Dog Health Questions: How many people really think anyone can do Personal Protection Training in dogs?

I have long believed that people will do or say anything to make themselves right on an issue where they have literally stepped in something that smells bad. I have always tried to understand that everyone makes mistakes and that includes me. Further, I hope I am big enough to admit when I am wrong.
I have made the statement on several occasion that the average pet owner is not capable of doing their own protection training in a dog, and I have gotten upset more than a few times when I see people come on and ask such questions as How do I make my dog kill on command? or How do I make my Pit Bull's head bigger so he looks meaner? or What is the best book to buy so I can train my dog to be mean?
Maybe I am wrong. I believe there are people who are capable of training their dogs but I also believe they need assistance and for something as important as personal protection, they most certainly need someone who is well trained in the art.
However, I will be the first to admit, though I have watched others train, and I have even assisted at times, this is not my forte. So, I would like input from you guys on the idea that anyone can train a dog for personal protection, and also, should personal protection training be promoted in the average canine?
Most of you know I am working on some rescue issues with my county right now and writing several proposals. One of the reasons I am asking this is because we have always tried to put stipulations in our proposals with the county that deals specifically with laws associated with dog training. For example: we have a stipulation right now that states anyone who deliberately trains a domesticated dog that is a family pet to attack will be fined and the dog confiscated. It is not worded exactly like that, but I think you guys get the idea.
Thanks in advance for your discussions on this.

Dog Training Collar Aka Shock Collar Buyers' Guide

Recommended Answer:
You got me with the "most of you know I am working on, etc. etc." Since most of us don't have a clue who you are, I can see why.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;…
Once again, another 1 year old copy and paste question. You are reported!

Dog Training Tip - Leash-Collar Training

• Sorry, but your lack of knowledge is as clear as day. It does not matter how skilled or experienced you are, no one can train their own PP dog. It takes a team of people. A handler, a decoy, distraction people, etc....
  If you are one of those extremists who think that only law enforcement should be allowed to have dogs trained to protect then there is no point in this conversation.
  The right dog, the right handler, the right team, and the right training are all basic.


• Huh. The 'average' pet owner barely knows which end of the leash to use if they use one at all.
  
  No. No one but a professional licensed in this field. Period. No arguments, no exceptions.
  
  What I am starting to find disturbing is the videos you can access. Many of them are 'home made' and the so called 'trainer' hasn't a clue in hell what he(she) is doing. People look at them and think
  Well, I can do that! Even with the videos that are obviously done by professionals it is still disturbing.
  
  People are wanting dogs to 'protect' them. To 'protect' their home. Protect their children.
  
  It is not the animal's job to protect. It is our job as the owners of these dogs to protect them, our home and children.
  
  Unfortunately, I do believe Launi is very capable of coming to my assistance if she felt I was being threatened. It is unfortunate because she would be in my line of fire.
  
  And I am very sorry to tell everyone this but a PP dog, no matter how deadly, is no match for a firearm.


• Most pet owners are lucky to be able to get their dog to do a recall never mind protection training. I believe that should only be done by trained professionals and have a poorly trained protection dog is as dangerous as a loaded gun given to a 5yr old.
  Any dog that is properly socialized, loved and cared for by the owners will protect them. Most dogs are territorial and will protect what they believe is their home.. My Standard Poodles wouldn't let anyone in my house if they were not invited. 3 large dogs with teeth bared were enough of a deterrent for one would be burglar..

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Sledding Tours Minnesota/ Southern Canada?

I am looking into a career with dogs and i thought mushing or a dog training that teaches dog sledding would be a good match. I've been to Alberta for a dog sledding tour but i want to maybe intern with a dog sledding tour guide service close to home (Minnesota). Listing any tour guide services in minnesota or close to it would really help or advice or the career would also help!
thanks
-Matt

At Your Service: Service Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
2 things:

You need to learn business management

You need to learn a mushing lifestyle

Check up near Grand Marais, MN (Cook County), its a small town and someone in the Chamber of Commerce should be able to put you in touch with someone who can help. There is a group of mushers there that all live fairly close together and have been known to accept apprentices. Up in the BWCA there is a company that uses dogs to transport goods where no motorized vehicles are allowed.

Dog Training Basics - Important Tips to Remember

• it's over already, but you should check into the John Beargrease Sled Dog race that happens up by Duluth every year. There you could start networking.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog trainer jobs/ GED?

Basically, I want to be a dog trainer. I have a good college for animal behavior & Dog training set up, to a school program where you get a degree that is most prefered by places.
But, I'm still in school - I'm a senior, but I'm not going to pass. I'm failing all my classes, and I have alot going on at home and such, I can't really take all the pressure and stress. So I figured I'd drop out and get my GED - do you think I could still be successful?

Dog Training - Avoiding Common Mistakes During Dog Training Sessions

Recommended Answer:
It is possible but look at the requirements for your dog training school and see what classes they require./

Dog Training - How to Handle Outdoor Dog Training

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Dog Health Questions: How train puppy not to jump up?

I have a 3 mos old puppy have trained to sit, stay, come, go to kennel etc, but do you have any ideas on how to train him not to jump up on people besides telling me to buy a dog training book?
I am looking for specific ideas that worked for you.

Bird Dog Training - How Hunting Dogs Are Treated

Recommended Answer:
UUURRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!!

This question is asked so many times, and I am SO SICK of people recommending leash corrections, kneeing the dog in the chest, and hitting. Besides being unneccesary and ineffective, have any of you ever tried to knee a 3 month old pup in the chest? Unless you are about three feet tall, ain't gonna happen!

Now that I have vented...this is soooooo simple. No one pets the dog unless he is sitting (or at least standing) first. If he jumps, turn around and walk away. If he sits and then you reach to pet him and he starts to jump again, turn and walk away. He wants attention...he will learn very quickly what he needs to do to get attention from people. The hardest part is not going to be training your pup, it's going to be getting other people to comply. Make them! If necessary, ask them to have the pup sit so they can give him a treat and then pet him. They will be more amenable if they believe they are helping you train him to sit.

Basic Dog Training - Timing And Body Language

• What I did was I would purposefully get my puppy excited and when he jumped, I kneed him down. I did it over and over, and he got the picture that it's OK to be excited but not OK to jump. When he gets it with you, he may still try it with other folks, so you could enlist the help of a volunteer to follow your instruction and do the same thing.
  
  When the puppy gets it and doesn't jump on you even though he's excited, make a big deal out of it and make him think he's a super pup. He will get the positive/negative connection with the behavior.
  
  Be consistent and your puppy will get it.
  
  I got this information personally form a border collie breeder/trainer, so it's a tried and true method.
  
  Good luck!


• You can put the puppy on a leash and yank it and say no when the puppy starts to jump. Another idea that also worked for me is to have people bend their leg at the knee raise it up off the floor so when the puppy jumps it doesn't get to you and it seems to stop trying. Repetition and consistency is the key. Good luck.


• The way dog trainers to it is to have a choke chain collar on with lead attached, and the dog gets jerked down and reprimanded every time. If you trained it to do the rest of that stuff, you can train it not to jump up.


• Go with positive reinforcement - it works better than, say, a choke collar or spike collar, which is horribly inhumane. He jumps up because he is excited to see you and wants to steal all your attention - that's not something that deserves to be punished for. We had this "problem" with our pitbull puppy, and while it doesn't "scare" us, it had scared guests in the past, so we needed to train her not to. We put treats in our pockets and when we walked in the door, we bent down (she wont jump if you're down on her level) and wouldn't pet her until she sat. She won't get it at first and may seem a little confused, but if you do it every day for a few weeks, she'll immediately sit when you get home, and eventually stop giving her treats and just give her lots of praise, and she'll do it just for that. It takes work, but you'll end up with a much happier, well-behaved dog. Good luck.
  
  Oh, one more thing... "Kneeing" (another word for kicking) your dog in the chest for jumping is a bad (and dangerous) act. While it doesn't happen 100% of the time, some dogs (especially in puppies) experience a collapsed trachea or other neck and throat damage by this "type" of training. (choke and/or spike collars have the potential to damage the throat as well). Just think, if you came home to your child and he/she was climbing up on you, happy to see you, you wouldn't want to knee or kick your baby in the neck... And your pets should be treated like you're children... Just because some people say they've done these things with no bad repercussions, doesn't mean it will go flawlessly for you as well... (Okay, okay, I'm GOING now!!) :o)


• Stick your knee out (don't kick him!) when he goes to jump on you and tell him no, don't let him jump on you, he will get the message.


• Do not pet puppy when she is jumping up,, put her back down on all 4 feet and praise.... if she continues,,,, grab hold of her front paws and HOLD THEM one to each side of your body... say nothing,.,.,, keep holding... she is going to try to mouth your hand etc. KEEP HOLDING keep her there until she really wants to get down cuz it is no longer pleasurable to jump up... then place her two front feet on the ground and say good "feet" and praise her... she is probably gonna get wild and jump right back up ,,,, REPEAT this does not take long for the dog to understand "FEET" command,,,,, it also doesn't not hurt the dog in anyway,,, if she yelps while you are holding her paws it is because she is frightened by the paw trap --- she will learn very quickly that it really isn't rewarding to jump up,,, you must always remember to praise her when all 4 feet are on the ground......... good luck


• OK I won't say buy it, go to this site, they have great positive reinforcement, not the cruel "choker chain" others have suggested.
  
  Before you do anything to your pet, ask yourself would I want some one to do that to me? If not don't do it to your pet remember they are people too.


• i have 13 pit bulls ,we use the old news paper trick, just roll up a small peice and when the pup jumps up swat it on the rear, and say no, affter a bit it will know not to jump.


• you can try using a squirt gun - just give him a little blast of water when he jumps up and firmly say NO, then have him sit. He'll get the hang of it....


• When puppy jumps, place shin or knee (depends how big pup is) on puppy's chest and push back firmly but NOT hard. Don't hurt the pup, but you want a reaction. At the exact same time you push with your leg, sharply say "No" and then immediately say (in a softer voice) the pups name and "Sit." Praise lavishly the second your pup sits.
  
  Melissa K: Read what you wrote. The knee-correction (you do NOT knee your pup in the chest as YOU wrote) is a decades-old proven method to teach a canine not to jump. Your vent is severely misplaced. Highly unlikely you are a dog trainer as I and millions of others have successfully used this method of training for over 30 years without any issues or any harm to our beloved dogs.
  
  And Anna dear, the knee correction technique of "placing" your shin or knee on the canine's chest has NOTHING to do with KICKING. No one should ever kick a dog. Where do you people get this nonsense from?


• First thing to do is to watch the show "The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Milan". This show saved my dog's life and allowed us to add others to our "pack". Cesar will walk you through how to not train your dog, but train yourself in how to communicate what you want to.
  
  As for jumping up...when a dog jumps on someone it is because they see themselves as the leader of the house (or "pack"). The ONLY way to get a dog to do anything you want it to (without abuse of course) is take the leadership role on yourself. There are so many ways to do this (a simple one is to be sure you never speak in high pitched tones or let your dog walk in a room or out a door ahead of you...) that you should really invest the time to watch the show or buy his book (I prefer the show...it is on The National Geographic Channel.)
  
  Good luck and enjoy your anilmal!!!


• u tell it to stay down or if that doesn't work u get a dog coller then he might stay down

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Dog Health Questions: How do you stop a puppy from barking?

Our black lab/golden retriever puppy is about 16 weeks old. We bought a dog training book that says to hold a treat up to his nose because they can't bark and sniff at the same time when he is barking. But that is not working because he might think he is being praised. What do you suggest we do?

Schutzhund Dog Training Is Not So Difficult - Read These Top Tips

Recommended Answer:
NEVER EVER BEAT THE DOG, OR HIT IT when it barks or else it will turn aggressive. I know alot about dogs, and usually you ignore the dog or look at them straight in the eyes and say no in a stern voice and then ignore them but don't put them in a time-out, because their cage is eathier their home, or when they crap in the house. just ignore the dog because all they want is attention and that's why they're barking or because they're trying to protect their property! GOOD LUCK! contact me if you have any questions at shopacholic009@yahoo.com

The Evolution of Dog Training

• Feed the dog some food.


• give him to the pound


• I think you could try reading other books on training. (or Hire a trainer)


• i had the same problem with my dog, and although this is a little mean it really worked. every time he would bark i would spray him with a little tiny squirt gun. eventually he learned not to bark.


• shock collars. it worked on my neighbor's dog!


• puzzle on it


• I have a black lab, and we started splashing her in the face with a little water each time she would bark. It is an unpleasant shock. Say no at the same time, so that no becomes a negative. Then when you say no in the future, it means it is bad...
  Now our dog only barks when she is allowed, or told to...


• to find out what is causing him to bark would be the first place to start


• Get rid of it and buy a kitten!! HA HA


• there are BARKING CESSATION devices on the market.
  
  They are fairly cheap too.


• Feed him/her or give him/her a chew toy.


• i suggest that you either get a barking collar. Labs can handle it. It only gives them a little jolt. We had to put one on my miniature beagle but she couldnt handle it. Every time she got shocked she barked more.


• try to comfort it and see if that helps if it does'ent email me and ill see what i can do


• Try to scratch the dogs head and talk to it..they like that..


• A 44' will do the job
  One bullet to the head one to the hearth Just to be sure
  
  Just kidding :)
  Give him something he really likes eating Dog biscuvits or something like that :)


• I agree with the person that said to spray him with a water gun. It really does sound mean, but it doesn't hurt them and it's the only thing that has ever worked with my dog.


• shock collars are absolutely inhumane,that squirt gun method works real well,it does not cause pain,but they do not like it,do the humane thing hun


• give the puddy what ever it is that he/she wants :)


• tie its mouth


• When is he barking? When you leave? Is it at night? Is he an indoor dog or an outdoor dog (inmate), I call outdoor dogs inmates because people lock them in their back yards and forget about them. Anyway, whatever the cause the answer is consistent patient training. Anti-bark devices are typically inhumane (even if you can buy one at Walmart)and show the owners lack of patience or willingness to spend time working with the dog and generally they are not a long term solution, eventually the collar wears out or gets broken or whatever... There are about a million great sites on the www. with training advice and or tips...Good Luck


• With few exceptions, all dogs bark. Barking is a natural behaviour and it is a way of communicating. While the messages can range from loneliness to hunger or playfulness, most often barking is used as an alarm or alert signal that indicates to the other pack members that a stranger or intruder is approaching
  
  Most people have a feeling of security and comfort knowing their dogs are “on the job”. Some people even encourage their dogs to bark and growl when the doorbell rings or someone knocks. They feel this is acceptable behaviour, however, when the dogs become uncontrollable, with barking that is excessive, they become a nuisance. Life is miserable for neighbours who must listen day after day to barking dogs.
  Excessive barking often begins in puppy-hood, when the pup who is not yet house-trained is unwisely shut behind closed doors. Improper confinement will definitely cause a barking problem, and dogs that are tied or tethered will eventually become frustrated and begin to bark to communicate their displeasure. We must always remember that dogs are pack animals. It is not natural or normal for them to be alone, however, millions of dogs must learn to cope confidently while members of the family go out daily to work.
  
  Chewing, uncontrolled barking, house-training problems and destructive behaviour have put many dogs out of their homes, and all of this could be avoided if we simply communicated more effectively with our canine companions. They are part of a pack or family, similar in behaviour to their ancestors, the wolves. Wolves travel, hunt, sleep and eat in a group environment, therefore, we must modify this instinct. We must, in our human packs, make our dogs feel comfortable and secure about being alone in the “den” while the other pack members are away.
  
  Because most barking takes place when you are away from home, you have no choice but to believe your neighbours when they complain.
  
  Barking is actually quite common and not that difficult to rectify. Let us consider the encouraging owner who inadvertently praises and teaches his or her dog that its barking is the greatest thing, which makes the dog feel its owner is happy and pleased when he barks.
  
  The easiest way to teach the dog to bark is command him to “speak”. So while the dog is barking at the door, the owner may use the command word “speak”. The dog will associate barking behaviour with this word. Now, your golden moment has arrived. You are going to teach your dog the word “quiet”, or “enough” or “shush” (your choice!). We do not teach the word “No”, because “No” means “Never, ever do that - ever".
  
  When you command your dog to be “Quiet” and he keeps barking, you will have to teach him the meaning of the word “Quiet”. Hitting your dog or using other physical measure or mechanical or electronic aids are unkind and unnecessary. You may hold your dog's muzzle closed (gently and kindly), or you may have to use a water pistol. Another method is to make a sudden sharp sound (rattle a pop can with some coins in it, or bang on a pot) to divert your dog's attention from barking. When your dog has ceased to bark for at least three to five seconds, praise him in a quiet, calm voice, perhaps saying, “Good, quiet. Good!”. Avoid stroking, patting and hugging your dog at this point, as you may over-excite him again, and he may miss the point of the whole exercise.
  
  Before you leave your dog alone, remember the following points:
  
  Provide adequate exercise.
  
  Leave the radio or television on.
  
  Provide your dog with proper chewing material - rawhide, nylabones and Kong toys stuffed with yummy stuff are good (beware of using real animal bones - they can splinter).
  
  Crate train your dog.
  
  Unplug your phone.
  
  Place a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door. This may prevent trades people from knocking or ringing the bell, which would set your dog off on a barking cycle.
  
  Shut the shades or drapes so your dog cannot see outside.
  
  Make your departures calm. Tone things down and be matter of fact. Over-emotional, guilt-ridden departures (and entrances) put your dog in a state of anxiety.


• Tell Boscorelli to STOP BARKING!!! HE IS GIVING ME A HEADACHE SAM!!!

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Dog Health Questions: So I want to be a Dog Trainer...?

Im interested in joining the field of dog trainers, but am not sure where to start. Where can you go with a Dog training degree? Average Salary? What are the employers like?...Thanks Guys!!

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

Recommended Answer:
The dog training field needs more people passionate in dog training. I encourage you to pursue your interest. Get as much experience handling dogs, even if it's not in dog training. Cesar Millan from Dog whisperer started out at a dog grooming salon. My sister's Petsmart dog trainer started by just training her own dogs. You can volunteer at shelters, work at pet stores, train your relative's dogs, etc. Most popular dog trainer's business is all through word of mouth. If you are passionate and persistent in your job people WILL notice and you'll get where you wanna go.

Don't get discouraged by other people's opinions because no matter what you do, there will be people against you. Do what you believe and what's right. Best Wishes.

Choosing Between Dog Training Schools and Animal Behavior Specialists

• To get certificate, you will have to attend a dog training school and complete the required courses. but mostly dog trainers are self educated. they study the training methods and behaviors of dogs on their own, attend conventions, and learn from other trainers. There are no known degrees for dog training but some college do offer programs that are similar to the subject, such as behavioral psychology and veterinary sciences. Some dog trainers are self employed, some work for small businesses, and sometimes for other pet related businesses. The greatest first step to take is to join the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. It offers great opportunities and Information. The salary really depends on how good you are at it and how many skills you have. The average hourly wage is $10.50, but in order to really make a good salary you need to know what you are doing and know the business end of being a dog trainer.


• You start by finding a good trainer to teach you how to train dogs. I don't mean the box store trainer but a person who has trained large dogs, small dogs, nice dogs, mean dogs, hairy dogs, and hairless dogs. This person should have a good track record and should be able to prove it. Sure reading books and attending classes will help but nothing takes the place of good old experience. I'm always cautious about dog training schools especially online ones. Most cannot prove that a student can actually train dogs.
  
  I can't give you an average salary as most trainers train on the side as a hobby. Some full-time trainers do boarding and grooming as well as training, so it's hard to tell where most of the money is coming from. Most trainers are employers having their own business.
  
  To be a good trainer, not only do you need good dog training ability but you need to have good business skills and people skills. Some trainer wannabes forget that each dog they train comes attached to a person. A good trainer also has to be a good person teacher.


• There is NO "dog training degree". Period. Many trainers learn what they know by finding someone in the field to MENTOR them. They mentor on their own time and have a PT job on the side, unless they're lucky enough to find someone to pay as they train. Not very likely though.
  
  Salary can be as little as $9/hour (starter trainer, working under group or business) to as high as $20/hour (private trainer with 25+ years experience).
  
  If you work FOR a group, organization, or business then what the "employers are like" varies. Just like in any job you can get a great employer or a horrible one. When working for yourself, well.... you can answer that one. But either way you'll be dealing with people as well as dogs, and people can get NASTY when they don't hear what they want to hear or when they become frustrated.
  
  http://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages…
  http://www.simplyhired.com/a/salary/sear…


• Start training a dog. I'd get a labrador from strong working lines and title him with a utility in obedience, work him on scentwork and get him narcotics certified and therapy dog certified. If you really want a challenge, field trial title him. Then let your results speak for themselves to attract clients.


• Where can you go with a Dog training degree? No such thing as a dog training degree.
  Average Salary? Minimum wage to start.
  What are the employers like? Let's just put it this way...."You better have thick skin".

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training questions?

Please answer the following questions. The age of the dog is 8 weeks:

-1)When I wke up every two hours to let it go potty at night, will it pee, poo or both? Thank You.
-2)After eating, will it have to pee, poo or both?
3)After exercising, does it need to pee, poo or both?
4)Right before going to sleep, if I take it out, will it need to pee, poo, or both? Note: For this one, I will already have token it out after dinner. So this is like a pre-sleep trip.

And if I have left any other times I will need to take it outside to eliminate, please list them.

Residential Dog Training Vs DIY Home Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Well ironically you need to answer this. Every puppy is different. I have some puppies that pee and poop every time they go out, some pee every time, but only poop maybe twice a day. Andy would pee, then poop 10 minutes later, and poop again 2 minutes later. One would hold his poop all day and wait for my husband to come home and then poop for him. You need to watch your puppies patterns and see what your puppy does. Here are some tips, use what helps. I use a crate* to potty train with, but only for potty training and then I break it down and store it. I put blankets and a small food and water dish in the crate. Dogs don't potty where they eat and sleep. When they are first little, I only expect them to hold their potty for 4 hours, and then 6 hours, then 8 hours and so on. So when they are first little, I set a timer or alarm clock to wake myself up at night to take them *out. I only allow my puppy in the bedroom* or the living room, only one room at a time. They have to graduate to more space. If I allow them to have full run of the house, it will overwhelm them. I take them out the same door each time. I tie a dinner bell to the door handle. Do not use a jingle bell as they could get their toe caught in it. So when they are little, I ring the bell for them, and then open the door to go *outside to potty. When they get bigger, I take their paw and whack the bell and open the door to go potty. Eventually getting to the place where the puppy will ring the bell and let me know when they need to go potty. Dogs want to please you, so it is your job to let them know what behaviors please you and what doesn't. So when my puppy goes potty, I give her a treat*, and clap, and make a fuss and praise her. So she learns that going potty outside makes me happy. If she has an accident, make a disgust sound like “tsst” and take her out right away. I never yell* or spank* my puppies. Take them out when they first wake up, after they eat or drink, before nap, finish romping, when their activities change, or when they are sniffing around. Some puppies go pee right away, but may not go poop until 10 minutes later, so wait for the poop. I have a little play time here, because sometimes I think they are done, and they are not. Puppies train at their own pace. While I may have a puppy that hasn't had an accident in several weeks, I don't let my guard down. I don't expect my puppies to be "fully potty trained" until one-year-old. If they have a setback, shake it off, and start over. I only have my puppies in the crate when I am not watching them. When I am sleeping, cooking, ironing, doing chores, basically when I am not watching her. All other times, she is out of the crate practicing being a "big girl." This is the time I train her how to behave in the house. So we are practicing "no barking", 'no biting", "no jumping", and "don't eat the furniture." I also have to practice "playing inside" so she doesn't knock over things. You must keep the puppy in sight when they are little because they don't know the difference between newspaper and carpet, and you don't want them sneaking off and getting into trouble. Some puppies can sleep through the night around 3-months-old, but their bladder is grown around 6-months-old.

REVISIONS:
*I use a CRATE to train with. It is the method I prefer, compared to other methods I have tried. I noticed that if they are in the crate, while I am doing chores, they are o.k., because the crate allows them to see me and be re-assured. The crate can also be a comfort when stored in the basement for dogs who live in areas where thunderstorms and tornados are an issue. . However, use the method that works best for you.....a laundry basket, a cardboard box, a woof-woof house, x-pen, child gates, whatever works for you.
*OUTSIDE, pee pad, litter box, whichever method you are using. When the puppy is first little, keep the pee pad, litter box near the food and water dish, so the puppy can eat and drink, and then go potty. You can move it away as they get older. The pee pad has a scent that smells and initiates potty. Sometimes a pee pad makes a sound that scares some puppies, so you might want to use a litter box if that happens. The pee pad allows a puppy to walk around, but a litter box keeps the puppy in one place.
*BEDROOMS, I use the bedroom and living room for training, because it works for me. Choose rooms that work for you, but watch for rooms that are damp, or drafty. While my puppies sleep in the bedroom during training, once they are trained, I let them sleep where they want to. They don't have to sleep in the bedroom forever.
*TREATS. While I use treats for training, you don't have to. I like Charlee Bears for training (a little cracker for a little mouth,) I use them for training, but once they are trained, I cut back on them.
*SOME PUPPIES will go potty in the same spot each time. Some puppies have to be told to go potty. A command like "go out" for pee, or "go finish" for poop, might work for you, keep saying “go finish” until the puppy poops. This is a good thing to train if you travel with your dogs. By using commands, the puppy won't get confused when you are visiting someone, on vacation with you, or when you get to a new home. The command will tell them what you want them to do in an unfamiliar place. You might also want to use a leash method, so the puppy doesn't sneak off, or for strange places.
*YELLING. It is not a good idea to "yell" or "spank" your puppy and then take them outside when they have an accident. They may get confused and think that going outside is punishment. While you want to correct them, if you are extreme, they may not want to go outside again. Shake it off, and resume your schedule. You have to keep it real. Puppies train at their own pace, but a puppy can only hold their potty for a few hours. A guide would be 1 hour for each month of age, plus 1 hour, so a three-month-old puppy should only be expected to hold their potty for 4 hours at most.
SOURCE: These tips, tricks, and ideas were contributed from many brilliant minds. Thanks for your help!

Dog Training - 4 Quick Steps to Good Doggie Manners

• There is absolutely no possible way for us to accurately guess the cycle of your puppy's bladder and bowels. Every dog is an individual, and they all operate on different schedules. You can probably bet that he'll have to pee within thirty minutes of eating, soon after exercising, and after drinking water, plus other times. He'll defecate whenever he needs to defecate. I think a safe guess would be within an hour after meals, and probably first thing in the morning. If he doesn't urinate *and* defecate before bedtime, wait until he does to put him to bed, or you'll most likely be woken up in the middle of the night because he'll have to go. Oh, and on that note, expect to take him out in the middle of the night or in the wee hours of the morning anyway. Most young puppies can't go longer than a six-hour night.
  
  At eight weeks, to effectively prevent any accidents, you will need to take him out every two hours or so. Some puppies at that age even require being taken out every hour to prevent an accident. Just play it by ear, watch him carefully for any signs that he needs to relieve himself, and you'll grow accustomed to his schedule very quickly.

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Dog Health Questions: Does anyone know of place that does private dog obedience training in Gainesville, TX?

I have a 6 month old puppy that I can't break of some very annoying habits, despite having tried many things.
I'd like to try private lessons.
If public/group lessons are the only option, I could go for that. She needs socialization as well, but I think she would freak out too much at public lessons. This is the kind of dog that if she even sees an object that has another animals scent on it, she will choke herself (on the leash), and squells and whines (very loudly and endlessly) to get to it. For example I've tried introducing her to someone. After an hour of being in the prescence of the other person, she calmed down a little but still broke into fits of squelling and whining shrilly, all because I wouldn't let her run over and bite, scratch, and jump all over the person.

We only have one shelter, Noah's Ark, and I do not believe it offers lessons of any sort. Nor is there a Petco or Petsmart or anything of the sort within 50 minutes of here.

Anyway, sorry for the long explantion. With all this said, does anyone know of a place or qualified person who offers private dog training in Gainesville? If not what group training is available? Also if you know the prices that would be helpful too.

Thanks a bunch in advance!

Finding Careers in Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
sorry no one is answering.

I found one luisting on this page

http://www.allprok9training.com/texas.ht…

GOOD DOGS TRAINING CENTER no address or phone number but should be in the dictionary.

Here it is. Now I don't know anything about it, just trying to help.

GOOD DOGS TRAINING CENTER
3829 E Highway 82
Gainesville,TX 76240
35.0MI from Prosper
(940) 665-5000

At-Home Dog Training Tips

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Dog Health Questions: Is this a good place to take my future dog for training?

Well, I am learning about Border Collies and I am trying to get everything planned in case I get one. I already know about jobs, mental stimulation, and exercise. Plus, I already found a rescue that I will adopt from if I decide to get a Border Collie. I plan on feeding my Border Collie Blue Buffalo and I am going to ask my step dad if I can help him fence the yard unless he hires someone to do it.

Well, my question is about a dog training place that I found. It's like an hour away from us, so I am asking if it would be good to go to? I'm 15 and I will be the one to take care of the dog (feed, water, exercise, train, etc) so would I be the one to do the training? I'm just aking because he or she would mainly be my dog.

Here's the website. Please check it out and tell me what you think. In my opinion it seems really nice and good. But what do you think?

http://www.watersedgeretrievers.com/

Thanks! I am definately going to be in agility and I am thinking about also doing obedience, disc, flyball, heel work to music, and rally. Would this be a good place to go?

A Review of Secrets to Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Looks good to me.......are you sure you are the original TD? Seems you have gained education, respect, common sense and manners.......or was that always there?

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

• If you desire to do agility I suggest you plan on putting a great obedience foundation on your dog First.
  
  I would also suggest you get your dog from a reputable breeder. Rescue dogs have issues. This is not a breed I would want unless I KNEW its background.
  
  Contact your local AKC obedience and agility club for training classes.


• It looks fine. As I've stated to you before.....you will not earn any brownie points with the DS regulars by ADMITTING being a liar about your age THREE times now. Also, by doing so, you are making yourself look like a five year old.


• Why not get your "future" dog started herding, what a BC is bred for? You can get a nicely started dog from a reputable sheepdog trainer for around $2000.00. Of course you'll have to continue with lesson at least 2-3 days a week, and they run from $35.00-$50.00 an hour, depending on the trainer.

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Dog Health Questions: Have I been to strict with my dog, training wise?

I feel I should start out by letting everyone know that I've never used a heavy hand with my dog, never even had a reason too. She is a 5 year old Pitbull/Lhasa Apso/Westhighland Terrier mix. I've trained her well since I've had her and she is very obedient to me, and only me. The family can't get her to do much, so they call me over and I handle it. But I think since I'm the only one who really handles her behavior she's afraid of me? She's always flipping on her back whenever I walk by, and I know it's natural, but I feel sort of bad she thinks she has to do that All. The. Time. She's never relaxed around me. Should I lighten up on the training? Or am I just thinking in human terms to much and she doesn't really mind this, since she's a dog? This might sound silly, I'm not sure.

Find Out How You Could Get Into Dog Training As A Career

Recommended Answer:
No, I think you're on to something. While offering deferential behaviors is to be expected from her, she shouldn't be living in a constant state of "I mean no harm, I'm a good dog, please don't hurt me" (which is basically the message she sends out every time she shows you her stomach like that or something). Assuming that you want to have a positive relationship based on mutual trust and love, she should be able to relax and be comfortable around you, not constantly on edge.

What do you do to make her behave this way? You might not be physically hitting her (which is, obviously, a good thing!), but you can certainly throw your weight around in other ways. Do you always use a sharp, firm voice? Do you yell or sound aggressive? Do you stare her down or use threatening body postures? If you're doing these things, yeah, I'd say ease up because it's obviously a bit much for her. You don't need to assert yourself as leader or whatever you're doing by seeming intimidating; as long as you control the resources, you're the boss. So try saying commands calmly, happily and more softly (still firmly, but not like a drill sargent!), rewarding her to build up positive associations, and regularly making a point of just hanging out with her (giving her a tummy rub while you watch TV, playing a light-hearted game, what have you).

To help soothe her nerves, try utilizing calming signals:
http://www.canis.no/rugaas/onearticle.ph…

Train Your Dog - Benefits and Tips For Successful Dog Training

• Well i do believe in spanking but not for a older dog. Only when you train a puppy and only a few taps on the but. Enough to let him know he did wrong but not enough to make him feel afraid or abused. Anywho i think dogs are smarter than most dog trainers give them credit for. This dog may be showing deferential behavior but the dog also may be showing that she trusts you. Most animals won't show thier stomachs (which is a weak or exposed part of the body) unless they trust you. Dogs may be domesticated but they still have some instincts. It could be her way of saying " I love you and trust you!! Rub my tummy please!!"
  
  I love dogs and i do think they are really smart. They know when they have done a bad thing, they know who to trust and who to distrust, they know who is thier ultimate master, etc....
  Don't ever underestimate your dog. I don't think a lot of trainers understand this fact.

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Dog Health Questions: Has American culture in terms of dog training changed?

I have been told that pit bulls used to be "the" family dog. I work with pit bulls at my shelter so I can see how that could be true, however I also know that pit bull problems tend to come from people who buy them and expect them to train themselves, so I was wondering if people used to be more diligent and educated about their dogs than they are now. I know that in decades past there was more emphasis on the family and traditionally mothers would stay home, which would make a difference in at least the dogs wouldn't be left home alone all the time, but I haven't seen very many depictions of the stay-at-home mom's working as dog trainers for breeds with dominance issues. What is the difference between now and then in terms of how pit bulls behave?

My parents are in their 50's and both grew up with dogs their whole lives, but when we got our first dog they were clueless, and 15 years later still are. They had no idea what to feed, how to train, how often to exercise, nothing. Neither set of my grandparents have dogs anymore so I don't know how much they know about dogs, but I doubt they were picking up the slack. And in case anyone didn't read that thoroughly, I am not saying pit bulls are inherently bad dogs now. I just know they need a certain level of attention and training in order to be happy and well behaved, as any dog does, though perhaps for this breed a bit more since they will happily dominate if allowed. I was just wondering why it was seemingly so much better handled then than it is now.

The Importance of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
Pit bull type dogs were originally bred to be dog aggressive. The ones that had the SLIGHTEST amount of handler aggression were not tolerated because during a dog fight the handler would have to hold their dog and be in the ring with them.

Now reputable breeders are trying to breed out the dog aggression in them, and hold on to it's good temperament with handlers. There isn't any difference between then and now other than that. AmStaffs are actually known as "nannies" because they are so good with kids. But the media doesn't realize this and messes the whole thing up.

So You Want a Guard Dog, Eh? (Basic Dog Training)

• Because people are no longer using dogs for their designed purpose. Such as herding dogs (collies and heelers) that are now kept as pets and are not given enough exercise. People don't bother to look up the breed's information, then they get angry with the animal for doing what it was bred to do such as running, barking, or chasing animals. People are lazy and ignorant about their pets. I'm not saying everyone is, but I wish people would take the time to find out about the animal before getting it.


• the problem with dogs in general stems from a lot of changes. dogs used to be kept in yards, or even free roaming b/c there weren't close-by highways with cars going 50-75 mph. they were treated as dogs to say the least (and usually given jobs, like on farms herding). secondly, there are a lot more dogs in general. so now we have been taking more and more animals (poorly/overly bred), and putting them in our homes, leaving them bored and understimulated, thus causing it to seem like there are more bad behaved dogs when in fact its just that there are higher numbers and more kept as indoor fashion accesories (not that i advocate leaving dogs in yards or free roaming, but i def advocate exercise, space, and a job to do).

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training problem?

I think i taught my dog wrong about the command "sit". Because my training technique for sit is i hold up a treat above my puppy's face and move it backward and my puppy will automatically sit or i could hold a treat above my puppy's face and gently lower my puppy's behind (I JUST READ THAT FROM THE INTERNET). And my puppy does that. But whenever my puppy just see a treat it automatically sits whitout me saying "sit". What can i do? Will it be forever wrong?

Dog Training Man's Best Friend

Recommended Answer:
The treat should remain curled inside your hand until you are kneeling or standing in front on the puppy, then in a smooth fairly quick movement raise it up, & the instant its butt hits the floor say "sit", then give the reward.

The pup should not be given a reward unless it gives the behavior you want when you ask for it.

If it sits when you don't want it to ignore it, until the pup gets up, hide the treat & start again.

Proven Dog Training Methods

• i taught my puppy to sir paw other paw lay and then roll over
  
  she got this down to a t
  but now when she see a treat she will go straight to roll over lol
  just to get the treat faster they are very smart
  
  so now i just mix it up a bit and add stay or Kiss in it she never knows what is coming First so she has stooped going to roll over First lol
  
  if you dog sits with out being ask then just ask her to do something different like paw then give the treat


• Just teach it more stuff so it does not know what it has to do for the treat and will have to wait and listen for your command. It's normal, don't worry, it's called anticipation.


• this is a good thing... it happens with mine too. its their way of being good for the treat, without you even asking them to... its a good thing...still praise him for this.... good luck

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Dog Health Questions: Is dog training a science?

Is training a dog a science? There are certain sets of rules and formulas to be applied, which a person learns from reading books? Or you need no education or training to teach dog good behavior? dog training is now an industry and many professional dog trainers exist. So it like science or engineering?

Basic Dog Training Obedience - Puppy Behavior Tips

Recommended Answer:
Science...not sure, but, it is a GIFT for the few of us who have it naturally.
Another old account being used after a long time...makes one wonder!!!

Why it's Important For New Dog Owners to Take Dog Training Seriously

• I think it is part science. To be an effective trainer you have to understand the dog and how he learns. The behaviour side is the science. Just as you will not be an effective trainer without knowing behaviour, you will not be an effective behaviourist without the skill of being a trainer.


• Dog training is both an art and a science. There is a lot of information out there that can really help people, based on science- learning theory, ethology, etc but being able to apply it well is also an art.


• No. It is VERY simple! You MUST use repetition. It also helps if you learn canine pack behavior. All this information is available online or library books.


• No.
  
  It is more a combo of intuition, common sense.

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Dog Health Questions: Are dog training classes a necessity?

I adopted a 6mos old rescue puppy last week and she is very well mannered, but at least a dozen people have suggested obedience training. She already knows "sit" and "stay" and is house broken. Should I consider obedience training or are most people just cop-outs? And where should I go for such classes? For what it's worth, I live in Edison, NJ.

Dog Training: Pro Versus Self-Trained, Which is Best

Recommended Answer:
If you are a very experienced handler and have already been through classes several times, then probably not. That would be like telling Michelle Duggar to go to Lamaze classes. But if you are like most people, and this is only your first or second dog or you haven't had a pup in a couple years, you can learn a lot at obedience class. Most chain pet stores offer them.

Good luck!

Cut Training Time in Half with Clicker Dog Training

• you can go to a pet shop and ask them, and if your dog already has basic training i doubt it needs classes. \
  Hope This Helps! :D


• well if you know how to train the pup yourself then go ahead alot of people do it also for the sociability .. but if can afford it then you should its a good thing for you and your pup


• No, obedience training is not necessary...your dog sounds plenty smart and obedient to me....I think obedience training is more for dogs that will not 'train' easily or maybe for the ones whose owners want them to be in dog shows. That is just my opinion for what it is worth.


• training classes are great, not just for basic obedience, but also for socialization, and exposing your dog to different situations. if you don't want to review the basics, you could always look for classes that concentrate more on 'tricks' or things like agility and stuff like that. it's a great way to spend time bonding with your new friend, and it gets you both moving and active. have fun!


• my reasoning behind training classes is most dogs can learn sit and stay in the home. it's in public and around distractions that you need it the most. a group training class will provide the public and distractions for your dog to learn in.
  
  i can train my dogs wonderfully, but i still put every single one of them through a training class that trains toward's an AKC Canine Good Citizen test.
  
  the canine good citizen training class will teach your dog how to accept attention from a stranger in a calm mannnor, be examined at the vet or groomer and not be afraid, how not to react in a scared or aggressive mannor to unknown stimuli such as loud noises or people with wheelchairs, children, etc.....to me these are far more important than a simple sit and stay.
  
  i would reccomend you contact your local AKC dog trainging group and find out where to find a class that works toward a canine good citizen.


• definintely dont go to obedience training! its obvious that your dog is smart enough to easily learn the tricks you are teaching her so classes would just be a waste of your money! i trained my dog who is now six years old- btw i was only 11 when i trained her- and she learned perfectly fine wheras my friend took her dog to this trainer and i went with one time to find that this trainer was as dump as a rock about dog training and i kept telling my friend to do this and that and she said- thats not what the trainer said- and now her dog is completely out of control. i suggest that since your dog seems to be a good learner to purchase a book on dog training if you want to teach it more complicated tricks and dont waste your money on a trainer cuz you never know what kind of trainer youll get till you go to the class!


• if she already knows sit and stay and down and she wont poop on your floor then you dont have to if you want to spend your money and time on something you dont need go ahead i have a dog and i know a bunch of trainers you should be fine.


• Personally I think they are about as necessary as getting a good vet or making sure you are feeding a high quality diet. Yes, dogs can live without them and even be well behaved without them, but there is a HUGE difference between a well-trained dog who has learned the commands around distractions (ie in a group setting) and a well-trained dog who has learned basic commands at home with only the distractions that are present in their environment (which are far less distracting than even the same distraction in a different location can be). Even a very well mannered dog will benefit from group training classes. They offer mental stimulation, help you learn how to communicate with your dog, and are a great way to socialize your dog in a controlled setting.


• I took my pug to an obedience class when he was a puppy. To be honest you can save yourself some money and just do research online and train your dog yourself. 6 years ago the puppy class cost me $50 or $60 (went to SuperPetz).
  
  If she already knows sit and stay and is housebroken I wouldn't go to a class, cause that is the first thing they teach you. With my dog they taught us sit, stay, come, lay and they taught how to house train your dog. So basically all you need to train her is lay.
  
  You can train her to do whatever you want, you just have to show her what the command means and when she does it give her a treat and make a big deal over it.


• I never went to a training class and never will. I never needed to. I purchased this excellent training video when i got one of my first dogs and never have anymore problem with any of my dogs. I also trained them off leash as well.
  
  The problem with trainers, is they all have their own way of training. And some i don't agree with. I remember considering taking classes at petsmart, and i talked to the trainer and told her how my dog is aggressive when i ride bikes. And she told me to squirt the dog in the face with a squirt bottle.....yup never went back. If you're considering getting a trainer, avoid the trainers that are all positive, they are idiots to say the least. Avoid the trainers who use all force, they just want your money in the shortest amount of time.
  
  Anyway i recommend getting this dvd. Best obedience video out there.
  http://leerburg.com/302.htm


• No, certainly not. You can carry on the training yourself, there are many "How to" books. She is only 6 months, things will crop up at home. What I really like about classes is the dogs interacting and becoming at ease. You are so nice to take her home!!


• I think obedience classes are important. When we adopted a three-year-old dog from the shelter who already knew the basics, we still took her to training classes. It was great to see how she was around other dogs in a controlled environment, and gave us new ideas. She also did learn new tricks.
  
  The best part though, is that it was a great bonding expierence for her and I and she loved to go to classes with me. If you do decide to go for classes, look for a POSITIVE training facility where the instructors have credentials and certifications to back up what they are doing.


• Why would it be a 'cop out'? Most people in this world do not bother with properly training their dogs and frankly, it is most people who end up getting rid of their dogs because they are not well trained. Many people want 'push button' dogs - dogs that will obey them and do what they want without having put any effort into actually training them. A training class is where you have a knowledgeable person helping you learn to better interact with and train your dog. I have trained dogs to behave properly (how I want them to behave when I want them to not when they feel like it) for over fifty years and I still take dogs to training classes because no one ever knows it all and no one can see themselves - I like having a knowledgeable person watch and make sure am not giving signals I am not aware of or that something isn't going on that I am not aware of plus the dogs are subjected to distractions so they can better learn to obey under conditions that aren't perfect. Most any dog can 'sit' and 'stay' at home in their front room with nothing occuring but what about if something distracting is gong on - when you NEED the dog to sit and stay or it could mean its life? You can locate an obedience club near you and see about starting your new companion and yourself in classes.


• No, actually i highly recommend not getting her into and obedience class. when we got my Australian Shepherd Mix puppy at 7months, the people at the humane society highly suggested a class for her. we have never signed her up and she is house broken, knows sit, and stay, and come.

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Dog Health Questions: Has anyone ever taken their dog to the PetSmart or Petco dog training classes? Did you like them?

Which one is better? Is your dog still exhibiting training?

Dog Training Advice For Training Your Best Friend

Recommended Answer:
All the petsmarts in my area have turned to petcos, so I think they're the same company. I'm going to the first puppy training class tonight, my dogs breed type needs the training, socialization and stimulation, otherwise I would have just used a good training book and done the exercises myself. If your dog is that type too that needs this (mine's a jack russell terrier haha) you might want to invest in this too. If you don't like the trainer's methods, you can always get a full refund. But you have to register in advance for the classes because they only allow so many pups.
They also guarentee your dogs training for a lifetime or money back. They said I will be able to walk my dog without a leash (in most situations) for life.
The 8 classes where I'm going are $95 and 1 hr long.

*****UPDATE****
Had the training class, there were 6 other puppies there ranging from 12 weeks to 7 months. It will be hard with the two 12 week puppies, not because they misbehave but they just can't learn the same so young. Anyway, basically we met in a room and the puppies socialized. There was a blue pit bull, very beautiful who my dog bonded with maybe only because the 12 months bonded with themselves and none of the other pups were as friendly.
While the puppies socialized the trainer introduced herself, said she owns 10 dogs, told us a little about vaccine importance and stuff we knew, said she could help us out if we wanted to show our dogs or do agility, then we went around the room introducing ourselves and saying the major things we hope to accomplish at the classes. Most people said to stop biting, but..they are puppies after all..well anyway, we learned the sit command and the "look at me" command.. Next week we'll be in the back warehouse doing things with leash walking. So far, my thoughts are "well, this is nothing I couldn't teach myself SO FAR..but my puppy enjoys the socializing and was happy, and I don't know how to teach walking without a leash so I'll stick with it." They had older dog class after the puppies.
Hope that summary helped..

Secrets to Dog Training to Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems

• No, these are not serious training classes. Look for a good trainer in your area and go that route instead.


• I am in the process of PetSmart puppy training. Class is ending next week and I do plan on doing the next placement class. I love it as does my dog. We learned a lot and she got great socialization out of it. I don't know anything about the Petco classes. Training is a process that you have to always do with your dog. I highly recommend the classes. The cost is fair too.


• I truly believe the training method and location is second to the trainer themselves.
  
  When I got my first pug about five years ago, I took her to Pet Smart for the puppy class. Unfortunately, two weeks into the class, my pug puppy broke her foot which had to be put into a cast for about six weeks. The trainer was a really nice, and allowed us to start classes in the beginner section after the cast came off. The trainer herself was very friendly and clear in her directions. What I liked the best about the class however, was at the last 10 minutes of each class was spent with the dogs off leash in the training area playing with each other under professional supervision. At the beginning of the classes my pug was quite fearful of other dogs but by the end she was playing with everybody. The socialization was just as important as the commands she learned. To this day, she is still the most friendly of our dogs. Also, she has remembered. Almost all of the commands that she learned during her beginner's class.
  
  When we got our German shepherd puppy last year, we knew immediately that we would have to take her in for training. The trainer was not the same at the original Pet Smart store, but we were confident in the methods. This experience, however, was terrible. The trainer was awful. She would spend most of the class reviewing what was gone over in the previous class, and would only address new material, very briefly in the last 10 minutes of class. Also, due to insurance constraints, we unleashed supervised play that I've had been such a fan of during the original classes has been discontinued. My German Shepherd puppy really did not learn anything from this trainer.
  
  My husband and I were at a different Pet Smart in January and met the trainer at that store. We told her about our experiences with the trainer at the other store and how disappointed we were. She was extremely sympathetic and explained her methods for training. First, she does not believe in automatically graduating a dog at the end of the class. She does believe that different dogs learn different rates and she believes that a dog should not graduate until they have learned the concepts. So, to that end, she has dogs repeat classes until they understand and have the concepts down. But, only the first round of classes is paid for. As long as the owners are willing to put in the time, she will not ask them to put in more money. Now, some people may say that part of the job of the trainer is to make sure that the dogs learn the commands in one series of classes and if the dog doesn't, then it is the fault of the trainer. I disagree with that.
  
  We started our German Shepherd puppy in the beginner class and it was wonderful. The trainer was very patient but would tolerate no excuses, if we slacked off in reinforcing the lessons. She would say there is only so much she can do in a one-hour session once a week, and if we were not willing to put in the time to reinforce the lessons at home, we might as well just take our money back and stay home.
  
  Now, some people don't like this method, which brings me to the point of this answer. You really need to have a chemistry with the trainer in order for the training to work. Go see a couple of classes before you sign up for them. See what methods the trainer uses. See how the trainer asked with the dogs and with the owners. Then decide for yourself whether you agree with what they are doing or not.
  
  Always remember, however, that there is no miracle cure for bad behavior. It took a long time to develop the bad habits, and it will take a long time and a lot of patience to make them go away.
  
  Whatever you decide, good luck with your training!


• I took my parents' dog to Petco for training about 8 years ago and, looking back, I thought their training methods were unnecesarily rough (a lot of yanking on the leash, jerking the dog into place, etc). But I had never trained a dog before so I didn't really know any better.
  
  I went back to Petco a few years ago, this time with my own dog, and the difference in training methods was night and day. I don't know if the company changed their doggy curriculum or if the trainer simnply had her own ideas and beliefs, but the dog responded better and I felt like a nicer person.
  
  Since then I've done a lot of reading. I've read a lot of training books by different authors and tried different techniques on the three dogs I currently have at home. The methods you use should depend on how YOU as a person feel about carrying them out, and also on the personality of your DOG.
  
  The bottom line, in my opinion, is that the more you know, the more you've got in your bag of tricks! ANY training class is going to be helpful, and it's good for your dog to interact with other dogs in the class. And it's important to reinforce what you've learned, every day, at home.
  
  I know my answer is long, but I hope it helps :)


• no way they charge doubel of all teh other trainers in my area. from what I've seen I don't care for their training methods either.


• The PetSmart training classes here are wonderful. I think it all depends on the training working there, but it's really good, especially for the price. Here, it's 8 1hr sessions for $100


• No mater where you go - Go to a class ( alone ) and I'm telling you , you will just know!
  Kinda like dating. You know from just 1 date if it's right.
  Watch the instructor , and his knowledge, manerisim, personality ect ......
  It will take 15 mins. max !!!


• No, and I never will. If you want to persue good training, with someone experienced, then contact your local training club, obedience club, agility club (yes, the can refer to good obedience instructors, too) and get a referral from them.
  
  You will likely find that these trainers will be MUCH LESS expensive than the typical pet supply store classes and they will have so much more experience. Example: Our PetSmart charges $100+ for a class of 6 weeks and they are not very experienced trainers by any means. My trainer is only $50 for a 7 week course and has dogs with UDX titles, agility titles, conformation wins and 25+ years experience in training, showing and breeding.


• I haven't because I haven't heard any good things about their classes. I found other obedience schools to be a better fit & value for the money.


• My pup is currently in her 3rd training class at PetSmart (advanced).
  
  It is very affordable (slightly over $100 for an 8 week class) and the trainer is great. On the other hand, the other trainer there is not very good, so the quality of the class really depends on the trainer.
  
  I suggest going to your local PetSmart or PetCo while I training class is going on and see how the trainer interacts with the dogs. That way, you will be able to see if the trainer will be a good fit for you and your dog.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training.?

I have a 3 year old labrador retriever (possibly mixed with a weimeriner).
He's been an indoor dog all his life and is very friendly and hasn't grown up living with any dogs.
Although from time to time he has been around them and he is nothing but friendly with them.
We started going to a dog park within the last year and take every now and then where we let him run with the other dogs.
It all started out good.
He played well, was a little nervous. But nothing grand.
Well lately whenever the tennis ball is thrown and another dog gets it he gets so angry and starts barking and fighting with the dog.
So we've taken him out for a while to try to identify how to fix the problem.
He seems to get really jealous when someone gets the toy before him.
Can i train him to stop being like that this late in the game?
And how can i do it?

Basic Dog Training Commands

Recommended Answer:
At this point, I would not do anything to change that behavior other then NOT bring balls/toys to the park with you.
I would, however, use it to train him even more seeing how he has a lot of drive for them.
Play with him using his toy away from the park with no other dogs around and when and if you must take him there, leave the toys at home!!

Why One Size Does Not Fit All In Dog Training

• had the same problem, watch some episodes of the dog whisperer and if that doesnt help send him to royvon in wales.


• It is almost never to late to train your dog to follow a different behavior.The saying "you cant teach an old new tricks" is a lie you most certianly can. Below is a list of reasons your dog may be getting in to fights.
  
  * Dogs initiate fighting when they do not feel secure around other dogs.
  
  * The top dog knows he's boss and usually is able assert rank within 3 seconds. Usually, the top dog does not have to resort to actual fighting to prove his point.
  
  * Middle-ranking order male dogs feel insecure and in need of proving something.
  
  * Dogs perceive neutered dogs as less of a threat. With male dogs, neutering reduces the chances dogs will bite and neutering is linked with a reduction in several kinds of aggression.
  
  * Dogs growl at younger dogs in an attempt to put youngsters in their place. By the way, many male dogs have testosterone peaks between 10 months and one year of age, explaining why they seem more hyper. Dogs can smell testosterone.
  
  * Playing is more than having fun for dogs; it's a way to compete and a way to establish rank.
  
  Positive steps you can take:
  
  * Socialize your pup. You can keep him nearby when you're home by tethering him to you with a leash. Praise the dog whenever he does good, and whenever he stops aggressive look or other undesirable behavior.
  
  * Most people ignore good behavior. But it is important to praise and reward good behavior in order to encourage the dog to repeat it. Solicit and praise good behavior, instead of punishing the bad.
  
  * use the word "GENTLY," which can be useful in diverting dogs from a fight. "SIT" and "OFF" are also important commands. It is important to be able to redirect your dog's attention to you -- and thus away from another dog who may be engaging in challenging eye contact and aggressive or otherwise undesirable behaviors.
  
  * Do not tense up with the leash or yell during the approach of another dog. That can make your dog associate the sight of another dog with punishment.
  
  * Remember that timing is everything, and that it is crucial for you to develop the ability to redirect your dogUs attention back to you. you may want to enroll your dog in bacis obedience clases for a starter and/or you may want to attend "growl classes" for more info on growl classes check out http://www.whoswalkingwhodogtraining.com…
  Good luck!!!


• I recommend you visit the website that I went to when my dog had behavioral issues a few months back. The program teaches you various methods you can use yourself to solve common dog issues. It totally transformed my dog. Good luck!


• Sounds like a case of possessive aggression, there was a case like this on Dog Whisperer I recall, that was with food but same sort of problem. A good idea to check that out if you can.
  
  As a general thing to try in cases where you want to associate something not fun with an action we found that using a water sprayer like you use for plants was a brilliant way to get him to totally stop doing things we didn't want him to do like jumping up. Even now a year after it was last used he hates the sight of the thing!

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