Dog Health Questions: I'm getting into Corrections at the Prison in Arizona, after my probation period is up I can apply for K-9

unit but it's hard to get into. I have some vet tech history and now a little bit about dog training, but teaching dogs to open the fridge, give hugs and fetch their food dishes aren't going to help me. Any suggestions? I want this really bad.

Dog Training: It's Not Just For Adults Anymore

Recommended Answer:
Amy, specialty positions are usually given after working hard for many years.

I would work hard and then try down the road for a specialty position. You most likely need to get your feet wet a bit prior to getting this type of assignment.

Dog Training - You and Your Dog

• You can apply but I wouldn't expect it for a few years. K-9 is what a lot of officers want and they have to put their time in until a position becomes available. I say if you want to do it then go for it, just expect to have to wait a while for the position.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: I don't agree with dogs training!!! Do you?

My love for animals is maibe going a bit to the extreme...
Me and Almi, my bichon, understand each other perfectly. I tried to train her to sit! I was succesfull, but I stoped because I think is cruel to make animals play like puppets. Almi understands all I say to her....really....sometimes I think if she is realy "a dog" !!
So , a dog should get our love and attention, not our commands!!!!

Dog Training Methods Uncovered

Recommended Answer:
I think it's a waste of time cause all that time you spend training your dog... you can play with him/her

The Many Types Of Dog Training

• Bentley my saint bernard needed some training ,
  try having a chat with 200 pounds worth of cuddly dog when he wants to do something that you dont.


• Oh, grow up! Just what I want a bunch of untrained mutts running around............Sheesh


• no its NOT!!!! making them get a tissue is! They are understanding our language alittle and it helps them mentally! Your dog needs walks and exercise MORE THAN LOVE!!!! THen food!


• I think like you too. But it's alright to train the dog a little bit, just to have some fun with your dog, i think it's cool too. Just be sure to have fun with them not to make them do tricks for you to brag or win those dog prizes. I never like those with their dogs.


• I so totally do not agree. Dogs have to be taught, trained what is acceptable behavior just like a child does. Many. many dogs have lost their home because of lack of training and the dogs behavior becomes unbearable. Having a dog well trained can save the dogs live. I was once quite impressed when I observed an elderly gentleman walking his dog. the dog saw a squirrel and took off after it, running toward a busy street. The man said two words. "Baron, Down." The dog obediently went into a down and did not run into the street. The squirrel did not have such a happy ending.


• I suppose you also don't agree with "inhibiting" children by teaching them manners either? Training is not cruel...it is far more cruel not to train a dog. Dogs are not humans, they are dogs...a different species that has completely different social rules. They need to be trained in order to learn how to behave acceptably around humans. Thousands of dogs die in shelters every day. Most of these dogs are not there because people beat them and abused them, most of them are there because of "behavior" problems which arose simply because their owners did not bother to train them. Many of these problem behaviors are normal dog behaviors.
  
  Aside from saving lives by keeping many dogs from ending up in shelters, training can also save their lives by keeping them out of danger. I have trained my dogs to stand still when I give them the "wait" command. This keeps them from walking into traffic when we are out on walks. The "come" command keeps them from getting in trouble in many situations. And the "leave it" command keeps them from eating something that could kill them or rolling on a dead porcupine or getting sprayed by a skunk. I've trained them not to pull on their leashes. This means that they get to go on walks because you can bet I'm not going to hurt myself by trying to walk two 75lb German shepherds who are dragging me all over the place. How boring would my dogs' lives be if they weren't trained to walk nicely on a leash and they never got to go anywhere except the back yard?
  
  If training is so cruel, why do my dogs' ears perk up when they see me get out the treats for a training session? My dogs are much happier to work for me than to just stand there and let me love on them (in fact, they think that's a little annoying sometimes).


• I completely disagree with you. It's nice that you have this close relationship with your dog, but not everyone is so lucky as to have a dog who understands every word they say. The point of training is not to simply make dogs do things for our amusement, but to help them practice good manners and to keep them safe. If I understand you correctly and what you say is true, you can just say "Now Almi, you must never for any reason run into the street because it's very dangerous and you could get hit by a car" and your dog will get the point. But most of us can't do that, so we teach our dogs to sit and stay and come when called. If done right, dog training is very positive. Dogs listen to what you say because they want to please you, not because you're forcing them to do something they don't want to. Training a dog is like teaching a child manners and rules. We don't do it to have control over the dog our child, we do it to make them welcome and safe in the larger world.


• Proper dog training is nothing more than enhanced communication, and it can be done completely hands-free. Every moment you spend with your dog, ONE of you is training the other.... She barks, you open the door... she's trained you to let her out! You get out a biscuit, she tilts her head and makes the cutest face... you've trained her to give you that look!
  
  If strict obedience training isn't your style, look at activities like agility, freestyle, frisbee, and dock diving. Those are all sports that require rigorous "training," but the dogs are performing on a level no "puppet" ever could... and loving every minute of it.


• No I don't agree. Actually dogs are more content if they have some discipline.They kinda need boundaries, like kids They're not ppl and its not hurting them to learn to sit when told to , or not to sit at the table and beg or jump on people when you open the door to your 89 year old grandma. So yeah I think you should train them . .


• i understand where you are coming from and it sound like you have a well behaved dog anyway but you have to understand that some dogs are very hard to control and without training would be too much of a handful and more and more pets would be surrendered to animal shelters everywhere. dogs such as the kelpies and German Shepard's say that are high strung can become aggressive and difficult to handle without proper training just like many other breeds. it is a choice to train or be a "puppeteer" if you like but i have found through owning kelpies and breeding cavaliers (that can be extremely stubborn when they want to be) that training makes life for you and the dogs easier. its not harming the dogs in anyway as long as you give praise and proper reward and dogs love stimulation and the challenges that training brings and also making there owners proud.


• Well that may be fine for your tiny dog but with my 85+ pound Golden's they are trained.
  I love my dogs but all dog need to know thier place with in the family and if training them is what it takes than so be it.


• I'm with Goldengal on this. My golden is so good. She walks right next to me on the leash, sits when I ask her, greets people so gently, stays, does everything right.
  
  Then I have all the tiny demon dogs who run the house. They are sweet as can be, but don't do anything like my golden does. They eat my couch, tear up things they shouldn't, steal food off the table if they can get away with it, pull on the harness like they are mini pits, string toilet paper everywhere if they get the chance, hump your foot if you let them, and demand attention. A few of them will sit to have their leash put on, but that is about as far as I have gotten with them. And they don't bite. I only have one that I have to watch closely when visitors come, and she is a mix.
  
  Big dogs have to be trained for safety reasons. Little ones can get away with more because you don't have to worry about their behavior quite as much. They can't maul people or knock people down or destroy too much at once. And I can just crate those if I have to because I am busy with something else.


• It is important your dog understands that you are the Alpha "dog" in your relationship. Otherwise, you are in for quite a bit of trouble. It is not cruel to train your dog. The command "sit" is not to make a puppet of your dog, merely to show you are the one in control. You give your dog love and attention, yes, but don't let them be the boss.


• I do not agree that it is "cruel" to teach a dog to sit. If you abuse it or withhold something from it to try to teach it, that is cruel. But teach it by reward; that will work better anyway.
  
  Even if you love your dog as much as you would love a human, dogs are NOT humans, and do not feel insulted when you teach them things, as you would be insulted if I taught you to perform a trick using food as a bribe to teach you.
  
  As far as the animal kingdom goes, one of you has to be, and will be, "top dog" (pun intended.) It should be you; if it's not and you do not want to give her any commands, then she will be in charge. That will not go well.
  
  Good luck


• You are entitled to your opinion even if it really does not make any sense.
  
  I can only assume you are giving your dog love but not discipline. If that is the case you should not own any pet. You are not responsible and don't have a clue about raising animals. Love is not enough.
  Dogs need: Discipline, Exercise, Love in that order.


• I see nothing cruel about training.
  Humans are trained too, we learn our behaviors and how to act around other people and in various situations.
  
  Bigger dogs would be nearly impossible to have if they weren't trained. If you have a 120 pound woman walking a 150 dog, the dog NEEDS to be trained, else the woman wouldn't be able to control it at all. This would be a dangerous situation for the woman, the dog, and anyone around. (The dog could drag the woman, dart into traffic, knock people down by jumping on them, etc.)
  
  Then you have some breeds (like papillons, border collies, and many more) that really strive to have a "job". They are much happier if they have a purpose, rather than just sitting around the house.
  
  Also, training your dog helps you and the dog bond. It also enforces that you are the "alpha" and that the dog should obey you. This isn't cruel and unnatural, it's pack behavior.


• gee why don't you come to my house some evening when I'm obedience training? Working with one dog at a time while the others whine because THEY want to be the one "working" now! when he was young my male HAD to have 15 min of obedience "work" a day or he was a pain in the rear- those 15 min and he was a good polite dog the rest of the day....


• I love my dog to but I have taught it commands be cause we live by the road and if I couldn't keep her away for it she might get ran over. So I believe that you should teach them so you can keep them out of danger and things like that.


• that's not mean at all.
  every body has to play like puppets.
  ex. if a teacher tells you to go to the principal's office you go.it aint bad at al.


• The purpose in training your dog is not to make it do what you want it to do and not for it to be your little puppet. The point in training your animal is to make sure that it does not do something by its instincts. Animals are different than humans in some ways and their instincts can make them act out sometimes. If you train them then they are less likely to bite the mailman, or jump on a little girl knocking her down, or run out of the door and out of the fenced in yard getting some stray female knocked up and pregnant, or getting into a dog fight and euthanized because it is now a threat to society.
  
  Think of it as a child. They do not learn things unless you teach them right and wrong. Not only does this ensure that the animal listens, but it also shows who the dominant pack leader is: you! This only means that the dog trusts you and has respect for you and that the animal is comfortable in calling you a parent. Just because you give the animal love and attention, does not mean you are the parent. If you spoil the dog they only walk all over you and you have no control at all, this does not gain any respect.


• Animals see humans as their master and god, as long as you give your pet attention and love I thinks its okay to train it. Animals can be quite intelligent so if you want to teach it some tricks go ahead I'M sure it will enjoy a challenge. Teaching animals is fine as long as its good and not to show off or exploit it as a circus animal. Its good stimulation for pets in the same way you find new challenges to stimulate a growing child so that it doesn't become bored.
  
  People and animals are the same- if they are not behaving properly teaching them how to is for their own benefit as they will definitely be much happier and more loving,


• Well there's training a dog like a puppet and there's teaching them manners. Everyone is taught manners. The "sit" command isn't just for your benefit, it is for the benefit of all. Picture a Great Dane. Picture a little old lady. Now picture that Great Dane charging the little old lady and knocking her down, injuring her. If the Great Dane had known "sit", and done it on command, the little old lady would be safe.
  
  Dogs enjoy human interaction, and if you do it correctly, training of any kind can be a game for the dog. Dogs love to play games right?


• Dogs are PACK animals.
  
  Pack animals need a clear leader and they need to know their place in the pack. Without these two things, the dogs become insecure and this leads to antisocial behavior towards everyone other than the owner, and quite often, also towards the owner.
  
  I saw a girl like you on a show on Animal Planet where a teen girl's dog attacked friends who visited, and even the girl's mother. This was in the UK. The trainer said "no more chips (like potato chips, etc), no more sleeping on the bed. The dog had to sit to be given treats. She had to sit to be petted. She was taught that her job as dog was to be polite and to do as she was told. And then she knew her job, and her place in the pack, and then she was no longer insecure and she treated all people with respect and stopped attacking.
  
  Every human needs a job to do to feel happy, fulfilled and successful. Dogs also need a job to do to feel they are valuable and contribute to the pack.
  
  Human children need to learn to live by rules and with limits. Without these they are insecure and act obnoxious. The same is true of dogs.
  
  If you love your dog, you set limits and teach them to do things like sit, stay, down, off (or leave it), etc. Loving your child or your pet is shown not by giving it everything and demanding nothing but by making it feel good about itself because, by doing things it is asked to do, it knows it is loved and it knows it's a productive member of the pack (family).
  
  You are not doing YOUR job right now. You are not teaching your dog it's place in the family, it's job, and you are letting it turn into a spoiled, obnoxious brat. Your dog is becoming insecure, not knowing it's place in the pack. Eventually Almi will try to be Pack Leader as every pack needs a leader who tells the others what to do and disciplines them for infractions... and Almi sees NO pack leader guiding and directing the pack.
  
  It's not cruelty. It's not making them puppets. Making Almi follow commands is how you show love and give guidance.
  
  It would have been cruel to not send you to school and make you follow directions so you learned how to read and do math. You could not have written this question if you hadn't been made to go to school and learn. It's also cruel to not teach your dog so your dog learns and knows things and can do things.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Socializing an aggressive dog?

We have a female dalmatian (almost 3 years old, spayed), who has always been the 'queen' of our house. She has always been kind of aggressive towards humans until she gets use to them, and she's recently been acting aggressively towards other dogs, even when they're not even PAYING ATTENTION TO HER. If a dog so much as glances her way, I've seen her show her teeth and growl. I've read countless dog training books, but I have no clue what to do about this. I know about what she does, so every time gets near another dog, I completely freak out and don't know if I'll be able to control her, what she's going to do, and I'm terrified that she's going to hurt another dog.

My sister just got a yellow lab (female, spayed) from the shelter, and she's only about 10 months old. She says that she's only showed aggression once toward a large man, and she's coming this weekend to visit... and wants to bring the dog. She's acting so overly-confident about the two dogs meeting, even though she knows about the dalmatian's issues. I'm basically just angry that she's bringing the dog into the house -- she knows about our dog, and she hasn't had the lab for long enough to know if she's also aggressive towards other dogs. Anyway, I think she's going to bring the lab regardless of what I say, and I'm so scared. I've seen Penny (the dal) show aggressive behavior towards dogs who aren't even threatening her, so I'm scared that she'll attack Sunny (the lab) even if she ISN'T aggressive towards Penny.

Is there any way to introduce these dogs so that they won't eat each other alive? It's gotten to the point where I'm too scared to even take her to petsmart or places like that that we use to go to. Too many people think a dalmatian is cool -- kids and people with dogs just run up and try to grab her and pet her without even THINKING that she might bite them, and so I don't want to take the risk of some little kid getting hurt....

Do I introduce them through a fence so that they can't bite each other at first? Do I have to take them out of our house (off her territory) for them to meet? Should I be around, or just my sister? -- I've seen those dog shows that talk about how the owner's emotion transfers to the dog. Could it be that since I'm SO afraid of her biting a dog, that's making her scared and more on-edge? Also, my sister is much more dominant towards her. With everyone else, she'll jump all over them, but with my sister... she walks into the room and penny is all ears back and sitting away from her. I REALLY REALLY need help with this, can someone please tell me what to do?

How to use the Remote Dog Training Collar

Recommended Answer:
you should walk them together ... not even let the lab in the house before a really long walk ... do not let them sniff or near each other and walk for at least an hour ... and keep walking ... do not slow or pause for anything (well unless they have to pee but don't let them sniff about, only stop if they suddenly stop to pee) ... when you turn around to head back and the dogs should be a bit calmer at this point, you can allow them to meander a bit and maybye a sniff but just quick and keep moving ... a 2 hour walk is enough to tire most dogs a bit and you can judge what their behaviour is like ... the dalmation should enter the house first on leash and then the lab into the house on leash ... i would never leave them alone together and hopefully both dogs have crates in case they need to be separated ... it is possible ... i work as a dog walker and have had my share of aggressive dogs ... a super long walk and the right introduction works wonders ...

Basic Dog Training Commands - Improve Your Dog's Behavior

• You keep an aggressive dog away from other dogs !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! until you have gained control of the aggression by hiring a trainer to tame the aggression!
  
  I have seen so many Dals turn aggressive. It is due to improper breeding thanks to the movie, "101 Dalmatians". They, like so many breeds, have been ruined by BYBers who do not follow proper breeding tactics..


• I really think its a bad idea. You need time to change the behavior and by forcing this so fast you may end up very far behind what she is today.
  
  If you go through with this have a 24 hour emergency clinics number on hand in case its needed.
  Most intros are done on neutral area(park or street not walked/owned by either one of the dogs


• Well...without reading your entire message since its the size of a book. I can tell you Dals are one breed that have been overbred by sloppy BYB's for profit. Thanks to remake of the movie 101 Damations a resurgence occured where there are many dogs out there with questionable health and tempraments. Much like pit bulls, a correctly bred Dalmation is NOT HA!


• This dog has shown HUMAN and DOG aggression so NO these 2 dogs should not be introduced PERIOD.
  
  YOU need to take precautions with her and MUZZLE her while your out so she cant harm anyone.
  
  Get yourself a good trainer also.
  
  You should also look at getting insurance because if she does bite someone you WILL have a law suit on your hands.


• Well ..."Could it be that since I'm SO afraid of her biting a dog,
  that's making her scared and more on-edge? ", ... is a strong possibility.
  Dogs DO 'pick up' on your feelings. If you're uneasy she WILL know it.
  Have you made it clear to her that her aggressive behavior does not please you.
  I mean real clear. In this situation, judicious hitting is not inappropriate.
  
  As to a new pup visiting:
  * Will she recognize the Lab as a pup and settle for dominance?
  DO expect her to be sure of her 'Boss Dog' status on her own turf though.
  Some aggression, though not violence is to be expected.
  If the pup submits, there should be no problem, but both of you should
  stand ready to intervene, each with her own dog.
  * A lot depends on the 'introduction'. If she knows and accepts your sister,
  and witnesses a 'greating ceremony' between you, your sister, and the new pup,
  it goes a long way toward establishing the pup as 'family'.


• Groom your dog regularly. Give lots of treats. Introduce her to new people slowly. Teach her to heel on a leash. Then, you can move on to other dogs.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: How do I get my dog to stop pulling on the leash?

I've read and read and read about how to get a dog to stop pulling on a leash. He does so JUST fine when it's just me and him outside in the apartment complex. I can even unleash him and let him sniff around. He'll come to me when I call...he'll stop what he's doing when I say sit or no... when I say "INDY!" loudly he'll stop what he's doing (usually when I don't like him sniffy fire ant mounds and trash on the ground...or a specific area).

What i cannot control... is when someone appears. If i don't catch an eye on them first... he goes nuts. He runs to (in a good way, not at all vicious) and just wobbles around them and pees at thier feet if he's not empty. He is just sooooo happy around people and other dogs (esspecially other dogs). I think I tried to hard socializing him :(

The treats work with pulling.... he's very good about it, but nothing is more rewarding to him them getting to see another person or animal... he pulls so hard...and is super determined. I dunno what to do.

I saw a dog training show and saw there were these like mussel leashes. I was wondering if that would work. I refuse to use a choke collar. That's cruel to me. :( I punish my dog with a swift smack to the nose or butt and he's down on the ground showing me his belly... i do not want to actually CHOKE my dog. That's just mean. The smack doesn't hurt him...

I was wondering if the mussel leash thingie would work in controlling him. Get him to focus on treats. I was thinking of steaming up some chicken for him to try this, but I don't wanna go out and spend more money on something that isn't going to work.

(note: he is a golden retriever shephard mix... he's the size of a larger golden retriever with the colours of a german shephard (and the forarms like one) so when he pulls...it's strong... but on the bright side.. he's a QUICK learner and super smart).

Any suggestions?

Control Your Aggressive Dog With These 4 Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
Try getting a head harness for your dog. That's something that goes around your dogs face and if you attach the dogs collar to it, when you tug on the leash, it makes the dog come. It may sound a little mean, but it's really not and it actually works. We got some for our dogs, who try and jump on other people or dogs when they get near them, but with the head harnesses for them, they are so much better behaved! You should totally try it! Good luck!
By the way, the kind of head harness i'm talking about goes around they're head and nose and mouth, not they're whole body, although you could try that if you want.
Something like this: http://www.qualitycollarstore.com/i/harn…

How to Train Your Dogs - Some Basics in Dog Training

• Do you have cable tv? Have you ever heard of a show called the Dog Whisperer? Well if the answer to both questions are yes, then tune into the National Geographic channel,Ceaser,the shows host has
  some very good tips for dog owners! Good Luck!


• choke collar sorry but they work wonders for some dogs.you dont choke him when he pulls he does it himself and if hes as smart as you say he will catch on quick.


• spray some bitter apple spray on it , he/she won't put his mouth on it at all .


• Submissive peeing is the sign of anxiety...a fearful dog...so the smack on the nose or butt may not physically hurt him, however that is your bad temper that you are inflicting on your dog...but it will make him more anxious/fearful so psychologically you are doing untold damage.
  
  No off lead work until you have 100% control of your dog.
  
  clip two leads together or one 6' lead, tie one end around your waist and clip him on the other end...in the house, your own garden, no talking ( dogs don't understand English) no looking at him ( eye contact can be a sign of aggression in dog language, it is also where dogs look to see if you are watching them..so he sees you are ignoring) and no touching him or the lead) and get on with whatever you are doing as if he is not there...if he walks in front of you turn and go in the other direction. This is not easy at first as you have a big dog however just do 15 minutes then un-clip the lead, praise and take him out to the toilet then play or do whatever you would normally do..........you need to do 15 minutes at least 4 times a day and more if you can.....you can go outside in th garden and as you have both hands free you can do anything you need to do, I will do this when I am hanging out washing or loading the machine, making the beds, gardening, washing the car and vacuuming.....you will start to find he will walk just behind you and become very observant about your body movements so he doesn't get stepped on and is aware when you are getting up and walking ( Oh and no laughing as some people seem to find this funny and laughing is praise to a dog...if they happen to be naughty you are laughing and praising that behaviour)
  
  After a week of this he will be walking lovely, when you are ready you just continue one day out the door and walk..if he walks ahead you turn and go the other way...if you see another dog/person approaching you turn and go the other way or cross over the road.........so what you are telling him that these dogs/people are not important and you haven't said a word....nor have you had to use your bad temper. When he is walking nicely where you want, you gently hold the lead with a relaxed hand, should he walk in front, drop the lead( it is still attached to your waist) and turn and try again once he settles. This is one way you can achieve what you want quickly and get your dog to understand what you want, you really don't need treats to train dogs, certainly no smacking as that teaches them to be fearful and fearful dogs react in the end and are far more aggressive then what would be associated as outwardly aggressive dogs, and you don't need to spend money on gadgets, head collars which damage their necks or chock collars which are very dangerous and banned in places like the UK at dog training classes and adviced against their use by animal rescues and vets...they cause the dog to naturally react each time it is 'chocked' and in the end the dog either damages its neck, reacts and attacks or more likely submits out of fear of punishment, which each chock is punishment...so there are better ways, although if trainers have used them for years and they work for them they continue rather than looking at better options and they will defend them
  
  Try this if you hold his lead and get another person to hold the other end, both holding on tight and they pull it, what do you do? Well you either pull back (which is what dogs do) or you are dragged around after them...so when you are holding his lead, don't wrap it around your hand, don't pull continually and keep your arm/hand relaxed so no tension is going down the lead.....like when you see another dog you tense, so he tenses


• Well an easy way of controlling the running to people and other dogs is to ignore them at all costs.
  When you see someone coming get his attention and that is what you need to do and not to let him focus on other things.
  When someone approaches turn and walk away until he focuses on you only and that may mean using chicken or something he really likes as a treat.
  You want him to focus his attention on you and not other things and that means you need to have him under control with his treats he likes.
  And again walk the other way when someone approaches and continue your walk with out paying any attention to what he is doing. he will at some point have to follow you because you are not going his way.
  I wouldn't use any other collars or choker collars as they can hurt the neck and you do not want to hurt him ,you want to train him
  So go another way and use the treats when he follows you and use a word like NO and nothing else and when he goes your way, praise him and give him a treat and you may need to keep the treat in your hand long enough to get him to follow you in your direction and when he obeys, give him the treat.
  This is proper training and you are the one he needs to follow.
  Just remember to go the other way away from dogs and people using a treat to guide him.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Difference in dog trianing?

is getting a video of "do it at home" dog training or actually taking a puppy to class the better way to go. what are to the pros and cons of each?

Dog Training - A Vital Component of Your Dog's Life

Recommended Answer:
There are actually some very good dog training videos out there that I'm sure you would be able to train your puppy with. However, there are distinct advantages to taking classes. Your dog will be around other dogs, and it's always good to socialize early. Plus it's nice to actually have a trainer in person to answer questions, whether about technique or just dog stuff in general. It's good that you are aware of the importance of training. You and your dog are going to be great together.

Dog Training - How to Potty Train Your Dog & End Your Frustration - It is Easier Than You Think

• Either way would work, however by taking your dog to a class, you are socializing him and training him how to behave around other people and other dogs. Hopefully a class instructor will use positive methods when teaching. I suggest you go and observe a class before signing up for one.
  You can then decide if this is something you want to participate in without spending the money only to find you don't like what the instructor is telling you to do.
  I've used both methods with my training, and I like the class situation the best, but I follow it up with videos taught by trainers whose seminars I've attended. Here's a good training site for positive training;
  http://www.r-plusdogtraining.info/


• A class with a real trainer is better. Lots of reasons.
  
  Especially for a puppy, socialization is SO important. Puppy classes are FUN! You and your pup will learn the basics of obedience training and have a blast doing so. Even if you only take one or two sets of puppy classes, you will have a strong foundation upon which to build the more advanced and complicated obedience commands.
  
  Also, a trainer can observe the way you command and reward your pup, and can correct where necessary. So much of basic obedience is correct tone of voice, body language, and timing ... the trainer can help you fine-tune all of those.


• Training class pros:
  Your dog benefits from socialization with other people and dogs.
  Someone is there to help you and answer your questions
  Trainer can guide you through the training process with hands on help
  Training class cons:
  It costs more than a video
  Video pros:
  You can train in the comfort of your own home
  It's cheaper than a training class
  Video cons:
  It's harder than you think to follow the training steps that are given in a video
  You can't ask the person in the video for help
  You will be less likely to stick to a video training regimen than you would a class


• It's best to take your dog to class. In class the instructor can show you how to do it right.
  
  Make sure, that you sit in an watch a class before joining. You want to see how the instructor interacts not only with the dogs, but also with the owners. You can find local obedience clubs thru the AKC http://www.akc.org
  
  With a video, while you may get so good ideas, you don't know if that particular training is right for your dog. You also don't have anyone to correct you when your doing something wrong.


• If you have a puppy and are enrolling in Sirius Puppy classes, get the DVD, too. You can start working with the DVD at home before the pup is old enough to begin classes (at age 12 weeks) and have a head start on the class plus better control over your pup. It really helps and it's a great way to get started.
  
  Otherwise, it depends a lot on the quality of the classes or the DVD you are considering. There are good and bad available in both. If you aren't going to puppy classes, please reconsider. Your dog needs the classes. If your dog is too old for puppy classes, then call the places you are interested in going to classes at and ask if you can watch a few lessons before you enroll. See if the instructor explains clearly what to do and how to do it. See how dogs are handled in the class. Talk to some of the best and worst students after class to get their opinions on it. Ask yourself if you want to train your dog with those methods. Think it over carefully.
  
  There are many different approaches to dog training. You don't have to use a choke chain. You don't have to ever yell NO or use force. Dog learn remarkably well from force-free methods that use positive reinforcement. The best of these is called Clicker training.


• It all depends on how your puppy responds to training...I was able to train my APBT perfectly fine at home and even had him CGC certified and we are working on his therapy dog certification...however my other dog, I ended up having to take her to classes as she just wasnt responding to me and it helped having that little bit of extra guidance. I would suggest trying on your own and if that doesnt work, sign up for classs.


• Getting a Video isn't good because you really don't know if your doing it right. And you might be doing more harm than good. And it doesn't tell you if your doing it right or not.
  
  I would say taking a puppy to class is betting because you can meet other puppies, the trainer can show you want your doing wrong. and Teach you to do it right. And you will come out a lot better in the long run.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: I want to use my dog as a therapy dog to make sick kids happy. Where do I sign up?

Does anyone know how I can get my dog trained to be a therapy dog. I would love to bring him to a sick kid's hospital to make them happy. My dog loves children and he is gentle. The kids in my neighborhood all know him by name. They love him!!

Dog Training - How to Train Your Dog to Come to You & Prevent Dangerous Situations

Recommended Answer:
Well there is a couple of places you can contact. Depending on who you are going to certify him through will determine the requirements for correct training. All groups require certificates for beginner obedience training. Sometime you will have to complete a CGC-Canine Good Citizen. Definitely the first place to start is contact a local trainer. You are better off doing a group class rather then in home. By doing a group class you are teaching your dog how to listen to you in a situation where ther is over people and dogs present. Check out TDI-Therapy Dog Internation or Delta Soceity. They are the most popular right now. Many local Rotary clubs have options for pet therapy. Check with your local library for the READ program. A lot of time you don't need a therapy certification to visit rehabilitation centers. All you need in a complete vaccine history and a health certificate. Good Luck and work hard. It's worth every minute of hard work in the long run. Nothing can replace the beaming smile of a sick child! Dogs and cats really bring it out.

How to Train Your Dogs - Some Basics in Dog Training

• go to a local hospital .ask the people in the childrens ward,they should be able to help you..............


• Depends on where you live. The first step is usually getting your dog a Canine Good Citizen certificate and then check in your local area with the Delta Society who is a nonprofit group that works with therapy dogs. Sometimes the humane society will know or any local trainer in your area would know. But be forewarned, not all "sick kids" are made "happy" by dogs!!


• www.tdi-dog.org
  www.therapydogs.com


• Search for the Delta Society-they are the national organization that tests therapy dogs. They may have a contact in your area that performs the tests.


• do a google search on "therapy dog certification" for your area. There are many different organizations out there that do this, and each one will have different requirements - also depending on where you live.
  
  be prepared to go through training courses, and have your dog tested for several tests. it's not solely based on how well your dog is with kids, it also is based on how obedient your dog is, how he acts around food, around strangers, loud noises, machinery, weird sounds/smells, etc.
  
  good luck, i think it's great that you want to volunteer your time and your pup for this!


• Your local SPCA should have a program.
  
  Call animal control and/or your vet. They should know where to find the therapy people.
  
  Look in the yellow pages and see if you can call the therapy people directly.
  
  Call hospitals, nursing homes, children's hospitals and see if they use any therapy animals, and ask for the number.
  
  Good luck.


• There's a lot more to it than just "signing up."
  
  Your dog must be trained. Your dog will need to have completed, at a minimum, 2 sets of puppy-classes and at least a basic obedience course. A Canine Good Citizen designation is usually required. CGC requires that your dog take and pass a test which demonstrates that he is ABSOLUTELY obedient.
  
  Then he must be put through additional testing to become a Therapy Dog. He must show himself to be and REMAIN calm and reliable in a variety of high-stress situations (loud, sudden noises, crowded halls, children poking and pulling at him, etc.)
  
  Which is not to imply that your dog can't be a Therapy Dog! But not all dogs can be (many, although they may love kids and have calm, happy temperaments, simply cannot tolerate the high-distractibility factor in a hospital environment).
  
  For now, focus on obedience training, and earning the CGC title. Later (assuming your dog has passed his CGC with flying colors), contact a Therapy Dog organization and ask how to get your dog "signed up" as a possible future Therapy Dog.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Could a kid dog train for agility for her dog and compete with her dog in the dog agility?

like take the dog to the agility show

Advanced Dog Training Goals - It Pays to Think and Plan Ahead

Recommended Answer:
I was 9 when I started training and competing. Sure made some stupid mistakes back then, but I learned from them.

7 Most Believed Myths About Dogs And Dog Training Dispelled

• Yes you can, and many places have junior competition as well so you can compete against other kids interested in the same thing you are. As long as the dog is obedient to you, you should have no problems entering competitions. Good luck!!!


• Yes - and lots of kids do.


• Yes. Try joining a 4H or dogscouts group that does agility. Many kids of adult competitors get started fairly young, often on an experienced dog, which makes it easier for the kid. If you want to start from scratch, I suggest you find an experienced person or instructor to help you get started- training is not always easy, or obvious, and is a long term project- plan on 6-12 months minimum to get you and the dog ready for competition.
  
  If you are old enough to participate in this forum (???) I can say that with some good instruction you may do very well. A 13 year old I know won numerous events at the CPE nationals recently, and a 17 year old won USDAA Steeplechase and Grand Prix nationals last year, just won regionals again this past weekend.


• Yep, kids can run their dogs in agility. You would be called a Junior Handler. There are many kids / young people competing in agility and doing really well.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: I would like to become a dog trainer, but i dont know what to study or where to study. can anyone help?

i would like to become a professional dog trainer for show dogs or police k-9's. right now im a freshman in high school so i was wondering what classes i should take in high school and then what classes i should take in college. also what college has a dog training or behavior class. should i take online classes or should i go to like the local aspca or would it be beneficial to go to a college?
any help is appreciated. thanks!

Dog Training - Basics

Recommended Answer:
TRY ABC (ANIMAL BEHAVIOR COLLEGE:)

Choosing Basics Dog Training Methods

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Help!? (dog training)?

I really would like to do some off leash agility with my 2 year old havanese! She used to be really good off leash and now she just runs off! I need to know how to train her to come when called, and not run away off leash! Step by step! Without treats!
Thanks

Myths of Dog Training and Dog Training Solutions

Recommended Answer:
I've had good luck with training recall using a long and light line. My dogs are larger so I use a bit of clothes line.

Basically, attach the line to her collar, let her go out (don't let her pull on the lead - the idea is for her to not notice it is there!) give your recall command. If she doesn't respond you can then give her a leash correction and "reel her in" if needed. Praise like crazy when she gets to you - and let her go out again. Repeat. As she becomes more reliable progress to longer distances and more distractions.

5 Tips to Choose Effective Dog Training Courses

• Are you currently training her to do agility on leash? If so, back up and start working everything offleash. A leash gives a false sense that the dog is working and understands the job, and enables you to give a lower rate of reinforcement, while not really teaching the dog anything useful. In order to do work offleash successfully, you need to have established a working relationship with your dog, and your dog needs to have a reason to work with you. Keep rate of reinforcement up- reinforcement is probably going to involve treats, although playing tug and other games is also beneficial. That doesn't mean you'll have to always have treats, but it does mean you need to start there. I strongly suggest working on foundation behaviors first- if you don't know what I am talking about, Moe Strenfel and Mary Ellen Barry both have foundation DVDs available at cleanrun.com that can get you started, or you can attend a foundation class (go to www.googility.com to find a class) or take Helix Fairweather's Cyberagility class (she has a foundation class first) at www.cyberagility.com


• Why no treats? How are you going to reinforce the behavior you want?
  
  Anyway, I turn it into a game. Run from the dog. Dog chases you, mark the behavior "YES!" reward. Run again. Repeat
  
  You can also get other people to join in and have them call her to them. Each person takes turns going "Come fido!" dog goes to them, reward.


• In addition to what the other answer said, try training her in several different places. If you only train her in your backyard, she may only obey you in your backyard. Take her to a local park, a friend's house, etc. until she obeys you everywhere.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: I need some dog training help?

I have two one year old 50 pound dogs, and they're sisters. We've had them since they were puppies but they are so hard to train because they always want to get more attention than the other! They are inseparable, so I am going to work on separating them sometimes so they become more independent. I know it's a little late, but I didn't realize how bad it was until recent events. So, they know how to sit, but ONLY when you have a treat. That's the problem. They have no idea what I am saying when I don't have one. Plus, they get so distracted by each other, it's nearly impossible to get them to focus! Another problem I have is when I am trying to teach one of them (without treats) she just rolls on her back every time. I don't know how to get her to stop this!
If you can help me with ANY of this, or have some training tips, please share. Also, I am considering obedience classes. Will that help with any of this?

Myths of Dog Training and Dog Training Solutions

Recommended Answer:
Yes - obedience classes would help you - but I would suggest you ask the instructor if you can bring one girl one class and the other the next etc. You need to get them apart and get some one on one time with them. Litter mates are notoriously hard to train when they have been raised together! They are very bonded and are constantly jostling for position in the "pack".

The dog that is rolling on her back is showing submission to you...my guess is that the other dog is dominant over her, so she has become submissive. The good news is - she is probably the most trainable in the long run.

So you are absolutely on track with your idea to separate them and build some independence! If you can, take turns taking them somewhere off the property individually for some play or training sessions - to a park or a field or even a friend's house (without dogs preferably). Let them learn to concentrate on you rather than each other.

As for training tips - I find the books by Brian Kilcommons to be very good. Hang in there and good luck!

Dog Training Secrets - The Most Important of All Secrets to Dog Training

• A best way to train 1 year old dogs would be through an expert dog behaviorist, who might have unique strategies to train the dogs effectively. If you are looking for a professional dog behaviorist, visit.. http://www.houstondogbehaviorist.com/


• You could try clicker training. This is very effective with most breeds. Try looking on http://www.clickertraining.com/

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: A little help on dog training?

i recenty started practicing fetch in the two-toy method. hes 8 months old yorkie-poo and he seems to be very active and likes plushie toys and bouncy ball. the thing is whenever i try to make him retrieve, he runs off and then protects the toy. can u plz help??

What You Need to Know About Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
When you throw the ball and he gets it, go over to him and take it away. Then give it back to him in his mouth. Keep doing this and he will know that when he gets the ball you will give it back.

Dog Treats for Dog Training

• we taught my dog fetch at like 3 months we just threw and if he didn't bring back and we took it to the person who threw it and said bring here over and over and he learned that but he also learned is different toys by names like doggy,fox,monkey which are what he toys are and by the way i have a toy poodle


• try and bribe him w/ a snack. if he brings back the toy. tell him good boy while patting him on the head. and give him the snack.


• well lif your dog does that there is no way to stop it because my dog (who died today) did the same thing after 2 years it changed. and the next year she died because she thought cars were squaky toys. so do NOT get your dog obsessed with squaky toys!!!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Jealous dog. training tips?

I recently adopted a five yr old dog from my local shelter. I have two other dogs that are very well socialized and good with dogs, cats, horses, etc. At first, all three dogs got along very well. However, when i pet or play with my other dogs, the new dog starts barking and will eventually attack them if i continue to pay them and not him attention. Does anyone with experience in the realms of introducing shelter dogs to existing dogs have any behavioral training tips to help my amily out?

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

Recommended Answer:
Have him on leash & correct him for any jealous behavior. Put him on a down stay when you are lovin' on the other dogs. Correct him immediately for any lip or growling. Let him know you will NOT tolerate any of that behavior. When he complies & is a good boy, after you are done with the other dogs, call him over to you, tell him "good boy" & he gets his lovins. Be 100% consistent. The behavior will disappear.
Source(s):
btdt with different rescue dogs

Common Dog Training Mistakes

• Always make the presence of other pets a pleasant experience – tensing up, scolding, shooing and grabbing teach that another animal is to be disliked.
  
  Learn the signs of peacemaking and stress in dogs.
  
  Praise any appropriate interaction that you see – polite dogs can help one another learn.
  
  Serial feeding is a handy way to support several goals:
  - helping an animal learn its name
  - getting an animal to enjoy the company of another animal or person
  - encouraging animals to remain calm around one another
  - strengthening the idea that food should not be taken without permission
  
  Have all of the animals within reach, and equidistant from you. If any know “sit” or “down,” and are comfortable doing so in one another's presence, ask for it. Say an animal's name, your cue for giving permission to eat something, and feed that animal a treat. Then do the same with the next, etc., until each has had a treat.
  
  Any animal that gets pushy, bothers another animal, or does anything else that you don't want, doesn't get a treat when their turn comes around again. Keep moving yourself, if need be, to keep the distance equal between you and every animal.
  
  Periodically repeat this ritual, to remind all that the presence of the others brings good things, but only if they are all calm and polite.


• Just a little jealous. Should get over it in time. My dog who loves my cat still gets jealous when i brush the cat. He will come over and get between me and the cat till I brush him..bl


• 1)controlled shock collar
  2)squirt bottle
  3) hit them and say: no, bad dog

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Heard of any bird dog training schools in TX?

owners asking for dog trained to retrieve birds in hunting

Dog Training and Why it is Important

Recommended Answer:
You should be able to find hunting schools on the net. Look up field/hunting training schools.

Easy Dog Training - 7 Top Tips

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training has been simplified?!...?

So I got my mom this little dog training guide and in less then 1 week he was rolling over and doing my moms commands. I remember having to put him on leash because he was wild and insane! Crazy attack dog.. now he is a furry little angel:) check out what i gave my mom i though the world could use it to.
http://bit.ly/a16vGG

Dog Training Courses - Which One is Right For You?

Recommended Answer:
Before anyone follows this link, this question asker needs to persuade us that this is not just a commercial promotion, or worse, some sort of virus/trojan website.

Dog Training Tricks - Is Anyone Training You?

• No thank you.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Special dog training help information needed please?

I would like to train my dog to do everything from sit to being the ears for my deaf son.

I would love for some information on the best dvd or books or anything that would help me do this.

I live in Ireland and as I am aware of, there is no DEAF DOG training here.

Thanking you in advance.

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

Recommended Answer:
PLZ VISIT THE SITE BELOW.

HOPE IT HELPS

http://www.reviewlocator.com/reviews/sec…

Dog Training Collar Aka Shock Collar Buyers' Guide

• Look on the webe for Canine Partners. They train dogs for disabled people, whether this includes the deaf or not I don't know but I am sure they will be able to help or advise one way or another.
  
  Good luck


• Secrets To Dog Training
  
  http://ponyurl.com/ktx6g7

Read More...