Dog Health Questions: How can I make the family dog shut up!?! Please help!?

We've had a greyhound/lab mix for over a year now and she will not be quiet. Don't get me wrong, I love her to death but I'm taking AP courses in high school and need to be able to sleep. The problem we have with her is a little different than most dogs. She doesn't bark. What she does is makes this EXTREMELY LOUD "Woo" sound that can almost split your ears because it's so piercing. I wear Extra-Strength ear plugs and still hear her "wooing" as we call it. It always wakes me up and is seriously affecting my sleeping pattern, thus affecting my grades. I beg my parents to try and quiet her which my mom tries to do but my dad won't. The neighbors complain but my dad doesn't even try to quiet her. She can be heard wooing up to 4 blocks over. I'm amazed animal control hasn't been called on us! It's so insane and I am on the verge of going crazy here. No matter how many times we tell her no or stop or be quiet: you name it, we say it, and she does not stop. We've put her in dog training and she doesn't stop. We've tried squirting her with a squirt bottle and that's the only thing that starts to quiet her down but we have to squirt her about 10 times before she stops wooing. I really don't know what to do here because nothing but the squirt bottle works but my dad doesn't want us to do that to her. If anyone has ANY tips on how to make her quiet please, please, please share them! We can't spend a lot of money though but I'm totally desperate. Also, what is your opinion on squirting her since that's the only thing that semi-works?

Dog Training Hand Signals - 2 Important Commands You Can Teach Today

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Have you considered that your dog's "wooing" might be separation anxiety? Does your dog sleep in the same room as any one of your family member? Sometimes wolves will make a sound almost like it when it or a member of the pack is separated from the rest. If it is separation anxiety, then all you need to do is let her into one of your family member's room.

Another thing you can do to correct the "wooing" is to give a correction to the dog. Every time, the dog woo, you can use a correction word; always use the same word to correct the behavior. If that does not work, then you can use a touch and the correction word at the same time. When I have to use a touch to correct my dog, I usually use my fingers to imitate a bite (which is what dogs in the natural world uses to correct a member of the pack) and do a quick "bite"/firm tap at the side of the neck or at the space between the ribs and hip bones (the two most sensitive areas on a dog's body). For this to work, the correction needs to be done by everyone in your family/pack so that your dog is getting the same message from everyone. When you give any correction, verbal or physical, you never want to feel any emotion other than calm and assertive/firm; when you feel anything but calm, such as nervous, anxious, frustrated, angry, etc, you become weak in the dog's mind and dogs do not listen to weakness. Dogs also do not take well to punishment, which is when a correction is done when the person is feeling anything but calm.

Also, having all your family members taking the pack leader position to your dog helps a lot. As a pack leader, your influence on your dog's behavior carries a whole bunch more weight than a follower trying to get the pack leader to do something. You can try reading "Be the Pack Leader", "Member of the Family", and "Cesar's Way" by Cesar Millan to learn more about pack leader mentality, how the dog world works, and solving many dog behavioral problems.

Good luck.

Edit: Forgot to mention that you do not want to give affection when your dog is wooing, for example, petting. If you do this, then you are telling your dog that you like your dog making that noise.

Dog Training Methods

• Well if it is seriosuly becoming a problem you could get him debarked, personally not something I would do and if ur dad doesnt like the squirt bottle I doubt he will be up for getting him de barked
  And I use a squirt bottle on my dogs all the time, counter jumpers!!


• Often times if u put pennies ina soda can and shake it when ur dog barks, it will help.. She wont like the noice and will avoid it. Their ears r super sensitive.


• My dog has the same problem, except he growls instead of barking. Make sure before you go to bed that you can satisfy him such as feeding or drinking him, playing with him, etc. Maybe he needs attention too. Try paying attention to him more.


• I see nothing wrong with using a squirt bottle, I don't use it on my dogs personally because they love it so it'd be more like a reward to them. But I do use it on my cats.
  
  When I was training my puppy to quiet up I'd wait for him to bark, ignore him while he did (no matter how long she "wooos", ignore it) then once he was done I'd say Quiet and praise him. I would so this everyday, everytime he barked. Now when I say quiet he knows what it means and he knows what he should do, which is to hush up.
  
  EDIT: Debarking should only be considered as a last-ditch effort after serious attempts at training have been made. The bark of a de-barked dog is very pathetic sounding, and to me even more annoying then a bark. De-barking does NOT fix the problem, only the noise. Your dog is still trying to bark but only now it can't get it's point across. This will only stress the dog out more, causing more "barks" (wheezing) I cared for a de-barked dog at the adoption agency I volunteer for, he was the saddest sounding thing I've ever heard and "barked" CONSTANTLY


• Debark your dog...Debarking is a veterinary surgery that involves removing tissue from the dog's vocal chords. This results in a dog's voice being quieter, when done properly. It does not stop barking/wooing as the word debarking implies, but the bark/woo now sounds like a whisper, and is thus not irritating to neighbors of dog owners that frequently bark...My girl friend had her dog debark because it wont keep quiet, but its not really a cruel thing to do, like others think it is. She don't have any complications of the surgery, and she is doing just fine now...Debarking dogs is a controversial topic. but it will help everyone else, you and the neighbors. Supporters of debarking argue that the procedure saves the lives of many dogs that might be sent to pounds because of incessant barking or wooing. Some people acquire a dog that barks/woos frequently and are soon immersed in struggles with neighbors who must listen to the dog barking at all hours of the day and night.
  
  For some this means trying to find the dog another home, or simply sending the dog to the pound. Since many dogs never get adopted and are euthanized, supporters see debarking as a far better choice. Additionally, those who support debarking also state they feel there is no significant evidence suggesting that debarking causes emotional damage to the dog. Since the dog can still bark, though quietly, it has not had its main “warning weapon” stolen. Most dogs that are debarked are usually subject to less remonstration and punishment by owners; so proponents of debarking suggest that dogs that are debarked are actually happier.
  
  Misconception about the results of debarking persists. Some dogs that have undergone debarking are likely to bark frequently, sometimes incessantly. This sounds like a weak cough, and may, in fact, prove especially annoying to dog owners. Thus dogs may be punished for barking even after debarking has occurred. People usually opt for debarking dogs when the animals chronically or habitually bark. A loud barking animal can certainly be a nuisance to owners and neighbors, especially if the problem is consistent. It is quite easy to see why frustrated owners search for a way to silence their noisy pooch permanently, especially if the animal does not respond to behavioral training or tends to bark constantly when left alone. In some cases, when neighbors complain to authorities or the situation is unlivable, owners may be unsure of what to do other than have their dog debarked. Other solutions, such as sound-activated shock collars or muzzles seem equally cruel. Some owners may even choose to kill or abandon their pets instead of dealing with the problem. Yet therapists and dog trainers insist that most barking problems are fixable with proper training. Hope this helps....


• The answer to ALL dog training issues is obedience training. Obedience classes are available through local kennel clubs. They have two additional benefits. First, they will introduce you to people in the community who can help you with all issues regarding puppy care, and second, they provide you and your dog with great opportunities for socialization and new friends.
  
  If you have never taken a dog to obedience training,,you have no idea what you are missing. You and your dog will be much happeir for it, and you can be very proud of your dog when he gets his canine good citizen award. There is no better way to solve the problems you are having!
  
  Check it out here : www.Dog-Training-Advices.com

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Dog Health Questions: Need serious dog training help!?

I have a one-year-old female cockapoo who is spayed.

For a while, now she just simply won't let my sister or I pick her up. Whenever Mandy (my cockapoo) even has the slightest feeling that my sister or I want to pick her up, she immediately growls. Then, if you try to physically move her, she'll go crazy like an ill dog and sometimes even bite.

I've already tried picking her up and shouting, "no," whenever she growls, but it didn't work. I then tried to reward her with treats every time she didn't growl/bite, but that didn't work because - you guessed it - I can't even pick her up. Ever.

The Smart Way To Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Your dog AND you both need some basic obedience lessons. Sign up for classes today. They will teach you how to handle the problem and how to make your dog more obedient.

Right now, she thinks she is pack leader and she's letting you know it. Sign up for classes today!

Secrets of Dog Training Professionals - Why Use Food?

• Sounds like a physical problem in that she may be in pain and your handling her hurts her. Make an appointment with the vet real, real soon.


• Has mandy ever been in a fight with another dog you do not know about? I would highly recommend bringing her to the vet, she may have something wrong, like she could have some sort of bruise, which when you accidentally touch without knowing, triggers her to be aggressive towards both you and your sister. She could also somehow, be pregnant. But I would say going to the vet to find out what is wrong is the best solution.


• Start slower, generally when you have problems like this it means that you are moving too quickly for the dog. Start by just putting your hands on her and giving her a treat for that. Then put your hands in the position like you are going to pick her up and give her a treat. If she tries to growl/bite you moved too quickly and you need to take a step back. This is called desensitization. This may take several weeks/months to fix, but if you are diligent you will prevail!


• Will Mandy let your Mom &/or Dad pick her up? If so, then it's not a physical problem with Mandy. It's just that Mandy doesn't respect you.
  
  If you've ruled out any physical ailments with Mandy, and you know it's just a "personality problem," then you need to get serious with Mandy, and show her that you are boss, just like Mom &/or Dad.
  
  Put on the thickest coats/jackets and heaviest gloves you can find (so that, if she tries to bite, it won't hurt you), then practice picking her up. Reward her with treats ONLY if she allows you to pick her up and put her in your lap without snarling or snapping. If she snarls and snaps, just take a deep breath, keep a tight hold on her, and start thinking about happy, calm things, like a favorite song or something funny a friend said that day, and wait for her to calm down. It's important that you be calm yourself, because she will feel if you're upset, and it will make her feel anxious. (Do NOT give her treats when she's snappy and snarly, or when you're feeling anxious.)
  
  When she calms down and behaves, give her some treats. Put her down quickly, then again pick her right up and repeat, over and over and over (extending the amount of time between when you pick her up and give her treats, each time).
  
  DO NOT SHY AWAY when she growls or snaps during the above exercise. Keep your grip on her, and keep her in your lap until she stops being nasty. (That's why you're wearing a thick jacket and gloves :-) The only way to stop this is for her to realize that she won't get her way by being nasty, and that she'll get rewarded if she allows you to pick her up and sit her quietly on your lap.
  
  And then, you can lose the heavy coat and gloves. :-)
  
  If I were you, for my next birthday, I'd ask my parents to give me the gift of Dog Obedience Lessons, so I could learn how to be a good dog owner, and I could teach my dog better. Just a thought....
  
  Best wishes & good luck!


• If the behavior is only recent, take her to the vet and make sure she is not in pain.
  
  Many dogs don't like being picked up. They're busy, doing what they want or relaxing, and we expect them to let us swoop in and lift them in the air -- sort of odd, when you think about it.
  
  It may be that, once, she growled because she didn't want to be picked up, and it worked -- the person backed off, even momentarily. That reinforced the growling and protesting, so now she's in the habit.
  
  Certainly don't force her, or shout "no." That will only make things worse.
  
  If the vet gives her a clean bill of health, work on very gradual desensitization and counter-conditioning. Give her lots of treats for letting you touch her, over and over, then slide a hand near her as if you were going to lift her for some reps, then touch her lightly on the belly, etc.
  
  Do this over the course of many 5-10 minute sessions, and never let her get "over threshold" -- to the point of being even the least bit stressed. If she even looks intently at your hand, go back to the previous level.
  
  And, consider not picking her up very often, even after doing the training. I know people get very accustomed to doing that with small dogs. But it isn't necessary, as long as they are safe getting on and off of the surfaces they are permitted on.

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Dog Health Questions: I'm a new groomer and I cut a dogs nail short, it was bleeding.have you done this? or had it done to your dog?

I've cut my own dogs nails for as long as I've owned dogs...decades. But I teach em' to roll over and give me their paws + as border collies they have clear nails where you can see how far to cut. I was always interested in dog training, but have little experience besides helping a few people I met walking my own dog. So, I figured Petco would be a good place to get my feet wet, but their trainers also work in the store. So, I've got a good full time job, and petco offered to let me work several hours a week @ night & on weekends and that way I could get a few hours in the store so they could make me one of their trainers...SOooooo

That being said, I've cut several dogs nails on the table without the owners there, this IS my first week so I haven't gotten to do that many, but I have done 2 or 3 with dark nails, while an experienced groom watched to make sure I didn't go to far...fine ... those all went well.

So, the groomer had a dog on the table, close to closing & someone walked in to get their dogs nails done, figured I could handle it at this point. It was the first time I cut a dogs nails while the owner was there with the dog & it was a pretty big dog...bigger than a border collie, but smaller than a Lab, some kind of Mutt with dark nails of course. I cut one nail correctly on the front paw with no problem and the dog bit me....no blood drawn, but still...so, I offered to get a muzzle and the lady said she'd just hold the dogs head...stupidly I agreed. I got the front two paws done with no problem, but after I clipped the first nail on the back paw, there were those teeth again, though it didn't get me this time ... she apologized and held its head tight...but now its freaking out and moving its legs ...the next nail I go to cut...blood everywhere .. well..not that bad, but god I felt awful.

The other groom took the other dog off the table & helped put that stuff to stop the bleeding on & the dog would NOT let us get to the rest of the nails. We said sorry a thousand time and obviously didn't charge her for anything and offered to let her come back in a few days/weeks and we would re-cut them for free.

The other groomer (who's been at it for 20yrs ... showing dogs since a child), told me not to worry, everyone does it...and the woman couldn't have been any nicer about me butchering her dog...but god I still fee awful..

Have other groomers done this ... what the right way to handle it?

Have you had this done to your dog? ... what did you do??

At-Home Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
I think everyone who has cut dogs nails at some point has done this. It is difficult if you are doing this professionally as there is a certain expectation and with the owner there it puts additional pressure on you ( which you don't need at this time) to get it right.

One thing I would say is don't 'restrain' a dog or have the owner restrain it, as it tells the dog something bad is going to happen, so they struggle and that encourages you to work quickly and then there are problems, always choose to 'contain'. The owner may not like their dog in a muzzle, however it is a great training tool and 'contains' without force and so with out fear coming in, fear causes emotional pain, pain causes part of the logical thinking brain to shut down as protection, so the dog reacts without thinking, resulting in a bite, a muzzle gives you confidence and the owner can keep the dogs attention without undue concern or the emotional pain kicking in.

Dog Training: To Have Or Not To Have A Trainer

• Yes, I've done it. I'm sure everyone who's ever cut a dog's nails has done at least once. Sometimes you misjudge, sometimes they fidget, who knows.
  
  As a groomer, I'm sure you've heard of Quikstop (sp). It's a product you apply to the nail to stop the bleeding. If you don't have it, you can also use cornstarch.


• With my dog, no, but I got one of my mom's too close once. You need Quick Stop or some other styptic powder on hand. You pack it into the nail and hold for a few seconds and it will stop the bleeding.
  
  With black nails (half of my dogs are black) look at both sides of the nail. Sometimes one side is white, so you can see the quick from the other side. Just roll the dog over and get it from that side. (My dog only has 2 truly black nails. The others are all white on the other side. ) You'll find the uneven coloring on dogs who don't have solid coats. If there's white in the coat, one side of the nail may well be white.
  
  If it's really black all the way through, the safest thing is to look at the paw. Cut the nail level with the bottom of the paw pads. Unless the dog's nail are badly overgrown, you will avoid the quick this way.
  
  ETA: Don't assume the dog's claws have all worn evenly, either. They often don't, although the two front paws and the two back paws will usually be similar to one another. At PetSmart, Petco, etc., you aren't getting purbred show dogs, so their gaits will be uneven. If you need a guage for which claws will be the longest, look at the corresponding foot.
  
  ETA: And don't feel so bad--it happens to everyone, sooner or later! You've got a moving target and a precise cut to make. It's part of grooming, even with very experienced people! In a way, it was god the owner was there--she obviously knew her dog was not comfortable with the procedure, so I don't think she blamed you at all.
  
  My dog HATES having her nails cut, and she won't hold still for it laying down. I put her standing on the grooming table, with her head in the loop, and lift and do one paw at a time. Nothing else works with her. So I guess you could try that with some of the more unruly dogs. Also keeps them from being able to mouth or bite you, although a muzzle can help too.


• I've also been grooming for 20 years.
  
  She's right, it's NOT a big deal. You WILL cut many nails too short - heck, why do you think we have the Kwik Stop easily accessible?
  
  It's not a question of being careless or incompetent. You are trying to do precise work on a moving target. If you take too much off, the nail bleeds (and sometimes the owner complains). If you don't take enough off, the owner complains about that.
  
  Even with my own dogs, who are trained to lie quietly for nails, I occasionally cut them too short. The main thing is NOT to make a fuss about it, making a fuss convinces the dog something terrible has happened. If you just keep calm and apply the Kwik Stop when you're done, the average dog will take it in stride. sometimes I don't even realize that I went to short until I go back to scissor the foot and there's blood on the table. The dog never reacted.
  
  Wait until you cut an ear.......and yes, if you groom long enough it WILL happen.


• no, i've never clipped too far up on my dogs nails
  on my dogs, i just clip the sharp tip.


• I was a dog groomer for 16 years, this DOES happen. First when a dog starts jerking around have someone help you. Second when a dog tries to bite you get a muzzle, no other option. Thirdly if a dog really goes nuts tell the owner to let her vet do them, they may need to sedate the dog. Dont beat yourself up, just always give 100% and it will work out.


• im not a groomer but when you cut a dogs nail just try not to cut the pink parts because that where the blood is so just cut the white part and if you do accidently cut it theres this cream to heal it!


• I'm not a groomer but I've had dogs with black nails for about 30 years, and I've cut into quite a few. It hurts but once the bleeding has stopped the dogs don't seem to notice. No doubt the owner of that dog has done it too. And the dog was not co-operating at all which makes it harder to see what you're doing and to be accurate. Cut a tiny sliver too much and there's the blood. When in doubt, cut less, and with uncooperative dogs it's best to take the less in one shot.

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Dog Health Questions: How to train a stubborn German Shepherd puppy?

Just last week I bought a male German Shepherd puppy and I found out in the next few days, the dog is a little bit stubborn. I know that there are stubborn dog training courses but its expensive. Anybody who has knowledge about how to deal with my dog, please share. Thanks a lot.

Dog Training Devices - How Using One Can Help Correct Stubborn Dog Training Problems

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Why does a [labradorlover] have a GSD?
How old is the pup?
Is it still under return-for-full-refund Guarantee? - because if YOU think it is stubborn then you don't know enough about dogs to cope with an intelligent one.

Wee GSD pups of the proper 7-to-9 weeks age for rehoming are not stubborn.
But they DO need a reason to want to please their kidnapper.

The first rule of training is "Dogs do what they do because they WANT to."
The second rule is "Trainers must be 100% consistent durign the training stages."

So YOUR first task is to convince Pup that the world is a fun, safe place and that you are the source of everything good in the universe. It is pretty obvious that you haven't succeeded yet - on the first day Pup should LOVE coming whenever you call, because it has discovered that when you make those intriguing sounds & hunch yourself down it will get praised for coming, and then it will get rubs or pats & either a game or a tidbit.
And you should be concentrating on learning his timing & signals for such as "Wanna go toilet" and "Wanna BITE something!" so that you can instantly take the appropriate action.

You should also be booked in to a proper weekly training club class (forget pet-shop play-groups) that will start when Pup is 18-22 weeks old, so that YOU get coached on your use of "the voices", posture aka body language, balance, timing, rewards vs reprimands - and at the same time Pup learns to pay attention regardless of what other dogs & people are doing.
You NEED to have Pup's trust & affection before getting into that class. So WORK at it. Pups are not electronic toys that you programme once and can switch off in between uses.

Except at night, Pup should be living with you, getting used to your sounds & movements.
And until you are in a class and the instructor says differently, EVERYTHING you try to train pup to do is to be done using praise & rewards - pats, rubs, games, tidbits.
If you can't afford the time & fees for a club class, you can't afford an intelligent dog.

• Add http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/The_G… to your browser's Bookmarks or Favorites so that you can easily look up such as rescue groups, feeding, vaccinations, worming, clubs, weights, teething, neutering, disorders, genetics.

• To ask about GSDs, join some of the 400+ YahooGroups dedicated to various aspects of living with them. Each group's Home page tells you which aspects they like to discuss, and how active they are. Unlike YA, they are set up so that you can have an ongoing discussion with follow-up questions for clarification. Most allow you to include photos in your messages.
Les P, owner of GSD_Friendly: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/GSD_F…
"In GSDs" as of 1967

Therapy Dog Training, Helping the Infirm

• Saying your dog is "stubborn" is a pretty broad statement to make. What exactly is it that you are having an issue with?
  How old is your puppy?
  
  The thing is - when you make the commitment to buy a dog, especially one of a working breed that needs mental stimulation and physical activities, you have to commit to the idea that you and your dog will need to go to a professional trainer. Especially when this is your first dog or your first dog in this particular breed. The training courses are worth it - because if you can not properly raise this dog and give it the boundaries it needs, you will end up with a liability on your hands in one form or another.
  
  Find a REPUTABLE trainer. None of this Petsmart or other franchise crap.
  You can do this by googling a Schutzhund club in your area, emailing them and asking them for a reference for a trainer to do basic obedience with.


• I've never once run into a stubborn GSD, especially as a puppy. Sometimes an adult is stubborn, usually the result of poor training or socialization.
  
  GSD's are incredibly intelligent dogs and also highly energetic. Exercise your puppy before you try any training techniques so that it can focus better.
  
  Also enroll in good quality obedience classes. They'll train you so you can educate your puppy. You'll be a better owner and gain the skills you need to gain your puppy's trust, attention, and respect. Once you do that, you can train a GSD to do just about anything.


• German Shepherds are not stubborn, they are smart. Intelligence is not equal to trainability. While smart breeds are typically highly trainable, they can be more of a challenge, particularly for inexperienced handlers. This is part of the reason GSDs come with that tag "not for first time owners". The best explaination I have heard is that they think around the training.
  
  I second the suggestion you find yourself a good trainer to assist you. Like they said, not a pet store chain trainer.
  If you think a GSD puppy is stubborn, wait until you meet a teenage GSD puppy, particularly if you don't get a handle on this now.
  
  Where did you get the GSD? Contact the breeder as well for some assistance.


• he's not stubborn, he's a puppy!!!
  
  first thing is first- don't rush training with a german shepherd pup. there IS a thing as "too much, too young"
  work on housebreaking first. while you're doing that, reward him with play, praise, )and food, if you like) for EVERYTHING he does that you like. he walks over and sits next to your foot? GOOD PUPPY, give him some lovins! he lays down in the middle of the carpet and relaxes? GOOD PUPPY!!
  
  for everything you DON'T LIKE- discourage him. NEVER hit or scream at your puppy.
  if he chews on you, look him sternly in the eye and say in a low growly voice "CUT IT OUT". ignore him for a few seconds. dont' even look at him. then, grab a toy and have some fun. when he bites the toy, encourage him to do that (moving it just a little bit helps!) and GOOD PUPPY!!! he will soon learn that when he bites you, he gets chastised and ignored, but when he chews a toy, he's the best puppy ever!
  if he jumps on you, turn around, ignore him, be very boring. but when he's just standing or sitting calmly again, give him the attention he wants. he'll figure out what gets him what he wants VERY quickly!
  
  same with housebreaking. don't hit your puppy or rub his nose in it. PREVENT him from pottying in the house by taking him out often, and praise like crazy when he goes outside. don't allow him to roam the house, either, he needs to be right with you, or in the crate if you cannot watch him.
  
  a puppy class isn't a bad idea, especially for the socialization, but right now you need to just bond and show him what you like and don't like.


• It really needs a patience for you as the owner of the puppy. I know that in the process whatever lessons you are trying to inculcate to his young mind may eventually learned by him. Dogs are naturally smart. Right? Hope this helps!


• Sign up for some puppy classes.
  
  To the illegal clothes and shoe spammer, you are reported each and every time I see one of your posts.

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Dog Health Questions: To all dog trainers...I need your interview...can i have your email address?

i am doing a research study in dog training can you pls help me...so that i can work it faster...thank you...

Dog Training Tricks - Cool Dog Tricks To Teach Your Dog

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my emails
daniellewillkaratechopurhead
off@yahoo.com

Dog Training Help

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Dog Health Questions: Has anyone used Petcos puppy training classes?

We just got a new puppy...a boxer/pit bull mix and want to take him dog training classes. I was thinking about going to Petco and using their puppy training class. Has anyone used these classes before, and how did they work out?

Dog Training Fundamentals

Recommended Answer:
The *WORST* possible choice on the planet!!!!!!!!
Do NOT let those minimum-wage know-nothing morons NEAR it!!!
Contact your local kennel club for REAL training classes,run by REAL trainers! Those who actually know which end BITES.

Is Your Dog Training You?

• Yes its crap. Do not recommend them. I personally prefer 1 to 1 session with a dog trainer who comes at home


• We're in a puppy class at Petsmart now and we like it. I wouldn't use a pet-store class for really serious training or training a dog I planned to show, obviously, but for basic obedience and tips, it's pretty good. It's also a nice way to socialize (we have seven pups in our class and the interaction is good without being uncomfortable). Most of it is just learning basic techniques and tricks, and then following up on it at home.
  
  I wouldn't recommend it for a dog with serious behavioral issues (in that case you should get a personal trainer), but I'm happy with how ours is working so far.


• Those classes are a waste of good $$$. Call your local kennel club and see when they have classes. The people who teach classes at Petco/PetsMart go thru a 2 week course, not hardly enough knowledge to teach classes. Your local kennel club hires obedience judges/trainers, who have competed and have proven their worthiness to teach. Having been an obedience trainer, in the past, I signed up for one of these classes, just out of curiosity, what a joke.


• I wouldn't recommend it. It can be a mixed bag when you go to pet store (Petco, Petsmart, etc) training classes. Some stores have very good trainers who know exactly what they are teaching, but those are far and few in between. I'd suggest saving the $90 + you would be spending at Petco and get a quality training class recommended by a Kennel Club in your area of some sort.
  
  I went through my kennel club and will only be playing $75 ($52 if I were a member) for 6 weeks of Obedience, then that will in turn take $10 off my next class with them if I choose to take another one.


• Oh I think I would love to have someone helping me "train" my puppy who's' only qualification in working at petco would be their inability is to ask "would you like fries with that shake"


• Save your money.
  
  For roughly the same cost you can take your pup to a real trainer ... one who is qualified to teach more than 'sit' and 'down' and will be able to spot and correct any problems/issues that arise.
  
  'Dog training' is actually 'owner training' ... a good trainer will focus on the owner and how he/she interacts with the dog. A few sets of group classes (puppy kindergarten) are ideal for young puppies and most trainers offer those, as well as individual one-on-one instruction if desired, or if there are serious problems (aggression, for example) that cannot be managed in a group setting.


• I have not used Petcos but I can tell you the PetSmarts are wonderful. My 1 1/2 year old dog just finished the intermediate class and my puppy just started the puppy class and they are doing so well. Just keep in mind that these classes are more for you than the dog. They teach you how to train your dog and your success will be determined by how much you practice this at home. The 1 hour session in the store isn't enough and it's pretty clear which owners practice and which don't.


• Pet store trainers, like the ones at Pet Co and Pet Smart have no idea what they are doing, and no idea of what is good for the dog
  
  Go to the American Kennel Club website to the training center section, all the trainers certified by the AKC are good at what they do, and enjoy doing it also if you use these centers they can certify for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, AKC Good Canine Citizen, and train for agility, rally, obedience, etc. on a competition level, though competition is not required to use them for training, here is a url direct to the training center page, just click on you're state and call the nearest one to you're house you will need to ask them for pricing, but most of them do not charge over $125 for a 7-10 week class that meets once a week, http://www.akc.org/events/obedience/trai…


• Why don't you just read up on puppy training tips on the internet, and I would recommend watching that show called 'It's Me or The Dog' on Animal Planet. That lady has a ton of great ideas. Also, buy a crate and put the puppy in when you are leaving. DO NOT leave him in the crate when you are away and at night too- that is too much time in "prison". The crate system works well for potty training though. Also, if you absolutely have to, get a shock collar but don't abuse this, it does sting your puppy!

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Dog Health Questions: I have a question about Dog Training and Grooming?

I am in a bind here. My friend asked my to watch her dog. Well I had some people over, we got drunk and the dog got out. So after searching all morning (with a hangover, I might add, pretty nice of me), there was no luck.

The good news is, I was able to find a very similar dog at the pound. Now, the fur is slightly different, but I know that she shaves it a few times per year, so I figure that I can take it to a groomer and be covered there.

However, the dog answers to the name lady. My friend's dog was named Flash. How long will it take to train this dog to answer to the name flash? I only have a week before she gets home, is that enough time. I hope so, because I really don't want to deal with explaining this to her.

I will take any advice, please help.

Dog Training Bumpers and Dummies

Recommended Answer:
I suggest you not try to replace the dog. Have you exhausted all resources trying to recover the dog? Will you be able to look your friend in the face and tell her you did the best you could? If not, get busy looking for her dog instead of trying to find an easy-for-you route out of the mess you have made.

You were stupid, let alcohol rule you, and are pretty selfish to even think of replacing the dog with a shaved look-a-like. Fur does grow back you know?

I am the owner of a lab with thousands of look-a-likes. I could still pick him out of the crowd any day. I am sure you friend will be able to tell immediately that you are trying to pull a fast one. Get off the computer and go find the dog!

Time to grow up a bit, be responsible, and take the consequences.

Some Obvious Benefits of Dog Training - Help For Owners of Older Dogs

• You don't want to go down that route. You have no idea how much your friend will be able to tell it is not her dog straight away. I could pick my dog out of a crowd of 100 similar dogs. The best thing to do, is to come clean and help your friend search for her dog, put up posters, call the pound etc.


• Being a big dog lover myself... If someone switched out my dog i'd notice.


• it probably wont work, but you can try.
  use the name lady followed by flash so she associates them, and then you should be able to just use flash after a while.
  good luck :)


• have you went to check where your friend lives. Dogs can find their way home


• ok, right, like this is believable.
  
  Ah, she will notice. Try calling the pounds, put up flyers and offer a huge reward.


• This is a horrible idea and very wrong at that... I'd be so angry you can't even imagine if my friend lost my dog and tried to replace it instead of tell me the truth. Yes I'd be upset and angry for awhile at just losing my dog but it's the lying and trying to cover it up part that is worse... Explain to your friend what happened and that you're so sorry. That way she can at least make fliers and try to find her pet.


• if you cant be bothered to take the time to make sure your friends dog was safe while you were drinking then your not a very nice friend. and u must not think very much of your friend if you think that you can just go and get another dog to replace the one you lost and they wont know any different or be able to tell its not there dog. if your friend doesn't know its a different dog then they shouldn't be pet owners either. you are making your friend out to be dumb when its not them that is dumb it is you be a true friend and tell them the truth and help them to find their real dog.

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Dog Health Questions: Submissive Dog Turns Aggressive After Being Attacked - Good Obedience/Behavior Classes in the Austin Area?

My Dog was raised to be nice and submissive. She was attacked by a dog a while back and ever since she has become aggressive against other dogs. I live in Cedar Park (North Austin) Texas and am in dire need of a good dog training class. If you know anything or have experienced anything like this please help me out! She's a good dog! I just need to find good classes. Thank you all for any type of feedback.

At-Home Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
I'd start with your vet and see if they have anyone that they work with and trust

Dog Training - How NOT To Train Your Dog

• I think, when looking for a class, it should be something for "feisty Fido's", in other words, for dogs who are reactive. Putting her in a regular basic obedience class or Petco/PetSmart class isn't going to help. You need a more specialized training.
  
  Really, you can blame your dog for her reacting the way she does. In her mind, she is going to get them, before they get her. It's going to take a lot of work, it also should be done using positive motivation. You want her to associate the another dogs (at a distance) with something pleasurable, not with something negative.


• You may need more than just an obedience course, as that would only be exposing her to her triggers. You should look and see what resources there are in your area, in the form of a large veterinary hospital with a referral clinic for such problems - or, contact Nicholas Dodman at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts. He has written many books on such dogs, and has a wonderful reputation for helping them and their owners overcome their fears.


• I would use postive reinforcrment to let her know it all right using very high reward treat and then,I would vist some training class to see if I like them.

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Dog Health Questions: Is "The Dog Whisperer" a dangerous show?Other training shows?Just because of misuse, or should it just not run?

Is the show itself dangerous, or is it the viewers fault for not taking it as the entertainment that it is supposed to be? Knowing that a disclaimer is not enough to stop people from doing stupid things, should the show run at all?

Do people just dislike him, or are all these dog training shows (like Its me or the Dog) oversimplified and misleading?

Are his books any better than the show? Not that I want to buy them, but are those actually learning tools more than the TV show, or are those over simplified too?

Is the TV show just a big ad for his books and other programs?

How to Explore the Numerous Advantages of Online Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
In my opinion, all are simplified and misleading. All of them. I have never read any of his books, so I cannot comment on them. And of course he is there to make money - if someone isn't making money doing what they are doing for a living, they wouldn't be doing it for long.

I personally don't "hate" him - but I think his advice is dangerous. I do like some one the things he says though, like you have to treat a dog like a dog.

And should the show be taken off the air? I REALLY want people to wake up and start thinking for themselves, instead of waiting for someone to do it for them. Any show on TV that "teaches" anything should be taken with a grain of salt - dog training, home decorating, any thing!

A Long Tradition of Dog Training

• yes it is very dangerous is because he is handling dangerous dog big and small and you don't even know how is the dog going to react so that is a very very dangerous show so is other training shows.


• It should run because it DOES help people.
  There is a disclaimer that says not to do it without a professional that knows that they are doing
  but still people do it, and that is their fualt.
  
  he is an amazing person and has personally helped me loads, yes, there can be other ways to help -- but it depends on the person.
  
  just because you dislike something doesnt mean its bad, it just means you have opinions and should respect them and see them from others point of veiw


• I think his show is misleading. He also advocates methods that are dangerous and outdated. Alpha-rolling an aggressive dog can get you attacked, for example.
  
  He is self-taught, and uses methods that have long been discredited in the dog training world. He prefers to overpower dogs, which can make them more fearful and aggressive, and he uses very little positive reinforcement. He does a lot of things right; however, there's a reason that there's a disclaimer on the show. Some of his methods (picking up small dogs by the back of the neck) make me cringe.
  
  Victoria Stillwell's program is excellent. Her methods tend to make the dog want to behave well for you (as opposed to fearing punishment in order to avoid bad behavior). She is well-versed in the latest dog training methods, and she uses plenty of treats and rewards. Obviously, since it's a half-hour show, you can't learn everything from her program, but it gives a lot of good pointers. Her methods take patience, which most people seem to lack anymore. Everyone wants a quick-fix solution.


• I believe it is a combination of stupidity on his part and even more on the viewers part.
  
  People don't seem to understand that the dogs on that show a evaluated for health and other issues PRIOR to being worked with. They know EXACTLY what the base issues are and understand what behaviors to watch for. Most novices (as well as many experienced folks) can easily miss signals that the dogs are giving off and get hurt!
  
  The show itself is prepared for that, and if something bad happens,. it NEVER gets aired and people don't have a clue!
  
  You are never going to stop them from airing the show and people from watching it. I wish there was just a better way to convince people to NOT try it at home.
  
  I don't believe his books are any better because, again, it can't teach someone to read the signals that the dogs can give off. If people have problems that they need to address with a dog, they need to hire a professional trainer. A trainer not only trains the dog, but trains the owner on how to teach the dog!


• I find Cesar Milan scary. Anyone who thinks they know *the answer* to every problem is nuts. And I find his heavy-handed approach barbaric and quite behind the times as far as training philosphy is concerned.
  
  Dog training shows on TV (I like Victoria Stillwell's approach better, but still...) are entertainment as much as information and are staged to be oversimplified. The danger lies in people thinking that this is "the way to go" without really thinking it through or thinking about alternatives.
  
  I did read the book. There was some good stuff in it, especially about being calm and assertive. I think he comes across a little better in the book than he does on TV, where he solves all problems in a 30 minute time frame, making people think he has all the answers.
  
  Taken with a grain of salt, these programs can be helpful. If they're taken as gospel, they are a menace!


• I personally do not care for the training methods of "the dog whisperer". The little bit of him that I have watched showed him dominating the dogs, not training them. His methods may work for him, but they would not necessarily work for just anyone. I happen to enjoy Victoria Stillwell's Its Me or the Dog. Her training methods are something that anybody can do with time and patience. She does not dominate the dogs, she trains them. I have used many of her ideas to help my dog and my friends and family with their dogs and have always had success. TV shows are designed to make money, that does not mean that we can't learn something from them. I pretty much disregard anything that is slanted to making money and concentrate on the parts of the show that actually teach something.


• I like the show, I've used a lot of the techniques, and I'm glad their are some shows that help people understand how they should treat their dogs. Just because he presents some simple solutions, doesn't mean they don't work. Sometimes simple is best.
  
  The man has studied dogs. Some people just have natural abilities. The fact that he has kept so many dogs from being put down should be enough for people who care at all about dogs not to be so vicious.
  
  There are plenty of trainers and other methods and techniques available. If you don't like the Caesar's methods, then by all means don't use them. But, don't try to tear him down to people who he actually helps.


• When i got my puppy i got his book " be the packleader" as a present. I really didn't help much. It has some good ideas in it but it all just seems to be written to glorify his own person. The book is full of "success" stories that were done by other people but supposably inspired by him through his tv show. great.


• Dangerous for whom? I personally like the show and I learned so much about my dog and other dogs behaviors as well from Cesar's show. Although the show always advise to not try it at home, which makes sense if you have no experience/want to do so. I don't like the other shows mentioned because they don't get to the point as much as Cesar's show. However never read the books nor I have any plans to buy them.


• The show is dangerous, because too many people get the impression from it that they can fix a problem with a dangerous and/or very large dog. To me, that is irresponsible. I also see many posters here referring to links to his training methods.
  
  It is one thing to air a show about such an unusual situation - such as animal rescue or observing jungle animals in the wild - but the fact that any one of us can pretty much go down the street and find such an unruly candidate makes it all the more likely that someone would try things for which they are simply not trained.
  
  His methods are not well thought of, and although I too value freedom of speech, I think some stations should use more discretion and air something less harmful. Certainly there must be more to choose from than that.
  
  Here are some reviews by reputable behaviorists:
  http://www.svbt.org/pages/CesarMillan.ht…


• just a few comments on what i have seen about him
  watch the sun reflections on the ground, you only see the good things and the progress, most people think that its going to be a quick fix just because one dog has been conquered in one or two days,
  in reality its like one or two weeks with the dog in question,
  also have you noticed that he has his own herd of dogs that he keeps as a pack. he should really be adopting them out and taking more from shelters and training them on his show, and rehoming them out,
  i personally believe that he is just in it for the money.
  


• I personally happen to like The Dog Whisperer. I don't think he is barbaric as people claim he is. We all love our dogs, and most of us treat them like family. . but Cesar reminds us that they are dogs and they understand things as dogs. When a dog is not happy with another dog, he will snap or growl. Another dog understands this behavior. In my opinion, all the chicken pieces in the world will not stop an aggressive dog from attacking other animals. Cesar works to correct the behavior of these dogs. He doesn't claim to be a trainer. He clearly says that he is a "dog behavior specialist" which I would personally agree.
  
  I watch Victoria as well and I take bits and pieces from both. Victoria seems to work more to train dogs. Teaching them not to jump up on people, or to stay in the yard, or to come when called. Cesar seems to specialize with the more aggressive dogs. There is a reason he has been successful doing what he does, and anyone who thinks they can watch a show then pin down a Rottweiler is in for a rude awakening. I think he is great at what he does and he has a genuine love for dogs. I've never seen Victoria work with a vicious dog in danger of being put to sleep. I've seen shows where Cesar has actually been bitten, and they clearly state that the rest of us should contact a professional before trying these methods.
  
  I foster homeless dogs through a rescue group. Most of them are puppies so I'm able to use positive reinforcement (more Victoria's style). I did end up with 1 litter of oddly aggressive older puppies. I took 3 from the litter and someone else took the other 3. After a week of working with them, they were happy & playful puppies. I did end up having to hold one of them down several times during the first few days. She would constantly attack the other puppies. She was food aggressive & snapped at my daughter. By the end of the week I could put my hands in her bowl while she was eating and she stopped attacking the other puppies. Again, this was a 15 pound Chow mix puppy. I would never try that with a full grown 60 pound dog.
  We are all entitled to our opinion, but Cesar's methods helped me and all 3 puppies were adopted. Not to mention, the 3 puppies that didn't live with me for the week were still displaying signs of aggression. They couldn't even have them out at adoption day because they were snapping at everyone that came near their crate.
  
  Again, this is just my opinion based on my personal experiences.
  
  Bottom line, anyone who watches these shows apparently has a love for their dogs or else we wouldn't watch and try to learn. I say do what works for you, as long as you aren't hurting your furry friend.

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Dog Health Questions: Advice on getting into dog training/grooming/showing?

So, I've decided I eventually work with shelties in showing and agility trials. I'd like to try and get some experience now working with dogs before I'm ready to own them myself.

I'm taking veterinary technician classes right now (not really what I want to do but its great experience), but I'm interested in learning grooming and training techniques as well. And since I'm most interested in shetland sheepdogs, agility and obedience trials as well. What is the best way to go about learning these things before actually getting a dog of my own? I want to learn now so I can plenty of experience when I get my first dog*.

(* I've owned dogs in the past, but never have done any showing or any trials before)

Dog Training With A Clicker

Recommended Answer:
Join your local All-breed kennel club and search out mentors there.

Join the closest Sheltie kennel club and search out mentors.

Be persistant- often people will approach breeders/exhibitors for information and not follow through- which leads to the breeders/exhibitors being reluctant to waste time with someone who doesn't seem commited.

Overall I've found Sheltie people to be very nice- and I learned a LOT about grooming techniques from a couple of Sheltie breeders.

Go to AKC's events sections and find shows you can attend in your area. Agility is an absolute blast! Specialty shows (conformation/agility/obedience for one breed only) are a great place to start networking to eventually find the right dog.

You may even be able to find someone to apprentice under.

House-Training And Housebreaking a Dog - Training Guide

• All I can answer to is agility. You *need* to take classes. There are so many things to learn about running a dog (front cross, rear cross, to blind cross or not to blind cross, etc.). The classes teach the dog how to handle each obstacle, but they also teach you how to run a course.
  
  Good luck and have fun - Shelties are great dogs!


• Get to know a breeder in your area. Breeders are an excellent source for information regarding showing and trials.


• Since Shelties are a pretty common breed, there should be a Sheltie club in your area. I'd suggest joining it and getting to know the members and learning about the breed from them. Probably you can find a breeder to mentor you.


• My best advice to you is to frequent dogs shows in your area, and buddy up to someone who seems to know what they're doing (a good indicator is if they consistently show / place well). Perhaps ask them if you could be their assistant. Obviously you'd want to shadow a sheltie person, since that's your dog of choice, however many handlers show many breeds of dog, and by working with someone who works with many breeds, you will also gain a more diverse experience. Good luck!


• there are tons of books about agility training and conformation showing. those would be a goo dplace to start.
  You can find out if there is an agility class in your area and ask if you can come out and watch the training sesions
  also check for conformation handling or ring craft classes too.
  
  You can find shows in your area too and go watch and talk to shetly owners too.
  
  if you are in the USA a great place to look for shows and trials in
  www.infodog.com


• Actually your best bet would be to contact breed rescue and get a Sheltie and train it and title it in performance - that will get you meeting people at shows/ trials and you will be able to show them your capabilities. Most breeders prefer to have an experienced person to deal with - place prospects with, mentor and all - so it might be a really good idea and it will give a wonderful dog a second chance and help you learn a whole lot. Usually if someone comes up to me about my breed and is all wanna learn and have a show prospect or whatever, it just sounds like so much impulsivity talking but if someone has actually take and dog and done something with it, it shows that they were committed enough to do that as well as anything you do with a dog requires training so it gives you hands on experience with that. You can work with keeping it properly and well groomed, trained and well behaved and if it were me, I would jump at the chance of helping someone like that, that had that sort of commitment, in any way I could. Going to shows and trials is helpful for your learning but basically you need to be able to show you are truely committed to this endeavor instead of the usual impulsive young person that will drop it after five years....


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

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