Showing posts with label dog training in dallas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog training in dallas. Show all posts

Friday, October 5, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Dog Training?

Dachsund Mom: Would you like to train my 1 year old dog who just bit the very same trainer who was trying to stop him from biting? You would be my hero.

Dog Training - Teach Your Dog the Sit Command at Once



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well you could just keep on smacking his nose and in a deep voice yell no in his face! it worked with my dog but all she does now is nip when she plays we are still working on that part though. or you could put some like hot pepper sauce on your hands and you companys hand before they see the dog and when the dog comes up and tries to bite them he would get the sauce in his mouth and if he doesnt like it then he may just stop biting!

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


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Monday, September 10, 2012

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

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

Do You Make These 4 Common Mistakes in Dog Training?



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

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

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

Dog Training - You and Your Dog


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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Yup I would enough of that.

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

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

  • ok, the dog chews up your things. dogs do that, they chew. especially puppies. what means more to you an object that is incapable of loving you back, that you will throw away in the next 5 years more then likely anyway, or a dog who will love you unconditionally for the rest of it's life? someone who, no matter what happens in your life or it's life, will be there with kisses for you and a wagging tail, someone that will more then likely lie down his life to save yours or your child's? a friend for your child who will never hurt their feelings and will do all they can to cheer your child or you or your husband up during times of sadness or illness, doesn't that mean more to you then having to clean up after the dog while he is training?

    ok, here are tips for housetraining, walk the dog often and long walks. walking stimulates the dog to have to go to the bathroom. bring treats and reward dog EVERY time he goes to the bathroom outside. DO NOT STICK DOG'S NOSE IN IT IF HE MESSES UP INSIDE. You will end up with a dog afraid to go to the bathroom because they think that is what they are in trouble for. This will lead them to not wanting to go in front of you ever, including on walks. Forget putting the dog out in the yard to go while training, dog won't learn that way. You must WALK the dog. Keep the dog in the same room with you, and if you see dog sniffing, take for walk immediately.

    Chewing advice, buy things that the dog would prefer to chew (bones, rawhide, kongs with treats inside, toys that squeak, balls, rope, etc.) When the dog chews his stuff, reward him for it, when he goes for something of yours, tell him no in a firm voice and take the item away. I would also teach the dog the command drop it.

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

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

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

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

  • You should doggy proof your house. Your dog is spoilt. The only way is to show him who is the boss and who is the dog.

    Read my blogspot http://woofwoofdiary.blogspot.com for tricks and tips on raising up a doggy.

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

  • Well, sounds like a delema for you. The thing is I don't think you spent enough time with the trainer. How long was the training, and most importantly did you do what the trainer told you to do. You have to follow up on what the dog trainer told you to do. It does not sound like you did that.

    I would suggest this, you don't want to disapoint the hubby, so try this. Tell him he must handle the dog. Try another trainer, and send hubby with the dog, for dog training.
    Make him responcible for the dog, if in 2mo you notice no improvement with the dog, and you tell hubby about the two months, then the dog must go.

    Good Luck

  • The difficulty is that no-one will take on a problem dog. Your dog is completely "fixable" but needs a lot of time and attention. I'm thinking if you have young kids then it's hard for you to find the time to do that.

    Basically he needs a lot more exercise to wear him out (morning and night), and he needs to be supervised in the house. Take him outside on a leash at regular intervals and walk him around until he pees, then bring him back in. If he pees inside then say NO and straight outside. When he is inside it would help to keep him on a leash and with you so you can supervise his behaviour and correct him when he does something wrong.

    He will outgrow this stage I'm sure. You can get him a belly band so he doesn't pee on everything and you might hope he grows out of it. I'm assuming he's an active breed like a terrier or some sort of working dog? If so you need to really work on keeping his mind active with walks and toys.

    If it's all too hard then you should rehome him, but what kind of person is going to take on a dog like this? If you do a bit of work with him you might have a better chance of finding someone to keep working with him.

    I know a lot of people aren't a fan of the dog whisperer (Caesar Millan) but check out his website, he has some good tips.

    Good luck - and tell your husband he has to start working with this dog!

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

  • Did you go to a class? Have you read any books by Patricia McConnell, Ian Dunbar, Pat Miller, Jean Donaldson, Trish King...... YOU need to learn how to work with this dog, not count on a trainer to fix him. You don't mention what kind of training you've done with the dog, so it's impossible to comment on alternatives. What does the dog like to do when he's not being 'bad', run, catch balls, chase sticks, etc. Does the dog's mind and body get stimulation from learning new behaviors and commands?

    If the dog is young and just untrained and you don't intend on working with this dog to teach it appropriate behaviors (spending money on a trainer is grand but living and with a dog requires 24 hour training since dogs are learning from us every minute), find a new home for it before it gets older and inexperience and immaturity are replaced by adult dog inappropriate behaviors, not just puppy wildness. If you think the dog is untrainable, put the dog down, don't pass him off to a rescue system that causes dogs' behaviors to usually get worse and the dogs are stressed until they get adopted out to another a home that can't manage them or they get euthanized. Too often a dog that needs special training doesn't get it and ends up chained up to tree and lives out it's life alone and miserable.

    Loving a dog isn't enough if you're not willing or able to put time into learning how dogs learn.

    www.fearfuldogs.com

  • I bet this is a small dog right?

    Buy Ed Frawleys Obedience training dvd from Leerburg.com.
    Theres really no point sending a dog to a trainer, they don't work usually.

    I have a similar problem with a Dobe. I know how much money you waste trying to rctify the problem.

    Don't let him have free run of the house! Come on! If he's like that the Kitchen should be the only room for him.

    Now housetraining? Thats simple and it should have been done the second you brought him home! Its gonna be a lot harder now.

    I think this is just a simple training problem, YOU have to train him, this does come more naturally to some than others, but work at it with the help of Ed Frawleys DVD. I wouldn't bother with any other trainer, I think this guy is really good.Good luck!

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

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

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

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

    *cant be sure of that...

  • I don't know how your dog trainers worked, or if they involved your family, but your dog really sounds like he doesn't respect any of you as Alpha Pack Leader.

    Your entire paragraph poses questions in my mind.
    1) do you give him positive attention? If so, do you give enough?
    2) do you give him enough exercise? If so, is it enough.
    3) you don't say what breed or size he is
    4) you don't say if you've joined a yahoo group on this breed of dog
    5) you don't say what the dog's age is
    6) since your husband loves him, I can't just say "rehome him" but that may be what you need to do. You don't say ANYTHING about what your HUSBAND has done:
    ... a) to be Alpha Pack Leader
    ... b) to train the dog
    ... c) to exercise the dog

    Dogs that are destructive are often either confused or bored.

    Dogs are Pack Animals and need to know their place in the pack.
    Not knowing causes confusion.

    Dogs need a JOB to do. Has your husband attended obedience and training classes WITH the dog to learn how to train the dog to Sit, Stay, Lie Down, Roll Over, Leave It, Back Off, and other such important commands?

    Has your husband tried to train the dog to do Frizbee competition? That's very rewarding for dogss.

    How you work with a dog depends to some extent on what breed(s) the dog is. Some breeds are easier to train as they are geared towards working with their human. Some breeds are more independent and harder to train.

    You only say you spent $500 on a trainer... you don't say what the trainer did, if you actively participated, if your husband actively participated, or what the trainer said about your dog's training, capabilities or problems with training. If you just handed the dog over and said "train him for me" that doesn't hack it. The dog needs to be trained by and loved by it's owners, and I don't think the dog is getting the interaction with you all, and ESPECIALLY with your husband that he needs.

    So, you need to read my notes, and write a list of what you don't do and what you do do... and review it... and decide what you didn't do that you need to do if you are to keep the dog... then you must discuss and decide (we cannot do that) IF you will try to do some of the things you have failed to do so far or if you are ready to give the dog over to rescue, ASPCA, or your local Humane Officer. The dog will not be rehomed (hopefully) until he's tested and his problems fixed.

    Karen had a good point, but it took time to decipher since she kept referring to a "pin". If your dog is a breed that needs to be OUTSIDE, a kennel of "pen" would help, but again, it has to be large enough for the dog to get lots of exercise. Then the dog could run in the pen outside much of the day. Two of my dogs insist on staying outside on guard each night, but I'm in the country and their barking wards off the coyotes for us. A WELL fenced yard or a kennel (pen) can work, BUT ONLY if you also give the dog personal time and attention and exercise. If you don't have time for the dog, you should not have the dog. It's like raising a child....!!!!

  • Yes.

    The first reason I say this is you have already given up.

    I don't know what breed you have or how hard this dog will be to find a home for. I'm hoping there is a reputable rescue in your area.

    The second reason I'm saying to surrender your dog is that I don't believe you are committed to having a dog and making it work. I'm going to say some things that may sound harsh and I'm not trying to be rude but if you disagree with me, then prove it by changing things in your home.

    If the dog is going to the bathroom all over your house, that's your fault. You aren't supervising your dog. I have 5 dogs in my house. No one potties in my house ever. They are all house trained AND crated trained.

    No one destroys anything here either. They are supervised, corrected if their behavior is incorrect and they are trained. I reinforce good behavior and I correct bad behavior.

    If he is pottying in the crate, he's being left in it to long.

    The dog is in charge of you and not the reverse.

    Dogs need schedules, rules, discipline, activity, training, supervision and affection. In fact, if you look at this, it's much like having a child. You can't let up at all. If the dog realizes you will let him out of the crate at night if he cries, he will cry.

    If you leave him too long without potty breaks, he will go in his crate.

    Do you have a fenced yard? Is that why he's going to the potty in the house? You have to walk him to potty instead of letting him out on his own?

    If you aren't 100% committed to making major changes, he's better off going to someone else who can. And if you have a baby in the house who is demanding all that attention from you, the dog is getting very little attention now. I'm sure that's part of what's going on.

    As I said, I'm not trying to be mean, but loving a dog isn't all there is too it. Loving your child is great but there's a ton of work that goes with having a baby. The same goes with having a dog. You have to do the work to get them to turn into good well behaved dogs. Depending on the breed, it may take a little more time. Some breeds are more active, some need more exercise etc. I don't know what you have so I can't help with that.

    I'd start looking for a good rescue unless you are willing to REALLY change your lifestyle.

    Good luck.

  • In my opinion you sound like a very busy mom and have no time to watch and or give attention to the dog. Since your husband wants to keep him, he should walk the dog for at least an 1 1/2 before going to work and in the evening. The dog needs someone to be there BEFORE he destroys anything rather than AFTER he already destroy the item. You and or your husband need to catch the dog in the act (destroying) and yell no and put him in the kennel so you can clean up the mess without having to worry about him being in the other room. Every time he goes in the kennel and does not bark and is calm give him a treat, he will start associating the kennel with treats. Once he gets the hang of it you can stop giving him treats. Overall you husband needs to spend more time with the dog...playing,fetching,walking,running daily exercise is what the dog needs! Good Luck.

    Add: With defecating all over the house problem, you need to pay attention to the dogs motions, when you see he starts sniffing around the entire house non-stop means he is looking of a place to defecate and when he starts circling that area means he already found the spot. When you see this motions take the dog outside to relive himself! Also when you hear him wining he needs to go outside right away! consistent housebreaking must be done.

  • Jessica, you have just described every puppy on the planet. It's totally normal for a puppy to act like this, and the only thing that can be done is for you and your husband to work together on training.

    He chews because you're not watching him (try keeping him on a long leash in the house for a while, you'll notice when he has to potty, and you'll also notice what a short time it takes for him to get bored and go find something more fun to do...like chew stuff up). Keep on using the crate, and use it consistently...it won't take long for him to stop eliminating in his crate, especially if you commit to using it regularly.

    The yelping and screaming when crating is also normal...he wants you to come open the door and let him out to chew on more stuff! Don't pay him any attention when he is in the crate, and he'll learn soon that he needs to be quiet. Try crating him for short periods when the baby is awake, so he won't wake her.

    You don't HAVE to get rid of this dog, he's like every other puppy out there...believe me, the "good" puppies are the exception, not the rule...they're like human children, they need someone to guide them in manners, and that would be your job. It would be a very lazy way out to dump this dog.

  • I think it would be easier and cheaper to buy a fifty dollar crate to keep the dog in when you are otherwise busy.
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Monday, September 3, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Would an Australian Shepherd be the right dog for us?

Here's what we can do (exercise etc.)
-2 miles walk a day, along with at least half an hour play session a night, probably more.
-He/she would never be left alone during the day or night, he would go to my dad's work which has a total of three people and plenty of space and fields
-We do have cats, and will raise correctly
-Socialise well with everyone and everything!!
-Do nice long walks at the weekend too
-We have three members of family alltogether
-we will do puppy/dog training classes, we've found some really good one's.
-we would like to rescue, but if we went to a breeder we know some very reputable ones.

I really like flyball and agility etc.

thanks everyone xx

Ages of us: two adults in 50's and a 15 year old, all my cousin's and family are all grown up to, so no young children xx

Thanks! Xxx

Dog Training: What Is Dog Training?



Recommended Answer:
Sounds like you're more than ready to adopt. More people should put time into thinking about it the way you do! It sounds like you've got the right entertainment, structure, and exercise planned for an high-energy breed like and Aussie.

Aussies are great dogs. Just great. I've never had one (I've got an Australian Cattle Dog mix), but they're popular enough that I've worked with dozens of them.

They're considered one of the "typical" Obedience dogs - along with breeds like Goldens, border collies, shetland sheep dogs, etc. Any breed can do obedience, but these breeds are considered predisposed to that kind of work. My Obedience trainer has three herself (one polished, one starting training, and one young pup) and loves their outgoing personality. She also uses them for tracking and herding.

In my experience, they are soft enough to be trainable but independent enough to think for themselves. A perfect mix of dependence and intelligence :) They will hike with you all day or fetch around the clock if you ike. They are highly trainable, whether it's obedience, agility, herding, tracking, or tricks to impress your friends and neighbors.

It seems to me that there are a lot of Aussies in the shelter - so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding one if you want to adopt. Last summer I saw at least one purebred Aussie a month, and several Aussie mixes a month at our shelter. An individual shelter may not have one for a long period of time though, it's just a roll of the dice! I recommend looking on petfinder.com as you can search by breed and zipcode. You might have to drive to a shelter further away, but it'll let you know what dogs are out there. You can also put a note in with your local shelter and if they're well organized they'll call you when they get an Aussie in. Here are some Aussies on petfinder right now (not sure where you live though!):
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18513…
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18673…
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18683…
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18186…
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18691…

If you can't find a shelter dog that suits your needs, check out AKC's website for reputable breeders. http://www.akc.org/breeds/australian_she… you can put in your zipcode here to find a breeder http://www.akc.org/breeds/australian_she… or look around on their parent club referral website: http://www.australianshepherds.org/direc…

Good luck and enjoy your new pup!

Dog Training - Three Stages of Dog Training


  • Sounds great.

    Many rescues will match up a dog to fit well in your family(exercise needs/other pets/etc).

    I hope you like grooming! lol

  • Any dog would love the environment you just described.. And I think it's great that you would go to the shelter and save a life.. Your parents surely raised you right.. My Dad always said, "people that don't take good care of their livestock, have rotten characters." I have always found that to be true..

  • Sounds like you have enough time to properly exercise, and also train a dog. Do you have the money to be able to care for one? I'm sure that question is kind of ridiculous, but you never know.

  • sounds like a perfect fit to me! Aussies are very loveable and need lots of exercise i think youir life style will fit the bill!

  • Wow, you sound very prepared and responsible. I think a pup would be lucky to have you :)

    Please rescue and help the world!! hahaha

  • yes looks like you would take good carriage of the animal

  • You sound like a great family! My mom has an Aussie that is our family dog, she is 10 years old now and still going strong. I moved out, got married, and got an Aussie puppy in August. She is now 8 months old, we have been through puppy class and we are most of the way through obedience class, and the next step is foundation for agility. So yes, I think you should like an Aussie would be a good choice for you! I have a cat and my mom has a cat with her Aussie, we haven't noticed any problems... except my cat is not always friendly to the puppy.

    My advice: Every dog is going to have a different personality. My mom's Aussie wasn't socialized properly, and is a little dog aggressive to big dogs, so make sure you socialize for all sizes of dogs. Potty training my puppy was a challenge, make sure if you get a puppy you have a LOT of time to devote to the constant watching that potty training requires. My mom's Aussie never herded us, but my puppy will herd you if you start running (like in the back yard), so be careful, she has tripped us and made us fall on more than one occasion. Training is usually very easy since they are so smart, but they can be stubborn and frustrating too. My biggest problem with my puppy: She loves strangers SO much that she just can't help herself, she jumps all over them, and she loves other dogs SO much she lunges at the leash to get to them to play. They are extremely high energy, so be prepared to be exhausted quite frequently! Training classes are a must. Good luck, they are really wonderful dogs if you have the energy to keep up with them!

  • I love this breed of dog for people who are very active and want to compete in dog sports.

    They excel at Agility, Obedience, herding, etc.

    If you decide on this breed the best advice I can give you is go to a reputable breeder who has dogs with a very sound temperament.

    I have assisted with dog training classes for the last 5 1/2 years and I see so many Aussies with very sketchy temperaments. Extremely shy/fearful/snappy. These dogs come from BYB's/Rescues.
    Since it is rare for a dog from a reputable breeder to wind up at a rescue or pound, you should plan on getting your dog from a reputable breeder so you can start out with a quality dog.
Read More...

Saturday, July 28, 2012

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

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

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

I feed her twice a day

Dog Training Tips - When Should Dog Training Start?



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

Choosing Dog Training Equipment


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

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Advice on dog aggression??

We have a 4yr old Golden Retreiver mix. He is very loving,friendly, and affectionate w/us. However when anyone comes over to the house, he gets very aggressive with them, to the point we have to put him in another room, because he might nip at them. Anyone else have this problem? Would normal dog training help, or do we need something more specialised?

Dog Training - A Systematic Approach



Recommended Answer:
I have the same problem with my Rott. She love us to death but as soon as someone else come to the house she wants to bite. I solved that problem with her by telling the people right when they come in to call her by her name. So she think she knows them. I swear that works try. But remember who ever the person is they have to say the dogs name. And say it in a happy why.

Advanced Dog Training Exercises


  • He is protecting his house. This is not normal and the best thing you can do is get a professional trainer. If you cant afford one there are some articles online about this problem.

  • Yes we have an aggressive male chow. He's not real bad but bad enough that he nipped at my best friend who comes over alot. Some dogs are just extremely protective. Normal obedience training would probably help. We took our chow to obedience school and he is a whole lot better now. All dogs are different though. Maybe check with your vet to get his opinion.

  • yes dog obedience will help. AFter he is trained you can give him some "jobs" to keep his mind busy so he isnt so worried..
    putting him in the other room will not help
    what is he mixed with ? Retrievers ususally do not act like guard dogs

  • Be very firendly to him. Then maybe he'll feel more conforable with you. Is he fixed? Neutered animals nauturlly behave better.

    Or...

    Run Away!
Read More...

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Can you train your dog this well?

I sure can't, but this was great to watch. Some excellent dog training books are listed below for those who are interested.

http://www.wagreflex.com/2009/07/one-hec…

How Dog Training Can Help You Find the Perfect Family Dog



Recommended Answer:
How to Train Dogs Not to Bite
Dog Obedience Training to Eliminate Biting and Mouthing

© Marcy Paulson
Aug 17, 2009
Dog Obedience Training to Eliminate Biting, Photo by Jeff Paulson
Pet owners need to start dog obedience training early. Training a dog not to bite is top priority, even though playful biting is natural puppy behavior.

It's easy to forget that adorable puppies come with a mouthful of needle-sharp teeth. Part of a puppy's irresistibility is due to his playful nature, but when a puppy plays he's bound to use those little teeth.

Even though biting and mouthing are natural behaviors for puppies, it's important to start training early. A puppy needs to learn what play is acceptable in his new human pack and what play isn't.
Why Do Puppies Bite?

When watching a puppy play with his litter mates, a pet owner can observe a lot of mouthing and playful nipping. Mostly, they're just having fun, but every once in a while, a puppy yips in pain and play stops.

This play serves as an important lesson for a new puppy. They learn what level of biting is all in good fun and what level of biting is unacceptable.

Mouthing isn't a bad behavior for a young puppy. In fact, puppies who don't bite at all lack the bite inhibition most dogs learn during their first few months. This means when such a dog bites for the first time, it's more likely to lead to serious injury.

Read more: http://pet-training.suite101.com/article…

Dog Training - Three Stages of Dog Training


  • If you're looking to properly train your puppy or older dog yourself at home - this website is for you.

    You'll find a huge collection of proven dog training information and tips used by professional dog trainers worldwide. My goal is to help you select, raise and train your dog in a positive and effective manner.

    Choose your dog training issue from the list below and learn how to train your dog step-by-step using the very latest dog training techniques - your dog will love you for it.

    How To Train A Dog - The Right Way

    There are so many theories and so much conflicting advice regarding the various ways to train our dogs - it's hard to know who to trust and what to believe.

    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 process.

  • I saw this show with my two eyes in person & talked to the trainer.

    Some people just have a way with animals that no one else has.
    He is 'touched' & talented. We chatted between shows. His dogs are amazing.

  • thats amazing! and I'm not really interested in training my dog like that. All he needs to know is sit, stay, heel, paw and to be potty trained.:)

  • Thats pretty amazing

  • aww thats so cute!
Read More...

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Indoor/outdoor dog training?

Why does my 5 yo female chihuahua poop on furniture, but will urinate on her wee pad as she was trained? Once or twice a year, she'll poop on the pad as she should and is wildly praised. I believe her bad behavior has to do with dominance, but I have no idea how to handle it.

Also, she is trained for both indoors and outdoors. When the weather is too cold or snowy, I'll take her out briefly to let her experience the cold and she always runs back to the door. She'll urinate on the paper once she's in, but will not deficate. Most of the time, I'll find it after the fact, but on occasion, I'll catch her in the act. I've tried everything: a low growl, "No"; direct her to the paper; abruptly flip her on her back; transfer the stool to the paper and use phases such as "good girl"; ignore her; etc--in all sorts of combinations. She'll sulk, then go to the pad, urinate for which I praise her and all is right in her world once again. HELP!

Dog Training - Basics



Recommended Answer:
Sounds like your dog is confused.

In her eyes... you've taught her it's okay to potty in the house. When she soils the puppy pad, you switch it for a nice clean new one and praise her. Well, the couch seems pretty much the same. She goes potty, you clean it up. Fresh clean place to potty!

I understand pads are popular with little dogs, but this is why I do not use them and insist my dogs go outside only. Most dogs have a hard time differentiating between the potty pad and the rest of your house.

Dog Training Tips - Training Dogs For Your Own Benefit


  • She seems to think it is ok to poop wherever she wants. You should start from the beginning with potty training.

    Good luck!!!

  • Sounds like you are not in charge, or the alpha, in your home.
    You need to get back to basics and make her understand you are the boss, and she is in your pack.
    Get a good book on pack order and how to be the boss.

  • Oh please - stop with the dominance and flipping her on her back - she's a chihuahua for goodness sake, what's to dominate? That is so overdone and over used - Cesar Millan should be shot for bringing everything down to dominance, alpha and "calm state" - the guys not a trainer, just a t.v. actor.

    Your dog sounds confused - you vary her routine so much, in, out, weewee pads and papers sometimes - stick to one thing no matter what the weather and stop messing with her mind. Get her on a specific routine - wake up, go out, eat, go out, before bed, go out - same routine - watch for signs she has to go potty and base the daily routine with her around that - she's a dog, you're a human - you can figure this out and potty train the poor thing.

  • You need to prohibit access to places your dog has accidents, period. Confine the dog and gradually increase the roaming space. If the dog backsteps, so does the freedom to roam the house. You have to take control of this situation and make a better effort to stop it.
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Saturday, May 12, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Dog training issues?

I have a pomeranian/toy american eskimo puppy( he is almost 2yr old). Anyways when I let him outside he will urinate in about 5-6 different spots. A short while after letting him in, he will head straight for the dining room table and urinate on the same chair/table leg each time. He does not empty a full bladder or anything like that. It is just a small bit. Could he have troubles emptying his bladder? How do I break him of this? Also is there something that I can use to treat that spot to ensure that he will stop doing it? Any help or advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

Dog Training Plays Key Role in Dog Grooming and Puppy Care



Recommended Answer:
He's marking his territory. It helps if you get him neutered. You can use Nature's Miracle to clean the chair leg. There is some stuff you can get that will make the dog want to pee only in a certain area of the yard. I'd do that, but when he comes in the house and tries to pee on the chair leg, you're going to have to be very stern and consistent in telling him no. You have to treat it like potty training and be adamant that he not pee inside. You could try putting some pennies in a can and shaking it near him when he tries to pee inside. It will scare him and most dogs don't like it.

Top Three Problems Solved by a Secret to Dog Training


  • no, i dont think your dog is having trouble emptying its bladder; my guess is that your dog is trying to mark his territory. you could try putting him on leash and restricting the area he has available. i know that most petstores sell stuff to make the grass green again and also to remove the scent, so then your dog won't be able to smell the urine. if the problem persists, it may be wise to take him to the vet.

    i know my dog used to do that as a puppy, but stopped as he grew older. Hope this helps!

  • neuter the dog.

    spray the chair leg with a mixture of white vinegar and water

    try a belly band. That's basically a band that cvers your dog's privates when you don't want him to pee...you can find them on ebay.
Read More...

Monday, April 9, 2012

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dog Training - Getting the Basics Right



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

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

Bad Dog Training Tricks - How to Correct Bad Dog Behavior


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

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

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

  • we are training our dog to stop barking, we have tried different types of bark collars, but that never seems to work. so now what we do that really works is whenever she barks, we say "mud room" which is where the laundry machines are. then once she is in there we say stay and don't give any attention for a couple of minutes. after that we say "good quiet" and give her a lot of attention.

    i would recommend this for your dog. put her in an area that you dont go in a lot, but dont close the door. (also get her to learn the "quiet" command, by whenever she is quiet, say good quiet and give her a treat.)
    if she keeps coming to you after you say "stay" then use a little doggy gate. make sure that she can still see through the gate. if you don't have one then make an alternate one. you could her in a cage. this works for us because whenever she barks she starts to know where she's going, so she doesn't bark as much.

    as for the biting, whenever she bites turn around and don't give any attention and get her to learn the "no bite" command the way she laerns the "no bark" command.

    HOPE THIS HELPS!!!!!! :^)
Read More...

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Any substitutes for Peanut butter. (for dog training purposes)?

Okay we were told and are often told to use peanut butter in training and in their kongs.

We can't actually have peanut butter in the house because i have a very bad peanut allergy. Its best I don't even touch the stuff.

We have been using treats but I don't want to make them sick.

I have also used Cheerios is that okay? I've been told it wouldn't hurt but am not sure.

If you could let me know that would be great

(by the way our poodle hates veggies)

Dog Training - Advantages of Clicker Training



Recommended Answer:
As long as you're using high-quality treats and not overdoing them (treats should be no more than 10% of the dog's diet), treats are fine.

Here are some good ones:
- Wellness WellBites - http://www.wellnesspetfood.com/dog_welln…
- Zukes Mini Naturals - http://www.zukes.com/woof/mini-naturals.…
- Ziwipeak - http://www.ziwipeak.com/Products/ZiwiPea…

(I cut treats up into about the size of a pencil-top eraser.)

Cherrios are okay to use for treats.

Kong makes a filling in a spray container (kind of like the Easy-Cheese containers). The ingredients aren't all that great, but if it's only for occasional use, no worries.
http://www.kongcompany.com/ingredients20…

You can also put plain, no-fat yogurt into the kong and freeze it.
.

Dog Training Aids - Do You Know How Safe The Methods Used For Dog Obedience Training Are?


  • sometimes when i train my dog i use cheese sticks/slices but very rarely.

  • I use for training Frankfurter sausages cut into tiny peaces.

  • Cream cheese in small amounts (IOW, I wouldn't fill a kong with it).
    Yogurt frozen in the kong is fine (again small amount depending on dog size).
    Dog treats are fine, as is high quality kibble.
    All should be in small amounts and deducted from the total amount of food eaten each day.
    Cheerios are fine but not a very high value treat for most dogs.
    Cooked meat (like chicken) in small pieces is also good for training (again, not for stuffing a kong).
    Using some high quality dog food frozen in the kong is also a nice long lasting treat.

    EDIT: abbyful mentioned plain no fat yogurt and she is right. I should have been more specific - no flavored or regular fat yogurt (low fat is also probably ok and may taste better to the dog).

  • if you have treats for your dog then use a different kind every time if not use some cheese or a piece of dog food they will never know the difference

  • I use Charlee Bears for training. You can get a bonus bag at petco for the same price as the regular bag, you just have to look for it. for things that go in kongs try http:// dogs. the fun times guide .com/ 2006/ 02

  • We sometimes use cheese or ham slices. Just little pieces of it. I wouldn't recommend cheese to much though.
Read More...

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Dog Health Questions: Best way to find a good location for a dog training business?

The commercial realtor I've worked with is on another planet concerning what my actual needs are, and I'm having NO luck finding a place to open this business (Dog training- so lots of floor space as cheaply as possible, and warehouses are great- we don't NEED a storefront which is what he keeps showing me) on my own. How can I find a realtor that can understand my (admittedly unique) business?

Dog Training: To Have Or Not To Have A Trainer



Recommended Answer:
Check with your local council about parks or sections of them that you may use. You may even submit something in writing to them and all your local sporting clubs and halls, making sure that you explain how any mess is cleaned up and suggested times that you would require the space. This can be easily done by email, and by emailing everyone above hopefully you'll get a response and go for the best venue that suits your needs. Good Luck
ps. don't forget to regester your business so when it takes off, you'll be able to sell francises in different areas and get richer.

Small Dog Training - Searching For Dog Training Courses Online?


  • Search on another planet
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Thursday, December 1, 2011

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

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

Dog Training is a Priority



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

Dog Training Techniques - Which Ones Work?


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

  • I can think of a few, but here's one I like ...

    Good Owners, Great Dogs - By Brian Kilcommons

  • I was not a big fan of "Dog Training for Dummies". nixed.
    "The Everything Dog Training & Tricks Book" series are fairly decent, but lack pictures.
    "When Pigs Fly: Training Success for the Impossible Dog" is awesome - not many pictures, but really, really cool training techniques.

    Honestly, I would go park your bum in a bookstore for half an hour and do some in-store research. Make sure you can understand what the book is having you do, and you agree with the training techniques.
    There is no better trainer than a real one. You may find that enrolling in a class is well worth your time, especially starting out from scratch.

  • Here is a link to Dogwise where you can find this book "Competition Obedience: A Balancing Act"

    http://www.dogwise.com/ItemDetails.cfm?I…

    My obedience instructor highly suggested this book and tells me you can learn almost everything from it to get you all the way up to Utility level obedience.

    Personally, I do much better in a class type setting for obedience tho. I learn alot watching my fellow classmates and their dogs as well as from my instructor. Nothing like a good teacher to take you even further.

    ADDED: I just saw Brenda Aloff yesterday for a private training session and she is awesome! I would also HIGHLY recommend her DVD as suggested above (I have it and it has really helped with new puppy) and her new book "Get Connected with Your Dog" that I just picked up from her yesterday as well. You just can't go wrong with Brenda Aloff!

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

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

Monday, November 14, 2011

Dog Health Questions: I need to come up with at least 10 questions to ask to my mentor about dog training?

does anyone please have so suggestions. Thanks by the way....

Choosing an Online Dog Training Program



Recommended Answer:
The first question I would ask is about your profile picture?
How can this person be a mentor and you not have questions for him? What is he mentoring?

Dog Training - Beyond Conditioning


  • Is this like someone who is going to help you train your dog? If so:
    -What experience has he/she had with dogs?
    -How long has he/she been working with dogs?
    -Any useful tips that he/she would have for you?
Read More...

Thursday, November 10, 2011

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

Guide To A Happy Marriage = Dog Training Book?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the movie, related info, actors?

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



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

Secrets to German Shepherd Dog Training


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

  • I believe it had Marilyn Monroe in it. (I've seen the movie, but I can't remember the title. I want to say How to Marry a Millionaire, but I don't think that's right)

    Might be a cool movie to remake given how most people treat there dogs like little people nowadays (and treat other people like crap)
Read More...

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Dog Health Questions: What is the third stage in dog training according to ABC?

First stage is aquisition second is automation and fourth is maintenance but what's the third? According to animal behavioral college...

Electronic Dog Training Collar



Recommended Answer:
Well, let me research that. I searched for "animal behavioral college", clicked on the link, and looked over the homepage. On the left column is a link to their Curriculum. That page discusses their eleven stages of training the trainer. Their third stage discusses the tools of the trade. But, you want their actual dog training techniques. I don't see where they are letting that secret go public. Perhaps it's something to do with differentiated instruction.

Dog Training Manual - Train Your Dog Using the Secrets of the Pros


    Read More...

    Sunday, October 30, 2011

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

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

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



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

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

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

    cheers!

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


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

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

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

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

    • I would recommend that you do a bit of reading first, before getting a dog. Learning about operant conditioning, clicker training, and reward-based training is fun and you'll be amazed at the things that dogs can do when they are taught in a positive way.
      Karen Pryor, Patricia McConnell, Susan Garrett, Melissa Alexander, Suzanne Clothier and Jean Donaldson are all great to study.

      ***No animal behaviorist or trainer who has actually spent time to understand how dogs learn would ever choose to bully or intimidate a dog using punishment. ***
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    Friday, October 21, 2011

    Dog Health Questions: Confused about dog training with treats?

    I'm going to train my dog with treats and a clicker. Some articles suggest that treats are amazing and some say that after a while they won't do the tricks if they see you don't have any treats in your hand.

    How do I begin training with treats and then wing them off of it? Or should i maybe after a while instead of a treat give them a a very enthusiastic "good girl!!!" and a quick physical reward like a pat on the back or something? Should I be doing something else?

    Thanks!!

    Do You Make These 4 Common Mistakes in Dog Training?



    Recommended Answer:
    You gradually increase the interval or number of repetitions before the dog gets the treat. At first, say they heel well for 50 feet, they get the treat, then 75 feet and so on. When you teach a behavior, reward each one and, when they know it, reward after a couple or after they do several things or only when they do it perfectly. It has to be done gradually and you can use verbal praise & petting them too, of course.

    If you have ever seen obedience,agility & tracking and so on competitions, almost all those dogs were trained w/ food, but you are not allowed to carry it in competition. The dogs know they will get "paid" when the job is done. PS- throw the clicker away, it is a gadget you do not need.

    Dog Training with Hand Signals - Hand Signals Help With Obedience Training Your Dog


    • All dogs are different,
      Treats are mostly used to encourage behavior/do a trick not to be used just for "being cute"
      Try with treats at first but whatever you do praise the dog for trying and getting the trick,Things like treats can help a dog learn a trick but also patting their head and saying and saying good Girl!
      But don't only rely on treats,
      But be nice and firm,not mean or anything but be serious.But its okay to have fun just remember to focus,
      good luck!!!

    • You should start off with treats, and once he/she will do every time you command, do the occasional treat, but mostly use very enthusiastic "Good Girl/Boy!",(while petting them plenty too), once he/she starts obeying thoroughly. I hope this helps!

    • It's a personal choice. I do not train with treats. I want my dog to focus on ME, not the hot dog in my hand. It's a little more work, but I am willing to do it. I will never bribe a dog to do for me what it should WANT to do for my approval. As my dogs have always been extremely well behaved, I feel I am justified in my attitude toward treats. Now I DO use them for certain things. My girl gets treats when she uses the treadmill, and when she goes in her crate at night. I just do not feel the need to use them for basic obedience.

    • First of all things make sure your dog is calm during this processs and then start from there. And if you feel that your dog shoud start off with treats but after a while when you wing her off of them say "no beg" and give her a light tap on the tip of her nose. Be stern if you need to....I hope this works for you!

    • I usually change it up. Sometimes she gets a treat, other times she doesn't. Many people probably don't agree with this, but it's what worked with my little girl :) She always does whatever command, regardless of whether or not I have a treat.

    • If the dog knows what you want and won't do it unless you have a treat, you haven't done it right.

    • Be very enthusiastic, then after a while they should just do it, you'll still have to praise her but not as enthusiasticly.

    • It really depends on the dog's combination of intelligence and defiance. More intelligent (not to be confused with "obedience intelligence" which is what the "intelligent dog" ranking is based on) won't likely be lured by treats if they don't want to do what you're asking, and those who are will quickly realise when the treats are gone. When my dog was a puppy I tried to train him a bit... he'd get to the point that if I said a command, he'd sniff my hand... if he smelled a treat, he'd do it. Otherwise, he'd just snub me.

      The more obedient breeds (labs, retrievers, GSD, poodles, etc...) will fall for treats, and get into the routine of listening to commands even without treats, but others won't. Also, aside from breed, each dog is an individual. Your best bet is to find a way without treats, though.

      Lastly, if you have a breed with a defining "no tricks" personality, don't try to change that. That's what makes them unique. So with such breeds (or such dogs), respect that and only teach them essentials (especially "stop" commands for their own safety), allowing them to show their natural personality. With breeds like labs, golden retrievers, and really any working dog, they often thrive of training so teach them EVERYTHING. To be effective, take your queues from her just as she take them from you.
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    Thursday, September 22, 2011

    Dog Health Questions: Dog training tips please? How do you stop a dog from going up the stairs?

    We just moved into our first house and we've been trying to train our 3yr old maltese/poodle to NOT go up to the second floor. He only ran up once and I chased him, carried him down. But since then he's been pushing his luck by sleeping on the steps. First step, second step, this morning was the third step and just now he was on the fourth!

    Are there any training tips to stop him? I don't want a baby gate on the main staircase.

    Thank you!

    Professional Dog Training - The Easy Road in Dog Obedience Training



    Recommended Answer:
    Dont allow your dog to have access upstairs.While you are walking upstaris, ask someone to hold your puppy while you are going upstaris. soon your dog will know that going upstaris is forbidden. If you want anymore help on dogs you should check out my website

    www.HelpWithDogs.Info

    Good Luck :)

    Would Purchasing a Dog Book Or Dog Training Book Be Useful?


    • He will only jump the baby gate.what breed is he? Get a trainer in or watch a video how to stop it.

    • Sounds like some boundary training is in order.
      These people give great advice:
      http://dogforum.org/

    • Have you trained him on Leave It? If you have, you can use it for the stairs.
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    Tuesday, August 30, 2011

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

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

    Clicker Training as an Effective Dog Training Tool



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

    Revealed - Boxer Dog Training Secrets


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