Dog Health Questions: Has anyone had their dogs trained at Petsmart?

I have a 3 month old Wheaten Terrier that is extremely intelligent. I work during the day, so I need some help in the training department. I would like to house train her, "sit" train, "shake", etc. Since she is so smart I don't think I'll have a problem getting her to learn these commands. I've never trained a pup before, so I could use a little help. Would anyone suggest Petsmart training?

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I am currently taking my puppy to PetSmart training classes and she's doing well. However, I think you may want to meet with the trainer and find out how long they've been training before you sign up because I've heard that sometimes the trainers, to quote someone, "don't know their head from a hole in the ground". I would also suggest you check out the show "Its Me or the Dog" on Animal Planet. That lady really knows her stuff.

Shock Collar Dog Training the Quick and Easy Way

• No I wouldn't.


• I taught my dog almost 20 tricks now and have never gone to training, it is really easy if you have patience.


• It's great socialization, which is never a bad thing. Petsmart training will teach you to teach her, but I wouldn't put too much stock in her learning it from the class. You will learn alot about training her and then you can start to train at home the little novelty tricks.


• For the money you spend on Petsmart training, you can get a good local trainer to enroll you in a basic obedience class that will give you 10x more value. No offense to anyone who works at Petsmart, but I just don't think that their training program is a good one at all.


• My concern with PetSmart training is 2-fold:
  Their trainers may or may not be qualified to handle difficult situations if they arise. At least the stores by my house give the trainers a 2 weeks, 1 hour per week, training session on how to teach, and then put them in command of a class. yes, they know the basics and how to teach them, however, if there are behavioral issues that come in during class, they may or may not know what to do.
  
  Also, the stores in my area do not teach a lot of the basic commands. They teach sit, stay, and come, but do not go into down or heeling or any distractions.
  
  I strongly recommend basic obedience for any dog, but I would check out the store, what do their teachers do to qualify for training, and what is taught during the session. You may pay a little higher price, but you may be better off going to a kennel, shelter, or doggie business in your area for training that is a little more thorough.


• I would highly suggest it! I had my Jack Russell trained through petsmart. I took the puppy training(basic) and I enjoyed it so much that I came back with my pup for intermediate training. I've had people ask me if she is actually a Jack Russell and then when I reply, "yes" they ask why she is actually listening to me. Petsmart has great programs and you also get to socialize your pup with all the other youngsters!


• So many dogs go through Petsmarts that I would be worried about a puppy getting parvo. Try to find a puppy obedience class where they don't take adult dogs. If you must go to Petsmart, make sure they sterilize the floor and carry your pup all the way to the training area.


• i was in the same predicament you are i had to work and i had a aussie who is extremely intelligent i had already taught her a lot but she needed to be social so i signed her up at petsmart training classes weve been there for 5 weeks and she has learned nothing she didnt already know i feels it was a waste of many and they dont teach you anything you cant learn yourself. many of the things i learned was off of watching the show its me or the dog on animal planet heres a link if your interested
  http://animal.discovery.com/convergence/…
  but yeah i feel you would be wasting your money if you took your dog there and thats from experience


• My vet took her dog there. She recommended the social atmosphere for a puppy to introduce them to other dogs, people and environments. They usually have classes based on the age of your dog and they offer advanced training. In checking around, they were very competitively priced for the training they offered.


• I have taken a couple of classes at Petsmart, beginner with one of my dogs and intermediate with two of my dogs (I trained the one dog up to the intermediate level by myself before starting the class with both dogs). Both were adults when I adopted them. While the classes do not lead to a trained dog, I do believe that they help give you the tools to train your dogs and they come out of the classes knowing the basics. You just need to keep up the work at home so that the learning becomes innate behavior. In my area, the Petsmart/other pet store classes are the best value. With my new puppy, I am following the general lessons from Petsmart and my five and a half month old puppy knows sit, down, stay, come, leave it and drop it. The leave it and drop it commands are the best as he is always trying to pick up stuff on our walks and finds stuff where I would swear there was nothing. He can also give his paw, which is just for fun.
  
  With my present dogs, I tried training classes for the first time and it helped me figure out how to work with them on a level they could understand, which was the best part. Agility with my Corgi helped tremendously to create a relationship where he looked to me to tell him what to do. Our training went much better after we started agility. Once your Wheaten gets older, it may be something to consider. Good luck.
  
  ETA - I agree about the quality of the trainers. I have heard that it can vary from store to store. My classes did train loose leash walking and heel and the intermediate classes involved adding distractions, including the trainers' slightly manic border collies, to all of the commands. Go to your bed was a great command that I never would have thought about, but it allows me to get the dogs to a safe place if there is an issue.


• I've heard of people having some success with Petsmart/Petco classes, but more than anything it can be a good socializing experience. It takes more than just taking the course for you and your dog to be successful, you'll also need to reinforce the training at home and work daily so they don't think they only have to obey occasionally, because if your dog is smart, occasionally turns into seldom which turns into unruly.
  
  I was discouraged from doing those classes since I have a GSD and they require a little more in depth training and they latch on to inconstancies VERY quickly. Training an intelligent dog does not mean it's going to be easier, it's still going to take time and lots of work. Having an intelligent dog, like a GSD he sometimes "questions" what I ask of him when we first started training. He was an adult however, and a little bit of a different situation.
  
  The only advice for Parvo is that most cleaners do not kill the virus and the workers there will not be able to "sanitize" the training area. If another dog walked into the area, and wasn't carried, you're in the same boat as if you walked your dog in as well. I've heard you should wait until their last round of puppy shots to start training, but check with your vet first for clearance.
  
  Training is a great bonding experience and good job being proactive!


• I just finished the Petsmart puppy class with my two pups and they are now in the intermediate. I love it and our trainer is great. I agree with other posters that in class you are taught how to teach your puppy and all of the actual training comes outside of class. What I liked the most was being able to get my puppies socialized around all types of dogs and people and to have a place to ask questions every week. For example, my little boy has been the sweetest puppy ever and always played well with all other dogs but last Monday out of no where he started attacking other dogs for no reason. Because my trainer (from Petsmart) knows him better than even my vet she was the first one to help me figure out how this changed happened over night. He is getting fixed tomorrow to see if that will help but if not she is going to help me make a program to train him and work with him on it.
  
  I also agree with everyone else in that it really depends on the trainer you have. My trainer is AMAZING!!! She actually just got a promotion and in 8 weeks will no longer be a trainer. I personally don't like the other trainer at the store and wouldn't recommend her so it is really a toss up.
  
  I am a first time puppy mom and what I have learned has been really helpful but I also got really lucky with such a great trainer


• We took both of my dogs there. The first time we had a great teacher. We had already trained Lacey on most of the basic commands before we took her to Puppy Class. We mostly took her to help with socialization and it did. We did learn a couple of helpful commands I hadn't heard of before which still help.
  
  The second time we took Logan and the teacher wasn't so good so we stopped taking him. I feel so bad I have a Puppy School dropout :)
  
  It really depends on the teacher. It is mostly for you to learn how to train your puppy. One class a week is not enough for your puppy to actually learn any commands. The class is just intended to teach you how to train them at home and remember you have to put in the work.
  
  Hope that helps and Good Luck
  
  Stephanie
  http://www.purebredpups.org
  http://www.designermixes.org


• 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: My dog will not learn ! is he untrainable?

i am trying to crate train my dog but every time I put him in the crate he bites the metal door and pulls it with his teeth. he barks barks barks barks barks barks barks! for several hour non stop, its like he never gets tired of barking until i let him out then suddenly its quite again in an instant. So things I have tried are squrting him with a water bottle when he barks and telling him to hush, this doesnt work he just trys to biite the water and keeps barking (This was something I read to do in a dog training dog) then I tried taping the top of the crate and in a firm voice saying Hush now! Nothing. Then i tried kicking him a little on his side in the ribs like i seen Ceaser Millian do on one of his episodes of the dog whisperer on Animal planet . This didnt work so I held him down on his side ,inside of the crate and showed him how was boss like Ceaser said to do but he kept struggling and growling so I let him go and close the cage quickly, now im scared to let him out because he keeps lunging at me snarling,growling and snaping at me when I walk pass the crate. I dont know what to do . what should I do ? any advice? I am really upset with the training methods of ceaser the dog whisperer just seem to make him worst. Now I can get him out the cage he's starting to act like he has rabbies are something. wow. Im stumped!

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I had a similar problem with one of my dogs. He would whine when we was in his cage. So what we did was move the cage to a quiet area (the laundry room for us), placed a blanket over the cage, turned the lights off, and closed the door. This worked great to calm him down.
It wasn't that he didn't like his cage (he will go in there to rest if you leave the door open), he just didn't like being away from everyone. Some dogs just want attention even if it's negative. So if you ignore him long enough they usually get the hint.
Keep in mind that all dogs a different so you might have to resort to hiring a local trainer to help you out. All dogs are trainable. You just have to figure out what makes your dog tick.

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• you need to hire an animal behaviorist now, because you not only have the issues that were already there you now have new ones for cesar training methods (that is why there is a disclaimer on his show).
  Is he getting enough exercise and stimulation to begin with?


• You just completely messed this dog up. You kick him??????????? And think this is training???? Let the dog out of the crate and have a real trainer show you how to crate train a dog, instead of brutalizing the poor thing. I really hope you are a Troll.


• jiggle ur dogs eggroll a little that will turn him on ohhh yeahhhh ahhhhhhhhh


• You already messed up by kicking and trying to dominate him into his cage. You just associated the crate as having something bad happen to him when it should have been a positive experience. It should have been placed in a quiet place to begin with, where there is no traffic in the house. How would you like to be caged in and have people walking about having fun? Crate is great for when you are out and even at night when you go to bed, but shouldn't be used to keep the dog in all day. Like another post said you ignore the barking, any attention to him is attention even if it's you yelling at him to shut up. If you didn't give him the attention in the beginning he would have quickly figured out barking is getting him no where.

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Dog Health Questions: Is neutering a good thing for my dog?

I have a 11 month old male GSD, he tends to get really hyper even after i take him for 30-45 min walks, he tends to bark at strangers, and get so hyper at times that he wont listen to me sometimes. Dont worry i know neutering shouldn't be an only solution, thats why he is already in a dog training program. I've heard that neutering stops testosterone levels. So im just asking if he will stop barking at strangers on walks, and just mellow out a little, so were both happy. He's getting neutered next Tuesday, so if there's anything else you want to add about neutering, I'm happy to listen.

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Neutering is a great way to go. The surgery in conjunction with the dog training will produce a much better behaved and more enjoyable dog. Not only will it be good for you, but it will also be good for him, because neutering him can drastically reduce his risk of cancer.

Hope I helped, and good choice.

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• First and foremost if your dog is sick don't neuter him till he is better. The shelter made us neuter our dog even though he was sick and it damn near killed him. Ok now that I have said that about the way he acts, neutering will definitely help. It won't fix everything but it will definitely calm him down, the barking at strangers is more of a training thing as opposed to that, however the hyper part will calm down a bit.


• While getting him neutered won't hurt, it won't help how he is barking at strangers. He needs extra socialization. Frequent trips to populated places, like dog parks will help. Give the dog training program a very serious shot at fixing this. It's not all up to the training class to do the job. It takes you to reinforce the training at home on a regular basis. German Shepherds need constant training reinforcement to keep them in place. When you do, they can be the best dog ever.


• Neutering is always a good idea for medical reasons rather than behavioral.
  
  Your dog is hyper because he is a puppy. His barking is something you need to stop with training.
  
  He will be calmer a few weeks after the neutering, having surgery does that, but he will still be the same dog.

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Dog Health Questions: What's so bad about the Dog Whisperer?

If he's so abusive and bad and not right in any sense. Then why do so many people look up to him and why does he have is own show? I honestly look up to him and his methods work on my dog. I feel really upset or just confused and sad because I really thought I was doing the right thing with my dog. I think dog training is an essential, but I felt as if he was really in tune and has a gift. What do you people think? Why is he SO bad?

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He's not abusive. I've never seen him hit a dog, or treat a dog in an abusive way. He will tug on their leash if they start to lunge, but that's what everyone else does, as well, and i don't feel it's an aggressive method.... he doesn't tug so hard as to hurt the dogs in any way, and hasn't killed a dog yet. And i've never seen him raise his voice or yell. In fact, he says very little.

I like his methods, and i think they work.

Maybe people think it's abusive because the Dog Whisperer expects the PEOPLE he helps to change their attitudes and behaviors from anxiety ridden, and subservient to calm, relaxed and in a leader-state-of-mind? Many people are adverse to change.

I don't know, why anyone would say Cesar Millan is abusive -- from what i've seen of him, he's probably one of the most stable people on earth.

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• I dont think hes abusive. I think the humane society is just b*tching for the sake of b*tching.


• CM isn't a bad person. He does what he thinks is right to help dogs and he has been using newer methods.
  
  The pack leadership, domiance theory is out dated and proven wrong though.
  
  I like to watch animals. I've gotten to the point where I can read them pretty well. In my opinion, CM stresses a lot of the dogs out and scares them into obeying.
  
  To me, that's the wrong route to take. There are better options out there.


• He is? Never heard that before. I think he generally does well... though his voodoo talk about "energies" are kinda creepy.
  
  Also the dominance theory is not outdated. It works 100% when applied correctly, unless the dog has something else wrong with them.
  The thing is people are so sensetive about their dogs now, and those creepy animal welfare groups are getting their way more and more often.


• My BIGGEST issue with Caesar is that people watch a half hour EDITED TV show and think they know how to train a dog.
  People don't bother to learn about the actual theories of why these methods should or should not be used.
  You can't possibly learn everything you need from a TV show.
  As for his books, I have not read any so I won't comment.
  
  People need to consider the source. Like I said, it is an TV show edited for ratings. It is very easy to leave things on the cutting room floor or not air you not so successful methods.
  
  Do I hate Caesar? No. He obviously does have a way with dogs regardless. He also promotes many good things, like exercise, discipline and affection and not treating your dog like a human. I have even used some of his ideas.
  Do I think he is the God everyone else thinks he is? No. If you learn about dog body language and watch the show with the sound off, you see a different story. I don't agree with all of his methods, like flooding (when the dog was scared of the slippery floor).
  
  ADD-
  I haven't seen Victoria Stillwell yet. Dying to though.
  
  You are never going to find one method of training that everyone agrees on. There is no right or wrong way. Do what works for your dog and what you are comfortable with.


• People are just starting to say he is bad because of the new training methods that are coming around.
  
  Millan tends to believe in the theory of pack dominance and the human being the alpha. His belief is that you have to show your dog who is boss by dominating him. A lot of people have a problem with the way he seems to "dominate" his dogs. I personally don't have a problem with this, but I can see some dogs that it just would not work with, especially older dogs.
  
  Victoria Stillwell is one of the people out there using the newer methods involving only positive training. This is what clicker training is based upon, catching the dog doing the wanted behavior and rewarding it at the correct time to increase the chance of them doing it again. She also uses distractions such as loud sounds and removal techniques. She never tries to dominate the dogs as she believes it causes more aggressive behavior.


• I haven't watched any CM (live in Aus and it isn't aired here) but I believe that one method of training is not the be all and end all for all dogs.
  
  What one person's methods to train their dog, may not work for mine. One of my dogs in particular has a "what's in it for me?" mindset, so some of the softer ways of training would not work with him, whereas my other dog is very mild mannered, so harsher methods wouldn't be for him.
  
  CM's way of training isn't bad, it just may not work for all dogs.


• I agree, Cesar isn't cruel. He treats dogs like dogs because they ARE dogs & that's what they expect. Nothing wrong with cherishing your dog like a member of the family but you can't baby them or else they could try to dominate the people in the family & that causes behavioral problems like not listening, aggression, etc. Trust me, I absolutely love my Dobie & it's very hard not to spoil him, but when I fall off the wagon & give in he gets naughty.


• I love Cesar. Victoria Stillwell I have a problem with. I don't know she just rubs me the wrong way.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog trainer???

i am fourteen and i started training dogs when i was 12, i know i dont have much experience but i am really good at it. i think most people dont trust me to help them train their dogs because im still kinda young, i need a way to show off my dog training skills but i dont know how. im gunna do a little show with my dog at a park this summer, but if anyone else has any ideas plz help me.

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Hi, Tyler. I think it is awesome a young person likes animals enough to do what you do:P Both our boys, a Rott & a Husky/Jack Russell Terrier mix, have been to a Group Basic Obedience Class and Agility and it was great for them for socializing and skills and fun for me too!

We volunteer with an Animal Rescue Group by helping at events and occasionally fostering. I dont know if they will help or not, but here are some ideas. Hold an event at a local park or large grassy public area and :

1. if the park will allow it, set up a little mini training or agility course. have your dog, or a dog you trained,go thru it. it could be something as simple as putting up circles made of cones and going from cone to cone to demonstrate dif commands. If the park will let you set up some things and you have done Agility, set up a small course. You can use scrap lumber to make a "mountain" (thats what our trainer calls it, the thing that goes looks like an upside down "v"), some cones to "weave" thru if you dont have weave poles,etc.

2. You might invite people to bring their dogs and have a informal dog show. Give whacky prizes like 'Most whiskers', 'americas next top model', etc. Make sure to have enough ribbons that all dogs get a prize. You can make up their titles as you see them.

3. And/or urge people to bring their dogs in costumes and give costume prizes as well.

4. Once you get started ask someone from the crowd that you need a dog that has had little or minimal training. Work w/ it just a little in front of the crowd on a basic like "heel" or "sit". Then get out your dog / a trained dog and do a run thru of basics (I would do "heel", "sit", "auto sit" (automatically sitting when you stop as you are walking/heeling), etc. Show people that with the right training and time,ANY dog can have basic manners.

5. Make pamphlets with:
* your info on them.

*Also, put facts on there like how your pet can go more places with you if he/she is trained. You might mention the Canine Good Citizen Test. (you can look all the info up about it on the web). You train your dog and then go to a state test site. If your dog passes, it gets the "Canine Good Citizen Test" award. Lots of hotels will then allow your pet to stay in your room with you if your dog has this. Emphasize these benefits of having a trained dog.

*List basic commands that are "good dog manners" like being told to "stay",etc.

*Emphasize how a group class can not only help the dog / owner learn commands but can help a dog w/ socialization and increase the human / dog bond.

*List what commands your dog knows and briefly describe your teaching methods. Mention positive re-enforcement like praise & treats as opposed to hitting a dog.

Just use your imagination. Also, make sure to get the word out ahead of time. Make and post fliers, stuff mailboxes, put an ad in the paper,etc. I know our local group holds "AdoptAThons" all the time. If your shelter or a local group does that, ask them if you can demonstrate some things at one of their events.

GOOD LUCK
Brandi

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• you might want to work or intern with an established trainer? (look online in your area and ask if anyone needs assistance - donate your time and services). That way by the time you are out of high school, you will be well establishlished and have lots of what everyone will consider to be 'real experience' - and will happily take their dogs to you.
  
  Good Luck !


• You could volunteer to help train dogs at your local animal shelter. This will give you a lot of experience with all kinds of breeds and breed mixes. You can maybe ask if you can hold little seminars on dog training for potential adopters after you have proven yourself to the shelter staff.


• I used to do most of my training either in the park or on the street. The neighbors noticed how my unruly canines turned into well-behaved companions, so they were willing to let me train their dogs as well. The more dogs I trained, the more word got around.
  
  I also competed in obedience trials, so I had ribbons to prove my dogs were well-trained.
  
  It's also a good idea to attend obedience classes with your dogs, and to read, attend seminars and learn as much as you can about the subject so that you can speak with knowledge and confidence.

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Dog Health Questions: I want to become a service dog trainer.?

Do you have to go to some sort of school for service dog training?
what schools for that are good? ( preferably in Alaska)
What age do you attend a school like that? I still want to go to Biola when i go to college.
I just want to train and breed service dogs myself....
How do I certify myself or the dog???

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You either apprentice with a service dog training organization or go to a school like Bergin University. http://berginu.org/

Since it typically takes 18-24 months to fully train a service dog, expect your apprenticeship to take about three years.

For breeding, you really should have a college degree in animal husbandry to learn all that is necessary for such a breeding program. We aren't talking about breeding pets, where you put a male and a female together and hope for the best. A service dog breeding program involves indepth study of each potential breeding candidate's family history and genetics. You have to know how different genetic diseases are transmitted, how to identify affected individuals as well as carriers, how to remove or magnify specific traits from your gene pool, and much more if you're to do a good job of it.

Just putting two nice dogs together and hoping is going to tend to produce only one usable dog in 100. That means 99 others to find homes for. A good service dog breeding program succeeds in 7 out of 8 live births, and those culled from service work can usually be placed in another career. Those that can't are still given training to make them desirable pets. That's a big investment to make with a large number of dogs you can't use for your program.

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• Contact an organization like Guide Dogs of America (think that's the name) and see what the qualifications are

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training?

I think it's really cute when a dog goes through your legs and puts their front paws on your feet and walk around with you .. How would I be able to teach my dog this or other cool tricks I really want to teach some new tricks! thanks! Oh yeah like anything different and unique not like roll over and stuff and something easy please!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4tlhVpRI…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1lO6HQZd…

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you can teach a dog to do anything really as long as they are comfortable with you moving them around in postions that arent too comon to them. just make sure u dont hurt them. i doubht my dog to jump over things put her paws on a stool so it looks like she praying and many more simply by moving in the postion i want. then i say the command like "pray!" and then give her a treat. i keep doin it until she learns to do the trick on her own and them comes more praise. but some dogs learn faster than others and hav the patience to learn tricks. make sure your dog is like that first!

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• Dogs do this naturally especially when you come home and walk with you on the leash in the initial stage.Better contact a dog handler and ask him to train your dog into doing something different. He is more capable of getting the desired results. Best wishes

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training help improving walking.?

I trained my dog of 7 months all basic tricks
there is just one thing i need to know how to train her at, its not running after moving stuff...especially little kids, she seems to whimper and and pull much and hard when walking with her and then when pass by barking dogs she does the same...

its really fustrating , she can walk properly and such but its those two obstacles that annoy me and i dont wannt her to go and bite little kids, well not sure what she wants to do.... she is a husky X German Shepard. How can i teach her to calm down, she is sorta getting stronger and takes a while to pull her away but she dosnt seem to listen when kids/other dogs pass by.

Is Your Dog Training You?

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Try reading "Control Unleashed: Creating a Focussed Dog" by Leslie McDevitt. She teaches you games to get your dog to focus on you and to stay under threshold for barking, reactivity etc. Also has DVD so you can see how to train some of the games.
You won't go wrong using her methods. They are light years ahead of any others out there and really work!
And, yes, you can use them while you are walking your dog. They work both on and off leash. I used these methods on my dog and they work really well.

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• Use a Gentle Leader (can order online). This will help with the actual pulling and once she's an adult (about 2 yrs) she probably won't have the desire to run after everything. It's normal for a dog this age to want to be a part of everything they walk by, but they can be trained to ignore it.


• I dont know this either, but when my dog passes a dog he really likes, he somehow comes out of his collar. luckily, that person grabbed my dog and gave him back to me. I dont know but my dog does it rarely. Go to some dog trainer. that may help a lot.


• Dont worry. U must work with patience. Plz follow the link below for the solution
  
  http://dog-training--help.blogspot.com/


• Tips for dog training
  
  1) Avoid giving your dog combined commands which are incompatible. Combined commands such as "sit-down" can confuse your dog. Using this example, say either "sit" or "down". The command "sit-down" simply doesn't exist.
  
  2) When giving your dog a command, avoid using a loud voice. Even if your dog is especially independent/unresponsive, your tone of voice when issuing an obedience command such as "sit","down" or ""stay", should be calm and authoritative, rather than harsh or loud.
  
  3) Whenever possible, use your dog's name positively, rather than using it in conjunction to reprimands, warnings or punishment. Your dog should trust that when it hears its name or is called to you, good things happen. His name should always be a word he responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear.Check my source, hope it helps. Good luck!

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training question (perhaps it's too simple)?

So rescued a 10 month old Boston & Chihuahua (we think) mix. We've discovering that he's not too good around large and medium sized dogs. We think that this is probably due to his lack of socialization as a pup, or maybe it's because he has the chihuahua "small dog" complex. He's slightly taller than our Boston and weighs about 20lbs.

When he sees a large or medium sized dog, he barks like crazy, full hackles, lips curled, evil eyes, and wants to attack as though he wants to eat them! When I took him to the dog park the other day, I found that he was somewhat okay if he was 'taller' (in my arms) or equal eye level with these larger dogs.

Does anyone have any ideas on how to get him to be better around other dogs? Eventually I'd like to be able to take both dogs to the dog park and not have to worry.

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No, not simple its actually a very good question. Usually this kind of aggresion is linked to some sort of fear (usually undersocialization like in your case) so you have to treat these behaviors as if he were fearful. Anxiolytics medication along with countercondition and desensitization works wonders!

First you have to make sure that you are under threshold, meaning that you aren't too close to cause this fear-aggressive response. You play/reward and get a little closer, you do this over and over again till you can be close enough that the two meet. He basically has to learn that the other dog's mean no harm, so of course these kinds of exercises you will want to do with dogs that you know won't attack your pup.

Here's an article & site about fearful dogs and one about having two dog's meet by Virginia Wind, hope they help!

http://k9domain.org/fearful.aspx
http://fearfuldog.com/index.html

Having two dogs meet:
http://k9academy.dogboard.net/dog-traini…

Happy reading & Best of wishes!

ETA: In regards to "punishing" your dog like some of the answers below have stated, I suggest you don't. Like I said before this is a fear-aggression case and hitting the dog or yanking on a leash to show him who is boss won't teach him anything except to be scared of the other dog and perhaps even you! Please avoid aversive techniques if at all possible, fearfuldogs.com is an excellent source and frequently suggested to owners with dogs that are fearful and in there it tells you that aversive/dominating training techniques are more harmful than good.

7 Most Believed Myths About Dogs And Dog Training Dispelled

• First thing, don't pick him up and cuddle him when he is misbehaving. It sounds llike he is not yet read for the dog park! You need to fix this behavior before you take him there again so he does not get hurt. There are many tactics you can use, but first you must become his pack leader. Take him on long walks (dont let him pull, if he does yank the leash 3 times and then give it back, repeat each time he pulls), feed him last to show him you are the boss, never let him get away with not coming to you when called (go get him if you have to!). I would contact a professional trainer if I were you, they can teach you the techniques and can bring in wellbehaved dogs to help your dog with the process.


• I currently have a foster dog who is very dog reactive (sounds a lot like yours).
  
  He used to charge my big dogs and bark at them, and when I took the foster dogs to Petco, he had a fit every time a dog came through the door.
  
  I have been consistently correcting him for that behavior, and after about a month he is doing much better.....he no longer charges my dogs.
  
  At Petco I keep him on my lap (with a hand on him), so I can easily correct him. Usually after a couple of hours he has calmed down enough that I can let him down to greet people without him attacking passing dogs. And there are goodies...he gets rewarded for calm behavior, while my other foster gets rewarded for being brave and going up to people. :o)
  
  Maybe you can do something similar at the dog park.... have him sit beside you and watch from a safe distance, and correct him whenever he barks.


• He's protecting you from the other dogs. It also sounds like he has a socialization problem. He needs to be taught to settle down and not freak out when he's around other dogs. And, as a pack animal, he needs to get this mentality from you, his pack leader.
  
  You shouldn't let the dog off the leash at the dog park, especially since he has shown that aggressive behavior. In fact, some behavior experts discourage taking dogs to dog parks, where there are a lot of dogs roaming around free off-leash. This is because there may be a number of dogs there that lack discipline and their behavior is not a good example for borderline dogs. Dogs thrive on discipline from the pack leader and that comes at the end of a leash, not running free.
  
  I have a toy fox terrier (12 pounds) who doesn't socialize with other dogs very well. When the other dogs - even on leash - try to come over and do the dog sniff greeting, my dog whips around and tries to snap at him. I have found that the best way to handle him in this situation is to have him sit down and calm down before the other dog approaches. If he growls or his hair starts to raise, I snap him out of this state by nipping at his neck with a thumb/forefinger pinch and hissing at him (a la Cesar Milan). This is what pack leaders basically do to juvenile pack dogs who misbehave to bring them back in line.
  
  I also warn people who come up to my dog that he's not very sociable before there can even be a chance for him to get close to the other dog. When he's in a calm state, I can then let the other dog approach and be ready to pull my dog away by the leash if he becomes aggressive. It takes time. But, I can usually get him to accept being around other dogs eventually. If he won't settle down, I make him sit there and calm down until the other dog goes away before resuming the walk. He's still a work in progress.


• hit him lightly on his nose when he barks,( u must punish him when he barks )
  if he dosnt bark, reward him with a treat

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Dog Health Questions: How can i become a dog obedience trainer?

i know it's all common sense and i am good at training already. There is obviously always more to learn. But I would like to get myself into a position where i can start to make this a business. I have never competed in dog trials. My ultimate goal would be to do training for police dogs. I just don't know how to get started. I don't think those online" learn to be " sites are any good because anyone can take your money and say that you are certified. I want to find a real portal into the dog training field.

Easy Dog Obedience Training Can Be Done at Home With a Do it Yourself Dog Training Program

Recommended Answer:
First of all, I think the biggest thing is experience. And lots of it. You have to not only know training techniques, but you have to be able to train and work with ALL types of personalities and temperaments of dogs. I would get very involved in the type of training that you would like to master and teach. Being a dog trainer is a big responsibility. It's not only teaching a dog, but it's also teaching the dog's owner, which can sometimes be harder. Ha! I wouldn't use any online sites to become certified.

Good Luck!! I have taught dog obedience, but it was basic dog obedience to my community. I started off with taking the classes with my dog that lead to competing in the ring. I became very experienced with many different breeds and personalities working with rescue organizations as well as kennel clubs. We were also involved in TDI and CGC. So I felt really confident offering basic dog obedience and it was successful.

Find Out How You Could Get Into Dog Training As A Career

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training question.?

I am moving into a house that is less than a half block away from a busy street. I have a border collie that whenever she's off the leash or gets out she darts away. I'm worried that she will get out and run off and get hit by car. Does anyone know how to train a dog to stay near and not chase things when off the leash?

Dog Training - The Right and Wrong Way

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Never let them off-leash. I have Bloodhounds that will never come back if they get loose. You need a high physical fenced yard.

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• I hear ya, I know exactly what your talking about. Besides trying to always have your dog on a leash when outside, you will have to work on your basic obedience,(stay, come, etc.) the basics are the building blocks and if you dont have them your dog will never be reliable when you call him, or tell him to stay, or anything. Also, Border collies are just one of those breeds that have the urge to run and chase things. you cant blame him for doing that. Make sure you know what your getting into and what training challenges youn will face when choosing a breed.


• Yes, same here! My male puppy does the same, darts off across the street and where ever he wants! But he went to obediance classes and they said to get an invisable fence or, you can walk around with them in your lawn and show them the bounderies by putting like little flags and walk around with them on a short thin wire leash and when them go past it, pull them back and point where they went over the boundary and say "NO!" Good Luck! ;)))))


• Well, border collies are very hyper-active, so I don't really think you can keep one standing still for longer than 5 seconds. The best advice I can think of is to keep her on the leash during your walks. You can let her off the leash in a park or a place suitable for walking a dog, but try to keep her occupied with something, like a ball, for example. Play fetch with her or find her a dog she can play with. After the play and walk is over put her back on the leash, especially on a busy street. You can try using one of those dog whistles, or just consult a professional dog trainer. Also make sure your dog can't leave your back yard on her own. Build a fence, patch up all the holes if there are some. If not don't let her out of the house before you put her on a leash. I know it's kind of a drag keeping your dog on a leash all the time, especially if they're active like your dog is, but it's the best way to keep them safe and out of the harms way. Good luck!


• I would suggest that the dog never be let out off the leash.
  You could however look into getting a regular fence or an electric fence to contain her. The problem with an electric fence is that unless the dog is properly trained to stay in the fence and is fast they will get zapped on the way out and not want to go back in. An electric fence is cheaper than a regular fence but make sure you learn how to train her for it.


• Sounds like you need some training help... There are some really excellent dog obedience training courses out there that you can use. Be careful though - there are some pretty bad ones too. Here's one I recommend (a ton of people have had success with this one):
  http://dogobediencetraining123.com/course


• I'm waiting for some good answers...I have the same problem...


• Make sure you have a good fence around your property and dont let her off the leash in the street. Im not sure about where you live but it can often be illegal and if your dog causes a car accident you are liable for the damage. The best thing is to only let them off leash in parks (designated off leash ones) or open areas where they cant get hurt or cause damage. Our old family dog was eventually great by the age of about 5. The best thing is to begin in parks and open fields and train from there. I dont believe that at an early age they can really be trained that, they are too excited and inquisitive. When she is older perhaps she will be better. But start off training off leash in parks taking her for walks and getting her to walk beside you. Allow her to wander a bit away from you to check things out (trees etc, but not other dogs, even if you trust yours u cant trust others) and just keep walking, always keeping an eye on her though. You will find most dogs will see their owner is getting too far away and she will chase after you and keep up with you. It takes a lot of time and persistence.


• That breed has instincts that would cause it to run. I don't know if training could stop that instinct to dart, and it's not worth the risk. You might consider setting a an obstacle course in your yard for her. Border collies love to have that kind of a challenge. They were bred to herd, so as a pet they can get bored easily and they run fast.


• We regularly walk our puppy around the property line where he is allowed to go. Once he knew basic commands we let him off the leash in our yard. He stayed pretty well but we would have to stop him at times. He is pretty used to it now and stays where he is supposed to. He is never outside alone though.

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Dog Health Questions: Which has a better training program for dogs, PetCo or Petsmart?

I would like to put my 6 month old dog in dog training, but Im not sure which store has a better program. If you've taken your dog to either, or work there and know about their program, please tell me what you know!

The Evolution of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Honestly? neither. Most of classes run by Petco or Petsmart are run by 'trainers' with no real behavioral qualifications or experience.

Instead, look for an independently run training school with qualified, experienced instructors. The trainers could be certified by The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) AND have the relevant practical experience to back it up.

Look here for a list of certified trainers in your area:

http://www.apdt.com/

Best of luck!

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• Neither.
  Get a real trainer for the best results.


• I agree with Gail neither store provides a good program. If you really want to train your dog properly find a trainer in your area that has real ability. I have watched the store program and I have found that some of there methods are not right. Private trainers train dogs full time and usually have taken courses and have bred dogs. The trainers at the store just train part time and don't care as much as a real, trainer I think.
  
  But that is great that your taking your dog to school.


• Neither


• My puppy did training at Petsmart and we both enjoyed it. I did not pick it because it was Petsmart. I actually looked online for a certified trainer where I live and she happened to work at Petsmart. All of the trainers are not certified. Just check that first, and then pick from on of those.


• Please go to a reputable trainer for your dog. The cost is about the same and at least you and your dog will be learning from some one who has had real experience.
  Both the places you have mentions rarely have qualified trainers, only store employees that have gone through a 6 week training program with minimal experience. I have been in both store while their so called training was in progress and walk away either laughing or shaking my head in disbelief. It was really bad.


• Yes, it would be better to go to a private kennel with obedience classes by a professional trainer with decades of experience. That being said, I should make the point that, at least where I live, PetSmart "trainers" are store employees who've had a short training session to learn to teach obedience, but Petco actually invites a professional trainer from outside the store to come in and do classes at the store.
  
  If that's the way it is where you live, Petco would by far be better than Petsmart. It still would not be as good as going to that same trainer's location, though, because the distraction level inside a pet store is HUGE for a dog just learning obedience.

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Dog Health Questions: What is a reasonable time to get your dog trained in basic commands?

All dogs need training, but how long is too long when taking the time to train your dog? Does this include or not include proofing? If a dog gets trained and proofed in the end, is the person a good trainer regardless of how long it took to get there? I am talking about basic obedience commands like: sit, lay, stay, walking nicely on a leash, heel, leave/take it, come.

Also, how do you feel about the "watch me" command?

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The short answer is..... as long as it takes. 'Watch me' is a great one to teach. Ideally you should incorporate training in to play sessions, much more fun for both of you. Lots of short session all day. Check out http://doglifetraining.com that site has great advice on basic lifestyle skills and how to teach them, helped me put lots of things in perspective.

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• It truly depends on the dog, and how consistent you are with training. Whether it takes a short or a long time to train a dog, you have to do what you have to do to make that dog well trained. I have a 11 week old Doberman puppy and she already knows every command, plus more. It only took me a few times to show her what I wanted her to do, and she learned instantly. Not all dogs catch on fast, but that doesn't make them dumb or that they got bad training.
  
  Dogs learn at different rates, and you just have to train all the time with love and affection. If you don't give up, neither will the dog and in time the dog will be what you put into it, it will be great for the both of you.
  
  The watch me command is a good one to teach, I use that one too.


• Basic Commands 2+weeks depending on how consistent you are. To completly trust the dog in all comands in all types of distractions without a leash it could take 2 to 3 months depending on you and your dog


• For "ON-leash" only...10-12 days. Off-leash....couple of months. As far as "watch me".....it depends what my final purpose with the dog is.


• When I trained my girl, i just did really quick training sessions (10 mins maximum) about four times a day. then we would play games :)


• as soon as you get home, you start training.


• u should start when you get the dog and you should only do it for about 20 or 30 min the dog will get bored


• My puppy begins training the day I bring her home. I dont waste time in gymnasiums, or in church basements or in those classes that demand your puppy sit for 30 seconds when its 8 weeks, and then 1 minute when its nine weeks (just an illustrative anology - I dont know what they all do these days).
  
  Example: When I got my 8 week old dobe, I took her canoeing at 9 weeks (one week later). That day, she had to down stay in the canoe for about 30 minutes, not because I wanted to show off, or earn some ribbon, but because it was important and necessary (I didnt want to be man overboard and die). I needed her to lie down so that I could paddle. So she did.
  
  Next day, we did it again - she was now pretty comfortable, so we went for 1 hour. During that time, she was allowed to get up to stretch- then lie down again. Again, it was important to me, so she did it. Yes, I had her on lead, and I communicated to her what I needed her to do.
  
  When we reached camp - it was time to relax. She was allowed to play and be a dog.
  
  So, this is it. My dogs have two disciplines - serious and not serious. When I paddle - its serious. When we reach camp, its not (well, not forever, but this is supposed to be a short story)
  
  So how long does it take to train a dog - a lifetime. You never stop training your dog because life is not static (unless you live in a bubble). Proofing - when are you every really sure - will your dog recall if it scents a deer in the bush - mine didn`t this morning (that 9 week old puppy is now 3 years). So, they went back on lead, and whenever my dogs are leashed they must heel (not with their head contorted around me because I need to prove I can dominate them, heel means walk at my left side without pulling or interfering with me so that I don`t trip and fall face first into the pavement but also, allow them to see where they are going since I trust my dogs to alert me to danger too)
  
  On watch me - no I dont `command` they stare at me (why). The work is integrated into my daily life and theirs, I dont ask them to jump just for the sake of jumping, or watch me just for the sake of watching. If we are in the field and need to climb a fence, we climb it together. Its a bond of mutual respect and trust - and its simple.

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Dog Health Questions: Bethlehem PA, Do they offer any protective dog training classes in that area?

I have a Pit bull and we are moing to Allentown, Bethlehem area and i have a girlfriend who likes to take walks at night and thats fine where i live but down there arent the best places

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I strongly suggest you speak with your girlfriend. Pit Bulls get stolen all the time as they are big business for certain types of people. I know the pitbull would fight to defend your girlfriend but they are human friendly (most) and if the criminals used the right methods could easily steal the dog. Leaving your girlfriend alone and you without a dog. I suggest you walk the dog through the day or walk with her. I also suggest that you dont train your dog to be aggressive as that would turn your dog into a weapon. This sounds good but your girlfriend wont be a able to trust your dog so she wont be able to take it for walks anyway.

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Dog Health Questions: Is it possible to get your dog trained as a therapy dog?

I would really like to get my dog trained as a therapy dog, he is very kind, gentle, and very very charismatic. Is this possible? If it is, please provide any places that you know of that offer these types of programs. thank you!

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Recommended Answer:
Typically people who want to do therapy dog volunteering do the training themselves, perhaps by taking some classes at local dog schools. Your local pet store, vet's office, and kennel club may know of therapy dog classes in your area.

If you have a specific facility you'd like to visit, you should ask them what they require. Some will require that you and your dog be registered with a specific organization and those that permit therapy dog visits will likely have a list of contacts of people in the area who do that kind of volunteering, or local therapy dog chapters/clubs.

The top three therapy dog organizations in the US are:
http://deltasociety.org
http://tdi-dog.org
http://therapydogs.com

I'm currently boycotting TDI because a) they won't respond to phone calls or emails by members with legitimate questions and b) they are anti- service dog (dogs that assist the disabled). I'd recommend Delta because they have excellent member services and the most comprehensive testing.

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• We have an Australian Shepherd that is trained to be a therapy dog. She was trained by her first birthday although you can train a dog for therapy at any age. Most therapy dogs go through obedience training first.
  
  I would highly suggest the Bright and Beautiful dog therapy program they offer training classes. Many hospitals also offer training classes.
  
  You do not always have to go to classes to train your dog for therapy some programs offer testing at different locations and if your dog can pass the test they will be certified to do pet therapy.
  
  I do however highly suggest a training program for therapy as this will help you and your dog with situations that you might come across when doing therapy.
  
  The reason I suggest a training class is because a good training class will expose your dog to wheel chairs, IV poles, fire alarms and things that your dog will come across in nursing homes, hospitals etc. In training our dog also learned how to great someone that has a hospital table in front of them which is not a requirement but comes in handy every time we go to visit.. Training was also very useful for learning tips and tricks from people who have actually done pet therapy.
  
  A perfect example is to carry two leads with you, because often times patients get hold of a lead and do not want to let go, this way you simply switch leads and walk your dog away avoiding any unwanted commotion.
  
  Here is the website for Bright and Beautiful that may answer some of the questions you may have.
  http://www.golden-dogs.org/
  
  Good Luck I am sure that if you go through with this you will not be disappointed it is truly a rewarding experience.


• You need to get your dog into a good obedience class, take it out around lots of different people, distractions, noises, etc, get the AKC CGC and then test with either Delta Society or Therapy Dog International once he has passed a therapy test and become certified then you will be able to take him to various places such as nursing homes, hospitals, rehab facilities, schools etc..any place that welcomes therapy dogs or has a therapy dog program.
  I like TDI (therapy dog international) over Delta Society. My Danes have been tested & certified through TDI. They have been an absolute pleasure to do business with and they also allow dogs that are raw fed to be in the therapy program which Delta does not. I have found Delta to be a not so dog/handler friendly organization.


• Usually dogs used for assistance of the blind, deaf, some theraphy start with training as early as 6 weeks- 2 months old. I saw an ad that some Golden Retrievers, after 8 months, were capable of doing some 80 commands and retrievals. Your blind societies, Good Will, Salvation Army, United Way, organizations will be able to assist you. Each state has different organizations that can set you up. Local rescue will have information as well. In our state, if you have an older obedient dog that has all its shots, there are some schools and nursing homes and hospitals that will allow you to bring your dog in to assist in helping people that have depression,no family and other issues on a regular basis. I would start with the organizations listed above and go from there, they have the proper requirements. Also you may try and google off the internet. GOOD LUCK


• Yes this is definitely possible! You need to get your dog DELTA certified (not sure how that works...) and in order to do that there's a certain list of actions your dog must perform... it's like sit, down, stay, walk past another dog, walk nicely on a leash, greet a stranger kindly, and things along the line. You probably don't need a specific therapy dog class for this, you can train your own dog or you can take a class (doesn't necessarily have to be a therapy dog class, just a training class.)
  
  Good luck! Try googling "therapy dog training near [your location]"


• Hi, do you mean a therapy dog that visits people in hospitals, hospices, childrens homes etc to help cheer up patients? I yes, then it depends which country you are in. In GB we have to train the dog in basic obedience and dog obedience class and they are assessed by a behaviourist or vet and tested to make sure they are suitable. If going to a hospital the dog has to be taught to be careful around machines etc, and to not be frightened of strange things like walking frames, trolleys etc. You have to register with an organisation (eg Pets As Therapy, Therapet) because your dog is then insured through them if anything happens while visiting patients. Then you apply for where you would like to visit, and depending on the place, you work out when you will visit. It is normally a scheduled time so the patients will know you are coming.
  
  It is very rewarding for the patients, it can help cheer them up, and for you it is lovely to see your dog make someone's day a bit better, and of course you can chat to them all about your pet too!
  
  Probably best idea would be to type into search engine on internet the area you live in and therapy dogs,or therapy pets, and see where the nearest organisation in your area is. They will give you all the details and support you need to get your dog as a therapy pet.
  
  Good luck and enjoy it :)


• You would pull out your phone book or start searching online for trainers who can do therapy dog training. Often they offer it under CGC training, which is very similar to Therpay Dog training.
  
  Then, you contact them and ask for a consult. If they think the dog is ready for advanced training like this, then you sign up and put the time in at home. You'll then have to get the dog tested and certified with a therpay dog group that works in your area.


• pawsforacause.com may be able to help. Tho they train seizure dogs.


• Yes, I don't know the name but my school had a therapy dog

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Dog Health Questions: Has anybody gone to this Dog Training School?

I am thinking about enrolling at the Animal Behavior College (http://animalbehaviorcollege.com/index.a… and I was just wondering if anyone on here as been through their program and if so how successful they were after they graduated.

Anyone else could you tell me wether this school looks suitable to start a career in dog training? Thanks!

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If you don't have the best answer until now, why don't´ you try on http://www.google.com ?good luck.. . .

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• The school looks good! But be sure to look at other schools for comparison!
  
  Good luck! ;)


• I have not gone to that school neither has my dog gone to school. Trained him myself at home.


• I went to that school, Now, I can roll over, play dead, fetch the newspaper& slippers,and sound the alarm in the event of intruders! Woof,woof !

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