Showing posts with label dog training books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog training books. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Dog Stalking Cat?????????????????

I have a rely skittish dog that from when i got here was very skittish most likely because we bought her at a store and was probably a puppy mill dog. But she was so skittish that we sent her to this prison dog training program that did a great job to were i could actually get her out of the house with out dragging her and when she saw people she didn't snap at them. But we have this cat that she just stares at and follows and does it with a few other cats around the nabber-hood and she just stands there and stares at them and if they move she does. Also she is the biggest attention hog ever i mean we named her sweetie just because the name fit so well but she has attacked our cat viciously twice in the year we have had her and was wondering if anyone had any ideas on how to get her to stop stalking her and possibly to prevent another attack?

The Importance of Dog Training



Recommended Answer:
It's normal. My dog saw a cat today and chased it forever! When they see sudden movements, they like to chase. That's all, it's their natural instinct.

Want to Learn How to Train a Dog? Simple But Important Dog Training Techniques


  • http://www.paw-rescue.org/PAW/PETTIPS/DogTip_Cat.html

  • she got the hots for the cat,

    my advice.. kill the cat and keep the dog

  • That doesn't sound to good. Im afraid it will either be the dog or the cat, I am personally a cat person but I would get rid of your dog. If your dog keeps on attacking your cat like this your cat WILL be killed. Also it might be an idea to get rid of the dog because if you get rid of the cat your dog may find other cats to attack and kill and I don't think your neighbors would be too pleased about that. It isn't really a good to have a dog with a cat unless the dog is really laid back and the cat wouldn't mind it sitting around. Its best if you want a dog and a cat that you should get a kitten and a puppy so they could grow up together. You might want to try and get another dog that is more laid back and won't mind having a cat around the house. Maybe you should check your local shelter because there will be some really sweet dogs there just waiting for a home.
Read More...

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Where do I begin searching for a dog trainer? What do I need to know when I'm looking for a trainer?

I have a pug puppy I wanted to train. He yanked the leash out of my hands today and ran into the road... he's ok. But I definitely think it's time to find a trainer to prevent this from happening again. Do you know what I need to look for when I'm looking for a trainer? Where can I look them up? I know Petsmart offers dog training sessions...are they any good? Also, I live in Charlotte NC...so if anyone has recommendations please let me know. Thanks guys!

The Three Dog Training Mistakes You Should Avoid



Recommended Answer:
Some time back I observed a few Petsmart training classes and it appeared the trainer was confusing both the dogs and the owners. Don't mean to knock them, but I just wasn't overly impressed. Its very possible it may be different in your area and maybe they've revised their training practices.

You can always ask your vet for recommendations, even Pug breed clubs in your area. Search on the web, as well. Obviously you want someone that has experience. When you come across a few, ask if you can sit in on one of the lessons (without bringing your dog, of course) and see what kind of feel you get from it. There should be no harsh or overboard corrections with any dog. Dogs and owners should be all having a good time while learning and class should end on a positive note. Pups usually need a little break during the class because you're not going to get a big attention span out of them. Usually they'll shut down after a while otherwise. A good trainer is also going to go over diet, grooming and some basic health issues, too. And you need to be mindful there a a lot of "wannabies" out there that claim to be trainers and have minimal experience and are just looking to make a buck. They do more harm than good. Usually they do a lot of harm! Go with your gut feeling from what you observe in a class.

Hope this helped a bit and good luck!

Basic Dog Training Commands - Improve Your Dog's Behavior


  • If your pug is a youngster you do not need a trainer but what you need is go to Obedience or puppy pre school and they will train you and the dog.St obedience which is NOT expensive they will show you how to put on a check chain which gives you full control of your dog and you can go until you feel secure and safe with the dog.in the meantime if you can get a Gentle leader although am not sure if they are for pugs given their Fiat faces.

  • Visit the AKC and UKC website's to find a local obedience training club near you.
    http://www.akc.org
    http://www.ukcdogs.com

    You have a puppy, so no choke chains or prong collars. If any trainer suggest that, then run. Puppies should only be trained on a buckle collar.

    Also, look for a "Puppy" training class. Also the dogs will be pups, and the class will be geared towards young dogs, who have the attention span of a tse tse fly. They will use lots of food and games to help you train your dog.

    Look for an instructor who is open to using different methods. If a trainer only uses on method on all dogs, then run. If a trainer only uses the old correction based training, run. A good trainer usually has a lot of idea's up their sleeve.

    Generally, AKC/UKC obedience clubs are non-for-profit. They are taught by the members, who must have earned high level in competition obedience to train classes. Many of these people have trained many dogs to high levels of competitive obedience and have raised many puppies.

    The club I belong to runs 8 week beginner classes for $160, which is a pretty good price for my area (NYC area)
Read More...

Monday, August 27, 2012

Dog Health Questions: How can i get my dog to stay with me without using a leash?

Well i got a dog training kit for christmas:
http://www.thane.com/products/promos/per…
if you watched that video thing it probably explained i got it for my dog so i can get respect and i am she is doing everything i say but theres one thing im afraid to do because when i got it it had a video and on one of the sections it said you need to teach your dog how to walk without a leash that way it could be free and it will not bolt out the door and im afraid to loose my dog if i try it on the streets if i use my backyard it is not the same because my yard has no rode anyways he gave me a long long leash about 13 Ft. and a shorter one and an even shorter one and he said this knowledge will help when i take my dog to the beach and last summer when i took her to the beach she was watching the other dogs rome around without a collar and she was whining and crying to get off her collar but she was in Galveston and if i lost her i would never see her again because i live in Houston how can i loose my fear of loosing her and have her walk by my side WITHOUT a leash

A Beginner's Guide to Dog Training



Recommended Answer:
Practice walking with them with a leash. Correct the dog (by quickly pulling the leash up or to the side, not back, and then relax the tension on the leash) if the dog starts to go ahead of you (the dog should remain at your side or behind you). Do this long enough and once the dog knows you're the pack leader, they should follow you with no problems. Once I was on a walk and my dog got out of her leash. The normal reaction would be to chase after her but this only causes the dog to keep running, so instead I firmly but calmly told her to come and sure enough she ran right to me and followed me without a leash.

I also recommend watching the Dog Whisperer show on the National Geographic channel as it will help you to establish being a pack leader with your dog.

Want to Learn How to Train a Dog? Simple But Important Dog Training Techniques


  • Hi,

    You can teach your dog the basic obedience commands which helps you to reinforce our role as your dog's leader. Like a Stay command, here are the training tips for that command, check out this site:

    http://dogtime.com/basic-commands-obedie…

    Good luck.

  • train him to stay and walk with you in the house and then the yard, when the dog learns it good enough he will stay with you every where. try him out on some back roads and some places nearby if you are unsure. once he is trained properly to stay then it won't matter where you are he will stay

  • Try teaching the "touch" command

    hold a treat in your hand, ask dog to touch...dog "touches" reward, and repeat
    step back a few feet, then ask "touch" again I can yell touch up to a mile away and teh all my dogs come running to touch the palm of my hand for a cookie

  • You should maybe train her in a local fenced in area with a couple of treats, biscuits, cookies (whatever you call them) in your pocket and keep her leash at your side. It can be a big difficulty so you might have to train her for a while.

  • Train Him! with a little practice you will get the hang of your dog walking side of you. keep calling its name and teach it to walk next to you and heel and stuff.

  • train him. and if hes not well trained then dont even try because he can run away if he sees another dog or rabbit or something. so make sure hes well trained and when u call his name he responds back to u.

  • yah be like
    i am your boss
    now listen to me or i am going to have to give you a spanking
    lol
    jk

    RowanC
    that was vey funny
    but not nice
    i like dog

  • train him!! ASAP!! and call her by her name while your on a walk!?!?!?! :)

    GOOD LUCK!?!?!? :)

  • do that training in a fenced area. you're smart not to want to risk your dog.

  • feed him lots of treatssome dogs have minds of their own. It depends on his personality, he must not like you

  • get a dog trainer to teach the tricks

  • train him!!! show him whos boss. call his name while on a walk so that he stays with you. good luck

  • watch the show dog whisperer it might be able to help you that is how we trained my dog

  • hug him.

  • Well If You Work On the shorter leash soon you will be able to go to the longer and longer when walking call its name see if her she looks at you if not stop walking call them Again and wait call them in a firm but not yelling voice then if they succeed 5 - 10 times looking and coming to you while still on the like 2 ft leash succeed them t the bigger leash keep your dog about 2 feet away from You if he she passes you call his or her name she if she looks and comes then keep going yes you will look weird on the middle of the road stopping every 5 seconds but it will work when she succeeds take her to the 13 ft leash still 2ft away from you if he /she gets to far ahead (past 2-3 ft) call his/her name and see if it looks and comes to you if not give the rope a tug and get them tto walktowards you DO NOT MOVE then when she/he soomes to you on the first try over and over again you will be able to take him or her off the leash and make sure you call him/her if she gets too far away if she igrores youstand there call her one more time and see what she does if she refuses to listenm to you then restart the training program this could take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months Hope I Help I Wish You And Your best furry friend the best of luck remember to give treats but only if she listens

  • I wouldn't even think of trying to train my dog to walk with me off leash because as you are well aware of, there is a nation wide leash law. I would prefer to keep my boy on a leash rather than possibly pay a fine for breaking the leash law. But there is no way in the world that you can train a dog to do all of that in a few minutes. It's a scam, he had to have worked with his dog for a very long time to get them to do that.

    Be smart don't try to train her to be off leash. Send that non-sense back and get your money back. If anything watch Animal Planet's "It's Me Or The Dog". She will be a lot more realistic than that commercial was.

  • You have to train him to work with a leash first. Teach him the basics of "heeling" with a limp leash, then gradually allow him more and more freedom. I have had a "shock collar" for my dog for the last 12 years, never have to use it, but if he should get distracted, I know I still have control of her. I had a dog 20 years ago "trained to walk without a leash. One day she bolted, and was killed. You can never train a dog enough so that it's instincts won't take over when they are in an exciting enviorment. The collar like what you have in the add is a great idea. Just don't use it unless it is absolutely necessary.
    Don't train him to respond to the collar, teach him with treats and love. Save the collar as last resort.

    http://www.dog-obedience-training-review…

  • There is no way you can have a dog by your side in a strange environment without the fear of losing them, unless your IRL name is Cesar Millan.

    If you are the pack leader 100% of the time your dog will stay with you but having your dog off leash in public is never a good idea because the other person may not be the pack leader. Short of being a 100% committed pack leader you'd need a shock collar.
Read More...

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Dog Health Questions: What are the different types of dog training tools?

I'm going to be getting a 10 month old husky mix this coming up weekend. I've owned several huskies in the past and absolutely love these dogs. Before I have effectively been able to use a pinch collar to teach them to not pull my arm off when walking. I'm interested in learning what other types of training tools are out there and how effective they are compared to the pinch collar.

The only type of tool I won't use is any sort of harness because I'm hoping to teach him to Skijor so he needs to retain his drive to pull, just not when we're walking on a leash.

Thanks!

Top 6 Dog Training Mistakes - Are You Making These Mistakes When Dog Training?



Recommended Answer:
Even if you have experience with dogs, it's always best to seek a professionals help when using a new tool. Any new tool (or old tool) can cause damage to a dog if not used correctly.

I've tried several available tools and only found one to really be effective when dealing with pulling/lunging (of course, it was used at the discretion of my trainer and along with proper training techniques.)

Here's a list of the tools i've used and what i found out about them with MY dog:

1) Head Halter: Not effective in the sense that it made my dog MORE frustrated when working around other dogs. Instead of dealing or correcting the excited behavior, it turned her away from the dog and that made her throw a tantrum. Every single time we used it, she threw a big one and ended up worse off. In terms of pulling it helped, but when she wanted to go somewhere she stiffened her head/neck and went on pulling.

2) Harness: Traditional harnesses encourage pulling. The no pull ones that make it uncomfortable just made her walk on her hind legs when she wanted to go. The ones that snapped in the front made her walk sideways, and eventually she managed to pull OUT of them.

3) Pinch (slip) collar: She pulled too much (too constant) for me to safely or effectively correct the behavior.

4) Prong collar: This one worked. She stopped the behavior VERY quickly after a correction and i was able to return her focus to me. I have since STOPPED using it because she got the point very quickly.

Note: I used tools because her behavior would get bad enough that a treat and simply Positive reward training would not get her attention OR the behavior i wanted. I was advised by a trainer.

Dogs respond to different tools in different ways. Some could respond well to the Head Halter even though my dog did not. Others could be too timid or fearful for a Prong collar. It's best to consult with a professional to figure out which tools are needed, if they even are. It's best if NO tools are needed at all because removal of the tool could mean recurrence of the behavior.

Dog Training Collars - How to Choose One


    Read More...

    Thursday, May 17, 2012

    Dog Health Questions: Dog training problems! Help!?

    I just adopted a 1 year old beagle named Rusty. He is adorable but is not properly trained. Any tips or advice? Thanks!

    Secrets of Dog Training Professionals - Why Use Food?



    Recommended Answer:
    Beagle puppies are especially appealing, tails wagging, tongues swiping, bodies all aquiver with joy, but this breed is not for just any family. Before you choose a Beagle as a pet, you should ask yourself if this dog will fit into your environment.
    STEP ONE: BEAGLES FARE BEST IN A LARGE FAMILYBeagles require more training than other breeds and have a strong tendency to stray when the opportunity presents itself. They respond best to the stimulation of a large active family. If you choose to train a Beagle, consider the fact that you must start the training early and having more than one Beagle will make things much easier. They can keep each other company if no one else is at home and will be delightful companions to all members of the family.
    STEP TWO: BEAGLES ARE HUNTING DOGS

    Beagles are natural hunters and are easily distracted from commands by the scent of a rabbit or squirrel or nothing more than the neighborhood cat. The scent alone will send them chasing even though the animal might have been in the area several hours earlier. Therefore, in the house or in a fenced yard, training isn't that difficult, but when out for a walk, a leash is recommended. You might think you have a perfectly behaved dog until natural instinct takes over. To Beagles, going on the hunt is what they think you want.

    STEP THREE: THE PHYSICAL ASPECTS OF BEAGLES

    Beagles are short-haired dogs but they have double coats, fine beneath and coarser on top, that do shed in the spring. They are muscular and medium-sized with a keen sense of smell. They like to get dirty and will probably need weekly brushing and a bath once in a while. Because they have droopy ears, they are subject to ear infections. Most Beagles are tri-colored, black, brown, and white. Their origins are English, and they were used for hunting rabbits. The Beagle we see today was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1884 and is one of the countries most popular breeds.

    STEP FOUR: BEAGLES NEED CAREFUL MONITORING:

    You've just brought home a delightful Beagle puppy, and he's already charming everyone. But you can't put a diaper on him, and an 8-week-old Beagle needs to be housetrained as soon as possible. The puppy should be at least 8 weeks old; otherwise he hasn't learned the basic behavior from his mother that he needs. Because he is still an infant, he will need to go out every couple of hours. There should also be a spot in the house with newspapers where he can be confined. If you can't keep an eye on him because he is roaming the house, he's apt to use the floor and the bad habit is started. And Beagles will roam if allowed to do so. Unless you're actually with the dog, he should be where the papers are. Pet supply stores have shredded recycled newspaper that you can use in a litter box. Female Beagles are easier to train in a litter box because they don't have to lift their leg. The litter box should be similar to a carrying case and large enough to accommodate your Beagle puppy as she grows. The male puppy needs to be taken outside on a regular basis to a specific potty area, but set aside a spot in the house with newspapers just in case. A doggie door that leads to a confined space outdoors is ideal.

    STEP FIVE: MAKE YOUR BEAGLE FEEL SECURE

    The first step in training your puppy is to make him feel secure. That means establishing a routine. Understanding the word “no” is the first step. If you tell him no, you must be ready to follow through. You must be higher in the pack order than he is. He expects this and wants it. Pets are dependent on their owners and are comfortable with following your orders. If he knows exactly where his food dish and water dish will be every day and if he knows what time he will be fed, what time he will go for a walk, what time he is expected to retire and to start the day, and where his bed is located, he will feel much more secure and will be more apt to respond to your commands.

    Because Beagles are naturally sociable animals, getting along with people is not a problem, but they are easily distracted by other animals or people, and patience is a virtue in the training of a Beagle. Adolescence for your puppy begins between 6 and 9 months and ends between 1 and 3 years old. This can be an awkward time of change and upheaval when the behavior of your Beagle is unstable, but as long as you understand this phase and know that it‘s temporary, you can handle your dog as you would handle any teenager. Beagles are one of the most appealing pets anyone could have, but only if they have the training they need.

    Your welcome

    Hope this helps

    :)

    Using a Dog Training Harness to Train Your Dog


    • well first, you need to teach it properly if you don't well....... he will never listen to you unfortunately he will bite because he wasnt trained! don't let that happen!

    • Dogs are harder to train the older they are. I would suggest saying the command in a firm voice with a sign and showing the dog how to do it. Once they do it give them a treat. For example say "sit" then make a sign with ur hand and lightly press its butt down.

    • This is what I personally consider to be crucial, and always strive for when training my own dogs:
      To build a strong owner-dog relationship, based on trust and mutual respect.
      To have confidence in, and control of my dogs in any situation.
      Most importantly to have happy, outgoing dogs that are properly socialized.
      To work with my dogs natural drives and instincts.
      Absolutely no cruelty or harsh "old school" training techniques. I certainly don't believe you have to "break a dogs spirit" in the training processIt's important with all dog training but especially with young puppies to use lots of encouragement, praise and rewards (positive reinforcement) in your training. Start your puppy training sessions as soon as your little puppy arrives at your home - it's never too early. Set your puppy up to succeed, concentrate on developing desirable habits in your puppy and preventing undesirable behavior. It's much a better alternative to put your puppy on the right path from the start, rather than trying to correct established problem behaviors later on.
      Keep your training sessions short, consistent and always have fun. The key to shaping your puppy's behavior is to start out with very easy commands, continue to build on these successes and apply heaps of repetition. Base your training sessions around trust and mutual respect rather than old school methods based on punishment, avoidance and harsh corrections. In this environment you will find that your puppy loves his training sessions and his confidence will grow with each and every session.Always remember that you are dealing with a very immature young animal. Be realistic, flexible, patient and always fair during puppy training sessions. Your puppy doesn't just automatically know this stuff! It's all new to him and he is bound to have the odd slip up and mistake along the way. Don't worry about these mistakes, just move on and do your best to prevent them in the future. Enjoy this fantastic time in your dog's life. His puppyhood is the time where you will lay the foundation for your puppy's life. It's also where you will develop, build and strengthen the special bond you will share with your dog for life.

    • Read dog training books by experienced people in the field. Here are some resources: Anything by Patricia McConnell (she has a PhD in animal behavior and her main focus is dogs), "Good Owners, Great Dogs" by Brian Kilcommons & Sarah Wilson (a great book for any new dog owner!), any book from clickertraining.com (books by Karen Pryor, Emma Parsons, Mogan Spector, etc.). Hope this helps. The best thing for youo dog is to do research, don't just take anyone's advice, only take the best advice available!

    • Em7 offers some excellent books. Two more would be "When Pigs Fly: Training for Impossible Dogs" and the excellent harness-training workbook "Unbroken Spirits: Harnessing Your Dog's Potential" (available only at www.petperfect.com).

      First, don't expect poor Rusty to behave like a retriever or shepherd. Beagles are hounds and hounds, like terriers and many toy breeds, are not bred to await with baited breath your every wish. They think for themselves, as they were bred to do. Which means they get distracted easily and many people think of them as "impossible" or worse, stupid. They are NOT. But you need to keep training short, positive, and fun. Pigs Fly can help you understand how to use your dogs gifts and challenges to help him think what you want him to do was his idea (and therefore, FUN!)

      Diane Arrington's harness-training workbook, I have to admit, I wasn't a fan of harnesses...I had one large and three powerful bully breeds and thought it would be a fiasco, ending with me being dragged around the block. But no! Right away they became even better behaved and faster to respond than ever before. They are *eager* to learn new commands now. The greyhound, another "impossible" breed, for the first time actually learned a solid sit-stay and down-stay...and responds to "wait" at the door instead of racing through. All without anything more than strong, fair leadership, positive reinforcement, and her time-tested harness method. No choking, yanking, yelling, spraying, shocking, or other harsh corrections. Just a harness, a leash, the dog and you.

    • Hello, what a cute picture you've got.

      One of the cutest dogs out there is the Beagle. Beagles are a small dog that have a lot of energy, are loving and great to have in a family. To have the best Beagle possible, you will need to look into Beagle training. This training will help make your Beagle listen, and it will give you fewer headaches.

      Be Fair With Corrections

      When you are involved in Beagle puppy training, you should be fair with the corrections. You want your Beagle to know what you want before you do it...and before you have to correct them. You should never be suddenly angry with your Beagle because they will not understand that.

      Make the Beagle part of your human pack by using these types of corrections:

      1. Do not praise.

      2. Use a stern voice.

      3. A slight tug on the leash if needed.

      Have Fun

      It is important that when you do Beagle training that you have fun. Training Beagle puppies can be difficult, but if you have fun with hit, the puppies will be more apt to listen to you. Beagle dog training should involve praise that is well-timed and appropriate to what the dog has done. With a good relationship with your Beagle, a stern "no" is all that is needed to set them straight.

      Work Together

      One of the best Beagle training tips is to work together with your Beagle. When the two of you work together and are on the same team, things can go a lot quicker. Let your Beagle learn to play by having fun with you. Show them love and affection and make sure you show them that you care for them.

      If the Beagle thinks that they are in a well-loved pack with an alpha who cares, they will be more apt to listen to you and that helps your Beagle training.

      Your Welcome
    Read More...

    Friday, April 6, 2012

    Dog Health Questions: Dog training emergency!?

    i have a three year old pomeranian chihuahua mix. we rescued her from an abusive home, and she was shuffled around from place to place before being brought to our calm home.
    she knows basic things like stay and come here and sit, but following them... that's another story. once and a while she will, other times she will disregard it. not only that she pee's in the house like none other! i am shampooing the carpet atleast 1-2 times a week now. i know the scent will never fully leave but i can't stand it, so it will atleast smell good for a few days.
    she pee's little puddles a lot, which is common for little dogs, i know. and there were probably dogs here before that she can still smell and she is marking her territory.
    so anyways, she is obviously a very timid dog, and whenever my boyfriend or i try to enforce rules, not by shouting or being abrasive, just stern "lay down" or "stay" she picks it up a little especially when there are treats used as a reward for doing what we say.
    but she is pretty disobedient. now i understand that i should be taking her for walks atleast once a day, and i would have no problem doing so, but she is shy of the leash and i have to pick her up atleast 20 times to move her because she just SITS and sticks to the ground like a statue.
    not only that, i would have no problem tying her up outside for atleast 5 minutes every hour for her to go potty, but she just pee's so much that i cant even attempt to do it because every time i get up to let her out there is another 3 spots of tiny pee on the carpet.
    i am having a general obedience problem and a really hard time teaching her anything without her either ignoring it or getting scared and just not moving all together. but this is getting to be out of control i love her and would never get rid of her, i just need help and all the people at the pet stores can offer is their 300 dollar a month obedience classes that i cant afford. i can afford to teach her on my own and i am willing to do anything!
    i just need some serious advice because i cant keep spraying oxyclean on the carpet and shampooing it every week to have it smell musky and like pee in a few more days.
    also she is really obese. she was malnutritioned when we got her and i just let her eat to get healthy and now she is a fat spoiled dog and she gets upset when i take her food and just stares at me like why did you do that
    ALSO
    she DOES NOT MAKE A PEEP. she will bark a little bit when the doorbell rings or whine a tiny bit when we are eating and she wants scraps but other than that, she doesnt growl, bark, whine, talk, nothing. i would like to have a vocal dog, are there any ways to get her to do those things?
    and also
    she wont play with ANY TOY THAT I BUY HER i have tried alllllll kinds and even show her how to play when them but she just runs away or turns her head.
    PLEASE HELP. i appreciate any advice you can give and as thorough and touching on as many topics as possible.

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



    Recommended Answer:
    You have so many questions it's hard to know where to start. As the first answer said - get a vet check in case it's a UTI problem. But I think you need to take her to some obedience classes, which will teach you as well as her some very basic obedience. You say she knows basic commands but doesn't always obey them - she doesn't know them! Dogs will only obey a command if there is no alternative option, if you let her get away without sitting even once after the command "sit", then she thinks that sit means "sit" or "do nothing". If she is fat that could explain excess weeing, as well as reluctance to walk - try a diet and enforce walking - not carrying, take her to the park and let her run with other dogs. Your best bet is a professional trainer and a good routine.

    Good Luck.

    Dog Training - How NOT To Train Your Dog


    • woah, stop right there. you touched your dog, WHERE?

    • First off - Get her on a strict routine. Get her body clock knowing when food time is, when sleep time is, when pee time is. Treat her like a 7 week old puppy. She doesn't have the basics, so take it back to the beginning. You should also buy her a crate. A crate will help her feel less stressed and will allow your carpets some peace. Invest in doggy diapers and a puppy book. She won't walk or play becuse she A) is freaked B) is stubborn and C) doesn't see the point. I would use a second leash looped around her middle to encourage forward movement. Also check and see if any of your neighbors have a dog rougly her size that is well socialized. Dogs can often learn from other dogs. I would also post indididual questions on specific breed forums. (You can google for exact addresses.) Good Luck and she should be fine, but like people it will take a little while.

    • Sounds like that dog has too much free roam of your house. Keep it contained in an area that has tile (bathroom or kitchen) until it has mastered the pee and poop routine. Don't let her out of the contained area until she goes pee and poop. Then for a limited time only.
      As for the obese remark, feed her as recommended on the package and divide it in half. feed her twice a day and pick up the food (if any is left) when she walks away. Save it for the next meal. So what if she stares.
      A quiet dog is what most people want. you are blessed.

    • You really sound like you need to take your dog to obedience training. It sounds like you and your b/f have a lot to learn too. Consistency is the key to training. If your dog is obese, don't use treats as rewards. Praise is the best reward a dog can get. What would happen if you train it using treats, then one day she runs off and you call her but she won't come back because you don't have any treat? You will always have praise. Try finding a obedience class that is given at a park. I am not sure where you are, but where I live, there are a lot of classes that people can sign up with and it's not that expensive. Less than $50. Try going to a pet store near you and asking if they can recommend any, explain that you can't afford paying $300 for for obedience class. Also, take her to a vet to check on her urinating problem. Sounds like she is urinating too many times. You can also ask about putting her on a diet.
      I am not sure why she won't bark but that may come when she feels more secure. As for toys, some dogs just don't like to play with toys. Could be that she is just too obese and too lazy to want to chase toys or play.
      You might try reading some books on dog training if you can't find any classes. Look for Caesar's Way, I heard it is a good book although I've never read it.

    • I can help with a couple things. Walking on a leash-don't feed her in the morning instead, put her breakfast in your pocket. Put her leash on her take her outside. Hold the leash in your right hand with it in front of your body but don't pull on it, don't even let her know it's there. Take a kibble in your left hand and put it in front of her nose without facing her. Tell her ,alright lets go, lots of fun this is the best game ever. Get her to follow the kibble a couple steps and then give it to her, let her eat it and then repeat. It will take a lot of patience. Slowly get her to take more steps. The idea is to make her realize that you have her breakfast and she must follow you to get it. Later, when she will follow you aways, you can take a break to feed her several kibbles during your walks and eventually take her for a walk then feed her when you get home. Remember not to face her directly right now as it will cause her to 'freeze up' and they can't learn in that state.
      The piddle spots, buy a package of dog diapers and use them until she's more comfortable. She's probably peeing in submission which is not uncommon in fearful dogs. Don't give into the temptation of cuddling her for acting afraid. Dogs don't sit around dwelling on their past, they live in the now, so teach her you love happy playful dogs the best. Over praise everything that is a step towards that she is very food motivated so use it. There's nothing that says she has to eat her food out of a bowl in the kitchen, if it comes out of your pocket during the course of the day your bonding and training will go so much faster.
      Try to find some natures miracle at Pet-co or equivalent. It puts a smell eating bacteria into your carpet that destroys the smell and stains from all organic sources. Works great.

    • If you are taking her out to potty on a REGULAR basis and she is still peeing inside of your house...you need to have her checked for a urinary tracy infection. Thats what the problem sounds like to me if she is doing it in several different spots, all of the time! Good luck!

    • petsmart classes are for 8 weeks and cost $109 in my town. the trainers will talk to you for free.

      get vet check to make sure the dog is healthy then be consistent with training.

      take outside after waking, feeding and playing. reward.

      walk on leash, reward. cut back on food to lose weight.
    Read More...

    Friday, January 27, 2012

    Dog Health Questions: Sled dog training questions anyone?

    Okay, right now I can't start a team...my parents would never allow it. But after collage I would really like to, and right now I am buzzing with questions that will hopefully be answered.

    1. When you are teaching a dog 'gee' and 'haw', do you only teach the lead dogs or do you teach each one individually?

    2. What do you feed your team, and when would be best? How much?

    3. How do you teach your dogs 'on by' if you only have your own team to work with and no others to pass you?

    4.How many miles should you go for each week in the first three years? (I heard that you shouldn't 'pack' them on until they are older than three, it can damage their shoulders and discourage them)

    5. How often should you stay on the sled and how often do you get off of the runners?

    6. Should you start with H back of X back harnesses?

    7. If you are starting from scratch should you start with more than one or two dogs? (I was thinking about getting one first, one with the right 'stuff' to be a leader, training them for a season and getting the next one...and a season later getting two more if it was something that I could do, afford, and enjoy)

    I know that I probably am not experienced to really get this down, but what is the harm in trying? I plan on being a companion animal vet so I should be able to afford the care of my dogs and care for them my self. Thanks for the answers! smile :D

    What You Should Know About Dog Training Techniques



    Recommended Answer:
    Great questions, and the answers would take more then I can type :) And to be fair many of the answers would depend on your situation, everything else your doing as poart of your training program, and what your goals are.
    but luckily there are some great resources you can start learning from now.

    Sled Doc Central is a very popular resource. It has links (on the left side menu) to clubs, mentors, and equipment suppliers, all by region. You can look there for people or events in your area, and volunteer for them. That will give your real hands on experience without having your own team. Races need help with timing and handling teams. Mushers sometimes have 'handlers' people who work for them and help them with kennel chores and training.
    Working with an establish mushers is absolutely the best way to get the answers you want. Each kennel is different, so remember there is no one right way. And learning more about the sport you will begin to see how different ways of doing things make more sense in different situation. What you feed, harness and sled type, run lengths and frequency, they all depend on what your doing. Ask 20 mushers, get 20 answers. Get involved, help out, watch and learn.
    Not to mention owning a team is insanely expensive, so working with established mushers allows you a 'test drive' so to speak

    If your area is not a big mushing area there are still some good books to read now.

    Dog Driver, but the Collins Twins is a great overall resource, covering the important topics of running dogs and kennel management. I would have to call it a must read for anyone getting started.
    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1577790…
    I have not read the updated version, but can't imagine they would have gone to the trouble if they didn't think they had information worth adding.

    Iditarod Champion Mitch Seavey recently wrote "Lead, Follow, or Get Out of the Way" Now you will laugh a lot reading it, but do not be fooled. He is really giving you some of the best serious advice if your wanting to be a successful musher:
    http://www.ididaride.com/shop/books.htm

    There is some great advice and explanation by two talented mushers in Skijor with Your Dog,
    http://www.amazon.com/Skijor-Your-Dog-Ma…

    And Backstage Iditarod offers some insight into that long distance event:
    http://www.amazon.com/Backstage-Iditarod…

    You might also enjoy Mushing Magazine:
    http://www.mushing.com/

    Happy trails

    Dog Behaviour Training - Take Dog Training Classes


      Read More...

      Wednesday, January 11, 2012

      Dog Health Questions: With 0 dog training experience, how hard would it be to train a dog these things?

      All this good stuff: http://www.iaadp.org/tasks.html

      The Importance of Dog Training



      Recommended Answer:
      Not very hard. Everyone starts out with zero training experience when getting a dog, and they learn on the way.

      If you have the books and know how to train it properly, then you can do it. Preferably if you get a trainer in this section (Assis. Dogs) to help.

      Dog Training Aids - 8 Reasons You Should Cage Train Your Dog


      • very hard

      • You shouldn't even bother.
        If you want the dog trained correctly you need to be trained how to do it yourself first.
        Why don't you just get a professional to do it, or go on a training course?

      • You can train these things with the help of a really good mentor or trainer. Using books and videos will help also. After all you got to start somewhere. Keep in mind that you will make many mistakes along the way.
      Read More...

      Saturday, December 31, 2011

      Dog Health Questions: Should dog training be mandatory?

      I really think it should. We constantly hear about "bad daogs" and "bad breeds" but any dog whether it's a Pit Bull or a Chihuahua has the potential to be nasty if not trained. Of course the damage a Pit can do is much worse than a Chi, but I firmly believe there are very few bad dogs. Those that are bad it's usually a medical or genetic condition often caused by bad breeding, but there are many bad owners who just can;t be bothered to train their pets.

      Your thoughts please.

      Dog Training - Basics



      Recommended Answer:
      I fully agree with you!

      I have a pitbull mix who is the best dog with children and older people, and other then a really good home he was also trained from the day I got him at 8 weeks old. It has nothing to do with his breed at all, he was well raised and well trained.

      I see so many people who spend 60 or 120 dollars to take one or two classes and have nearly perfect dogs just because they know the basics where as there's so many more who never take any classes and just give up their dogs only to get a new puppy a few months later.

      People need to train their dogs if only a basic puppy class and basic training class after.

      If people would actually understand the importance of getting your dog a CGC title so many dogs would be better off.

      To many people have dogs who jump, or bite, or don't get along with kids or other dogs. I've yet to have that problem with any of my dogs, and I have some odd breeds who most people think are bad breeds. Yet I would trust my pit mix, or my wolf alone with a two year old child on the floor of a room before I would trust a random family's bouncy untrained lab.

      Training is more then just shouting at your dog to sit or yelling it's name too, oddly a lot of people actually think that if their dog sometimes comes when they call it, it sort of walks on a leash until it sees something to run after, and sits when they pull on the dog's collar that somehow they actually think it's trained.

      It only takes about a three months for any dog, young or old, to be really trained when you have a good trainer, and costs less then giving the dog up at most shelters...

      So yes you are fully right, along with those reasons and so many others that I could go on with, all dogs should have to be trained. If it's a little pocket dog, or a 200 pound Newfoundland. All dogs need to be trained, really trained by someone who knows what their doing.

      And all owners need to be trained as well, not just the dog.

      It's really sad that more people can't understand this.

      Dog Training Advice For Training Your Best Friend


      • not at all. does a baby goes to a training class to learn certain things? the same way dogs also have the same prefernce. so when humans do actions dogs are intelligent than us. they observe what a person does and grasps it gradually. so no need to teach them mandatorily.

      • I think the people need to be trained. The dogs are the least of the problem.

      • I agree! When we had our greyhound, Dodge, we had to train him to just be in a house, since he was a rescue. We had the time and inclination to train him on our own. My husband (fiancee at the time) had been a vet tech, so he knew a lot about dogs; he also had a greyhound previously, when we first met. So, he knew what it took. Yet, not everyone has the experience and know how to do this on their own, so it would be a great idea to take dogs to a trainer. It is good for owners to see how to handle a dog as well. It is pet-raising training for people, too! Good idea!! : )

      • No. We already have enough regulations placed upon us as it is. In a world where you have to have an FBI background check, medical screening, drug testing and credit check just to work at a minimum wage job, all we need is one more intrusion in our lives. This would mean that only the more well-to-do could have a pet (unless of course the city or state wanted to pay for this "training'). I have known many poorer and elderly people who are devoted and loving to their pets. Let's not take that joy away from them. And what is supposed to happen if the dog is lazy, stubborn, or less-than-bright and flunks its little training course? Should it be snatched away from the owner and euthanized? Realistically, you are asking for more legislation in obtaining a Chihuahua than a firearm. Sure, it never hurts to give a dog a few obediance classes, but find something more worthy to be passionate about.

      • ooooh, I like the idea. I think it would seriously cut down on the number of dogs in shelters and rescues if everyone was required to take some basic obedience classes. They help so much with socialization and temperment.

      • It would be a great idea if there could be some sort of mandatory education class devised for people wanting to bring a dog into their lives. Everything from teaching basic commands to information on how much it costs to maintain a dog's health over its lifetime would be worthwhile topics, since so many people obviously have no clue about these things. People should be informed of what they're getting into if they don't already know - it would help solve a lot of problems of people returning dogs because they "can't" be trained, mess the house, develop health problems, etc. etc.

      • That's a wonderful idea but I don't know how we'd enforce it. It is the lazy owner who thinks their dog will just automatically be good or obedient. Just doesn't happen.
        Just by some of the question posted here I wonder where some have learned their training techniques!!! YIKES!

        Heck I used to give each new puppy owner names of training schools in their area with each pup I sold. I don't know if they ever used them but most did. Even reading a good training book will help tons. I think we can only try and keep our fingers crossed at this point.

      • I'm not in favour of a one-size-fits-all kind of legislation. While I plan to use a puppy class for our dogs (more for socialisation than actual training), I don't think it's the answer for every dog or dog owner.

        Here are some problems:

        * What if the owner lives in an isolated area with limited access to training classes?

        * What if the only classes available use techniques that are not compatible with that particular dog or owner?

        * What if the owner is already a better, more experienced trainer than the official trainers that are available?

        However, I think mandatory training classes might be a good idea for dog owners who are guilty of infractions (e.g. dogs not licensed; dogs running loose in public areas; aggression/barking behaviours that affect neighbours or general public).

      • training is not always the answer but letting him/her know how to deal and interact with people eg kids and the aged , dealing with other dogs, noises loud and soft, walking with or without a lead etc... a good owner will produce a good dog - friendly etc and positivity is the key...

      • i dont think it really need to be mandatory but i think the minor things should like sit stay lay down. that way when there is company they can be good

      • Absolutely!

        Till it is mandatory, the people who most need to be trained to train their dog, will not do it. Smart people already know that it is important to train your dog.

        If it wasn't mandatory for all children to attend school, how many do you think would never get an education? I reckon quite a lot. Look at countries were they do not have mandatory schooling.

        It would be nice to think that all parents / dog owners are responsible people, but we already know they are not.

        I am all in favour of mandatory dog training. There is already such a thing as a "Good Canine Citizen" in the US, isn't there? We have a "Ideal dog of Australia" Certificate. Let's make it mandatory!

        +++

      • I agree!!! I own a 9 month old lab/staffy mix and we went to obedience school when she was 6 months old. We are now in more training with her. ANY dog can attack if not properly raised.

      • I personally think some training is mandatory for dogs. I have a yorkie, and although yorkies are headstrong, I made sure she got training. She understands commands such as sit, stay, come, but she'll only do them if she feels like it, lol. But I'm glad I did it because when she does listen it works really well. I think training gives dogs some manners.

      • Think that through;
        How much government intrusion into your life do you want??
        I don't know about anyone else but I like being able to pee on my own schedule.
        How would you possibly raise the funds necessary to manage such a program on a nation wide bases. We cant even raise the funds necessary to provide health insurance for all our children.
        Those that break the law, would have no problem with breaking one more.

      • Yes - it should be.

        Humans are REQUIRED (yes they are legally required) to send their children to school. And we have put the burden on schools to not only teach our children history and science, but also to teach them responsibility (which is usually undermined by the irrresponsible parents), accountability, study habits, how to practice, and most importantly, how to learn for themselves.

        So why not require us to do the same for our dogs. Dogs can do damage to humans and other dogs and 99% of the time its because the OWNER did not have a well trained dog. 99% of the time, the dog doesn't just snap and go on a killing rampage - they don't go "postal". There is a reason the dog hurts someone or something living. I think it would #1 - cut down on animal cruelty - why - because if a trainer witnessed a human beating or abusing the animal then the animal could be removed from that situation #2 - it would cut down on pet bites owners - because now the owners have the tools to train and deal with the dog #3 - it would cut down on dog bite dog situations because now the dog would have training and the owner would know exactly how to deal with aggression before it escalated to "red level" aggression.

        Will it happen - no. Why - because of some of the same crazy people that have already answered your question "forcing me to go to training violates my rights". Those are the same people that I deal with as parents of my students that give excuse after excuse after excuse for their child's poor behaviour and lack of responsibility in my classroom. People need to wake up and stop complaining about your rights or lack thereof - you want to see lack of rights go live in China or Afghanistan or Saudia Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan - don't talk to me about lack of rights in this country!!

        So - I approve of your eutopian idea - I commend you for it and I wish that the rest of the people would realize that sometimes good does come from losing your right to choose to do something.

      • yes it should be mandatory, when you train them it shows the dog that you are in charge of them.

      • I believe at least a 6 week course should be mandatory when someone buys a dog / puppy.. Training classes train the person how to train their dog.. It doesn't do much for the dog lots of times, but it gives the person some tools to use in the future.. A resource to look back on when they come across issues with their dog in the future..

        The CKC works with pet health insurance and when you register your puppies, each puppy gets 6 weeks free pet health insurance.. I believe if they maybe did the same thing with a training group.. Then more people would at least take that free 6 week course and get some tips .. Even if they did nothing but learn how to housetrain their dog.. It would be worth it..

        Most dogs get returned, or sent to the shelter because of basic things like house training.. Nipping the kids.. If people were learning these little things early on, and the importance of training early on, maybe more dogs would stay in their homes and not end up in the shelter or rescues..

      • This would just be another law where that penalizes the responsible pet owner and does nothing to solve the problem. Do you really think that if the owner doesn't care enough to train the dog that they will care enough to spend a bunch of money to have someone else train them?
      Read More...

      Tuesday, August 23, 2011

      Dog Health Questions: Do dogs like or dislike the sound of the dog training clicker?

      i bought a dog training clicker for my grandma, thinking that is might resolve the problem of her two yorkies fighting.... do you think it will work?

      Dog Training Help



      Recommended Answer:
      It depends on how you train the dog. Some people use the sound as a reward when the dog is behaving or does a trick right. Others, like me, use it as a naughty sound. When the dog does something bad, scold him/her and click the clicker loudly 3 or 4 times. Works both ways very well.

      Dog Training Programs - How Do You Decide?


      • some do some dontjust try it on them and see what happensif they get taught what it means they will obey it

        hope they stop fighting soon!

      • People don't buy clickers because the dog likes or dislikes the sound..

        Clickers are used because the sound is distinctive and easily distinguishable. People associate it with a command, and a nice treat.

        It goes something like this:

        You tell the dog to SIT.. your dog sits.. you CLICK.. and then give him a treat.

        The dog comes to associate the CLICK with doing something right, and a tasty treat.

        A clicker will not automatically fix any dog's problems without the proper training. It is only a training TOOL.

      • I've never heard of a training clicker used for that. Usually it's used as a training aid. You spend some time clicking it and then giving a treat so that the dog associates it with a reward and you can use the clicker to train them to do things that might be hard to give a treat for immediately.

        How do you intend to use the clicker? I'm curious.

      • Dog clickers are all about association. When you reward a dog for doing something good (say, with a treat), you also immediately use the clicker. This causes the dog to associate the good feelings of receiving a treat, with the sounds of a clicker, thus the dog knows it has done something good when it hears the noise. The dogs will not know what your grandmother is doing if she just randomly starts clicking at them while they're fighting. A clicker is a learned reward as a means of training, not a deterrent to fighting.

      • I think you've got it backwards! Clickers are used by professional trainers in conjunction with treats to reinforce good behavior. I'm not saying the loud noise won't work, but I doubt it's a long term solution. If it doesn't, try a spray bottle of water as soon as they start fighting (they hate it). If one or both of grandma's dogs are unaltered, it might stop dominance related fighting to have them fixed.

      • my dog does, because he's learned that click=treat.

        not all do, and it doesn't work for all owners. just try it out.

      • It isn't there to be a treat it's there to get attention THEN a treat.

        You could try to get them off each other, but don't treat them as this'll make them think fighting is right.

      • I don't know about the dogs, but I think it is the most annoying sound around. I don't use them or allow them in my training classes. If my students want to use them outside of class, more power to them. I would hate to be in a class of 10 to 12 students, all with clickers.
      Read More...