a device you press that gives the dog a shock when it misbehaves.


• take to petsmart 6 weeks for $110
  training, exercise, socialzation will help
  professional trainer to teach you have to train will do wonders if you work at it


• I would not start with a shock collar. You just got this pup yesterday and he is a pup. What you need to do is when someone comes in the room tell them to call the pup's name so as not to startle him, if he growls tell him no in a stern voice. He needs some time to get used to who belongs and who doesn't. Try not to keep him from the other members of the family so he can get used to them and know they belong and it wouldn't hurt if they played with him. I do not know what a prof. trainer would cost to come to your house. I suggest you start training and socializing him yourself. Also taking him to a puppy class would be good for him to get used to other people and dogs and the both of you to learn some things. Just give the pup some time for gosh sakes.


• I'm glad you are looking for some dog training help, because this is what the dog really needs. For the dog to learn to do as he is told, including not showing aggression towards other people, he needs to learn to follow your instructions. Although a few people have suggested a shock collar instead, that can actually make the issue worst. If you zap the dog at the wrong time, the dog may think the people are attacking (causing the pain) and then the dog will become more aggressive. If the dog is in part acting out of fear, then the dog will become more fearful which can drive even more aggression. Below is a website which has some more information about dog aggression and about becoming your dog's leader.
  
  http://www.peggyswager.com/

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Dog Health Questions: How can I assert dominance over my dog on my babies' behalf?

We adopted an Anatolian Shepherd/Greyhound mix from the humane society 3 days ago. He's a neutered male, 2 years old and we found out after the fact that he's been adopted and returned several times. I don't know if the humane society has purposely lied to us or the last people to turn him over, but he is not good with small kids and cats like they said. He is trying to show his dominance over them (my two 11 month old babies and two dog-friendly cats) and cannot be trusted yet. He knows I'm the boss and so is my husband, but maintains a threatening posture around the cats and babies. I have them separated constantly right now except when my husband and I are both home and at the ready, but this is exhausting trying to give everyone the right attention. He is a good dog and has a lot of potential and is perfect for what we want him for-a companion for me, a stay at home mom who lives in the boonies and protection for the house. I'd hate to be anyone that tries to break in. We live on acreage so he has nearly unlimited opportunity to exercise and I haven't left the house since we got him, I can tell he's afraid of being left again. I can tell he is used to bossing people around and although I haven't dealt with dogs like this, I've had a few horses who were like that and use that knowledge with this dog. I'm a dominant person to begin with though and don't want to be too intimidating. I've had to be at 5'1" and 110 lbs. But, anyway, the babies don't poke or mishandle him at all, but he's stands squared off and stares at them and will growl if approached. My husband rolls him onto his back and makes him stay that way when he does this. Is there any merit to this approach? Or is the alpha roll an outdated method? We will start dog-training classes, but not immediately as I live far from them and have no babysitter. We are new to this area. Thank you for your help. Oh and are there any dog-training DVDs that are good? Thanks again.

Finding the Best Dog Training Supplies

Recommended Answer:
Alpha rolling is out dated.

It's dangerous to the handler, the dog, and it ruins any trust you may have built w/the dog. He needs to stop that.

You need to find a professional trainer, no video is going to help you with this. I would find a + reinforcement trainer or even better a natural dog trainer. He's part grey hound so his prey drive is pretty high, a natural dog trainer should be able to use his prey drive to correct these unwanted behaviours.

add;

Recent research has shown that the alpha theory is incorrect.

Dog Training Tips

• I don't think people who are not trained in properly administering the Alpha Roll should not give the Alpha Roll - ever. You can do more harm than good.
  
  Definately - you are on the right path with training. See if they can come to you - you may really want to consider that instead.
  
  There are several good methods for training - but if you are signing up for formal obedience training - call them up and ask them what method they use so you aren't using two different methods. Koehler is one method, there is reward based, clicker, etc.
  
  I use a combo of methods. Good luck.


• Hi
  I think you're on the right track I believe that the dog needs to know his place in the pack and when he is sure of it he'll be much happier,the bottom isnt a bad place to be at least its a place!I would ensure also that you feed him away from the kids and after you have all eaten. I would be cautious when rolling him on his back as you dont know his temperament well enough and he may bite out of aggression or fear. Get a good class started or ask a good trainer to come to your house.I would get someone experienced in as the aggression you see could be mis read fearful behaviour in which case you could make it worse if you treat it as aggression. Look up the 5 minute rule on the internet its a really good exercise to do for any dog. it basically involves you ignoreing (completely) the dog when you re enter the house for 5 mins or more if needed until he is calm this just helps to re afirm your status. One other important thing NEVER leave the dog alone with the kids no matter how well he seems to be doing


• You're on the right track and I commend you for wanting to improve your situation and learn how to handle your dog.
  
  Personally, I'm kind of torn on the alpha roll. I agree that it should never be done by someone who is not well-versed in doing, but on the same token I'm not sure that it even SHOULD be used. I've seen plenty of research to substantiate that the alpha roll is not an action performed by the alpha dog at all, but rather a rush at the offending dog and at the same time submission displayed so that it APPEARS that the alpha roll is being performed.
  
  If your dog really is an Anatolian mix then you expect them to be dominant and independent anyways. Greyhounds are triggered by movement, and in general are fine around children they are raised with, but not so much with cats and smaller animals.
  
  I would suggest you contact a professional trainer who can observe your home life as well as study your dog in-depth and provide personalized solutions for your situation.
  
  http://www.iaabc.org/suchen/
  http://www.apdt.com/
  http://www.avsabonline.org/avsabonline/
  http://www.associationofanimalbehaviorpr…
  
  I hope this helps you, and good luck to you!


• First of all, I would like to point out that it will never be a good idea to leave your dog unattended with children that young! I don't care how much training this dog gets and who ends up being boss, there will never be a good ending to that scenario, so you may have to get used to being there ALL THE TIME.
  I am frankly surprised that you would be willing to take on a rescue dog when you have so much to do with twins. I would actually recommend that you return this dog and wait until the babies are older before you consider taking this on.
  
  For those who think the "alpha roll" is a good idea, please show me a video where the alpha roll is used in the wild-wolves, wild dogs, hyenas-I will take anything! You will have some trouble, as this is NOT done in a pack environment-ever. Pack leaders rule through intimidation-they very seldom have to resort to violence or anything physical.
  
  When dealing with very young puppies, a gentle roll onto the back (not forceful at all) is a way of teaching a pup to respond to you as a leader. A forced "alpha roll" on an adult dog with issues is a great way to get your face ripped off and the poor dog euthanized.
  
  Dog training DVDs are not dog training. You need to be involved with the trainer in order to learn anything.


• Exerting dominance and alpha rolling him around the kids will only teach him that being around the kids is not a good thing, not something you want him to learn. This may not be a good match for you- greyhounds are typically not good with cats and other small animals that look and act like prey. Not their fault they were bred to chase prey!
  
  Regardless of how good he ends up being, I advocate never leaving dogs and kids uner 5 (bare minimum) together alone. Too much potential for something to go awry even with the most laid back Lab.
  
  The following resources may help:
  
  http://dogs.suite101.com/article.cfm/dog…
  
  http://www.canismajor.com/dog/kidsdog2.h…
  
  http://www.patriciamcconnell.com/product…
  
  http://clickerpets.stores.yahoo.net/puki…
  
  Additional info in response to edits:
  
  I may be too much of a grammarian ;-) but when you said that "right now" you don't leave the dogs and kids alone unsupervised, that implied to me that you might in the future.
  
  Don't give up on clicker training yet. The dog may still be settling in and that may be affecting his appetite. Regardless of the reason, you can train your dog to eat on schedule. First try just putting the food down for a short period of time (ten minutes is plenty long enough, 5 is probably fine) twice a day. Pick up whatever he didn't eat in that time and don't feed him again until next meal time- and only feed a regular sized meal, don't add the rest of the missed meal to the next one. If he still isn't eating regularly in a few days of this, put him on Sue Ailsby's "Train to eat" program- I haven't seen in fail yet!
  
  http://www.dragonflyllama.com/%20DOGS/Wr…
  
  Also consider letting him eat in a crate or other out of the way spot- he may be too nervous to eat if there are toddlers running around, etc.


• ASPCABEHAVIOR.ORG may have your answer


• Greyhounds are not safe around cats or any animal that runs, the shelter should have told you that. Greyhound mixes are the same way.
  
  You can try leashing the dog to your waist and keeping him with you for the majority of the day, instantly correcting him when he does something he should not, and giving praise occasionally through the day.
  
  the Cesar Milan videos on Youtube can help, but you need to get some pet gates installed in your house to block him off physically from certain rooms and the kids. Do not take a chance with the kids. A dog that growls does so out of fear or aggression, and a fearful dog is more likely to bite. With kids they bite at the face. When he's with you, put him in a sit position, they can't get as aggressive that way. And do not let the kids reach for or grab or poke at this dog, he could misinterpret that as attacks.


• Trainers still tell you to use the alpha roll, and it is effective. However, when your husband does it, it is him exerting authority over the dog not your kids. He will still see them as things to be dominated. Training him is a great idea. Just remember that your kids should never be allowed to punish the dog. They should be allowed to give him positive reinforcement only. I'm not sure if he snaps at your children or you when you give him treats, so if he does ignore this advice. But, one way for your kids to start having more authority is by them giving the dog an order to sit and then giving him a treat. I don't know how old your kids are, though.


• No matter what anyone says the alpha roll is never out dated, because dogs are not out dated. A dog is a pack animal, your husband, you and your children are a pack, and in a pack there are leaders period. It sounds like you have an idea, but just aren't sure. Shepherds are dominant becauseof there bred roll, to protect and herd. Im sure him being taken back as played a roll in his temperment, but safety has to come first for you children and yourself.
  An older dog will try to test his roll consintly especially in a new home. You husband isnt wrong, some people choose to put them on there back or bite them. I choose to make them wait for there food, untill I say. Also giving that type of dog a job, helps tremendously, guarding the property is a perfect job. There is no quick fix, its gonna take a lot of time and energy. Good luck and do whats best for you and your family.

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Dog Health Questions: Help for a dog trainer!?

Okay i'm a dog trainer and I am looking for free dog training seminars in MN or if there are job opportunities in the area for me.

Dog Training Tips and Tricks - Ways to Make Dog Training Easy For You and Your Pet

Recommended Answer:
Well if you're looking for seminars that actually count toward the IAABC or APDT requirements then they're not going to be free. No seminar worth anything is free.

Also, this is not a job hunting site so you're not going to find any jobs on here.

From Simple Dogs to Guard Dogs - How Guard Dog Training is Done?

• i don't know myself but google will usually have schedules for that kind of stuff
  sorry i wasn't much of a help

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Dog Health Questions: Walking without leash: dog training?

Alright, I'm having some trouble here. I get my dog to walk beside me but when I reward him he takes the treat and runs off and I cannot, for the life of me, get him to stay by me. He also gets really excited to go out and never seems to listen to me even if I offer a freakin bag of treats.

Dog Training Tips and Tricks - Ways to Make Dog Training Easy For You and Your Pet

Recommended Answer:
you might not know it but it is illegal to have a dog off leash, unless in designated off leash areas like a dog park. Even if your dog gets trained for this, there's no guarentee that he will never run off..and he can get killed.

try teaching the "wait" command
http://www.lucythewonderdog.com/wait.htm…

Successful Dog Training Tricks

• This is normal dog behavior you can use a longer leash at first to teach him to come back to you consistently. I would seek the help of a dog trainer.


• The "heel" command should always be taught on leash. You should ALWAYS be the one in charge...indoors or out.
  
  She has learned that if she behaves for 2.5 seconds, she gets a treat, and the game is over. When she is on lead, YOU control what the rules are.
  
  good luck


• Don't actually give him the treat, just hold it and let him kind of nibble on it in your hand. While he is doing that keep saying the command and praising. Keep him on lead and if he starts to break away then give a firm correction and put him back in position.


• Proper dog training treats is an art form.
  
  You want treats the dog can't resist and that he'll be able to eat quickly. Soft and small are key. I use low fat, low sodium swiss cheese. I buy the big blocks and cut it into small cubes. Really small cubes. Less then bit size cubes actually. Nothing they need to work on chewing. They smell good to your dog, they won't feel they have to walk away to eat it, and it's cheaper and more healthy than the treat junk they sell anywhere.
  
  Also ... you should always start ON LEASH. Get the dog doing all of this on a very loose leash before you try doing it off leash. Then, get a really long leash and start working with that. Work with no distractions at first, then work with small distractions then build up from there. And remember ... dogs don't learn this stuff in a day. It can take months and months even years with some dogs for them to be reliable off leash.


• How old is your dog? Take baby steps with him - can he make it calmly out the door with you going out first? Does he heel on a leash? It could be that you haven't trained him to wait for things patiently or it could be that he isn't mature enough to handle all of the excitement of being out in the "open". It usually takes a well behaved dog at least three years before they are trustworthy off leash on walks.
  
  Did you attend obedience classes? How did he listen there with other dogs and stimulations around?


• Why would you ever think about trying to train a dog to walk without a leash if you haven't trained him to walk beside you on a leash? Of course he's a different dog outside. The distractions in the outdoor world are like a drug to a dog. Smells, squirrels, birds, cars, other dogs, people...the list is endless.
  Walking a dog on leash is safer for the dog and also required by law in most areas unless you live in a very rural area. Teach the dog to walk on a leash first....treats do not replace good training.


• It is illegal to unleash a dog when going on a public place other than the designated area.By the problem you have mentioned it looks like he has to be trained more for the outside atmosphere.Since he is calm inside and excited outside he has to be trained.
  Even after training don't unleash him in public place


• I used to have a crazy Siberian Husky when I was little. He was the only one with leash problems. He was so full of energy we always thought he would burst. What we did so he would walk with us was we would keep the leash short. It was difficult since he was so strong, but every time he would pull, we would firmly tell him "No. Heel." and if he stopped, we would praise him. If he didn't, we would stop. He usually kept pulling on what leash he had, but we would tell him no until we got him to rest. You should also consider using the firm "No" when he's in trouble. I'm not insinuating that you always yell at him, but just as advice, use your mean voice only when he is in big trouble. You could maybe even spank him as my dog learned quite quickly with that. Not hard, but just enough to show him that it hurts and he was bad.
  
  It sounds like your dog has a lot of energy when you go outside. What my family would do with our Husky was we bought those things that attach to your bike. It's this metal thing that you attach to your bike, and it's specially built so you can hook your dog onto it as a sort of leash. We used this to get his energy out. He had so much energy and was so strong that only my dad could do this. The dog would run along pulling my dad at insane speeds for two hours, until we decided it was time to go home. This would get a lot of his energy out, but he would still be jumping around and running in the house. I have no idea where it all came from.
  
  My current dog (much smaller and "dead" compared to the energy that my Husky had, although it is energetic) has the same issue as yours. She gets her daily meals in the kitchen, but if we give her a treat in the kitchen, she'll go to a near area that's carpeted and eat it there. Sometimes it's under the bed, although usually in the entrance to the kitchen. The eating of the treat under the table (for your dog) was especially interesting. He is most likely eating it there because for him it is like a safe, enclosed cave. He knows he'll be safe eating his treat there and that nothing will try to take it away. My dog doesn't get treats very often as she prefers belly rubs, and consequently doesn't like treats. I don't know how you fix the "hiding-under-something-to-eat-treats" problem but all I know is that it's normal. I think if you are playing with him while he has his treats or if you've ever tried or are trying to take his treat away from him, don't. This will make him think that he is at risk of it going away, so if you don't do this for a long time and pet him and praise him while he has/eats the treat, he will feel more comfortable eating it close to you.


• The primary rule of dog training is that whoever controls the reinforcers controls the behavior. Right now, you think you control the reinforcers because you have the treats, which is not an unreasonable thing to think. BUT- the dog has free access to all sorts of other reinforcers in the environment, great smells, a chance to run and roll in the grass, etc. and so has more control. Indoor and outdoor are very different because of the level of reinforcers the dog has access to.
  
  So first off, what is the level of the behavior indoors? Will the dog walk alongside you for 2 seconds before getting a treat? Three? Five? Ten? Thirty? With distractions? I know, its hard to do thirty seconds in a house cause there's not that much room to move, but you can circle and backtrack etc. Distractions can be the cat, food left out on the coffeetable that you pass by, a phone ringing, etc.
  
  If he's got some eating issues, you might want to work on those separately. What kind of treat are you giving? A biscuit type usually needs to be munched on and encourages the dog to go off and have a picnic by himself. Use small soft training type treats: Zukes Minis are the perfect size, BilJac minis also, soft cat treats work great, or you can make your own, I like to use Natural Balance rolls of dog food and cut them up small. Do a couple of sessions where he gets fed at your side with numerous small treats fed one after the other. Another suggestion is to use his meals if you use kibble- I spent two weeks doing mostly outdoor training with her meals- all her food was coming during training, which made it much more important! AND it made me train her consistently twice a day because I couldn't let her starve.
  
  When you do work outside, you need to control the environment, either by going someplace where there are fewer distractions, or by putting the dog on a leash. I like to work in tennis courts when the weather is bad because no is there and I can close the door to prevent the dog from leaving and there isn't a whole lot there, though still some interesting smells (and pick up any stray tennis balls first!)
  
  Start by being able to have the dog at your side- if he won't stay with you when you're still, it will be even harder once you start moving. Reward him for being within an 8 foot radius of you, then within a 6 foot, then six feet on your left (if that's where you want him) then 4 feet on your left, etc until he is in the position you would like.
  
  I would also recommend interspersing some other training, especially recalls (and dog should be set up so he is ALWAYS sucessful!) One of the ways I worked on my offleash walking with my newest pup was to recall her to me and then walk for a step or two, and then increased how far I went before I gave her a treat. Please note that my recall is usually facing away from the dog and calling her into heel position, not facing her.
  
  You can't realistically take a real world walk and train this at the same time. Yes, you need to know the leash laws for your area, they vary widely. And enforcement is hugely variable, but I can tell you that I've had cops watch me train and not interfere (other than to ask about training issues) because my dog was very obviously being trained and under control. I've also had neighbors tell me to put my dog onleash when he was behaving beautifully and not bothering anyone and the park was empty (she lived across from the neighborhood park.) And my dogs don't leave their soda cans, trash, basket balls, bikes, etc, in the park, but I digress. I am a huge proponent on not putting a dog in a situation it isn't ready for- the dog can develop issues that take much longer to train than the original training would have taken, and it can be dangerous if the dog runs away or runs to chase something. A strong recall is your best friend's best friend.


• Its ilegal to have a leash on your dog when out

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Dog Health Questions: Startmark clicker: dog training?

my dogs are scared of it. i'm trying to train my biggest dog, Kiba, right now, and he's hiding under the bed. i know, the clicker is really loud, and i think it's too loud. i'm doing as the directions say to condition the dog to the clicker (clicking, then giving the dog a treat), but it isn't helping any. should i try later, so the dogs are more hungry, or should i just give up completely?
and yes, i've tried putting the clicker in my pocket and clicking, to make it quieter, but that helped about..0.5%.
thanks. <3
-kelsey. ♥

Proven Dog Training Methods

Recommended Answer:
Sometimes this happens. You can try something like the top of a Snapple bottle, which also makes a clicking noise, but much softer. If that's still too much, you may not be able to use a clicker at all. You can still do the same kind of training, but instead of a clicker you use a marker word, like "yes" instead of clicking the clicker.

Dog Training Man's Best Friend

• You could muffle a box clicker by putting several layers of duct tape or masking tape on the metal tongue.
  
  You could hold it in a pocket (instead of, or in addition to, the above).
  
  You could get a quieter clicker: http://clickerpets.stores.yahoo.net/newi… is the one I give to my clients.
  
  Make sure you are holding the clicker far from the dog's head and not pointing it at her like a remote.
  
  Make sure you give a high-value treat immediately after each click.
  
  You could just make a noise that doesn't happen in any other context, like a click of your tongue, or a made-up, short sound. You could just say "yes!"
  
  Most trainers I know don't bother "charging" the clicker (just clicking and giving treats for a while) any more. They teach the first behavior they want (I usually use a nose target to help both the dog and the human learn), and the dog catches on that the noise means he is getting rewarded for what he was doing at that moment.


• There are clickers with a very soft noise available, or you can use a different sound, or even just say "yes" (or whatever).


• if you really want to train your dog i suggest going to the orlando pet smart and asking for mark as your trainer. he is excellent my dogs don't do a bad thing but it's still good to remind them every once and a while at home the comands.


• Can you picture the temperament of a dog that hides from the noise of a clicker under the bed and will not come out?
  Clickers are an idiotic gimmick, you have a voice, use that as a marker which is what the clicker is supposed to be doing.
  I have never understood the fascination with them as your voice does the exact same thing and it is free, plus, the dog knows what it sounds like!

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training..barking and jumping?

I have 3 dogs...8 yr old d lab/retriever mix...7 yr old lab/shepherd mix and a lab that is 1.5 yrs old. Here is my problem. When ppl come to the house they all rush the door...barking non stop. We have to hold them back. It is annoying and embarrassing. I have tried working with them with treats to sit and stay with my husband knocking on the door. 2 of the 3 dogs will focus on me and the treat the other one just starts barking immediately...the older one. Because she does this the other 2 will lose focus while I am trying to calm her and make her sit.

Any other suggestions...I do not agree with any physical aggression in training at all.

Dog Training Fundamentals

Recommended Answer:
Maybe try and work with each one separately. I alway use praise when they do what they are told, not treats. Take one out in the yard and teach him to heal. (Sit at your left side and stay until you tell him ok). Use a leash to train with. Pull up with the leash and push down on his behind until he sits. Keep repeating Sit. They key is repetition with each dog and then with two dogs and then three. It may take a little longer with 3 dogs, but you can do it. Just be patient. Good Luck!

Electronic Dog Training Collar

• You need to be the pack leader, but it sounds like the older dog has that role. Also when you say you're trying to calm the older dog depending on exactly what you're doing you may just be reinforcing the bad habit.
  
  I would find a good local trainer and work with them to resolve this, keep in mind that for some dogs to learn a new skill or release a bad habit it can require doing it with them up to 200 times before they really "get it".
  
  


• You can try having all 3 dogs on a leash so that when your guest comes thru the door you have a reliable way to pull the dogs back and to calm them down before letting them in


• Misbehaving dogs can be embarrassing and annoying at times, and dog training may cost alot of money and time especially when u have more than one dog.
  try visiting
  http://rasjoe.bezoogle.com/pp/dog-training/
  
  its a dog training review site of various dog training programs for a very low price.
  All the best.

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Dog Health Questions: I need good tips for dog training?

first thing is to toilet train her, any tips

Effective Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
okay,i do not beleave in kennel training it keeps hem hid to the world with is no good for a growing pup so after every feeding,playing,or drinking place your dog outside for 5-10 minets and if she makes a doo doo or a wee wee in ur home put your hand around snuggly around her/his muzzle and rub his nose nose in it then get eye contact(while keeping your hand arond his muzzle and say a loud deep 'NO" and then slitly spank the dogs nose (PLEASE NOTE,KEEP THE SPANKS MINIMOM THIS IS DOG TRAINING,NO ANIMAL ABUSE!) i hope this helped!

Best Dog Training Book - Attention Dog Lovers, Read This Now

• There's no reason to hit your dog on the nose or anywhere else; doing this will not teach him/her not to pee inside, it teaches him/her to hide from you and pee inside where you can't see.
  
  Crate-training isn't inhumane, and many dogs will find that the crate becomes their safe place and go there willingly when they want some time alone. It becomes their "den".
  
  Puppies need to pee after eating or drinking, after a nap, and after a play session, so get your dog out as soon it's finished any activity. If the dog starts circling or sniffing the floor, that's a good indication to take him or her outside. Puppies don't have reliable bladder control until they're at least 4 months old, so you have to keep a watchful eye.
  
  If an accident happens inside, don't punish your dog - it just means you weren't paying enough attention. Take the dog outside right away, reward with a lot of praise when it does "go" outside, and clean up accidents with an enzyme cleaner. Be patient!

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Training in Del Rio,TX?

Does anybody know of any dog trainers or training facilities located in Del Rio,TX!?

The Praise and Reward Dog Training Method

Recommended Answer:
go to the "association of pet dog trainers" website, then click on trainer search.

Buying An Electronic Dog Training Collar Doesn't Have To Be Shocking

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Dog Health Questions: Agility dog training for kids?

Hi I am a kid who is interested in training my puppy in agility. Is there any training classes in Washington? Hopefully near the Tri-cities.

Dog Training Explained

Recommended Answer:
Agility is an extremely fun sport for you and your dog. It's all about having fun, and eventually you will be able to enter trials and earn your dog titles.

I am assuming you are talking about Washington state - hopefully I am right. Here is a start. Adding your city to the search bar will give you a better search, but here is a list. If there are none near you, try typing in dog training centers instead of agility training - many will have agility training too.

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&um=1&i…

Clicker Dog Training - Getting Started Clicker Training

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Dog Health Questions: Does anyone know any dog training tips???

I got a dog in July and its been acting strange like biting, barking,not coming to me... Do u have any tips to stop it???anyone???

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

Recommended Answer:
-repeating commands
-don't give up
-make sure it knows your the boss
-start when its young otherwise it will be VERY HARD
-teach it like you parents teach/taught you (example- use discipline not harsh but nessecary, punishment is affective but don't let it turn it to abuse)

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

• first of all is your dog a puppy or an actual full grown dog? If it is a puppy it is going to do this until he knows he can't, when he bites (and you can do this for an adult dog as well) tap the bridge of his nose it won't hurt them but they don't like it and most of the time they will stop biting if you do this, as far as not coming to you put your dog on a leash and pull him towards you while saying come and whatever the dogs name is, it will take some time but i'm sure you will get thru it. If it continues to get worse I would find out the dog's past because there could be a reason he is acting this way (you never know if he was abused and could be scared of men)


• Keep your dog active. Go for walks spend more time with it! Be consistent with your training.

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Dog Health Questions: Invisible fence dog training?

I have a 9 year old black lab. We got the invisible fence for our yard. We live out on 58 acres of property but got the fence cause at the one end of our property is the high way. But now I can get my dog to go for walks with me out on the property cause she's afraid to go accross the fence what can I do?

A Review of Secrets to Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Wow.. i read your answers and they dont even seem to help!!! I had the same problem!! we had like a year old lab and he got scared too... o i took some treats in my hand... kinda tugged on his leash.. then i called him so nice and held out my hand to pet him and got him excited to the point where he ran to get me...so i hope it works for you!!! best of luck!!!

Dog Training Tip - Leash-Collar Training

• get a real fence with a gate. or take him out a different way.


• Don't walk her that way.
  
  You taught her not to cross that line; don't screw it up. Walk around the fence.


• Don't taker her across the fence. 58 acres is alot of property. Why do you need to leave it? You have no choice here. You WANT your dog to be afraid to go on the highway...that's why you got the fence. Can't have it both ways.


• stop bein a retard,how can you teach it something then expect it to do what you told it not to. you shouldnt own a dog you big stinky moo head


• Ok, now stop and think about this a minute. Pretend you're the one with the collar on your neck that will send the sensation of a gazzillion pins & needles into your neck if you should walk the wrong way. Wouldn't you be scared, too?
  
  You've trained your dog to be terrified of that viciously horrible sensation. You can't take that back.
  
  Now, maybe you didn't properly adjust your dog to the 'fence' -- you didn't take the time to let her know exactly where she'd experience the excruciating, sudden pain. So, maybe now she's scared to wander anywhere, since she doesn't know just where she'll get zapped. In that case, contact your electric fence people, and ask for the layout of the fence (wear the 'collar' around your own wrist, to check it out, before you subject your dog to it), and also ask for training guidelines.
  
  Or, like someone else said: You've got 58 acres, so just walk in a different direction.


• yeah, i've the same problem as you do,
  but since i get dog personal trainer,
  i don't have any problem again with that.
  source :
  www.training-dog.co.cc

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Dog Health Questions: Seeing eye-dog training?

I believe seeing eye dogs are amazing. But I've never seen the training they go through. A friend of mine says that she watches a dog handler somtimes train a seeing eye dog outside her apartment. She proceeded to tell me that it was heartbreaking because whenever the dog made a very made move (cross the street on a red light, or walk their owner into a poll) the handler would "beat the sh** out of the dog." Now I know there are some extreme dog training but, is this right or should she call someone to take care of this person? Just concerned

Dog Training - How to Handle Outdoor Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
The Seeing Eye does not beat their dogs. If you use that kind of force to train a dog you get an unreliable dog because he won't trust or respect you and the moment you show weakness he'll turn on you. A person with a service dog relies on their dog, be it a guide dog, hearing dog or other service dog, to do something for them that they cannot do for themselves. The person has to trust that the dog will do what he was trained to do and the dog has to want to actually work for the person. You simply cannot force it.

Does the Seeing Eye use leash corrections? Yes, they do and I know that doesn't sit well with clicker trainers but there is more than one humane way to train a dog. Done correctly, a leash correction causes no pain and yes, I've had them done to me so I know. It's no different than a tap on the shoulder to get attention.

Guide dogs know nothing about street lights. That's not how they are trained. They are trained to stop at all intersections, regardless of the traffic pattern and regardless of the lights, which they can't make out anyway (they are red-green colorblind). It is the handler's responsibility to decide when to cross based on the sound of the passing traffic. How do they teach a dog to avoid a moving car if the handler or a driver makes a mistake? You set the dog up with a handler on the harness and a backup trainer in the car. A third person drives up, cutting the team off with the car, then the backup trainer makes a loud noise on the passenger side, usually by slapping the side of the car with their hand.

So do you call a leash correction "beating the sh** out of a dog?" Or do you actually mean striking the dog or otherwise causing him pain or harm? Because leash corrections (done correctly) are not abuse, while the other is.

Unfortunately, most humane laws don't address this kind of situation. I know that in my area, so long as the dog has food, water, and shelter, you can pretty much do anything else you want to it. It's certainly not right, but dogs are generally viewed by the law as property, not living creatures. So you can try reporting it to animal control or to a local humane organization but you'd probably get farther reporting it to the program that owns the dog. They typically wear gear that indicates what program they come from. For example, the Seeing Eye issues unique harnesses of their own design and each has a metal plate riveted to it that says it's from the Seeing Eye.

If your friend is not in New Jersey, then her problem is not with the Seeing Eye and she should investigate what guide dog programs are in her area. Only dogs trained by the Seeing Eye in Morristown, New Jersey are properly called Seeing Eye dogs. All other dogs that guide the blind are called simply "guide dogs."

So far as I know, no legitimate guide dog program is going to condone anything beyond a leash pop, and many don't even allow that. There is a possibility that this person is not a guide dog trainer and is instead a puppy raiser who's gone nuts and is not following the program's rules, or some person off on their own pretending to be a guide dog trainer.

Dog Training Techniques - Which Ones Work?

• That is absolutely NOT normal for a guide dog or any service dog. At all. Your friend should report that to the local police. If the dog has a badge on its vest indicating the organization that trained it, she should also call them and report the treatment that the handler is subjecting the dog to.


• no that is not correct. Beating a dog to correct it would only result in fear, and possibly aggression, which is not desired in a service dog!
  
  I would try to find out what program this guy works thru, try to video record it, and send the video to the facility.

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Dog Health Questions: Where in the muntinlupa-alabang area in the philippines can i go to for dog training? my 2 mnth old beagle?

my 2 month old beagle pup bites.. where can i get him trained? or is this normal for his age?

Finding the Best Dog Training Supplies

Recommended Answer:
~all 2 month old dogs bite. Tell him no firmly and set him away from you. Than offer him a chew toy that he can chew. He is teething .

Bird Dog Training - How Hunting Dogs Are Treated

• It's normal for a puppy that age to bite, because he just wants to play. Get him some toys to play with and chew on. Unless they are agressive bites then, dont worry about it dude, he's a pup he just wants to play.

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Dog Health Questions: How do you get a dog training lic. to train protection dogs?

i am interested in a part time gig as a dog agitator for people who want to protect themselves

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

Recommended Answer:
I'm not aware of any licence available for training protection dogs. If you want to learn how to be a good agitator or decoy, your best bet would be to join a good shutzhund or mondio ring club. You wouldn't make any money at it, but you'd learn a lot about what it takes.

How To Download A Book On Dog Training

• You can visit <---http://train-my-dog.download-for-free.org
  It provide you with the most popular and easiest dog training Guide

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Dog Health Questions: Is dog training a science?

Is training a dog a science? There are certain sets of rules and formulas to be applied, which a person learns from reading books? Or you need no education or training to teach dog good behavior? dog training is now an industry and many professional dog trainers exist. So it like science or engineering?

Basic Dog Training Obedience - Puppy Behavior Tips

Recommended Answer:
Science...not sure, but, it is a GIFT for the few of us who have it naturally.
Another old account being used after a long time...makes one wonder!!!

Why it's Important For New Dog Owners to Take Dog Training Seriously

• I think it is part science. To be an effective trainer you have to understand the dog and how he learns. The behaviour side is the science. Just as you will not be an effective trainer without knowing behaviour, you will not be an effective behaviourist without the skill of being a trainer.


• Dog training is both an art and a science. There is a lot of information out there that can really help people, based on science- learning theory, ethology, etc but being able to apply it well is also an art.


• No. It is VERY simple! You MUST use repetition. It also helps if you learn canine pack behavior. All this information is available online or library books.


• No.
  
  It is more a combo of intuition, common sense.

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Dog Health Questions: I want to become a dog trainer, can I specialize in training puppies and therapy dogs?

I am looking into ABC (Animal Behavior College) to study dog training. I was wondering if I can specialize in training puppies and therapy dogs? Is there a demand for this?

Helpful Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
I would suggest that you first become a "regular" dog trainer. You need years of experiance in order to specialize, just like in any other profession. There are MANY MANY methods of training out there and you first have to choose the one that you feel is best for the dogs and yourself. There is the "correction method", the "clicker method" the "purely positive method" and that is just to name a few. You first have to understand all the various methods and decide which you feel is most appropriate. Once you do that, teach dogs of all ages for a few years successfully and then specialize.
Puppies ALWAYS need training so there will be a never ending supply of students if you are good at what you do.
Therapy Dogs - that rather depends upon what you consider a "therapy dog". Are you talking about the ones that visit hospitals and nursing homes and participate in the "read to children" programs? If so, there is no specialized training involved. Either the dog has the right personality and training through the regular channels or he/she doesn't. My older Border Collie is a certified St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog up here in Canada. All that was required was "testing" - for temperament and obedience and reaction to "strange" circumstances and loud noises. Temperament cannot be taught. It's there or not...behavior can be modified but not temperament....Also, most Therapy Dog programs do not want "young" puppies and dogs. I believe that here the dog must be a minimum of 2 years old before it can be tested. This does NOT fit in well with your "puppy" scheme - unless you continue on with older dogs once they are out of your puppy class.
If, by Therapy Dog, you mean "service dogs" to the blind, deaf, physically impaired...that is a different story. All the various agencies for these dogs will have quite strict requirements (I imagine - I have never needed to check) and will more than likely require years of proven experience before they will train you to train these special working dogs.
Good luck....I love to hear that someone is interested in making the dog's life (and owner's life) a most enjoyable experience!

Dog Training School to Help Solve Dog Behavioral Problems

• You could definitely work at such a place as Golden Dogs, Vermont Therapy Dogs, etc. Most states and major cities have dog therapy training openings as it is a non-medical way to treat stress, psychological illnesses, and more. You could major in psych or animal behavior to get one of these positions.

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Dog Health Questions: Has anyone ever taken their dog to the PetSmart or Petco dog training classes? Did you like them?

Which one is better? Is your dog still exhibiting training?

Dog Training Advice For Training Your Best Friend

Recommended Answer:
All the petsmarts in my area have turned to petcos, so I think they're the same company. I'm going to the first puppy training class tonight, my dogs breed type needs the training, socialization and stimulation, otherwise I would have just used a good training book and done the exercises myself. If your dog is that type too that needs this (mine's a jack russell terrier haha) you might want to invest in this too. If you don't like the trainer's methods, you can always get a full refund. But you have to register in advance for the classes because they only allow so many pups.
They also guarentee your dogs training for a lifetime or money back. They said I will be able to walk my dog without a leash (in most situations) for life.
The 8 classes where I'm going are $95 and 1 hr long.

*****UPDATE****
Had the training class, there were 6 other puppies there ranging from 12 weeks to 7 months. It will be hard with the two 12 week puppies, not because they misbehave but they just can't learn the same so young. Anyway, basically we met in a room and the puppies socialized. There was a blue pit bull, very beautiful who my dog bonded with maybe only because the 12 months bonded with themselves and none of the other pups were as friendly.
While the puppies socialized the trainer introduced herself, said she owns 10 dogs, told us a little about vaccine importance and stuff we knew, said she could help us out if we wanted to show our dogs or do agility, then we went around the room introducing ourselves and saying the major things we hope to accomplish at the classes. Most people said to stop biting, but..they are puppies after all..well anyway, we learned the sit command and the "look at me" command.. Next week we'll be in the back warehouse doing things with leash walking. So far, my thoughts are "well, this is nothing I couldn't teach myself SO FAR..but my puppy enjoys the socializing and was happy, and I don't know how to teach walking without a leash so I'll stick with it." They had older dog class after the puppies.
Hope that summary helped..

Secrets to Dog Training to Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems

• No, these are not serious training classes. Look for a good trainer in your area and go that route instead.


• I am in the process of PetSmart puppy training. Class is ending next week and I do plan on doing the next placement class. I love it as does my dog. We learned a lot and she got great socialization out of it. I don't know anything about the Petco classes. Training is a process that you have to always do with your dog. I highly recommend the classes. The cost is fair too.


• I truly believe the training method and location is second to the trainer themselves.
  
  When I got my first pug about five years ago, I took her to Pet Smart for the puppy class. Unfortunately, two weeks into the class, my pug puppy broke her foot which had to be put into a cast for about six weeks. The trainer was a really nice, and allowed us to start classes in the beginner section after the cast came off. The trainer herself was very friendly and clear in her directions. What I liked the best about the class however, was at the last 10 minutes of each class was spent with the dogs off leash in the training area playing with each other under professional supervision. At the beginning of the classes my pug was quite fearful of other dogs but by the end she was playing with everybody. The socialization was just as important as the commands she learned. To this day, she is still the most friendly of our dogs. Also, she has remembered. Almost all of the commands that she learned during her beginner's class.
  
  When we got our German shepherd puppy last year, we knew immediately that we would have to take her in for training. The trainer was not the same at the original Pet Smart store, but we were confident in the methods. This experience, however, was terrible. The trainer was awful. She would spend most of the class reviewing what was gone over in the previous class, and would only address new material, very briefly in the last 10 minutes of class. Also, due to insurance constraints, we unleashed supervised play that I've had been such a fan of during the original classes has been discontinued. My German Shepherd puppy really did not learn anything from this trainer.
  
  My husband and I were at a different Pet Smart in January and met the trainer at that store. We told her about our experiences with the trainer at the other store and how disappointed we were. She was extremely sympathetic and explained her methods for training. First, she does not believe in automatically graduating a dog at the end of the class. She does believe that different dogs learn different rates and she believes that a dog should not graduate until they have learned the concepts. So, to that end, she has dogs repeat classes until they understand and have the concepts down. But, only the first round of classes is paid for. As long as the owners are willing to put in the time, she will not ask them to put in more money. Now, some people may say that part of the job of the trainer is to make sure that the dogs learn the commands in one series of classes and if the dog doesn't, then it is the fault of the trainer. I disagree with that.
  
  We started our German Shepherd puppy in the beginner class and it was wonderful. The trainer was very patient but would tolerate no excuses, if we slacked off in reinforcing the lessons. She would say there is only so much she can do in a one-hour session once a week, and if we were not willing to put in the time to reinforce the lessons at home, we might as well just take our money back and stay home.
  
  Now, some people don't like this method, which brings me to the point of this answer. You really need to have a chemistry with the trainer in order for the training to work. Go see a couple of classes before you sign up for them. See what methods the trainer uses. See how the trainer asked with the dogs and with the owners. Then decide for yourself whether you agree with what they are doing or not.
  
  Always remember, however, that there is no miracle cure for bad behavior. It took a long time to develop the bad habits, and it will take a long time and a lot of patience to make them go away.
  
  Whatever you decide, good luck with your training!


• I took my parents' dog to Petco for training about 8 years ago and, looking back, I thought their training methods were unnecesarily rough (a lot of yanking on the leash, jerking the dog into place, etc). But I had never trained a dog before so I didn't really know any better.
  
  I went back to Petco a few years ago, this time with my own dog, and the difference in training methods was night and day. I don't know if the company changed their doggy curriculum or if the trainer simnply had her own ideas and beliefs, but the dog responded better and I felt like a nicer person.
  
  Since then I've done a lot of reading. I've read a lot of training books by different authors and tried different techniques on the three dogs I currently have at home. The methods you use should depend on how YOU as a person feel about carrying them out, and also on the personality of your DOG.
  
  The bottom line, in my opinion, is that the more you know, the more you've got in your bag of tricks! ANY training class is going to be helpful, and it's good for your dog to interact with other dogs in the class. And it's important to reinforce what you've learned, every day, at home.
  
  I know my answer is long, but I hope it helps :)


• no way they charge doubel of all teh other trainers in my area. from what I've seen I don't care for their training methods either.


• The PetSmart training classes here are wonderful. I think it all depends on the training working there, but it's really good, especially for the price. Here, it's 8 1hr sessions for $100


• No mater where you go - Go to a class ( alone ) and I'm telling you , you will just know!
  Kinda like dating. You know from just 1 date if it's right.
  Watch the instructor , and his knowledge, manerisim, personality ect ......
  It will take 15 mins. max !!!


• No, and I never will. If you want to persue good training, with someone experienced, then contact your local training club, obedience club, agility club (yes, the can refer to good obedience instructors, too) and get a referral from them.
  
  You will likely find that these trainers will be MUCH LESS expensive than the typical pet supply store classes and they will have so much more experience. Example: Our PetSmart charges $100+ for a class of 6 weeks and they are not very experienced trainers by any means. My trainer is only $50 for a 7 week course and has dogs with UDX titles, agility titles, conformation wins and 25+ years experience in training, showing and breeding.


• I haven't because I haven't heard any good things about their classes. I found other obedience schools to be a better fit & value for the money.


• My pup is currently in her 3rd training class at PetSmart (advanced).
  
  It is very affordable (slightly over $100 for an 8 week class) and the trainer is great. On the other hand, the other trainer there is not very good, so the quality of the class really depends on the trainer.
  
  I suggest going to your local PetSmart or PetCo while I training class is going on and see how the trainer interacts with the dogs. That way, you will be able to see if the trainer will be a good fit for you and your dog.

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