Dog Health Questions: We have a 5 year-old pitbull/german shepard mix.... she has been a great dog BUT...?

...everytime we (my wife and kids) leave, to the store, etc., she FREAKS OUT! She claws at the door from inside the house. Shes ruined the moulding around several doors. If we put her outside she easily jumps the 6 foot concrete walls. We've thought about putting her on a leash outside when we leave but we live in Arizona and it gets ridiculously hot during the summertime.

We just came home an hour ago from the store and she apparently jumped through the office window, and we ended up finding her in the backyard. My guess is that she roamed loose around the neighborhood and finally came home when she felt like it.

We are now considering a large dog crate. Something we can put her in, inside the house, when we leave. It would never be for a long time. Just to run some errands. My concern is that I have heard that if you don't raise a dog being used to a kennel, it can be bad. She's 5 and has never been in a kennel. Could she get used to one? We can't afford to be forking out the money to replace screens and windows. My wife and kids don't want to get rid of her. Any suggestions? Dog training? Caeser HELP??

What Is The Best Approach To Dog Training?

Recommended Answer:
Your dog has classic separation anxiety.

You should get a crate AND you should talk to your vet about putting your dog on a medication that is specifically for separation anxiety. The drub is called Clomicalm.

You will use it in conjunction with behavior modification so that in time the dog will be off the medication.

A Safe Effective Plan To Treat SEPARATION ANXIETY
CLOMICALM® (clomipramine hydrochloride) Tablets were the first medication approved for the treatment of separation anxiety in dogs.CLOMICALM Tablets and behavior modification work by making it easier for your dog to learn new, positive behaviors. The CLOMICALM Plan is proven to be safe and effective in helping to relieve the suffering in and helping dogs with separation anxiety disorder return to a normal life.

Dog Training - Three Stages of Dog Training

• How about a large kennel that you can keep in the garage or larger room? Make sure it is not too hot though.
  
  like this- http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.js…


• i would say its time for your dog to go to obedience school !!


• training
  crate


• It is absolutely NOT too late to crate train. The trick is to do it properly. There are many websites that have very good information on crate training. Not only will your house be safe, your dog will be, as well. With separation anxiety, you are going to have to be very patient. My dog also had separation anxiety, but with proper crate training, she finally realized that we were ALWAYS coming back for her and no longer needs the crate.

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Dog Health Questions: Parents want another dog, I dont ( Weird question, right? )?

I need a bit of advice from you guys, because my parents are pushing. The fact that Shumani ( My 5yr old GSD ) is bonded to me and won't go more than 5 feet from me, and is in terms "my dog" rather than a "family dog" upsets my family, especially since I keep her away from them a lot of the time to avoid conflict. My friend is selling a very healthy young pitbull, fairly well trained but needs a bit of work and I naturally don't want to see it end up at the shelter. They really want a second dog as a "family dog" and are prepared to pay the expenses for owning another dog. But the only one who disagrees is me, because ultimately, who is going to feed, walk, and train the dog? Me. They only reep the benefits of only giving the dog affection and causing me frustration. Not to mention it will just end up being attached to me anyway, due to me caring for it.
Shumani is reactive around other dogs for one, so more work for me, and two - we have one room for Shumani when we are away from the house, and she is upstairs with me most of the time in my room when I am home. I don't see it working.
I'm stubborn that I don't want more than one dog, but on the other hand, I see it as an opportunity for experience & starting fresh as well ( Im halfway done with a program to get my dog training certificate ).
I'm a bit mixed feelings with the whole situation, everyone wants to get a new puppy, but in the same aspect, I don't see it as a responsible choice, or rather .. a choice that would be easy for me.
How can I get this through their head? They will not listen to me, and they think they're being righteous saving a dog and that's it.

Dog Training Secrets Revealed

Recommended Answer:
Show them this post, or point out all your concerns. But honestly, in the end it's their choice, and if they decide to get the dog then you have no say in the matter. Their house, their rules.

Dog Clicker Training vs Compulsion Based Dog Training, Which is Better?

• Awhh, you'd enjoy it.


• I don't want to come across mean but your being a little selfish. I mean you have a dog that loves you and it your best friend (his point of View) and all your family wants is the same feeling. I think they should, and it sounds like your the adult if they aren't doing anything. Unfortunately you don't have full control over it. But if they get a dog they have to do the work and if they ask for you to do it you just say "No, I got my own dog to take care of and you got yours"
  
  well unless it's like an emergency and you have to watch the dogs than that is different but you know what i mean.


• Just to let you know this is more of a rant then a question.
  And if you are under the age of 18, you are a minor and really have no say so as to what mom and dad does in their house. Yes theirs. They have given you the privilege of living there till you are grown, out of school and on your own.
  What they do and say is none of your business.
  If you are not on board with them getting another dog tough, IT IS THEIR HOUSE.
  But you can tell them that since you don't want another dog it is their responsibility and you won't help take care of it.
  They will most likely get mad and ground you, but oh well at least you don't have to care for their dog.

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Dog Health Questions: Help with aggressive dog?

We adopted a very neglected american bulldog pup a few months ago-she is now 6 months old and a complete lap dog! She used to be very shy and timid but now is starting to show signs of aggression towards other dogs and strangers. She is a complete sweet heart with our family (children and other dog) and our friends (their kids and dogs) but if she is near a stranger or strange dog she starts growling and barking, which is only getting worse with nipping at them now. After an hour to two with the stranger or stranger dog she warms up to them and is very lovey dovey with them but its the initial few hours that is the problem. I do not want her to be an aggressive dog and am taking suggestions and tips. We are looking into dog training in the area but am not sure if it will help.

Some Tips To Help You Through All Types Of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Hello ,

Sorry to hear that. It is natural for all dogs to bark but nuisance barking is a problem for all of us. Have you tried Bark Off? It is an ultraonic device that fits in your pocket and very easy to use. It is just $10! Worth a try and Hope this helps you. Good luck.

Thanks

Successful Dog Training at Home - Having the Right Mindset

• ever time your dog barks at someone remove her from the room and ignore her
  continue doing this until she knows she is not getting any attention from it
  also give her a treat ever-time someone " a stranger" comes into the house and she doesn't bark or be aggressive towards them for the barking and aggression to other people walk her more with other dogs and let her socialize with them but have a muzzle on just to be safe and once she is calm around other dogs remove the muzzle hopes this help


• Hi,
  
  There are very few dogs who are prone to aggression regardless of the situation. That's why it's helpful to think in terms of of aggressive behaviors rather than aggressive dogs when trying to reduce your dog's tendencies to growl or bite. Usually these behaviors are related to specific events, relationships or environments. Keeping this in mind, here are some terms commonly used when labeling aggressive behavior, check this out:
  
  http://lnk.nu/dogtime.com/z80.html


• Talk to Victoria Stillwell.
  
  She can handle almost any dog problem.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training help! Cola SC?

I have a almost 9 month old siberian husky puppy who is great! Only he has recently gotten into some bad habits recently while I have been away for the summer and my fiancé is taking care of him alone while taking summer classes!

Overall his obedience is okay, he can sit, shake, come, lay down, is potty trained, is great with strangers and other dogs etc...His only problems are recent.
He has started eating everything he can reach loafs of bread wallets apples notebooks the couch end tables etc...
He also is a hunter, which is something we have no trained him to do he just likes to kill rodents and birds if he can catch them. what disturbs me is I think he wants to eat the kittens next door. =(
Also he is not fixed yet... and so the other dogs pick on him that are male and he is a big baby so he ends up getting his butt kicked and I think if he is fixed other males will learn to leave him alone but I have no idea.

If anyone knows any trainers or idea on how to break his bad habits and social issue it would be amazing! Because I am all out of ideas. I know petsmart has a class but i think he needs something more individualized maybe... thanks

Basic Dog Training - Timing And Body Language

Recommended Answer:
Puppies chew, and he's still a puppy. Give him some appropriate things to chew (Kongs, bones, etc) and redirect him to that whenever you see him chewing something you'd rather he leave alone. This is actually different from the eating everything, make sure he doesn't have access to counters. Prevention is the big key here.

Sibes are high prey drive dogs, and yes, problems with cats are common. Work on having him do some obedience with the cat fairly far away, and then get progressively closer as he shows an ability to handle the distance. I really like doing the Control Unleashed program, you can find more info at www.controlunleashed.net

Many adults will put adolescents in their place. The same dogs that allowed puppies to get away with all sorts of things, will roundly put an adolescent dog in his place for the same types of behaviors. And un-neutered dogs are sometimes targeted for aggression by other dogs.

A trainer who works with you privately can be a great investment, but classes may be a good option also. I don't know how close this trainer is:
Julie Caswell
Pawsitive Effects Dog Training, LLC
Greenville, SC

Positive Reinforcement In Your Dog Training

• When i first saw your question, i thought you might have meant columbia sc. if you did, have you ever heard of the greater columbia obedience club?


• Actually, petsmart has private lessons for about the same price. Idk how good your trainers are but my local petsmart is really good. Good Luck with your Husky!


• First, neuter him! As for eating things he should not yell at your fiance for letting this behavior develop and start working with the dog on a "leave it" command. It is easy. Hold a treat in front of him and say leave it. As soon as he stops trying to take it from you and turns his head away give him a better treat from your other hand. Build this skill up to dropping things in front of him and having him leave it etc. Be patient and go slow. Do not make it harder until he is doing it correctly all of the time. After he knows what leave it means, tell him leave it when he surfs the counter, puts his mouth on the furniture or even looks towards those kittens!!!
  
  As for the other dogs fighting with yours. The behavior is developed you will need to re socialize them to stop it. Do not let your dog run loose with other dogs. Neuter him for sure because an intact dog is way more likely to try and act dominant and confrontational. It is very likely that it is actually your dog signaling confrontational body language to the other dogs and your dog needs to act differently. Keep him leashed until he is neutered.


• Cola is Columbia (I used to live there, inside thing really)! You really don't have any problems. Getting your butt kicked isn't the dog's problem, it's your problem, he shouldn't be around dogs who kick his butt! And that is YOUR problem! Also as far as killing things? He's a dog...large canine teeth, forward facing binocular vision? 100% carnivore. Dogs kill crap, get over it! The only real issue you have is stealing food off the counters, that's easily solved with a training collar, a pulltab, and a good correction! A training collar is any collar used in training, flat collar, choke collar, prong collar. A pull tab is simply a cut piece of leash that is cut short so the dog doesn't get it tangled on things like table and chair legs, and therefore, can be worn all day with mild supervision (think a leather leash cut down to 6 inches with the loop end discarded). That way when he does try to steal food that isn't his you can just calmly walk up, grab the pulltab, and give it a sharp tug and say "No"...this is what a leash correction is pretty much...a timely tug to discourage negative behavior. Anyway I hope this helps, feel free to e-mail me with any questions or concerns!

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Dog Health Questions: Being a certified dog trainer at petco....?

Hi. I am in the process of starting my new job at PetCo as a certified dog trainer. I went in asking a question about a school that they are affiliated with and they said they dont use them anymore because they have a mentoring program. Where they apprentice you their. I have not signed my contract yet, though it is 1 year which i am okay with but the question i am having trouble finding the answer to is, when I become certified am i certified under PETCO standards or am i certified universally. after my one year contract with them, is that certificate good to find another job with, or is it basically BS to other people. I have no professional experience in dog training, though i have a 6 year old minpin and a 4 month old chocolate lab that i do the training myself with who are really good,obedient dogs. With petco being my only professional experience is that good to get another training job when my contract is up with them, or will other training schools look at it like a joke? anyone who has worked/works for them who has the answers it would be really helpful. Thank you !

Selecting Quality Dog Training Leads

Recommended Answer:
Certification means very little in the dog world. People select trainers based on results - i.e. titling your own dogs - and on references - i.e. helping other people train their dogs. I have issues with PETCO training in general as the methods are all developed from a PR standpoint at the higher levels. No serious trainer I have ever met would ever recommend PETCO training and I have never met a PETCO trainer that seriously competed in any canine sport with their own dog or a "real" trainer that began in a PETCO-like situation.

If you want the job, then accept the training with a grain of salt and realize it won't transition well outside of that corporation. If you want to be a dog trainer, join a local all-breed club and ask if you can assist with a beginner class, work your way up to being a full trainer and then, when you have enough references and experience, you can start your own business. The training you will learn will not be dictated by a corporation and will applicable to dog sports as well as pet stuff, making your training much more valuable and provable.

Why not start showing your MinPin and Lab in some companion sports like obedience, agility, rally or tracking? You're sure to meet folks who can put in a good word or make a recommendation on where to find a mentor once you're in the "dog world".

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

• ask PETCO that question


• You'd have to ask them. I would just do a training class not with them. Go to a school for it, I think it takes about 2 months.


• There is no such thing as a "Certified Dog Trainer" except for private organizations like PetCo - which really means nothing.
  You would be certified (cough) under Petco Standards period. It wouldn't mean anything to anyone else. (Certainly not me)
  I'm unclear about your Addition Details. Are you telling us that YOU have to pay for this "Certified (cough again) Petco Training? If so, do NOT sign that contract. And be very careful about any Dog Training places that makes you pay them, as you also train "their" dogs. ("Their" meaning the dogs other people have brought in for training by them.) What a racket.

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Dog Health Questions: Calling all dog whisperers...?

OK.... short background story. My husband currently deployed and I have 2 male German Shepherds that are a little over 1 1/2 years old. It's been a week since my hubby left. They keep growling and trying to bite and fight each other. This morning I woke up to them growling at 630. They fight in the backyard, wont leave each other alone, and are, most importantly, annoying the crap outta me. I think they are trying to establish dominance over each other since daddy isn't here. I try, but it doesn't really work out. I don't know what to do other than the normal dog training techniques.
They are not aggressive dogs at all. I really do just think it's a dominance thing since my husband left and he was the "alpha." I guess I just need to let them know that I'm in charge. But with dealing with the hubby being deployed... it's just annoying me right now. I guess what I'm asking is if anyone has advice.... Thanks

Can I Train My Dog Without a Dog Training Course?

Recommended Answer:
Are you able to exercise them, i.e. long walks? That certainly would relieve some of their stress and anxiety.

Dog Training Tips

• when they start.--- you ... this sounds crazy... but u growl or show that ur taller by standing up to show UR DOMINANT so they quit. they fight out of insecurity theyre looking for a sense of control in your house hold show them who's boss once or twice and theyll get over it
  
  hope i helped ;)


• spank them and show them your the alpha.
  my dog did the same thing.


• I recommend you read this:
  http://dogpublic.com/articles/article.as…
  
  Are both dogs neutered? Around their age, an intact male has literally about ten times the amount of testosterone as an altered or older dog. They're like rowdy teenage boys with just as much bravado, and predictably, this causes friction because they both have the same assertive personalities. While neutering them is unlikely to completely solve the problem, it would almost definitely help.
  
  Out of curiosity.. are you sure they're fighting? They might sound like a dumb question, but "growling and trying to bite and fight each other" pretty well describes how two rambunctious dogs play. When my two boys play, they snarl, growl, bark, mouth-wrestle, jump on each other and chase each other, but I know that it's play because their bodies are relaxed, they're having fun, and although they're constantly using their mouths and biting each other, *no harm is done.* When your dogs appear to be fighting, are their bodies stiff? Hackles raised? Lips drawn back? Ears perked? Tails raised stiffly or wagging slowly and dangerously? If so, then it's probably not play.
  
  Constantly be on the lookout for any signs of tension at all so that you can prevent a situation from arising. At the very small signs, use calming signals to potentially prevent a situation:
  http://www.canis.no/rugaas/onearticle.ph…
  Distract them. Change their mindset and get them focused off each other.
  
  German Shepherds are both extremely athletic and intelligent, so they need a huge amount of physical and mental stimulation every single day. If you aren't thoroughly exhausting them every day, their extra energy and pent-up frustration is almost definitely a contributing factor to their fighting.
  
  You need to observe them very closely and pinpoint what's happening when they begin to fight. Was one dog monopolizing a certain toy, piece of furniture, or even yourself? All of these problems have different "treatments."


• I think you're absolutely right about trying to restablish pack order because of this new situation. I would go back to pack leader basics if you haven't been doing it lately. Eat before them. Make sure you go through doorways first. when you walk them make sure they know their places and make them heel until they do. Don't play any aggressive games like tug of war and so on. I'm sure you know all these tricks, but it's a good idea to restablish them until they get things worked out. Also, make sure they're getting enough exercise. you'd be amazed at how much exercise helps almost every dog disobedience problem.
  Good luck!
  p.s. are they neutered? if not, than they would defintely help solve your problems!


• I don't want to sound rude (really!) but all that dominance and alpha stuff is bunk. It's like an urban legend of sorts. Dogs have very fluid social hierarchies that are constantly in flux. Like Rookie may be "dominant" over Gus when it comes to the water bowl, but Rookie won't challenge Gus for his rawhide. It also has to do with current motivations, like if Rookie just drank a lot of water 5 minutes ago Gus can go ahead and drink first.
  Anyway, your problem with your dogs I'm suspecting has to do with under stimulation. Was your husband the one who took the two on most of the walkies, park trips, did the training, and played tug and fetch? Did their activity level drop when your husband left last week? If this sounds like it may be true all you have to do is tire them out a bit. Hope it all works out. Good luck!

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Dog Health Questions: I need puppy and dog training!?

my new puppy is a long haired chihuahua and hes only almost 4 months old. he needs to be potty trained to go out really quick ( which is hard because hes so tiny and cant go down stairs yet) and doing basic obedience. he's also like addicted to my mom. whenever she leaves he cries and cries and cries so most of the time we have to take him with us. its kinda getting in the way. we also have two other dogs, simon and zippy, simon bites us when hes being put outside and hes stubborn. hes 7 years old, and we have zippy who is 4 years, almost 5, and he thinks hes the most dominant one in the house and sometimes even bites the puppy! i need help with all this, please!

Abused Dog Training - How to Train an Abused Dog

Recommended Answer:
This site has some tips and tricks for successful chihuahua potty training:

http://www.chihuahuainfoonline.com/2009/…

Dog Training And Electronic Shock Collars

• Well i also had the same problem. I have a puppy(chihuahua) that peed all over the ground i got so fed up i decided to take her to the PET SMART training program. In Canada they have although i am not so sure about America. It really helped make it easier to train my dog how to pee outside.

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Dog Health Questions: Best Dog Training Guides, Tips and Tricks?

I'm found this really great site that I have to share : http://www.pupdogtraining.com

Dog Training: To Have Or Not To Have A Trainer

Recommended Answer:
The site that you picked looks good!
Patience ..well yeah that's a given x 10!
treats work
the clicker thing didn't work for me..guess it depends on the dog...just keep trying diffferent things to you find one that works!

Good Luck, hope this answer helped:)

Control Your Aggressive Dog With These 4 Dog Training Tips

• Patience


• I recommend you visit the website that I went to when my dog had behavioral issues a few months back. The program teaches you various methods you can use yourself to solve common dog issues. It totally transformed my dog. Good luck!


• Here is one good site
  http://dogtraining.primia.net .There You can download free Handbook for dog owner.

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Dog Health Questions: Training your dog.?

Does anyone know how much Petsmart, in Sandcity, California, charges for beginner dog training?

Dog Training Ebook Review - SitStayFetch

Recommended Answer:
Don't waste your money on this type of training. They're expensive and they don't have the best of training either.

Best way to find a good trainer is to contact a local obedience club and ask for referrals. They will tell you of people many have used and trust and KNOW to be experienced and good at what they do. It will also me much less expensive.

Added: All the people I called in the yellow pages wanted no less than $75 for 6 weeks and some were $150+, including the "pet supply stores", but the trainer I found, thru a local dog training club, is only $50 for a 7 week class. She's a breeder and has been showing and titling her breed for 25+ yrs... lots of experience at less cost... Trust me, do your research!

Dog Training and Obedience

• Yes dont go to pet smart not very good trainers!


• I don't recommend training there either. I would ask your vet for local trainers in the area. Many of them "partner up" with a good local trainer as they see so many animals and people are always looking for a dog trainer.
  
  Good for you for looking into training - now, take a little bit more time and find a better one! Good luck!


• Calling them would get you a quicker response than on here but...
  
  I live in OH and they charge 105.00 for an 8 week session here.
  
  Petsmart is over priced. I called my vet and he reccomended a local puppy school and they were half the price.


• I certianly wouldn't go with petsmart. I've observed too many classes taught at different petsmarts that could be tramatizing to the dog. Asking local vets is a great way to find good dog trainers. Do your research on differant types of dog training and start asking the trainers in your area. I've found Clicker Training to work best with my dogs as it's positive reinforement.

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Dog Health Questions: Question about dog training?

Not having any problems, but I was just talking to my Dad, about say like, if you had a Pitbull, or a dog that you were warned could be aggressive with other dogs. If you had other dogs that were alot smaller and unagressive and couldn't defend themselves whatsoever from the dog. If you had the dog eat after both you and the other dogs you had in the household, and crated it while you were gone and let the other dogs roam free, would that teach that the other dogs have dominance over it? And what would be some other ways to establish the dominance that both you and the other dogs have over that dog?

Now don't go tell me not to get a pitbull or something, I don't wanna hear it, and it's not even what we're talking about, we were just wondering what you would want to do.

Clicker Dog Training is Extremely Reliable and Can Be Done by Anyone

Recommended Answer:
No, and I like where you're trying to go with this, but it won't make the difference. Here are a bunch of comments:

1) The order of eating isn't really that big of a deal. In practical terms, yes, higher ranking dogs will eat before lower ranking dogs if they are all standing around and there is some kind of limited supply of food, but this is because the lower ranking dogs are too scared to approach, not because they are lining up politely to wait their turn. Artificially orchestrating the feeding order will not change the order of rank in the house. I can feed my shepherds and then eat afterwards and it does not remotely make them think that they are higher ranking. Consider that they still have to sit and watch me eat in front of them and you bet your booty that they would never dream of trying to muscle in to take my food, which a high ranking dog *could* do to a lower ranking dog. Likewise, I could not just change feeding order to change the way that my dogs have arranged themselves... it just doesn't work that way.

2) Same thing for crating -- it would be a very good *safety* move, but would only shift rank in a very minor way and really, a Cane Corso is going to need to not be crated all day once they are old enough to be trustworthy around the house. If you were to crate a Cane Corso all day, you'd better be REALLY prepared to tire his butt out for the rest of the evening when you get home because he would be wild and ready to rock by the time you do get there.

3) Getting down to the meat of things, aggression actually has very little to do with dominance. A truly high ranking dog does not EVER need to attack a lower ranking dog. A truly high ranking dog needs only give "the look" and the lower ranking dog will try to figure out how high to jump. The vast majority of aggression cases I work with on a weekly basis are founded in fear, anxiety, and/or insufficient socialization.

4) Continuing with the meat of the matter, there is one very real concern with the idea of bringing in a Cane Corso, and that's the size difference. You say that the Pugs are all "unaggressive" and I'm not really sure what that means. Are all three of them very soft dogs who will not say boo to another dog? Social ranking for dogs is all about the personality of the dogs and has very little to do with physical size. It is highly possible that one of the Pugs could completely boss around a Cane Corso, especially if they already have seniority in the pack. The risk, though, is of the Cane not knowing his own size and dealing out damage to the smaller dogs by playing or interacting too roughly. This is compounded by the fact that Cane Corsos are very powerful for their size. Plus, idiot puppies and idiot adolescent dogs don't really read the books on this whole "pack order" thing, and they can go out of their way to be obnoxious and/or dangerous to other dogs in the house regardless of their actual social status.

Basically, if you were to bring a Pit or Cane pup into the house, I would work VERY closely with a GOOD breeder. I will tell you right now that many good breeders may turn you down cold if they are uncomfortable with the situation, and honestly, any breeder that does not grill you and ask you a million questions is not a breeder you want to work with, ESPECIALLY for these types of dogs. Then you should expect the breeder to help you select a puppy with a softer (but not too soft) temperament that would fit in with your other little guys. And then, yes, I would try to keep them separated when you aren't around just for safety, and I would do that for at minimum until two years old, but if you can separate by putting them in separate rooms that would be preferable to long-term all-day crating for the Pit or Cane pup.

Good luck convincing Dad!

Dog Training Evolution

• lol no thats not the right way to do it i have a 200 pound mastiff and a mailionua and the trick is to let the dogs know that ur the domiant one and there will be no fighting , yes they might get into tussles but still a dog should be well balanced before u bring another dog into the family and then there will be no fighting


• I have pitbulls and they are not what the media portray. I also have chihuahuas and there is no problem with aggression against them from the pits. The way to control the dogs dominance is to walk with it often and be the pack leader 100% of the time. If you notice aggression, then you address it before it escalates. I have been using the Dog Whisperer methods (Cesar Milan) and all my dog problems have been solved in regard to my dogs fighting and so on. You have to be calm and dominant yourself. But the methods that you describe would not result in a submissive dog. For example, a dog confined while the others roam free is going to be angry and frustrated, not submissive. Cesar teaches a quick 'touch' method that has worked for my small pack very effectively. Also, I have used the method of flipping the dog on his back and making him stay there if he starts to escalate. It works so well that when somebody's dog got away from them at the vets office and jumped on and attacked my 100 lb pitbull male, he turned way from the attack and looked right to me for guidance instead of defending himself.


• i have a pit bull and she is always around smaller dogs they can be aggressive to other dogs if u dont train them right the key is when they are young u have to bring them around other dogs and if they are around alot of dogs when they are a puppy they will most likely not be aggressive towards dogs my pit bull loves all dogs and i think that it is a little unfair to keep one dog pined up and the other one not that would cause jealousy


• Some pitbulls don't like other dogs, but if you had one and you treated it like you said and were otherwise kind to it, it would grow up to be a well adjusted, well behaved dog. You can also establish dominance by turning the dog over on its back so his belly shows and making sure he never wins any tug of war games, etc. with you. It also helps to make the dog "work" for his food and everything else- make him sit or lie down to get food, attention, etc.


• Well, I wouldn't bring that dog home if I knew it was aggressive towards other dogs and having other smaller dogs ... I just wouldn't take that risk of this new dog killing the others. I don't know if it would be possible to retrain that dog or not, he would probably be happier in a single pet home.


• Can I recommend this site:
  http://www.pitbullforum.com
  
  It's one of the best forums on pitbulls I have seen: a LOT of very very good info on training, health, equipment. They do not condone abuse, puppy mills, or dog-fighting. Go take a look !


• Get a female. She will soon learn that she is bigger and stronger but have a strong sense to nurture and take care of the other dogs. I had a pit (female) and my wife had a chihuahua and they were the best of friends. My pit died and I now have a lab/doberman mix (female) . After 1 full year together the chihua hua and lab mix are great friends still, with no problems. I too am a big fan of Cesar and his ways they really work. Good luck

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

What are the best training practices that can be used for my dog. He is 8 weeks and a shih tz mix. He is left alone for about 3hours thru out the day. While being gates he used the restroom on a training pad. When were home with him he typically barks when he needs to go. Any other solutions??

Clicker Dog Training Tool

Recommended Answer:
Here's some ideas:

-Ditch the potty pads. Trust me.

- Crate him on a regular bed in an appropriately sized crate. A crate should be just large enough for him to stand up and turn around in, no larger. If he has extra room, he will use one side for a potty and hide on the other side. Many people choose crates far too large, because they think it's mean to put their dog in a smaller one. When he's potty trained, you can get him one that's any size you want. For training, keep it small. Like this:
http://www.designer-canines.com/images/p…

That dog can easily stand straight and turn around, but that's it. That's as big as it needs to be. If your crate is too big, get a smaller one, or if you have a divider panel, adjust it to limit the space your dog has.

- Feed him meals, 2x per day, at a set schedule. Make it several hours before you have to leave him alone.

- Always take him for a potty break within 15 minutes of mealtime.

- Do not leave him with food or water when you are gone. He will not starve nor dehydrate in just a few hours. If he is eating and drinking, he will be pooping and peeing. Take all food and water away 30-60 minutes before you leave, and give him a good long potty break outside immediately before you leave.

- Practice with the crate when you're at home, leave him in it for 15-20 minutes at a time, and then take him out for potty breaks. This helps reinforce the idea that he does not potty in the crate, he will be allowed potty time later.

Be patient, he is only 8 weeks old. He will learn quickly if you are consistent.

Bird Dog Training - How Hunting Dogs Are Treated

• Immediately stop use of the pads. You must, I repeat must stop using them. If he learns to pee on soft, absorbent material...well, carpet is soft and absorbent, isn't it? This behavior is often transferred to carpet or simply the spot where the pad used to be when you decide to stop using them.
  
  He is eight weeks old. He cannot hold it for three hours. You'll need to rework your schedule so that he can be taken out every hour. Or hire someone to come in and let him out. Pee pads are a waste of time and you'll spend so much time trying to train him out of the various behavior problems that will arise associated with using them, it's really not worth it.
  
  If he does pee in his kennel, clean it up and keep going. He'll learn not to pee in there when he figures out that he'll have to sleep in his pee if he does.
  
  I hope this is helpful!


• Sounds like you might benefit from my Free report and newsletters on the how to stop the 10 most common dog obedience problems. Please see link below.


• Put him in a crate while you're gone without pads. That will turn into a very bad habit.

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Dog Health Questions: Has anyone ever taken their dog to Petsmart dog training classes?

What was your experience with them? Did they help?

How to Select a Good Online Dog Training Course

Recommended Answer:
i enrolled my dog in the puppy kindergarten class at petsmart when he was 10 weeks old. i think the class can be beneficial IF you have a good instructor. our teacher left in the middle of the 6 week program and we got another one that was obviously more experienced. so the second half of the course was much better than the first. i felt the class was helpful to me, a first time dog owner. it taught me how to communicate with my dog and how to understand and interpret his behavior. someone with a lot of experience with dogs probably would not benefit from it as much as i did. for the dog to learn and retain anything from the course, you MUST be consistent and persistent with him/her. if you know that you're not going to do this, then it's a waste of your time.

hope this helps

Myths of Dog Training and Dog Training Solutions

• What I have observed from the classes when I have been at the store is a big joke. I think it is a waste of money. I would call a local kennel club and get a referral.


• i have and my dog thought it was fun so did i


• i've been thinking of taking my dog there for some training classes but i haven't yet. I have heard though that they do help they train your dog to go to the potty and to be nice, i've heard it from several people that have experienced it, so you should take it in consideration.


• NO

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Dog Health Questions: How do you gain 300 hours of experience in dog training when trying to be a professional dog trainer?

This is everything you have to do, but where are you supposed get 300 hours of experience? This is their side
http://www.ccpdt.org/

At least 300 hours experience in dog training within the last five years.

Two hundred twenty-five (225) hours or 75% of experience must be actual teaching hours (group class, private lessons) as a ‘Head Trainer' or Instructor.

Seventy-five (75) hours or 25% of experience can be in other related areas such as working with shelter animals, assisting in classes, working as a veterinarian technician or grooming (bather position not applicable).
A high school diploma or equivalent).
One reference from each of the following:
Veterinarian
Client
Colleague
Completion and filing of an Application for the Certification Examination for Pet Dog Trainers.
Signing and filing the CCPDT Code of Ethics.
Payment of required fee.

8 Dog Training Tips Every Dog Owner Must Know

Recommended Answer:
Teaching group classes: Speak with trainers in your area and explain why you need their help. I've met a few trainers that are perfectly willing to allow an aspiring trainer to gain hours helping them. That way you get feedback on your performance and the dogs are safe.

Volunteer at your local rescues to work with the dogs who are in need of training to better their chances at finding a home.

Let your friends and family know that you need hours and offer to work with their dogs.

Where there is a will, there is a way. This depends on how far YOU are willing to go to achieve your certification.

Dog Training Books - Why You Need One to Obedience Train Your Dog Correctly

• The easiest way is to offer private lessons to dog owners and keep good records of the hours spent with them training their dogs. Run a ad in your local paper and talk to the local adult /community education center about offering puppy obedience courses at a affordable rate while you work towards your certificate.


• Try a volunteer position with your local humane society, let them know what you are tring to accomplish and most chapters are happy to help and appreciate the extra assistance. I would also contact some trainers in your area and ask to apprentice with them. Good luck!


• You can find a trainer in your area and, after demonstrating your skills to her, offer to supplement her training by working her client's dogs for free. That's what I'm doing =)


• Join your local obedience club. Take some classes, once they've seen your training skills volunteer to be an instructor or assistant instructor.


• you can go to obedience class with your dog or with out and ask the instanter if you could help


• Volunteer work


• stop trying. there's no hope. none at all. go be emo now... run along.

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Dog Health Questions: What good dog training videos and books would you recommend?

I've done some research and a lot of people have said that Dr. Ian Dunbar's programs are very good.

Videos:
SIRIUS Puppy Training Redux
Training the Companion Dog (4-DVD set)
Dog Training for Children
Training Dogs with Dunbar

Which one should I buy? Would I really need all that?

I'm planning to buy a puppy, but I have no experience with dogs at all :D I really want to be a good trainer and master of my future puppy. Also, which of his books would you recommend?

If you think there are better videos and books written by other people, can you please recommend them to me?

Btw, money is not an issue. I am the issue :| :))

Thanks a lot to those who helped!

Clicker Training as an Effective Dog Training Tool

Recommended Answer:
Ian Dunbar's stuff is good. Even better is Patricia McConnell- see her website, patriciamcconnell.com or check her out on dogwise.com

Go ahead and get Ian Dunbar's e-book (free) Before You Get Your Puppy at www.dogstardaily.com

Dog Fence Review - Dog Training Rights and Wrongs

• I love the website below, they do have free training listed on the website and also videos you can buy.


• http://www.amazon.co.uk/Perfect-Puppy-Br…
  
  You should buy that book..it's brilliant!!


• My personal favorite is Victoria Stillwell's "It's Me of the Dog" book--she goes into detail about training, play, general dog care, and nutrition. A very good go-to book that serves many needs.


• Don't just watch videos. You'll be on your way for a badly trained dog. It's really necessary to go to a legit obedience class (petsmart is NOT legit, they don't any more about training than you).
  
  If you want to watch videos/tv shows while you're not out training...I think Victoria Stillwell is pretty good. She's on Animal Planet.


• You could also check out Patricia McConnell for some good reading, or even some Pam Dennison. Another poster was right, however.
  No amount of books can replace a good trainer.


• I'd recommend you start with Karen Pryor's DON'T SHOOT THE DOG. That will give you the information needed to shop around for legitimate trainers who honestly do know how to train dogs using humane and well-established methods. You and first dog should go through a formal training program. Remember that dogs don't live nearly so long as do we humans, so you will almost certainly have other dogs in the future. The things you learn through a formal training course will be things you'll be able to use forever.

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Dog Health Questions: I have a dog training question?

I have one adult female dog (standard poodle) and a female puppy (golden retriever) that is 5 months old. The golden has shown a few signs that she will be an alpha female and we have been working on her like crazy to keep her in lined and trained and she's doing really well. My question is, both females like to romp and play just like any normal dog and I've heard that a romp can turn into a fight very easily. The golden is only puppy, but I want to know if it is okay to let them romp like normal dogs or if I should make them stop. They have never had trouble with eachother or anything and my poodle is REALLY well trained, but I'm afraid it might be teaching the puppy how to fight. She's a smart girl and really sweet, just some pre-aggressive signs have been displayed that we are trying to weed out. If you have had experience with this and youre a trainer please help.

The Evolution of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
I'm glad to see that you can recognize that there will be a pecking order. Please let them play,this is a normal part of canine behavior and actually helps establish the alpha. I dont see it turning aggressive with an adult and a puppy,especially thoes breeds of dog. Generally fights are over other things and if you dont have two strong personalities let them play! Relax and enjoy

Trainer for over 10 years

Dog Training Evolution

• the pup and adult are ok to play together. what aggresstion is being shown? is it outright attach like behavior? or is it one that the adult says hey kid knock it off, much like a mother pup would do to her youngsters? if it is like a mother pup then you are ok, if more of an attack behavier then I would worry. keep an eye on them and let them know when you choose enough is enough play. a big cue to watch for is the back of the poodle, does her fur stand up, does she stand tall and stiff? these are both aggressive stands.


• let them duke it out its important for them to know whos boss, but stop them if they are causing injury to each other, i suggest a pro dog trainer if your having trouble with aggression because they older they are the harder their habits will be to break


• When I took classes with my dog the trainer said that when your dog is learning to play with other dogs to stay in the mix and touch them so they know that you are supervising their contact.
  
  If things turn aggressive you can separate them right away because you are there and put them into "time out." Then they learn aggression stops your attention, which is a negative outcome and will not encourage them to repeat it.


• You need to understand that in doggy language "Alpha" is head of the pack. Whenever you introduce one or more dogs there will be a standoff at one point or another to show who will be top dog. It's a very natural way of doing things and will happen whether you want it to or not. 99.9% of the time, it's harmless growling, barking, handling, and muzzling. Muzzling is huge for a puppy because that is the way they have been shown they are the lesser dominate dog (one dog take their mouth and covers the other dogs muzzle while pushing down.)
  Don't worry! Everything will be OK. They will work it out on their own, and you should not need to interfere unless one becomes severely abusive. It just sounds like natural "play" and really, it's VERY normal :)


• We have two males. The first dog we adopted was a Beagle and neutered, the second was a German Shepherd and we had him neutered.
  
  I was always afraid of the play the dogs would get into with the growling, nipping and so forth because I didn't want the GS to hurt the Beagle. My husband would tell me to let them go, they'll work it out, the GS won't hurt the Beagle.
  
  I let them go and lo and behold--the Beagle showed/let the GS know, you're getting too rough--chill out. They've had some times where I've had to use that rough voice but, that get along great!!!!!!
  
  Just watch the girls and when YOU feel like it's getting out of hand then say something. Otherwise, let them get the feel of each other.

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Dog Health Questions: Any dog training tips you know?

Well my dog is scared of my new dog and gets mad if the puppy gets too close. Do you know how to train so my dog so it won't be scared of the puppy or get mad to the point it gets defensive? I mean, ive heard of training so the dog won't attact house cats on tv. Never saw one for dogs. Well, there slowly getting used to each other but just making sure.

Positive Dog Training Tips That Actually Work

Recommended Answer:
Rewards almost always work. Find a moment when your older dog responds well to the new puppy, then, at that very moment, give him a reward. Perhaps a morsel of food. Certainly a lot of attention and emotional 'great dog!' sort of activity. Slowly he will learn.

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

• What you have to do is give you dogs equal attention so one doesn't feel more left out than the other, and try petting them both at the same time. Give them equal amount of treats also. Play with them both also. I know it's going to seem that you have to give the puppy more attention with training and even though you have to train the puppy you can't forget the older dog. over time they'll work it out themselves.


• Make sure you do not give the new puppy more attention then the old dog. Make sure the old dog feels dominate. Pet him first and then pet the puppy it Will make him feel more"top dog". Feed the old dog first as well. As long as you tend to the old dog first things should be fine.


• For any type of dog traing tips just visit
  
  http://tinyurl.com/2uyb3a


• Keep the puppy away from your other dog. Puppies can be real pains in the butt to some dogs. Associate good things with the puppy, for example, cut up some cheese and bring the puppy over and feed them both the treats. Save special treats for the other dog, that he only gets when the puppy is nearby.
  Make sure that your other dog knows that you understand he is not comfortable with the puppy. If he knows you will monitor the situation he'll be less likely to have to do it himself.
  
  www.fearfuldogs.com
  www.fearfuldogs.com

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Dog Health Questions: Is there a *sales tax* on dog training services in TX?

I mean dog training, like classes and private lessons, NOT grooming, daycare etc.

Dog Training - More on Dog Training Hand Signals

Recommended Answer:
There is usually no sales tax on services rendered. Your state website will be able to address the question.

How to Incorporate Dog Training Into Dog Play and Exercise!

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Dog Health Questions: What should I look for in a dog training/behavior school?

I love cesar millans techniques and I dont want to do anything that he calls using human psychology on a dog. So with that in mind what should I look for in a dog training school? Is there a difference between dog psychology and dog training or is that all one in the same?

Positive Dog Training Tips That Actually Work

Recommended Answer:
You are better off apprenticing under a successful trainer who uses the methods that you are interested in. The best trainers are not those who have gone to school but those who have trained 100's of dogs with different temperaments, problems, and owners. Remember every dog you train comes attached to a person so you need good people skills. Likewise don't discount different training techniques as not every technique works for every dog no matter what you see on TV. There are many different ways to train dogs.

Dog Training: It's Not Just For Adults Anymore

• its different but good luck finding a training school that teaches "dog psycholgy" just because Ceasar does it one way doesn't mean the others don't work. They do. And have been used for thousands of years to train dogs.


• Your best bet is to try to find a trainer reference from someone you know. I found mine on a dog rescue site and it was the best money I ever spent. Remember, there are many different ways to train dogs just as their are many different dog trainers.

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