Dog Health Questions: My friend's dog has a people-biting problem... any help?

My boyfriend lives with his best friend and the best friend's girlfriend (I'll call her Sally). The girlfriend has a German Shepherd mix that's about two years old (I'll call him Rover), and the dog has a serious problem with anyone who does not live in the house.

Anytime I come over to see my boyfriend, I have to be wary of the dog because he is so protective of Sally. If Sally walks in the room when I'm sitting down and doesn't come too close to me, the dog is fine. But if Sally walks up to me or if I even get within ten feet of her, Rover runs up to me and will either stare me down with an aggressive-interested look or bite me! Sally punishes the dog, but it's not working because this has been going on for a year now.

Lately I've been taking matters into my own hands, and while I don't feel good about it, I've hit the dog on the nose when he bites, and if he looks like he's going to do anything, I make myself look larger and tell him in a strong voice to leave. It's works, but none of the aggressive behavior has changed! I still get bitten on the hand, leg, and butt, and Rover's almost gotten my face. It's gotten to where I can't even get up and walk around a room unless Sally is out of the house because Rover is so protective.Once she's gone, he's fine, but as soon as she comes in the room or back home, he snaps. The worst thing is that Sally doesn't get it (she's not the brightest crayon in the box) and she'll walk up to me and chat up a storm and make all these gestures with her hands. Next thing you know, Rover's tried to bite me and all Sally can say is "No no!"

How can I convince her to get the dog trained or rehabilitated without hurting her feelings? Sally does tend to take things personally, especially when it comes to Rover, but I can't take it anymore. I shouldn't have to be on guard when I visit my boyfriend, and I shouldn't have to stay away from that house just because one dog is protective-aggressive of an owner that refuses to train him, but I don't want to be there one day when he decides to possibly attack me. Sally works at Petsmart, so you'd think it'd be easy to get some training sessions. Also, the dog isn't neutered, and I've suggested to my boyfriend that they do that, but they don't have the money..... so what should happen?

(There are three other dogs in the house that are nothing like this. I don't blame the shepherd part of the dog - there is a full shepherd in the house that's as sweet as sugar. I also don't blame the genetics - the dog's sire also lives in the house and is a great old dog!)

Secrets to Dog Training Review - Is it Really the Best Dog Training Program?

Recommended Answer:
sounds like a job for the Dog Whisperer

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

• need to put a bullet in the head of a dog that bites. only way. a dog that bites always bites.


• Stay away from the dog!!


• kick em fo sho


• Not being neutered is likely leading to at least some of the aggressive behavior, if not the majority. Call the local animal control; sometimes they have programs to help with the fees for spay/neuter services or know of people that do.
  
  Beyond that, tell the girlfriend you are afraid of the dog attacking you and ask her to separate him from you while you are there. It's a reasonable request, especially since he attacks you specifically.


• Yes, I think neutering him is the first step. It won't cure the problem but it might help to take the aggressive edge off, and strenuouske him a little less intense. And strenuous exercise will undoubtedly help. There is no truer statement than 'a tired dog is a good dog'. If 'Sally' is not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, it is doubtful that the dog has any confidence in her ability to deal with the 'threat' of you being close to her. He doesn't think she's capable of looking after herself so he is stepping up.
  A crate is a great training tool, but by the sounds of it , there will have to be a rather extensive training protocol that is put in place to fix his behaviour. If he is protective, throwing him in a crate is not going to solve anything on its own. In fact, I'd be worried about him developing territorial issues as well as a result of frustrating his protective urges.
  And if all else fails, feel free to tell her that a lawsuit is rapidly coming her way if the dog continues to bite you. I don't know where you live, but as far as I know, it is generally not considered allowable for dogs to bite people !


• Call Ceaser Melan! Try buying one of his seasons, they really do help and that kind of **** is explained a million times throughout it. Or get a dog trainer. I believe there is one called bark busters that I got for my dog, good stuff.


• blow some balloons and let the dog bite them and get him scared of biting ppl
  and if he keeps on biting ppl, put water or something the balloons and scare him
  
  hope it helps ^^


• sadly this is a serious situation waiting to happen. If this continues then someone is going to end up seriously hurt. Sally needs to take responsibility, if she won't get the dog trained then she needs at the very least to buy a muzzle and put it on her dog when other people are around. She could get one from work at a discount no doubt.


• The worst way to get a dog to stop biting is to hit it or use aggression in any way. This just makes them be aggressive back. So, when people tell you to smack the dog on the nose...ignore them. The reason the dog is biting you is because he feels threatened by you. He wants Sally's love and attention and doesn't want people to interfere with that. Getting the dog neutered would help, and it is the responsible thing for the dog owner to do. Here is a trick that Victoria Stillwell uses. I really advocate her techniques because they do not use punishment like Caesar Milan. Instead they use positive reinforcement so the dog doesn't end up feeling threatened by aggression.
  
  1) when the dog snaps at you yelp really loudly like a hurt puppy. This tells the dog he hurt you, because that is what puppies do when they hurt each other during play. However, if he is intentionally hurting you, this may not work. But it's worth a try.
  
  2) The dog doesn't like you because he associates you with stealing attention from him. Get some training treats. Have your friend sit in the room with the dog and the treats. When you walk in the room, she needs to immediately start giving the dog treats and keep giving him treats while your in the room. As soon as he gets aggressive, leave the room and make your friend stop giving him treats. If you keep doing this, he will begin to associate you with treats and will begin to like you if he understands that good things happen when you are around.
  
  3) If the dog is sitting with Sally and starts to be aggressive towards you in any way, Sally should immediately leave the room and not let the dog follow (close a door or something). This way the dog will begin to understand that if he uses aggression in any way, he will not get any attention whatsoever. He is being aggressive because he wants to protect his attention. If she keeps doing this he'll realize that he only gets attention when he is not being aggressive.
  
  Hopefully Sally doesn't have to get her dog put down or anything. A lot of times it is not the dog's fault it is aggressive...it is the owner's. Good luck!


• Sally needs to be trained, not the dog. The dog does not respect her as his leader. She is probably projecting some sort of insecurity and he is receiving her negative energy. Do not humanize the dog with emotion. He is not jealous or mean, he is acting out a natural instinct because he is a dog. Sally needs to do more than "no, no" when he snaps, she needs to assert herself as pack leader. Punishment will not work, she must establish herself as the pack leader so he does not feel the need to lead the pack (his people).
  
  As to how to tell her, be frank and tell her that she is doing the dog a disservice by allowing him to mistrust and not be a relaxed, happy dog. He's anxious and unhappy when he snaps and a dog should be calm and submissive. She must walk him briskly every day to help get some of that energy out of him. Go to the Cesar Milan's website and you'll find lots of information.


• Tell her straight, sooner or later; usually sooner with very nasty consequences; some one usually a kid will be hurt or worse. Then people will be gunning for the little critter & it'll be to late then. So tell then straight get it seen by professionals before it cops some lead & they get in trouble too.

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Dog Health Questions: HOW TO STOP MY DOG BARKING!!!?

My dog is a cocker spaniel she is 11.5 months. When i leave my dog in the house (on her own) she starts squealing and barking and she scratches the door... She barks when my family goest to the shop and we stay out.. She already has 3 reports... Im 13 i really love my baby puppy as i saw the letter about my dog has to be gone on Oct. 18 I STARTED TO CRY and i promissed i would try to stop her bark... BUT SHE DOESNT LISTEN... My parents dont have any money for special dog training lessons is there anything for free that could help my dog?

PLEASE HELP MY DOG TO STAY... Thank you very much from Maria.

My email: maria.douglas1997@hotmail.co.uk

Dog Training - Tips For Consistency

Recommended Answer:
You could try a device that was meant especially for training a dog to stop barking. These devices use ultrasonic sounds to make stop the dog from barking. You can train the dog with the device and after a while you can command it to stop barking or to start barking. These devices are harmless to dogs and to humans.

Dog Training: To Have Or Not To Have A Trainer

• Do you train her daily to get her brain working?
  
  How often do you walk her? She needs long walks daily to get rid of all that energy.
  
  Do you leave a toy such as kongs behind when you leave in her crate with her?
  
  Could very well be seperation anxiety. Look it up and sort it out.
  http://www.dog-pictures.co.uk/dog-care-a…


• your dog has separation problems. you can try stepping out of the house for a few minutes then back in. trying to teach your dog will not be left behind. you can try leaving a tape recording of your voice behind or the radio on. both of these on batteries.


• go and buy a no bark collar. you can get them over the internet for about 19.95. what every time the dog barks the collar disrupts them


• Man has been searching for this answer ever since dogs have been domesticated.


• Since this is a pretty dire situation, like you have had lots of complaints, consider a corrective collar. The electric ones work best, but I hate them becuse they can unfairly correct your dog. I would not go for a cheap-o one, they don't work as well as the nicer, and more expensive ones. Also, if your dog has true separation anxiety, it might make the situation worse. VERY FEW DOGS I HAVE COME ACROSS ACTUALLY HAVE TRUE SEPARATION ANXIETY. Most are just spoiled and the barking is a learned behaviour, and will go away with consistent correction and redirection.
  
  A more long term solution would be to crate train the dog so that he is not anxious about being alone in there, and keep the crate in an interior room should he begin to bark while you are away, cutting down on outside noise.


• Okay you can try to use the startle method- when she starts barking blow a whistle or shake a can full of coins. When she stops barking to see what the heck the noise is, praise her and give her a treat. Repeat until she learns that stopping the barking will get her rewarded.
  
  If she only barks when you're leaving, don't make a big deal about leaving or coming home. In fact, just ignore the dog when you walk in or leave for a few minutes. You can try walking out of the door, and then coming back in a few seconds. Keep doing this until she learns that you WILL come back. After she learns this, start to stay outside the door until she stops barking. Once she stops, come back in. This way she learns that you will come back when she stops barking.
  
  Don't use bark/shock collars, they can be dangerous and confusing for the dog and many times will just make the barking worse!
  
  Also, dog training and animal behaviourists are often a lot cheaper than people think. I would look into it. If your parents agreed to let you have a dog, they really should invest in a trainer. Tell them you will pay them back with housework or as an early birthday present. It's not fair to you or the dog to not take care of her.


• supposedly leaving an old t-shirt or a toy you have rubbed in your hands will help stop this behaviour (known as separation anxiety) also leaving things like bones or hiding treats in different places around the house or garden. im knot sure but i saw the movie grown ups and they got their dogs vocal chords cut and it stopped it from barking ( loudly that is but it sounded kind of like a turkey) it my not be possible but its better than it being sold or put down

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training help! Cola SC?

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

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

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

Dog Training Using Electronic Collars

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Check out www.sitmeanssit.com. They are a great group of trainers and can go beyond where a lot of trainers fail with problem solving. They can train any dog and if you have a trainer in your area you can call and schedule a FREE demo where they will show you what they can do with your dog. I've have used their system for several years and it works great and you can train your dog to do almost anything and be able to take him anywhere with some work. Petsmart training is good for new dog owners to learn the very very basics of very basic dog training but these guys can take you farther than you could ever expect. You can also check out their youtube vids. Hope this helps.

Clicker Dog Training - Getting Started Clicker Training

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Dog Health Questions: Because Pitbulls that follow the breed standard are generally supposed to be dog-aggressive?

and because they are capable of much more damage than many other breeds if they were to attack another dog, do you feel that pitbull owners have to have a higher level of responsibility than a typical dog owner? I see a lot of people complaining about Pitbull attacks and a lot of Pitbull owners blaming the environment of the dog more than the nature of the dog. Do you feel that it would be a good idea to make potential pitbull owners earn a license of some sort through classes about dogs/training/safety before being able to buy a pitbull?

Dog Training Using Treats and Rewards and How to Make Sure Your Dog Doesn't Become a Treat Junkie

Recommended Answer:
YES. This breed needs so much more than food and a yard.

I feel as though they need SPECIAL, DEDICATED owners, and are a bigger responsibility than any other breed. (IMO!)

I REALLY feel potential owners should go to a class to LEARN about what they're getting themselves into.

They CAN cause A LOT of damage, and shouldn't be in the wrong hands of somebody who wants a "Guard dog" or a "Gangster dog", but more so a companion dog, as they were bred to be.

I think Rescues should start classes for ANYONE who wants to adopt this breed, and make certain they are the RIGHT home for the breed.

They take a special owner, a firm, but gentle hand, and LOTS of patience and supervision.

I NEVER recommend this breed to first time owners, they are a very special breed, that call for a very special owner.

(Like Rachel - Pit Police!)

Dog Training - Getting the Basics Right

• This statement can be generalized across many breeds, and is NOT exclusive to Pit Bulls. Every dog owner has the responsibility to train and socialize their dogs, and to ensure that their dogs are behaving in such a way that they do not pose a danger to themselves or other people or animals. The level of responsibility will depend on the individual dog, not necessarily the breed.
  
  The force of a dog's bite/attack should NOT even matter, aggressive behaviour from ANY breed is unacceptable. In my opinion, there is no difference between a Pomeranian biting a toe off, and a Pit Bull biting a hand off.


• you cant just say pit bulls my dog got attacked by a Chihuahua today and drew blood if you do it for one breed you will have to do it for all breeds.


• OH, that would be great for EVERY pet parent to go through! EDUCATION and TRAINING! Woo hoo!
  
  A dog is a dog is a dog. They are an animal first then a dog, then a breed. To blame a breed for being aggressive is plain ignorance of dog behavior. A dog just doesn't all of a sudden become dangerous unless there is a medical reason! A dog becomes aggressive because of human intervention or lack or dog behavior knowledge!


• well pitbulls have been known to attack other dogs and humans to. and some peopl say its because of the environment they are raised in. its really not its in their blood.


• The first poster is ABSOLUTELY RIGHT!!! Many terrier breeds are supposed to be "aggressive" and NOT back down from a fight. In shows they will face two terriers and see what they do. The judge wants to see dogs that will "spar". THESE DOGS ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE PEOPLE AGGRESSIVE!
  
  People should have to take the stupidity test. The stupid people are the ones who are having trouble with these dogs.


• htey are very strong bogs but can be gentle they are agressive when the owner threats the wrong its best to get one as a puppy and keep it around other dogs and puppies and treat it right as you would treat a child they are very sensitive and anger easily dont hit them and scold them talk sweet and pet and cuddle them as much *** possible remember to keep them around kids and other people to prevent future attacks


• I would have to say yes. I wish they would initiate such a practice. Perhaps that would keep pits out of the hands of the thugs that abuse them. I would like to see some sort of licensure for every dog breed eventually. People in general are ignorant, not meaning to insult anyone here. :) But I see dogs abused and mistreated everyday. People go out and buy a dog, put it on a chain in the back yard and there is where it lives out its days. Nice, huh? People who get any breed of dog without first researching the breed are irresponsible and unfortunately, the dog pays the ultimate price.
  
  I don't know why I'm getting thumbs down. I am not against owning a pitbull. I do not, under any circumstances believe that the breed itself it aggressive. But I see HUNDREDS of pitbulls euthanized each month because of ignorant people who breed them, train them, own them because they want to look "tough". If licensure is not the answer, what is? How do we get and keep these dogs away from the "thug nation"???
  
  Hey, I took the find the pitbull test and got it right with one try!!!!


• first of all pit bulls are not dog aggressive unless they are being bred to fight. I had 2 pits with 8 other dogs and never had any problems!!!! People who owns dogs in general need to be more responsible for their dogs! And Breed Specifics are unconstitutional and unfair to everyone. You would not like it if I said that your little dogs had to have special license to own!


• The official AKC standard for the American Staffordshire Terrier actually does not mention temperament at all:
  
  http://www.amstaff.org/breedinfo.html#st…
  
  The UKC standard for the American Pit Bull Terrier specifies that they are "extremely friendly, even with strangers" and that "Aggressive behavior towards humans is uncharacteristic of the breed and HIGHLY UNDESIREABLE. "
  
  The standard does NOT *require* that they be dog-aggressive, but notes that some level of dog aggressiveness is characteristic of the breed (as is the case with most terriers, BTW).
  
  http://www.ukcdogs.com/RegistrationBreed…
  
  I believe that it is EVERY dog owner's responsibility to know the characteristics of their breed, and to act accordingly.


• I have seen Labs and Retrievers JUST as aggressive as some pit-bulls.
  The aggression really has nothing to do with the breed specifically, its more to do with the owner.
  An inexperienced owner that does not know how to properly train their dog is going to end up with an aggressive dog.
  
  For example... someone who trains their puppy with positive reinforcement (praise, treats) will have a loving and obedient adult dog.
  However, someone that thinks they can train their dog with yelling, hitting, and confinement is going to end up with a dog that is very aggressive.
  
  It really doesnt matter if its a pit or a poodle... afterall, how would you react to someone that shoved your nose in feces, hit you, and locked you outside for days without any attention?


• Where I got my dog from gave me all sorts of info on the bread, written and spoken. I also had to make many trips to see the dog before I got him. The biggest problem with the breed is not that their any more aggressive then a lot of other breeds, it's that so darn powerful. People don't realize how much strength they have. If the dog does want to go it will. After handling my dog, anytime I take care of another breed its a piece of cake to control them.
  You definitely should have some training, but I've seen people get any kind of dog that should have training.


• it's true that every dog owner should be required to socialize their dogs and train them well to minimize the chance of aggression, but yes, i think that holds particularly true for pit bulls. their function for many people WAS fighting (be it baiting or dog-on-dog), the same as countless other breeds, but unlike some of those breeds, that function hasn't really died out with some pit bulls because the fighting still exists. of course it's a generalization, but i think that's a reason behind many pit bull attacks, because they're still today being used as little warriors when we don't need that any more.
  mastiffs, for example, have been involved in all sorts of baiting, warring and fighting, but because it's been hundreds of years since that was their purpose, it's died out for the most part. now they're naturally house dogs, though good guard ones, granted.


• To adopt a pitbull from a shelter, the people wanting to adopt usually do have to meet certain criteria that matches the breed of the dog. I've seen people get denied to adopt a pit bull before, just because the shelter knew it wouldn't be a good match.
  
  I would be fine with owners of all breeds who are known to be more dominant have to earn a license and pass a test to renew it every year. It would eliminate some of the bad owners, but not all.
  
  I know homeowners insurance increases with particular breeds, and some apartment complexes will not allow certain breeds either.


• 1. American Pit Bull Terriers are some of the sweetest dogs in the world! they just get a bad rep because of media. they just had bad owners. my sweet loving caring loyal dog if actually part pit bull. hes the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i love him to death. the only thing is that you have to make sure is that you train him a little. all dogs need to be trained atleast a little. pit bulls just need to be treated like every other dog to be a loving caring sweet adorable loyal dogs. they are only in a bad rep because of bad owners.


• First and foremost, pitbull is NOT a breed. The breed is the american staffordshire terrier and aggression towards people OR animals is not in the breed standard - go read it!
  Second, pitbulls are by far, not the most aggressive breed, nor are they the most likely breed to bite - go check the statistics.
  Third, the vast majority of 'pitbull' attacks are actually attacks by another breed mistakenly identified as a 'pitbull'. The vast majority of the population cannot identify correctly either a full breed pit bull nor can the adequately identify mixed breeds. to prove this point, i would recommend this site http://www.understand-a-bull.com/Findthe…
  
  The fact is, that the vast majority of attacks of real pit bulls are dogs that were made dangerous by design - they were owned by people who intended that the dog be aggressive. This is often people who engage in other illegal activity such as dog fighting, illegal drugs, theft, etc. These people are not going to be stopped by making another law because these people are already ignoring laws.
  And if you did somehow take away all the pit bulls from the truly dangerous people, then what breed would they own? Cane Corsos? Dogo Argentino? Presa Canario? There are plenty of dogs in this same group that could easily replace the pit bull as the dog of choice for lawless young men looking to enhance their macho image by having a dangerous dog around.
  The plain fact is, when you actually look at the facts instead of spreading misinformation, is that the problem is the owners and not the breed. Banning any breed or putting limits on that breed are not helpful. Only by addressing the real problem - the person at the end of the leash- will you get any solution to the problem.
  For more real facts on pit bulls and the entire bsl problem i recommend http://www.understand-a-bull.com/


• In most cases Pitbull attacks are often at the fault of their owners. Lack of knowledge of the breed from the owner is one of the reasons for lack of proper care for the dog. Unfortunatly, one of the most common reasons for pittbull attacks is because the dog has been raised to fight or have had previous experience in dog fighting. Pitbulls who are correctly raised from birth, make great pets as any other dog would. But I do agree, that potential pitbull owners should have to have a liscense to be able to buy and own a pitbull.


• i agree with everyone that is standing up for the pit bull...its the owners that make the dog "bad", with that breed a person needs to take more time with them and socialize them "general rule of thumb...a gentle hand makes a loving family member"...where i live a rott killed a 3 month old baby and im sure with more looking into other breeds there are more attacks than they realize..its just someone started attacking the breed of the pit and others ran with it...my friend raised a pitt from a pup and could safely place his head in the pits mouth. they are very loving animals with socialization, training and lots of love....


• I don't feel that there should be any breed-specific legislation for any breed of dog. I do, however, believe that all pet owners should have to have a pet-owning license and a background check; this should start with cats, dogs, and exotics. I believe this because pet owners need to learn responsibility for their pets. No animal should be subjected to abuse, neglect, or obesity (which I believe should also be considered as abuse or neglect).
  
  I say background check because anyone that has caused harm to another human being is much more likely to abuse a pet too. There is actually legislation going to through the govt about connecting the laws about child abuse and animal abuse. If this change passes, if a child has been abused in a home where there is a pet as well, a report must be filed of suspected animal abuse as well. This also includes the opposite. If animal abuse has been reported, suspected child abuse must also be reported if a child lives in the home.
  
  I do agree that pit bulls were bred to be aggressive, and also that the aggressive behavior can be bred out of them, or at least controlled by a loving household that trains them well. Most of the dog's aggressive behavior comes from feeling stressed or cornered. If that stress is removed (the dog being distracted by a toy or treat) then the aggression goes down quite a bit. Also, if any dog shows aggression what-so-ever, the dog should be taken to the vet to see if it is caused by a medical problem such as with the thyroid. Many aggressive dogs will also have a thyroid problem.


• No, because there is still an underground of slimy disgusting "people" who will NEVER take said class, and the good breeders/owners already know what a good bully breed owners needs to know. Unfortunately, there is a huge misconception and prejudice towards the bully breeds. "Pit Bulls" have one of the lowest bite rates towards people, and realistically, the dog aggression issue is a reality. However, any and all breeds are very capable of displaying severe dog aggression. The sheer power of a pit bull can be a problem, but quite frankly, there are many large breed dogs who can inflict very severe injury as well...
  We need to stop categorizing the bully breeds like they are some freakishly vicious dogs. They are dogs, and in the wrong hands can be frightening, but for those of us who love them, they are probably the very best companion, protector, and "nanny" you can find!
  
  Edit** No, "special consideration" should NOT be taken with any breed of dog. We need to make laws prosecuting very strongly those who intentionally breed these dogs irresponsibly, fight them, etc. It's no different than gun ownership. In a law abiding citizens hands, a gun is probably your best friend. However, you get someone who has it wihtin them to misuse that firearm and a gun is a frightening thing.
  How have we come to the place where we don't see this?


• Today, they aren't bred to be dog aggressive anymore by responsible breeders. I'm not saying they aren't more prone to dog aggression, but they aren't bred to be anymore. I think that pittie owners do have to assume more responsibility because of all of the bad owners out there. My pit mix has to set the example of the correct way to act to others if I don't want BSL to go into effect where I live. When people see my dog, they automatically assume that he is dangerous and will continue to think that of the entire breed unless we pittie owners are even MORE responsible than any other owner.


• pitbulls are not aggressive only aggressive when fighting. it depends on all how you raise and train your dog... pitbulls are not a mean dog at all. they are stubborn breed though at some points in time.. The American Pit Bull Terrier is a good-natured, amusing, extremely loyal and affectionate family pet, which is good with children and adults. Almost always obedient, it is always eager to please its master. It is an extremely courageous and intelligent guard dog that is very full of vitality. Highly protective of his owners and the owner's property, it will fight anenemy to the death. It is usually very friendly, but has an uncanny ability to know when it needs to protect and when everything is okay. The American Pit Bull Terrier can be willful and needs a firm hand. They are generally okay with other pets if they are raised with them from puppy hood. For the most part they are very friendly, but not recommended for most people. Excellent with children in the family, they have a high pain tolerance and will happily put up with rough child play. As with any breed, they should not be left alone with unfamiliar children. Originally used as fighting dogs, the powerful American Pit Bull may go for the throat of strange dogs. A minimum of training will produce a tranquil, obedient dog. Socialize very thoroughly when young to combat aggressive tendencies and be sure to keep the dog under control when other dogs are present. It has given outstanding results as a guardian of property, but is at the same time esteemed as a companion dog. When properly trained and socialized, this is a very good dog and a great family companion. Unfortunately, some choose to promote the fighting instinct in the breed, giving it a bad name. Among enthusiasts, the history of the APBT is as controversial as the breed itself is among the misled public. The breed's history is a recurrent subject of lively debate in the magazines devoted to the breed. In fact, this FAQ was hotly debated among the contributors before it reached its final form, and still everyone isn't 100% happy!
  
  Although the precise origin of the APBT is not known, we can reliably trace its roots back at least one hundred and fifty years or so [1] to England. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries the sport of bull-baiting was very much alive and dogs were bred to excel in this endeavor. The same type of dog was also used by hunters to catch game and by butchers and farmers to bring down unruly cattle. These dogs were called "bulldogs." Historically, the word "Bulldog" did not mean a specific breed of dog but rather it was applied to descendants of the ancient Mastiff- type dogs that excelled in the task of bull-baiting. The "bulldogs" of yore were much different from, and should not be confused with, the loveable clowns of the show ring today. The old, performance-bred, working bulldog was closer in phenotype and spirit to the APBT and/or the modern American Bulldog. The use of the word "bulldog" applied to APBT's persists even today among APBT fanciers.
  
  When bull-baiting was outlawed in England in 1835 the sport of matching two dogs against one another in combat rose in popularity to fill the void. One point of contention about the history of the APBT is whether these pit fighting dogs were essentially a new breed of dog specially created for this popular pastime. Some authors, notably Richard Stratton, have theorized that the APBT is essentially the same breed as the Renaissiance bull-baiting dogs, largely unmixed with any other kind of dog, specifically terriers. These authors consider the present name, American Pit Bull Terrier, a double misnomer, since, in their view, the breed is not of American origin and is not a terrier.
  
  They explain the popular attribution of the breed's origin to a cross between bull-baiters and terriers as a retrospective confusion with the breeding history of the English Bull Terrier, which is a totally distinct breed that was never successful at pit fighting but whose origin is well-documented. Other authors who have researched the topic, such as Dr. Carl Semencic, argue that the APBT is indeed the product of a cross between bull-baiting dogs and terriers and that the breed simply did not exist in its current form during the Renaissance. They would argue that when we think of the terriers in the APBT's ancestry, we should not envision modern-day show dogs like Yorkshire Terriers, but instead working terriers (probably now extinct) that were bred for great tenacity in hunting. The problem of proof, which hangs over the discussion of any early breed history, is compounded in this case by the extreme secrecy of the breeders of pit dogs. In the 19th century pedigrees, if committed to paper at all, were not divulged, since every breeder feared letting his rivals in on the secrets of his success and replicating it. In any case, by no later than the mid-19th century, the breed had acquired all of the essential characteristics for which it is still prized today: its awesome athletic abilities, its peerless gameness, and its easy-going temperament.
  
  The immediate ancestors of the APBT were Irish and English pit fighting dogs imported to the States in the mid-19th century. Once in the United States, the breed diverged slightly from what was being produced back in England and Ireland. In America, where these dogs were used not only as pit fighters, but also as catch dogs (i.e., for forcibly retrieving stray hogs and cattle) and as guardians of family, the breeders started producing a slightly larger, leggier dog. However, this gain in size and weight was small until very recently. The Old Family Dogs in 19th century Ireland were rarely above 25 lbs., and 15-lb. dogs were not uncommon. In American books on the breed from the early part of this century, it is rare to find a specimen over 50 lbs. (with a few notable exceptions). From 1900 to 1975 or so, there was probably a very small and gradual increment in the average weight of APBTs over the years, without any corresponding loss in performance abilities. But now that the vast majority of APBTs are no longer performance-bred to the traditional pit standard (understandably, since the traditional performance test, the pit contest itself, is now a felony), the American axiom of "Bigger is Better" has taken over in the breeding practices of the many neophyte breeders who joined the bandwagon of the dog's popularity in the 1980s. This has resulted in a ballooning of the average size of APBTs in the last 15 years--a harmful phenomenon for the breed, in our opinion. Another, less visible modification of the breed since the 19th century was the selective intensification of genetically programmed fighting styles (such as front-end specialists, stifle specialists, etc.), as performance breeding became more sophisticated under competitive pressures. In spite of these changes, there has been a remarkable continuity in the breed for more than a century. Photos from a century ago show dogs indistinguishable from the dogs being bred today. Although, as in any performance breed, you will find a certain lateral (synchronic) variability in phenotype across different lines, you will nevertheless find uncanny chronological continuity in these types across decades. There are photos of pit dogs from the 1860s that are phenotypically (and, to judge by contemporary descriptions of pit matches, constitutionally) identical to the APBTs of today.
  
  Throughout the 19th century, these dogs were known by a variety of names. "Pit Terriers", "Pit Bull Terriers", "Half and Half's", "Staffordshire Fighting Dogs", "Old Family Dogs"( the Irish name), "Yankee Terriers" (the Northern name), and "Rebel Terriers" (the Southern name) to name a few. In 1898, a man by the name of Chauncy Bennet formed the United Kennel Club (UKC) for the sole purpose of registering "Pit Bull Terriers" as the American Kennel Club wanted nothing to do with them. Originally, he added the word "American" to the name and dropped "Pit". This didn't please all of the people so later the word "Pit" was added back to the name in parentheses as a compromise. The parentheses were then removed from the name about 15 years ago. All other breeds that are registered with UKC were accepted into the UKC after the APBT. Another registry of APBTs is the American Dog Breeders Association (ADBA) which was started in September, 1909 by Guy McCord, a close friend of John P. Colby. Now under the stewardship of the Greenwood family, the ADBA continues to register only APBTs and is more in tune with the APBT as a breed than the UKC. The ADBA does sponsor conformations shows, but more importantly, it sponsors weight pulling competitions which test a dogs strength, stamina, and heart. It also publishes a quarterly magazine dedicated to the APBT called the American Pit Bull Terrier Gazette (see the "References" section). The authors feel that the ADBA is now the flagship registry of APBT as it is doing more to preserve the original characteristics of the breed.Among enthusiasts, the history of the APBT is as controversial as the breed itself is among the misled public. The breed's history is a recurrent subject of lively debate in the magazines devoted to the breed. In fact, this FAQ was hotly debated among the contributors before it reached its final form, and still everyone isn't 100% happy!
  
  Although the precise origin of the APBT is not known, we can reliably trace its roots back at least one hundred and fifty years or so [1] to England. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries the sport of bull-baiting was very much alive and dogs were bred to excel in this endeavor. The same type of dog was also used by hunters to catch game and by bu

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Dog Health Questions: How can I make the dog bath easier for him?

I know dogs don't like water but there must be some way to make it easier for them.
As dogs should he dislikes water and becomes extremely difficult. This is my first dog so I do not know very much on dog training (giving the dog a bath). So, if you guys have tips please help me.
Thanks:-)

Boxer Dog Training Tips and Ideas That Are Critical to Effective Instruction

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i just make sure that when i bath my dog i keep distracting her with lots of praise and treats. she likes swimming, buts she's not so keen on the shower head! ha ha bless, when you bath them they do shake a bit but he'll be ok as long as you keep the temperature right and don't spend too long in bathing them cos they get cold. make sure you have plenty of warm towels handy and for the first couple of times you might want to get someone to help you so the dog doesn't jump out of the bath and to keep feeding them treats!
hope that helps, he'll soon smell great again.

Dog Training Collar Aka Shock Collar Buyers' Guide

• The majority of dogs only need a bath once or twice a year, unless there is a medical condition, it's rolled in something, they are being shown, or are visiting nursing homes.
  
  A lot of people who give their dogs daily, weekly or monthly baths are on power trips. If you give your dog a daily brushing, odors will be minimized.
  
  However, if someone is bound and determined to give their dog a bath, at least make it easy on them by giving a waterless one. Here's the link:
  
  http://www.ehow.com/how_5071852_dry-sham…


• Lots of dogs like water, most don't like baths. Is your dog big or little?
  ,make sure that the water is warm enough, but not hot. wash his face with baby shampoo, and a washcloth to avoid getting stuff in his eyes/ ears. Don't stress, talk calmly and firmly, and praise allot, but not when he is doing the wrong things. Praise as soon as he does what you want. tell him no when he misbehaves. Ask a local groomer to let you help her for a while one day, she will teach you much in the art of bathing, lol. Mostly just stand firm.


• I feel for ya,my poms used to hate bathtime. Put your dog in the bath and the whole time your washing him talk soothingly. Tell him what a good boy he is and how brave he is being. Take him out give him a good towel drying. Then a treat. If he doesent like his bath he probably never will but at least this will make it a little easier on him.


• You didn't say how old the dog is. What kind of climate you're in either.
  
  If you're in a cold climate...ease him going into the water...actually, use the shower...
  
  warm climate ...bathe the dog outside and if you have a backyard...make it a play time...give him treats and his toys to fetch


• what i do is i have a treat with me and makes him try to get it make sure he or she can smell it and they will try to get it so the treat will take there mind off the bath. hoped this helped love chelsea and prescott


• If you're doing it outside, you use your leash to time him to something, and then use a scrub brush to wash him (so it is like you're petting him), and be as quick as possible.


• Best way would be to not bathe him.
  
  Why do you think he needs a bath?


• i never knew a dog who didn't like water.
  
  as for the baths,, put him in the tub, wash him, take him out. simple


• First, many dogs LOVE water! So remove that thought from your head. Yes, some like getting a bath better than others, just like people!
  
  Make it easier for yourself and it will be easier for the dog because you won't get upset, it will go more smooth and won't take as long. After the bath, make a big fuss about the drying off and playing with the doggie bath towel. Nearly every dog loves have the towel rubbed on them to get dry.
  
  Probably the easiest thing you can do if you don't have one already is get a hand held shower. They work just fine for everyday showering and are a huge help when giving a pet a bath. And they help a lot for just cleaning the tub and shower in general! You don't have to get an expensive one, but I wouldn't buy the cheapest one either. Don't waste your money on those things that slip over the faucet with a hose and a sprayer head and are made of rubber. They just blow/pop off and always at the worst time.
  
  Have all your supplies at the ready so you don't have to go looking for something in the middle of the bath. Be firm but speak in calm tones. Have the water gently warm and the water pressure in the middle range, not too hard but not too soft or it will take forever to rinse the shampoo out.
  
  Start at the back of the head with the water, wetting down the coat as you work back. I usually take an old washcloth that's damp and wash their faces, check the ears for dirt and so forth. When the coat is thoroughly wet, start shampooing at the back of the head and work all around the neck, making a collar of suds. This is especially important if fleas are an issue. The little buggers run for high ground (the head) and the suds collar will stop that. Just keep working your way back and down around the belly and all that.
  
  Then rinse well, massaging the coat around to make sure all the shampoo is rinsed out. Then take your hand and run it over the dog with a little down pressure to help squeeze the water out. Then start with the towels. A small dog you can wrap up, a big dog you'll need to rub and blot as best you can. If it's warmish, I just take my large dogs outside through the outside door in the bath and let them dry off in the grass. My toy dog loves being wrapped up and babied so that's what she gets.
  
  I give all three of mine a bath with minimal assistance; hubby has to help the big, old guy get in and out of the tub. He loves a bath, I think the warm water feels good to him. The middle dog hates it but knows she has to put up with it to get a goodie after. And the little one loves them too! She even holds her foot up so you wash it.
  
  If you approach the situation with negative thoughts and vibes they sense this. Best for you to be calm, firm and confident.

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Dog Health Questions: Is it time to put our dog down?

He is a 14 year old staff bull terrier. Some days he has no problem getting up, other days he does and will fall over while walking. We give him medication for his joints everyday but it doesn't always seem to work. He is blind in one eye, seems to see okay out the other one. His hearing definitely isn't what it used to be.

Recently, he has been peeing in the kennel everyday. We both work and he is left for approx. 8 hours before anybody can take him out. Up until a month ago he was doing fine like this. We only give him minimal amounts of water in the morning before we leave. But he pees in the kennel everyday now. We have tried dog training pads (which seems to promote him peeing in the kennel for whatever reason) and he pees directly on his dog bed, then lays in it. We have to wash him and his bedding everyday.

It is a tough decision for us. My boyfriend has had him since approx. 2 months old, I have been in his life for over 6 years. I don't want to see him suffer, but I don't want to cut his life short. Some days he seems to get a bounce back in his step and seems to enjoy life. Other days he doesn't want to get up.

Any input is appreciated on what we should do.

Thanks

The Worth of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
I would get a vet check to be sure he is 14, thats pretty up there. He man not be able to hold his bladder as good as he used to which is a sign of old man. this is an extremely difficult decision for you but I wouldnt do anything until he visited the vet and you gave your vet all the info you gave in your question and see what they think at this point. If you truly believe your dog is in pain then and this is hard for me to say but it may be that time to have your dog put down. This is a hard decision for anyone. I hope the best for you and if he does need to be put down, remember there is a grieving process for humans and dogs I believe. My rottie lived till he was 13 and my female basset who never bayed/howled started about a week prior and never left his side. It was devastating for me to watch him in pain and her as well, like she knew. I ultimately had to have him put to sleep and my Daisy Duke (basset) took a really long time to become back to herself. She hid in bedrooms and just slept, like a widow. And me on the other hand was just as bad, he was like my son. I really hope the best for you. dont let anyone bother you with the whole neglect thing you mentioned either sometimes there are just complete idiots on here.

Dog Training - 4 Quick Steps to Good Doggie Manners

• I would get him put to sleep.
  When I was a kid, we had a 16 year old dog who did nothing but lie on her bed and would toilet there too. It's not a gracious way to go. It's hard to remember old Duffy-Pog for the awesome dog who would play with us, but more as the one that got incontinent. You know?
  14 is a good innings for a Staff.


• It depends how much you are willing to commit. IF you do not mind washing and cleaning every day after this dog and he appears to NOT be suffering. If he appears to be in constant pain, that is another story. Has he been seen by a vet lately? He may just have a bladder infection.
  Sorry to say,,,14 years old is pretty near the end of the line.


• You pick up that new kitten or puppy for the very first time. ... The natural question is "Can the veterinarian come to our home to administer .... Likewise, regretting having put a dog to sleep when there may have been ...


• try going to the vet and getting supplement pills or shots for his joints as for the peeing probably as he gets older his bladder is weakening so have some one take him out will you guys are at work.


• That is a decision that only your BF and his vet can make.


• Is there a way he could be out of the crate? he would probably feel better and maybe not as stiff if he could roam around more. He is older, he can't hold it like he used to.
  
  Since you know your dog best, ask yourself the following questions about your dog.
  
  Is my dog in pain? If so how often? good days vs. bad days.
  Is my dog happy? Does my dog enjoy his life? Is his quality of life good?
  
  When it was time to consider this step with my Aussie, it was easy for me to make the choice. Although I loved her very much, I couldn't stand to see the look on her face when she was sick, when she was in pain, when she was throwing up from the cancer and couldn't eat. She was a proud, active dog, you could tell she wasn't happy.
  When she could no longer enjoy her life....that is when we put her down.


• He may of slipped a disk, which could mean he becomes paralyzed in the back half for amounts of time, depending on the level, as he doesn't get up some days and lays in his own pee.
  My dog of nearly 10 years took a turn for the worse 4/5 days ago and started to wobble, by the time we went back to the vets only yesterday, she had gone from a level 3 to level 5 meaning that she could not feel pain in her back half at all and couldn't control her bladder. It came as a shock as it was so sudden but we did have to put her down, there was no way in her case that she would get better. You may need to look further into this or check with your vet as your dog might deteriorate


• Hi I was in the exact same position as you this april with my 15 1/2 year old westie. He lost some function in his bladder which sounds like your dog. In the end I knew it was time to have him put to sleep. He could not get out of bed some morning as his legs did not seem to work. He looked sad. You will know when it's time but please don't let your friend suffer a moment longer than necessary. It's when the bad out ways the good days.................. good luck


• When his up days are outnumbered by is down days, it's getting to the time. I am concerned that this dog is being left, in a crate? for 8 hours a day. This is not on, regardless of age, and health issues, which may actually have been made worse if he's been holding for that long, up to now. And restricting his water, especially if he's been on a complete food, would have also been totally not on. Dogs need access to fresh water at least all the waking hours in a day - maybe not overnight however.
  
  Regardless, he's made it to 14 and it sounds as if the end is here. If he's lying in his pee, this isn't giving him any dignity, and that's part of knowing when enough is enough. I honestly think, the the agreement of your vet of course, it's time to give him a little bit of dignity back, and end his suffering.
  
  I know this isn't the time, but NO dog should be left crated, with only water when you are there, for more than 4 hours in a 24 hour period, on a regular basis. This is no way to keep a dog, and is crate abuse.


• I think you should do the kind thing and put him down, it's clear "from what you wrote" he is suffering.
  He is a old dog after all. And the more older they get the more care they need. And he is being left on is own for 8 hours which to be honest isn't very good for an old dog.
  
  Go to the vet and tell them and let him have a check up to make sure his health is okay, because it could be more than just old age which is causing him a problem.


• Usually when people get to ask that question on here, the time was yesterday.
  Try to look at it this way:
  1) Is the dog free of distress, pain or discomfort, and could the pain be controlled?
  2) Can the dog walk and balance fairly well?
  3) Can the dog eat and drink without vomiting?
  4) Is the dog free of inoperable tumours which are painful?
  5) Can the dog breathe without difficulty?
  6) Can the dog urinate or defecate without difficulty or incontinence?
  7) Does the dog have an owner who is able to cope physically and
  mentally with any nursing that may be needed?
  
  If treatment is not possible then answering 'No' to any of those questions means there is no blame in having the dog put to sleep
  
  Go with the advice your vet gives you if they think his time is short. Sometimes you get a sign from them that enough is enough and you have them quietly PTS as the last loving act of care you can give them.


• There comes a time when quality of life must take over quantity. You dog has had a good life. He is in a spot where you are not able to meet his very senior needs and he needs put down. Why wait until he is in pain as well as the agony he is already feeling. Just like old people, they loose control of their bowels and a dog does not like being in his own waste. Be strong and make the decision. You might even take a day to spend with him inside tending to his every need and feeding him all his dream foods. It's very hard but a part of responsible ownership. My prayers are with you.

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Dog Health Questions: Will this effect my dogs training? (please help!)?

Hi, I am about to adopt a cattle dog x border collie and am going to try and train her well. We have another dog in the household who is a not so well trained poodle who my family got when i was about 9. I am now 13 and have researched dog training a lot. Will our poodle effect my dogs training?
Thank you

Small Dog Training - Obstacles You Need to Know About

Recommended Answer:
It can certainly affect training having an untrained dog in the house.
Now that you have researched into training- why not train your poodle, as well?
The two dogs together will be difficult to work with- so its important to set time aside each day to train each dog individually.
Some basic things you can do to keep your Poodle calm and encourage the new dog to behave is to :
Make the dogs sit, and stay in the sit command when you open the door- only allowing them to leave when you give them a release command. (verbal corrections work very well here- if the dogs start to try to move a simple 'aah' is usually enough to stop them... then you get them to sit again and not move until you tell them to.)

Make the dogs sit before you feed them, and dont allow them to eat until you give a release command.

Make the dogs sit before you pat them, or interact with them, etc.

This is a very basic way to train a dog- but it is very effective.
Muti dog households are much harder to run- so you need to ensure that you are in charge of both dogs, and that you are always in control.

Taking both dogs to obedience will also help.

Cattle dogs and Border Collies are both very active, intelligent dogs- so this pup will make sure you have your work cut out for you!
Good luck with them- and good luck training your dogs!
(I started training my old dog in Obedience when I was 14- its great fun!)

Dog Training: To Have Or Not To Have A Trainer

• No. Just incorporate the Poodle with the train of your new dog. Never too late for a dog to learn.


• It's possible. Then again, it's possible that it might help the poodle. I took my dog to a friend's house and was showing my friend all the tricks she can do, and my friend's dog started doing what my dog was doing.


• Why not start trainning your poodle? Its NEVER too late to train a dog, in fact it is EASIER TO TRAIN AN ADULT AS THEY HAVE LONGER ATTENTION SPANS, Why not enrol in dog obedience classes? Simple commands use a food item there work wonder for dog trainning
  
  A badly behaved dog can be disasterous on another dog.


• i think it will, because the dog will encourage the dog to follow in his footsteps. and if the new dog is a puppy, it will look up to the poodle, just like a 1st grader would look up to you. i am 12 yrs old and have never had a dog, but like you i have done LOTS of research and i definnitely think the poodle will affect your dogs training


• Hi there...
  A great way to help the situation is to incorporate the poodle in your training, after all maybe he will learn a bit from the training.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Training Questions?

I have a one year old mutt (basenji/boston terrier mostly). He's small- about 25lbs. He is a super sweet dog and basically well behaved except for one thing. Whenever he's excited to see me like when I get home or whenever he wants attention he bites on my ankles. It's not in a mean way at all. He basically is just wrapping his mouth around my ankle and trying to get my attention which hurts cuz, well the ankles are boney! I've tried telling him no, ignoring him when he does it, just walking away etc. but he still does it. What is a good way to get him to stop this behavior?

Hunting Dog Training Equipment

Recommended Answer:
Some people will not agree with this, but it is not mean and it will not hurt the dog at all. Carry around a small squirt bottle with plain water in it and when he nips you, squirt his head. I used it to train my dog when she jumps up on the trash can. It takes them a minute for them to realize you are squirting them for their behavior, but they will eventually put two and two together. I do not believe in physically hurting my dog and this was a safe and effective solution for me. I hope this helps!

A Working Dog - Training

• when you walk in the home, if he bites on your ankles, walk right back out. Keep doing this until he stops. Remember to reward at all times when he isnt do it, but do it in a calm way, otherwise you are getting him excited and just asking for him to do it.


• teat like a child when he does that. get a dog cage and put him in there for 15-20 minutes when he does it constantly saing no to him.. it takes time but eventually he should stop... i have a husky that used to bite all the time ant this is how my family got him to stop


• Tell him NO! really sharply and tap him on the nose. (don't HIT him, just tap him a little sharply, but NOT so it hurts him more than an ooh!). If he doesn't let go say NO (insert name)! Good Luck! x


• i think this should work if not you should know your getting advice from a 10 year old
  
  Everytime he tries to bite you,leave go back outside for 10 seconds every single time this could take hours but it should work you need the paitence. If it doesn't work have a bottle of water like the spay kinda thing and see if he stops like a cat.


• Use the vocalization that the mother dog uses to discipline her puppies. When he bites, say AAUUUGH in a loud guttural voice. When he looks up in surprise, (and they almost always do) say NO! and walk away.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Training Help Please?

Hi-
I have a little Peakenese Shetzuh (not quite sure how you spell it) and he barks very loud when we have company over, or even when he thinks there is someone there. But he is fine when the company says hello and pets him. How can I make this stop? Also, I have a Husky Westie Mix and I like to walk him, only he literally drags me down the street! Any suggestions?

Thanks so much!

Dog Training Commands - How to Successfully Train Your Dog to Do Certain Commands

Recommended Answer:
If possible, you could try to block your dogs vision or access to the area where these people pass by.

Dog obedience training is the best solution to this type of excessive barking. Once you have your dog properly obedience trained, you will be able to communicate to him that this is unacceptable behavior.

You have the wrong collar/harness. There are effective antipull harnesses and collars. For a large, muscular dog that lunges, a prong collar is best.

If that doesn't work Obedience training is always another option.

Dog Training Collars - A Helping Tool

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Dog Health Questions: Any one in the Dallas, Ft.Worth area looking for affordable dog training?

Affordable, friendly, experienced - Check out http://www.dtpacksperspective.com

Ines Gaschot
512-300-3851
dtpacksperspective@gmail.com

Search and Resuce Dog Training, Learning to Save Lives

Recommended Answer:
This is not a site for advertising your services and is a reportable offense. Try posting on Craigslist or putting an add in you local paper.

Dog Training Videos - A Great Way to Learn How to Obedience Train Your Dog

• I looked at her web page and there is nothing on it to indicate what her credentials actually are.
  
  There is no mention that she has put Obedience titles on any dog or has had students that have put titles on dogs.
  
  No wonder she is affordable, she has no credentials.
  
  I can call myself Miss America, it does not make it so

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Dog Health Questions: Adult Dog Training Advice?

I rescued a dog from the pound about 3 months ago. For the most part, she has done good not having too many accidents in the house. But every time I leave for the night or go to sleep early, she has an accident. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Hunting Dog Training Equipment

Recommended Answer:
Crate training. She will be very unlikely to soil herself in a confined area like a crate, and you will also know that she can't get into the trash, chew on electrical wires, etc as some bored dogs do.

Also make sure to keep her on a schedule. Does she always, always, always go out at 10pm? Then she will need to go at 10pm whether or not you are awake and there. Consider shifting her potty schedule so it fits better with your lifestyle.

Dog Training Tips - When Should Dog Training Start?

• When this happens it is no accident.
  
  It is separation anxiety and some rescues do suffer with this. See if you can get as much as you can to calm her. Rescue remedy in the water, radio left on, crated when away etc.
  
  I have a friend who has this with a rescue rottie and is finding it really hard to put right.
  
  It is down to stress at being left.


• Are you crate training her? When I leave the house my dogs are always put in their crates. It makes them feel secure and they never potty in their crates. As soon as I get home I put them outside then let them in. No accidents. You could do this also at night. A lot of people crate their dogs for the night.


• Obedience training is the foundation for establishing a better relationship between you and your dog. Obedience training helps establish the owner in the role of "pack leader". Obedience will lay down clear behavior guidelines that your dog can follow. A well-behaved, obedient dog is more than just a pet of pride. The difference lies largely in the training, and good training can save a dog's life.
  
  These articles will give you tips about how to best train your dog.
  
  Dog Training - http://www.dog-pound.net/dog-training.ht…
  
  Dog Obedience - http://www.dog-pound.net/dog-obedience.h…
  
  Repetition, consistency, practice and correction are what it takes to train a dog to be happy and responsive. If you follow these simple steps you will find that your puppy can grow into an obedient well-adjusted dog.
  
  Repitition and Consistency in Dog Training - http://www.dog-pound.net/repetition-cons…

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Dog Health Questions: I need some reeeally god dog training tips!?

I am getting samoyed puppy, I want her to be as well behaved as possible!!!! No jumping, nipping, howing, come when I need her, stay when i need her to, leave it, and any others that you can think of. thank you!

Dog Training vs Horse Training

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Training: I would respectfully suggest you read a couple of books and watch some videos on raising and training dogs. Also, I recommend two TV shows, "The Dog Whisperer" with Cesar Millan on the National Geographic Channel, and "It's Me or the Dog," with Victoria Stillwell, on Animal Planet. Both programs are very instructive and often deal with the issues you raise here. Good luck!

3 Steps for Teaching Fido the Basic Behavior Dog Training

• I have a pittbull and I baught treats and when she did as told I treated her and now she does as told when told. If that don't work tale her to a trainer.

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Dog Health Questions: Need Success Stories of Positive Dog training for sidewalk cafe outings?

We are desperately trying to apply positive training methods to our 6-month old Rough Collie, and am coming up frustrated so I need some positive outcomes coming from difficult dogs, and also how long it took to train. We have been through puppy training, leash walking, recall, etc. and she knows basic commands. I really want this dog to be a companion that I can take with me anywhere, but she has absolutely no impulse control and it's driving me crazy. She reacts to everything from other animals to bikes, trash trucks, etc. Sometimes I can get her to "look at me" and sometimes not, depending on how interesting the distraction is. So we are no strangers to training and have been working on it literally every day since she was 12 weeks old (when we got her.) We've taken her to outdoor cafes and so long as we shovel food or treats her way, she'll kind of behave. We've brought bully sticks and peanut butter filled kongs, balls, toys, etc. as distractions but like I said, that's just basically a few minute distraction and her attention span is very short even for things she loves. I'd love to hear other people's success stories as to how they trained their dog to be a well behaved sidewalk cafe dog. Also, how long it took to get to that point from being badly behaved. She is super sweet and not at all aggressive, just excitable and I'm guessing, or perhaps hoping that her age is a factor here. I feel like everyone I see who has a well behaved dog that they were just born that way and we're the odd ball, so I need some reassurance here.

Common Tools Used In Dog Training Schools

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I am a professional dog trainer who uses reward based training. My Aussie, Moose, came to me at a year old, having been through 3 other owners. My Godmother was his last owner, and he drove her crazy and she is the most patient person ever. I got a call one night that she could not deal with him anymore, and would have to re-home him. She was taking him on 5 mile runs every morning and evening, and he was still bouncing off the walls. He barked, ate a metal water spigot, ate 13 pair of shoes in one day, and ruined half the stuff in her house. I needed a demo dog for my training classes, so I took him,

He was definitely a handful. The only real "casualty" in my house was the huge beanbag chair he decided to rip open and spread tiny foam pellets throughout the house. (Which consequently ruined my expensive vacuum.) He also had issues with aggression towards men,large women, and elderly people. I don't think I took my eyes off this dog for a minute for the first year that I had him, besides for when he was in his kennel. Everyone said I was crazy for even taking him, and there were times I thought so too.

Moose is 3 now. Everyone wants my dog. People ask me all the time how I ended up with a dog like this, and why theirs couldn't have his demeanor. It always makes me laugh. Moose and I had our share of ups and downs for sure. I found Moose's key to training was trick training. I don't care if he knows how to play dead or take a bow. But he loved it. We started doing multi-step tricks as he got better at the easier ones. He began to honestly love training, and not just for the treats. He enjoyed the brain stimulation. He is great at obedience too, but when I was initially training him I used fun tricks in between the obedience cues to keep him focused (he has ADD too, lol). Now, he can make my bed, find my missing car keys, and put away his toys when I ask him to, in addition to being well-behaved.

I've found a few things to be true since I've started training professionally. 1 - You can't train maturity, and you can't train genetics. But maturity comes with time (I joke that Moose knows when his birthday is, because he gets more mature around his b-day every year.) 2 - No dog is perfect. Some dogs are born naturally wanting to stick by your side, but they may have behavioral problems or training issues that you might not see during your local trip to the park. It used to frustrate me to see other well behaved dogs, while my dog was going nuts. If the owners knew I was a dog trainer, I would get really embarrassed. I would be ashamed of my dog and get insecure about my skills as a trainer ("...I can train everyone's dog's but mine! Why!?"). After talking to some of these owners, I would hear stories like "...yeah, Brucie is great on walks. He stays right with me, even off leash, and never barks or anything. Oh hey, aren't you a dog trainer? I've seen you! What can I do about Brucie humping my couch cushions and peeing on my rugs?" (True story!) 3 - If you expect too much too fast, it will have disastrous results. I could always count on Moose to make a fool out of me exactly when I needed him to behave. Like in the middle of a seminar or when at a dog park. After each time, I realize I put him in over his head. Even if you think you've practiced with distractions a million times and he should get it, the bottom line is that he hasn't gotten the idea yet. Every time, I would regroup, double my efforts, and have another go at it. I look at everything as a training opportunity, and that's what I told my classes if moose would act up... "this is a great example of a perfect training opportunity..." and work through the problem. Now in my classes he helps the scared dogs come out of their shells, and I can count on him to behave right when I need him to the most, and we are so in sync it's as if he reads my mind. I think it, he does it. It's a great feeling, and I'm glad I stuck out his adolescence. I have been offered money for Moose multiple times, even $5000 once! I wouldn't trade him for the world.

Good luck with your dog, keep up the training. Try a group class at a pet store, if your dog can learn to behave in a pet store with other people and dogs around, and toys and bones as temptations, you'll have a better chance of that training sticking with him in other environments. Also try outings that are specifically for practicing with him, if you're already doing that, great. Or, try something new with him. Maybe agility or flyball? Moose does well at both, most herding breeds do. If nothing else, it will give you a good network with others who are going through the same problems you are. Happy training!

5 Basic Dog Training Mistakes

• this is a co.mmon problem i see from dogs who r only positive trained they have no self control, i would suggest seeking out a more traditional trainer my dogs have all been trained with both positives and adversives and they are wonderfully calm and well behaved


• training is a lot of hard work and repetition not just going to classes.


• She's a 6 month old puppy, and what you are experiencing is normal for a puppy that age. I think you're expecting too much, too fast, given her age. My Miniature Pinscher could not be consistently calm and settled in public until he was about a year old. Keep at it, and you'll get there with the right techniques. However, I"m not sure that you're using positive methods correctly in this instance, it sounds more like you're trying to bribe her into behaving rather than rewarding good behavior. You shouldn't be shoveling food and treats at her. Treats should be out of sight and out of mind until you reward. And you don't reward until the dog's displaying behavior you like. What my trainer recommends is what she calls "capturing calm". Basically you wait patiently for the dog to settle, then quietly reward the behavior. It's more effective if you use a clicker. The dog comes to learn that it gets praise and rewards for being calm, and nothing for acting excited. It's best to do this in a quieter place FIRST until the dog's good at settling quietly and quickly, and gradually increase distractions and activity. So start at your home, then a quiet public are with few people, etc. You can't expect them to just "get it" when they're young and in an area with tons of distractions, plus with lots of strangers around, people invariably are going to want to pet a dog that's friendly and excited, which REWARDS her behavior and sets you back in the training process. You can also use a "go to mat and settle" by assigning her a rug that's her "quiet place" and bringing it with you to the cafe. You would basically teach a "go to" command for the rug, and then apply the steps I outlined for capturing calm once on the mat. If she leaves the mat without permission, she should be replaced. Reward her lying calmly on her rug. Do this first in your home and often. Once she's good at it, you can gradually increase distraction and change location.


• do you think your expectations might be a titch high for a 6 month old puppy ??? my dog will sit quietly beside me at a cafe but she is an adult ... she was very well trained with classes and such from the moment i got her at 8 weeks, and she never could have sat nicely at a sidewalk cafe at 6 months of age ... maybe acknowledge sitting quietly at sidewalk cafes is not where your puppy is at yet ... and that is because she is a puppy, not for lack of training ...


• Sounds like you've been rewarding her excitable reactions.
  
  Are you waiting for a calm response before you c/t? Or are you just shoving food in her face as soon as she reacts?
  
  Puppy push ups. Sit down up, sit down up. Have her do those while you're at the cafe. Do not wait for her to react, don't even give her the option.
  
  Some dogs show improvement immediately, other dogs it takes a couple weeks.


• Don't ask the people here; they're idiots. Try the people on Dogster.
  
  Though I don't know much else, you CAN do it! She's just a puppy still, so she will have a short attention span. Continue training, and if you need to, arrange to have an hour (or two half hours, given your dog's attention span) of one-on-one problem solving with the instructor of your class. You need the help, and it sounds like that would be the ticket, as opposed to nuggets of information that may or may not help and may even contradict each other.


• your dog is very young and is a high energy breed. You don't mention whether or not you provide her with any exercise before you ask her to be calm and well behaved. collies are working breeds and require a lot of mental stimulation and work to do. I'd recommend taking her for a good walk, or a run before you try working with her. You can purchase doggie backpacks which make the walk more tiring if you don't have the time or energy for a longer walk or a run.
  
  I used positive training to stop a GSD from chasing bikes and joggers I used food as a reinforcement, the trick being that I got her attention with the treat before she noticed the approaching person, then kept her focused by only allowing her to sniff the treat, until the person had passed. then she was rewarded. I started by putting her in a sit first, then as she got good at ignoring while we did that, we progressed to heeling with the treat in hand, while the person passed, pretty soon, we were walking off leash, and she would ignore the approaching bike/jogger.
  
  Keep training sessions short. and end them on a positive note. Even if you just stop and sit at an outdoor cafe, or other public place, for only 5 minutes or so, giving her treats and keeping her attention on you, and then going home, it's going to help her realize what she did was right, instead of waiting until she gets bored and looks for mischief.
  
  When you make it a regular occurrence then some of the excitement will die off. I used to take my dogs to the dog park daily for about an hour or more. i'd watch people chase their dogs around for a half hour to try to get them to go home. because it was part of our routine, and not an infrequent event, my dogs would leave without any problems.
  
  good luck!


• , The only way to get results is to put in the time. The key is only train for 5-10 minutes at a time any longer and its boring. 3 session of 5 minutes will get more done than one 15 minute lesson. And it is easier to make that commitment of time... You put on the coffee, train a few minutes, you make lunch, a few minutes more, you start dinner another quick session, you brush your teeth... Also, don't expect more from a dog than is age appropriate. How many of the dogs at the cafe are puppies? Expect obedience but increase the length of time she can hold a command and the number of reasonable distractions gradually.
  
  I don't know where you took classes, but maybe they did not tell you how to train your dog to behave in public. You work on commands at first where there are no distractions at all. THEN the next step is to say crank up a stereo or something distracting inside the house. NEXT try it in the backyard. THEN the front yard. THEN on a walk. You can work on commands in each of these areas from the beginning, but do not expect good results until each challenge is met. If your dog has trouble being distracted then you take one step back in the process, practice until they are doing well. Then move on again.
  
  You go through all these steps before you even think your dog can ignore all the activity around a cafe. The actual command that you want to work on in order to have your dog behave in this setting is the STAY command.
  
  The key element in teaching stay is to increase the length of time your dog can maintain the stay, before you ever move even a few inches away. Once they stay with you right in front of / beside them. Then you move a few inches away, and start the process over again. If you move too far away and your dog breaks, then you move closer and begin again. Once your dog begins holding a stay for at least a minute with you at least a foot away then you begin to teach "GO IN." You have the dog go under the kitchen table to start, and have her "DOWN, STAY." Because at first she will be familiar with these commands. As she is lying down you quietly say "GOOD GO IN, GOOD GO IN" if you speak too loud or with too much excitement you will be the one causing her to break.
  
  As she learns the "GO IN" at the kitchen table, and as her time and distance improves then take her outside to a table in the back yard... Get a card table from a second hand store if necessary. Any table big enough will do fine. After she gets to a point she can stay under the table in the back yard, try having her "GO IN" under a park bench... But don't expect her to hold this for long even just a moment to begin, as you are training the stay and go in commands be sure you say the word "RELEASE" before she gets a chance to move. If you see her flinch, go ahead and release her. This way it was you that ended her work, not her decision to move out of place. This is true for sit stay when you work on that as well.
  
  Learning the basic elements of the most common commands takes only a few weeks. Polishing a dogs behavior can take months or even years if not done regularly or properly! If someone has a dog that behaves "perfectly," either they put in the work and time or they are more blessed than I certainly ever have been!!
  
  I didn't mean for this to be so long, but I don't want you to give up. And a quick answer would not be much help.
  
  p.s. in response to some of your extra info... Different problems require different solutions / corrections. There are specific solutions to these problems but I am out of room. I wish you had worked with a different trainer, try to find one that has continuing classes. Puppy class is only the beginning, it lays the foundation for more advanced training and expectations!!

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Dog Health Questions: HELP...Dog training question.?

I have a 7 month old femal german shepherd. I have been trianing her to sit since she was just 3 months old. I have trained her to sit for the 1st couple of months without food. I realized that thats not working so then I went to a dog trainer for advice about training her to sit. (he suggested not to use treats and to use a choke chain) I trained her like that for a couple of months. That didnt seem to work either. so now I turned to the clicker. I have been clicker training her for a couple of months now and it still dont seem to work. she likes the treats but when I tell her to sit. She might sit, she might not. when I tell her to come to me after her sit she just walks right past me Its like she dont care.its not like she dont know how to sit I have been working with her every day since she was just 3 months old. I have tried different treats. she acts the same with all of them. What can I do to get her to listen,pay attention and want to learn

Dog Training Using Treats and Rewards and How to Make Sure Your Dog Doesn't Become a Treat Junkie

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When your dog sits go crazy talk like a baby, pet her tell her that shes a good girl then give her the treat. Soon she will learn that's how she gets a treat. Never give her one if she doesn't do it If you ask her to do it more than 3 times then make her do it pull up her collar do anything it takes to make her sit. Also make sure sit isn't sit then stand up sit is sit and stay there until i tell you. For come when your dog comes they have to sit in front of you and wait until you go crazy on them give them the treat then they can go. Always keep her on a leash when you train her otherwise she'll figure out she can stop the training when ever she wants and when your teaching her the come command pull her in with the leash start with short distances end with long distances. Never use choke collars. I use treats. I hope that helps.

How to Explore the Numerous Advantages of Online Dog Training

• 1st NEVER use the choke pinchy thing chain. Thats gonna mess up the puppy. My friend has an 8 month old german shepard and he listens to her when she looks at him and tells him that she is the boss and he is the baby. Whenever you train you dog, make him or her follow the treat and then if he or she does it right, you give her the treat.


• Find a good trainer in your area that uses positive reinforcement training methods. (like treat and clicker training)
  Buy some books on clicker training.
  Try this site:
  http://www.clickertraining.com/dogtraini…
  Good luck!
  edit: stay away from trainer that use choke collars or pinch collars.


• I dont know why a proper dog trainer would tell you to use a choke chain- they really dont have a place in todays society.
  Your dog doesnt have a problem pulling on the leash- and it is completely wrong to use corporal punishment as a way of correcting your dog.
  The most effective method of training is to reward the good behaviour, and ignore the bad.
  You should consider enrolling your dog in obedience classes- I think these will be your best bet as you have professionals at your fingertips that can help you with training your dog, and it gives your dog some great socialisation with other dogs and people- which is necessary if you want a good dog in the future.
  I dont like those dog treats that you can get from the supermarket- most of them are high in salt and very unhealthy.
  The only time I use a treat for my dog is when he is in obedience classes- and that is because they tend to get much more distracted in class, and the food helps him to focus on the reward, rather than on playing with the other dogs.
  The treats I use are little pieces of cheese or lightly cooked chicken. Much healthier and very tasty and smelly for your dog- so it is the perfect treat.
  When you use a clicker to train your dog you have to remember to actually reward your dog at the end of the training- either with a play, or with a treat- otherwise there is no point to the clicker.
  The clicker is there to say 'that was good, and you will get a reward for that at the end' basically- the clicker itself is not a reward- it is just a means of telling your dog that she did good, and she will be rewarded for her behaviour. You have to reward at the end, otherwise she wont worry about the clicker.
  If you want her to come to you, try using a high pitched voice, and start to go backwards quickly, most dogs will respond more to changes in movement and tone.
  But again, I think your best bet here is Obedience- start off in a beginners class, and you can advance from here- you will get all the advice you need, and your dog will get that all important interaction with other people and dogs that she needs! Good luck!


• Good for you for keeping at it! I would use treats. And I would get this book "Good Owners, Great Dogs" by Brian Kilcommons. I recommend this because I have the feeling you would actually read it :)
  
  OK, to teach a new behavior, you make it happen, THEN assign a cue like a verbal sound, "sit" or whatever, and/or a physical cue, a special hand signal. Don't say 'sit sit sit'. Only say the cue when you're SURE you'll get the behavior, that way your dog can associate the sound 'sit' with the behavior of sitting.
  
  You can make it happen by luring. Once your dog knows it, and you can bet 10 bucks that your dog will sit, THEN you can assign the cue.
  
  You really seem like you want to learn how to do this right, so hats off to you. I'd keep trying the clicker, and go to www.clickertraining.com for lots of free online videos.
  
  The one thing you should do is not repeat yourself - you can desensitize your dog to the cue 'sit'.
  
  Good luck to you! And get that book - Good Owners Great Dogs.


• 7 months old is basically like teenage years for a dog. I have a 10 month old shepherd mix and she did the same thing. I found out that she goes crazy for warm hot dogs. Cut them up in little pieces when you are about to train her. This is the way I trained my dog numerous commands:
  
  Let her smell the treat in your hand so she knows it's there. She may figure it out on her own that she should sit or you might have to tempt her into sitting. Hold the treat in a fist and move it back over her head and instinctively, she may sit. If not, you may have to push her butt down a little. Once her butt hits the ground, click and treat. Do this several times. Once she gets the hang of it, start saying sit and adding a hand gesture. Click and treat each time she sits and she'll be doing it all the time.
  
  Remember that with her age, you must do this for like 10-15 minutes a day so she doesn't begin to get rebellious and forget about it.
  
  Also, she may not really know her name. I realized it took our dog to know her name was "Cadence". To get her to learn her name, say it out loud and if she looks at you, click and treat her. Once you do this many times, she'll love the sound of her name and will look at you each time!Good Luck!

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Dog Health Questions: Attack dog training??????

I am thinkin about getting a new guard dog and was thinking about putting him in attack dog training so just incase if the dog does attack someone who is a threat i can tell him to let go without him keep on biting, because i heard some dogs wont listen to the masters when they are trying to take someone out and they get obedience trained to. and no im not some dude who is going to put him in dog fighting ok...

Small Dog Training - Obstacles You Need to Know About

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I know what you mean? kind of K9 training. we used to have a dogs we are very good to them (we grew up in farm) we didn't train them to attack or scared people but who ever approach us with some kind of attitude they starting to growl to them if we will just say a word they'll attack them but we never let it happen. i guess they (dogs) can be very protective & loyal if you treat them right almost like a family because they have a very strong senses too & can understand as well.but sometimes depend of the dogs & i'm not sure if there is available some kind of k9 training for the public but good luck!

Time To Find Out More About Appropriate And Efficient Dog Training

• Have you got $3000+ for a guard dog worthy of this form of training?? comes from a good guarding line?? was specifically bred to guard??
  
  Got another couple of grand for PROPER protection training??
  
  And then more dollars on the fact that your dog will be a liability and you could face a few court cases, if the dog ever needs to attack/defend/protectYou haven't really thought about this have you??
  
  EDIT: no one who answered said anything about dog fighting, we understand your aim is to have a dog who will protect and attack on command when you're in a threatening situation... we all get it and we're not stupid, just because we're not telling you what you want, there is no need to retaliate and try and insult people, these are true fact that you should really take on board, training a protection dog is not as easy as most people think, it takes alot more than just any ol' dog and a random trainer, sure go a head and do it, if you're willing to do it properly, but if you're going to skip corners and treat this lightly, I don't think its the right thing to do. Protection dogs can be very sweet and loving animals, just like any household pet, if given the correct training from a highly qualified trainer, to get a well balanced dog who will snuggle at night but if needed, will do a bark and hold or pin down an attacker, you need the right dog who was bred for this and a highly qualified trainer.
  BTW it is NOT attack training, dog's don't attack on command, they're trained to pull down an attacker, hold back an attacker, stand between you and an attacker, its called PROTECTION training, and that is just it, protection, who's going to come any closer to you when there is a big snarling dog, ready to jump? No one, the most "Attacking" they do is pull an attacker down to the ground by the arm or a loose piece of clothing.
  
  Research more, youtube "protection training" "K9 police training" and have a look at what this training really is. I think you have the wrong idea.


• dogs are companions. if u want a guard, buy a burglar alarm


• WTF! why??? heres another bad dog owner that will have his dog put down by YOU! Wake up honey


• Because of people like you, so many dogs are put down in the pound from aggression


• Hi! I just read your question from before, about which dog to get...
  
  I don't think it would be a good idea. With the dogs you mentioned in your earlier question, they wont need classes to learn to be good watch/attackdogs. Training them to attack could also backfire, and make them much more aggressive in general. Plus...it's kinda cruel. The point is not to make your dog dangerous and unbalanced. If it is, don't get a dog for these reasons.
  
  If you want a dog to be THAT obedient, trainig and obedience is the way to go. Don't enroll in those classes.
  
  However, unless your dog is going to be attacking lots of people(which it shouldn't), it should not be that much of a concern...


• I don't know who, where, or what could train your dog to be an attack dog, but it's really not a good idea to train your dog to attack people, even if they are a threat. And it is really unlikely to train it to stop attacking. If you've ever seen the show cops, when they set the German Shepherds on the criminal, those criminals are in extreme pain from the dog biting on their arm or leg. Not even the police have a command for the dog to let go when it's the real deal. They need to pull the dog away from the guy cause a dog won't stop until it knows that the danger is gone.
  
  Not only that, some guard dogs will attack an innocent stranger or another dog. So many people have died from this, as well as dogs. This is why so many dogs are put to sleep because their owners think its okay to have a viscious dog and not watch it. Then you hear little kids being killed by the dog. And you're dog is put to sleep. Doggy has to die because owner didn't care. And this is where Pitbulls get their reputation, they are actually great dogs, just owned by the wrong people.


• Most people don't need a guard dog... and those who do are celebrities who can hire professional bodyguards with trained dogs.
  
  If you want that kind of control over a dog, it's certainly possible, with the right dog. Go here:
  
  http://www.germanshepherddog.com/
  
  That's the website for United Schutzhund Clubs of America. Find your local club, and start attending. The best Schutzhund dogs can heel offleash through a crowd, don't flinch from gunfire or physical blows, can track like a bloodhound, and will guard an object, locate and escort a suspicious person, attack when told or on their own if their handler is attacked, and will stop attacking on verbal command.
  
  Schutzhund dogs are not vicious. Schutzhund is a sport and the dogs ::love:: it. But those best dogs are trained from earliest puppyhood. So you would want to study at the club for some time before even purchasing the pup you want to train for this sport. Then you would want a relationship with a mentor who would help you with puppy conditioning to get the dog ready for the classes.
  
  Don't try to teach your dog this stuff yourself; it is very easy to ruin a dog and turn it into an untrustworthy monster that needs to be put down. Most of these dogs are not started on bite work until they are two years old, because the dog needs a level of emotional maturity to handle that kind of pressure.


• I agree with Tar, Pets are for companionship not to attack people. Dogs are very perceptive about danger around them and their masters. We had a Boxer growing up and one day a man came to our house and my Mom opened the door, the man was selling something and won't go away and stuck his foot in the door so my Mom couldn't close it and I guess Mom got a little loud and was telling the man to go away, he didn't. Our dog Duke heard this and broke through the dinning room window to protect my mom , barking and snarling big time the man quickly removed his foot and my mom slammed the door just in time. So the moral of this story is , let your dog , be your dog. Please don't ingrain meanness and aggression to another animal.

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