Dog Health Questions: My dog will not learn ! is he untrainable?

i am trying to crate train my dog but every time I put him in the crate he bites the metal door and pulls it with his teeth. he barks barks barks barks barks barks barks! for several hour non stop, its like he never gets tired of barking until i let him out then suddenly its quite again in an instant. So things I have tried are squrting him with a water bottle when he barks and telling him to hush, this doesnt work he just trys to biite the water and keeps barking (This was something I read to do in a dog training dog) then I tried taping the top of the crate and in a firm voice saying Hush now! Nothing. Then i tried kicking him a little on his side in the ribs like i seen Ceaser Millian do on one of his episodes of the dog whisperer on Animal planet . This didnt work so I held him down on his side ,inside of the crate and showed him how was boss like Ceaser said to do but he kept struggling and growling so I let him go and close the cage quickly, now im scared to let him out because he keeps lunging at me snarling,growling and snaping at me when I walk pass the crate. I dont know what to do . what should I do ? any advice? I am really upset with the training methods of ceaser the dog whisperer just seem to make him worst. Now I can get him out the cage he's starting to act like he has rabbies are something. wow. Im stumped!

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I had a similar problem with one of my dogs. He would whine when we was in his cage. So what we did was move the cage to a quiet area (the laundry room for us), placed a blanket over the cage, turned the lights off, and closed the door. This worked great to calm him down.
It wasn't that he didn't like his cage (he will go in there to rest if you leave the door open), he just didn't like being away from everyone. Some dogs just want attention even if it's negative. So if you ignore him long enough they usually get the hint.
Keep in mind that all dogs a different so you might have to resort to hiring a local trainer to help you out. All dogs are trainable. You just have to figure out what makes your dog tick.

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• you need to hire an animal behaviorist now, because you not only have the issues that were already there you now have new ones for cesar training methods (that is why there is a disclaimer on his show).
  Is he getting enough exercise and stimulation to begin with?


• You just completely messed this dog up. You kick him??????????? And think this is training???? Let the dog out of the crate and have a real trainer show you how to crate train a dog, instead of brutalizing the poor thing. I really hope you are a Troll.


• jiggle ur dogs eggroll a little that will turn him on ohhh yeahhhh ahhhhhhhhh


• You already messed up by kicking and trying to dominate him into his cage. You just associated the crate as having something bad happen to him when it should have been a positive experience. It should have been placed in a quiet place to begin with, where there is no traffic in the house. How would you like to be caged in and have people walking about having fun? Crate is great for when you are out and even at night when you go to bed, but shouldn't be used to keep the dog in all day. Like another post said you ignore the barking, any attention to him is attention even if it's you yelling at him to shut up. If you didn't give him the attention in the beginning he would have quickly figured out barking is getting him no where.

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Dog Health Questions: Psychiatric Service Dog or ESA dog help please....?

Can someone help me? I'm really confused if I can get a psychiatric dog or not ....... I found this article

A Psychiatric Service Dog is a dog that helps its handler, who has a mental (psychiatric) disability. Examples of mental disabilities that may sometimes qualify a person for a Service Dog include, but are not limited to: Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Autism, Anxiety Disorder, and Schizophrenia.

Like all other types of service dogs, a Psychiatric Service Dog helps its handler mitigate his disability through trained work and tasks, including, but not limited to:
picking up/retrieving objects or aiding with mobility when the handler is dizzy from medication or has psychosomatic (physical) symptoms (i.e. pain, leaden paralysis, severe lethargy, etc.)
waking the handler if the handler sleeps through alarms or cannot get himself out of bed
alerting to and/or responding to episodes (i.e. mood changes, panic attacks, oncoming anxiety, etc.)
reminding the handler to take medication if the handler cannot remember on his own or with the use of an alarm
alerting to and/or distracting the handler from repetitive and obsessive thoughts or behaviors (such as those brought on by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
as well as many other tasks directly related to the specific handler's disability.
A Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSDs) may be of any size and of any breed suited for public work. Many are owner-trained (trained by the person who will become the dog's handler, with or without the help of a professional trainer), but, increasingly, service dog training programs are recognizing the need for dogs to help individuals with psychiatric disabilities. Some Psychiatric Service Dog handlers may choose to refer to their dogs as Alert or Medical Response Dogs, depending on what the dog does for them.

In the USA, handlers of PSDs are entitled to the same rights and protections afforded to handlers of other types of service dogs, such as Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs, and Mobility Dogs, under federal laws. Like all other types of Service Dogs (SDs), Psychiatric Service Dogs are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of the disabled person. They have also been trained to act discretely in public places, such as laying quietly under the table in a restaurant, keeping tightly to the handler's side and not sniffing anything on the shelves of grocery stores, and ignoring other people and animals.
______________________________________…

I was told by someone on yahoo answers I could not get one of these dogs to try to get an ESA dog.... I have SERVE anxiety mild panic attacks and mild OCD and depression. I at this point wont leave my house at all. My doctor though ESA was a great idea for me if I could take him in the public to help over come my fears and help with my panic attacks (will pass out in public)........I don't have a therapist can my Primary doctor write the prescription for the ESA or the psychiatric dog ? Also I have it documated that I have these disorders and phobia's but do I need to go to the court to make it 100% before I can get a ESA dog?

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You don't get a prescription for a dog. You have to get your doctor's recommendation and then apply to receive a dog from any number of organizations that train them. Find some organizations and look at their application process. It's not easy to get a service dog of any kind and generally there are waiting lists of a year or more.

Bottom line, Y&A is not the place to be getting this information. Do some actual research.

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• First, Yahoo answers is not the right place to be asking these questions. There are a lot of people who have NO IDEA what they are talking about but post like they are experts.
  
  If your condition is disabling, you can get a psychiatric service dog. Technically, you could train one yourself, but from all of your posts, it appears that your disability is to the point that you are not going to be capable of doing this, so you need to focus on finding a program to train one for you.
  
  An ESA is just a pet. They are not allowed in non pet friendly public places but are allowed in no pet housing and on planes with proper documentation.
  
  Please, send me an email. I have experience with service dogs as I have trained my own. I will do my best to answer your questions and put you into contact with people in similar situations.


• Nobody is stopping you from applying for a psychiatric service dog. What I said was that they cost money (typically around $5,000) and there is a waiting list (typically around 3 years). Whether you would qualify for one depends on the medical documentation you can provide. The diagnoses don't matter. What matters is the extent your condition limits your ability to perform major life activities (seeing, hearing, thinking, walking, etc.). Riding a bus is not a major life activity. If you do not have documentation from a mental health professional, your odds of being accepted are slim. A person so severely mentally ill as to be disabled by their condition is going to need some care from at least a therapist if not a psychiatrist. So step one is to see to your medical care by seeing some mental health professionals.
  
  I'm fairly sure I already gave you a link for information on how to apply: http://www.servicedogcentral.org/content…
  
  No matter how many times you ask the question, the answer isn't going to change. You have no legal right to take a pet places where pets are not permitted just because it makes you feel better. It doesn't matter what you call it, or what your doctor writes. If you aren't legally disabled and the dog isn't legally a service dog, then doing so or claiming so, is illegal. In some areas it is a crime punishable by fines and/or imprisonment and possible confiscation of the dog.
  
  Either apply for a PSD from a program that trains them, or get a pet and take it only where pets are permitted. Those are your two choices. Unless you live in housing that doesn't permit pets, there's no point in even discussing emotional support animals.


• If you look into a provider program for a psychiatric assistance dog Look at what limiting symptoms you might have. Would they qualify you as being substantially disabled under the ADA guidelines? What type of tasks could a dog be trained to do mitigate your disabilities.
  Keep in mind comfort does not make a service animal. ESA's have no access rights to go with their handler into public access. .
  
  Any program would need proper documentation of your limitations from the appropriate treating medical professionals . And a letter of need.
  
  The other thing to consider is that getting a dog is stressful in and of itself. Getting a service dog can cause a whole different set of stressors. Think you can handle some mother screaming at you and chasing you through the store DEMANDING you allow their little screaming darling to PET your dog? Or store owners denying you access? With all the attendant headaches that involves?
  
  A service dog requires more care and training upkeep to keep them happy working and to stay trained. having to pick up warm poop in all kinds of weather in places of public access. not ike yu can carry a pooper scooper with you. And by just having a dog with you everyone knows there has to be something WRONG with you. It puts you under a microscope. It can in fact create social anxiety.
  Sometimes it can seem like one is carrying around a "kick me" sign with how nasty people can be to a person in public access with a service dog. You no longer can just blend in , disappear , and be invisible.
  A service dog is not an end all cure all solution.


• ES dogs do not have the same rights or training as service dogs. The law recently just changed slightly regarding service animals & you will need to speak to ppl who train service dogs & the right medical personnel. It is short description to help you understand. If you are wanting a dog to travel around with you for assistance, you need a service dog not Emotional Support.
  
  A [b]service dog[/b] is individually trained to perform tasks that mitigate the disability of his owner. Training typically takes 18-24 months. Because of his advanced training, a service dog is considered medical equipment and is permitted to accompany his disabled owner to many places where pets are not permitted.
  
  An [b]emotional support animal[/b] belongs to a person who is disabled. The person's doctor has determined that the presence of the animal is necessary for the disabled person's mental health and written a prescription stating the pet is necessary in the person's home, despite any "no pets" regulation of the landlord, for the person's health. Little or no training is required. The owner of an emotional support animal has no more right than any other pet owner to take their emotional support animal with them other to keep one in a home where pets are not permitted or to fly with one in a cabin when pets are not permitted.In short: service dog works to help the owner perform tasks he cannot perform on his own because of his disability, an emotional support animal works to improve the health of his owner who is disabled, and the therapy animal works with his owner to improve the health of others.


• I don't know how much people in this forum are going to be able to help you, you might want to try posting in the mental illness forum, they might know more about it, Personally I did not know that these dogs existed but I am very interested now, thanks :)

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Dog Health Questions: Where do you get your training ideas from?

I just love answering training questions. And I love dog training in general, specifically, behavior problems. I have two dogs with behavior problems and from raising them, I learned everything. Different people on here give different training ideas to a single question. It can be confusing, but the person asking the question knows that there's always that risk. I use positive training methods, clicker training, and Nothing In Life Is Free. When I read a question I give an answer that has either worked for me, or has worked for someone I know that had the same problem. Answering some behavior problems, like aggression, is tricky. And in extreme cases I always suggest that person see a dog trainer who specializes that particular behavior. If I don't know the answer to a question, I just don't answer it. It can even be the opposite where the person ALWAYS suggest seeing a dog trainer. Even for something like potty training or getting a puppy to stop whining.

Some of the training answers people give are just plain stupid. They either make no sense or the person just has no idea what they are talking about. So here are my questions: what training methods do you use and do you suggest the same methods to other people? At what point do you decide that the questioner needs to see a professional dog trainer? And do you believe that the training methods that you suggested will work, or do you just want the extra points and honestly have no clue?

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Good question. Most of my training methods are things I learned growing up on a farm. I also ask advice from others on other dog sites. So while my potty training tips are what I do with my puppies, I also have many tips that come from tons of other people from other dog sites. I like my tips to have lots of options for people to choose from. Something might work for me, but something else might work for you, so as many ideas as I can squeeze into my tips might help someone. Sometimes when people ask a question, it is vague, and I am not sure what tips to focus on. I never needed a professional trainer. I trained my puppies myself. It may have taken me several tries to get the puppy to behave the way I wanted, but I was not raised to think it was o.k. to quit on a puppy. So it might take me 5 times, or 7 times, or 12 times, I really don't care, I just keep at it until I get it. Sometimes when I ask a question on the other dog sites, I think it is a simple question, but the ideas I get from others opens up a whole can of worms, and they give me ideas I never thought of. I think the internet is a great tool for training because I don't think there is only one way to do things, do what works for you.

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• First, I don't answer any questions for the points.. They just aren't worth anything, and I could care less about them.
  I answer thru experience and commonsense. I evaluate the question and if I am not able to answer for sure, I leave it. If I think that the person asking has little or no experience, I will suggest a trainer. If it's a dangerous situation, I always suggest a trainer. If it's housetraining or something simple, I gives suggestions as I know what works and what doesn't.
  


• i try to suggest answers that have worked for me or people i know.


• Any training methods I suggest to anyone I have personally tried on my dog. But just because it worked for mine does not mean it will work for someone else. Every dog is different and required different forms of training. But everything I suggest is from experience, I cannot suggest something I have never tried myself because I cannot say if it works or not.
  
  I think the dog needs a professional when A) the owner cannot do it on their own. B) the dog has behavioral issues that need to be handled by a professional.


• I always give my training advice from personal experience. I have been learning how to train dogs since I was 8, and with each new dog, I learn a new approach to certain problems.
  
  I agree that a lot of the answers people give are flat out rediculous. I read them, and I think "is this what they do to their own dog? and they expect it to work??"
  
  I am pro- positive reinforcement. All the way. And patience is a virtue that no dog owner should ever be without!! Some of the hyper-active dogs take 15 minutes of sitting at the door to calm down enough to go for a walk. Several sessions of this a day can be nerve racking, but effective in the long run!
  I ONLY give advice when I have had great results with it myself!


• Nice question!
  My training ideas come from multiple sources:
  books, support/training groups (email lists), websites, the shelter where I volunteer, consulting with my vet behavior specialist, etc.
  I only recommend positive training methods (really, I don't even use 'corrections').
  I recommend a trainer or behavior consultant frequently for aggressive/reactive/fearful dogs because these dogs need more than a quick answer from a bunch of mostly inexperienced people on the internet (I know because I've btdt).
  I do believe the methods I recommend work, because again, btdt.


• I give answers from experience. I work at a doggie daycare center and spend a great deal of time training and handeling dogs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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Dog Health Questions: Can not locate dog park in Hoffman Estates, IL (nw suburb of Chicago)?

"Finally, there's Cook County Dog Training Area on Higgins and Wickham Roads in Hoffman Estates. What a lovely place to take your dog for a good workout and to meet new doggy-friends."

I found this at napervillehumanesociety.org, and have heard of the park before, but can not find where Higgins and Wickham Rd. intersect. In fact, I don't think that the do! Other websites also show this dog park being located at Higgins and Wickham.

I looked on a map and found that Wickham is a small side street in Schaumburg.

I also called the humane society and left them a message, they have yet to call me back.

Any help would me much appreciated!!
Thank you!

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stop at a gas station in the area and ask them if they know where the place is. usually gas stations know whats in their area and can give directions.

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Dog Health Questions: Why are Dog Trainer's own dogs always untrained ?

Seems that dog trainers dogs are always the worst. I think this whole dog training thing is crap, the trainers are just out to make money and they know it's crap. Rarely people have the time it takes to train a dog, especially with "Positive Only" reinforcement...what a joke.

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That's typical of Positive only trainers, like Petsmart trainers. They don't really care about training, they show their clients how to teach a simple command, charge them a 100 bucks, then expect the owners to keep up with the training while they themselves don't!

Then again, quality trainers have well trained dogs.

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• They aren't. I've used a trainer and a behaviorist in my area, and both have the most impeccably trained dogs I have ever met. They also both use positive reinforcement techniques (harshest correction I've ever heard ether advise is a firm No). The trainer I took classes with has four dogs, all incredibly incredibly well-behaved, and all but one rescues that came to her with massive behavioral issues, including one with severe aggression. She competes with them in Rally O, Obedience, Freestyle, and Agility. I've seen her turn around some really badly behaved dogs in very short periods of time WHEN the owners follow through with the training at home afterwards (there are no magical keys to a well-behaved dog that don't require owner work). I don't know that I've ever met a trainer with badly behaved dogs, and if I did, I certainly wouldn't use them. Word would get out fast around here and no one would utilize their services.


• Well, in response to the "bashing" of PetSmart trainers, I have seen many other trainers in this world who are just awful, so let's be relative here and stop bashing!
  
  I actually know bad trainers and good trainers, just like there are bad and good performers in every job there is. Haven't you ever had bad body work done to your car? Never had bad customer service in a store? No bad plumbing work done in your house?
  
  And just to set the record straight, there is no such thing as "positive only" reinforcement training. If you are working with trainers who tell you that, you need to find better trainers. All training techniques involve corrections, even at PetSmart.
  
  The worst trainer I have ever met is a compulsion trainer. The best trainer I have ever met is a compulsion trainer. I have also met and worked with an awesome PetSmart trainer who goes above and beyond with all of her students.
  
  You obviously have not done enough research on different types of training, or even any good reading on the subject to make such a broad statement.
  
  http://www.siriuspup.com/about_founder.h…
  
  If you want to be knowledgeable about positive dog training, you can start with the founder of it.
  
  The people who rarely have time to train a dog should not own a dog.


• Real trainers have well-trained dogs.
  
  Don't pay any other sort of trainer.
  
  Positive only is silly, but that doesn't mean that you have to over-compensate the other way. The only time I have raised my voice to my shelter dog was when she sneaked up behind me and grabbed her dinner back out of my hand -- I was moving it out of the living room, since she's raw fed, I'm not having her eat raw chicken on my new carpet! I spun around and yelled... and she dropped flat on the floor, clearly terrified. I cajoled her back onto her feet and into the kitchen where I put the meat back on her mat. And she wagged her tail and ate it.
  
  But she hasn't grabbed anything out of anyone's hand since.


• In it for the money???? Ha-Ha. Trust me that is only the so called trainers on TV.
  There are good trainers and bad and you have encountered the bad.
  If you take on the responsibility of owning a dog, you make the time to find a reputable trainer. There are many other techniques other than positive only reinforcement, find a trainer that offers the type of training you want.
  
  Do your homework, check out some different trainers before you classify us as all bad.
  BTW I use my guys in my classes because they are very well trained.


• I taught dog classes for a long time and I know some trainers just put all their effort into their clients dogs and just don't for their dogs, but not good trainers. I wont say mine are perfect but they are trained better then a lot of dogs i know.
  
  When I am training new behaviors, any new behavior, including something as simple as sit or something like of leash heeling I do use only positive methods however when working on things like manners or problems in the home I do believe dogs need to be told what not to do. When working with aggression or bad manners I like to use a mix of your typical "positive training" and some of the "dominance theory" stuff. You do need to be the leader but that can be done in a firm but fair way that includes all kinds of training.


• I have lots of friends who are dog trainers, and to a person their dogs are extremely well trained. Your whole premise is false. And obedience training is the ONLY way to get a really good canine companion.


• Wow, I have never seen that. My trainers' dogs are tops in the country. And they don't charge as much as Petsmart. If a trainer's dogs are ill behaved, then they are no kind of trainer. Find someone else fast.


• I have never seen any dog trainers with poorly trained dogs.
  
  The ones you are encountering apparently are bad trainers as well as bad dog owners....


• Apparently you have been seeing only bad trainers then.
  
  Add: Yes such as the Petsmart "trainers" although I typically refuse to acknowledge them as such.


• That's not my experience.
  
  All (without exception) of the dogs owned by trainers that I've seen have been very well trained.
  
  Which god-awful trainers have you seen?

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Dog Health Questions: Website for Dog Training?

I have looked on the internet and I can't find any good websites to teach my lab puppy how to do new tricks! Do you know of any sites?

Thanks in advance!

PS Please no Silly answers like ...."you have internet"

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www.loveyourdog.com/tricks.html - 37k its how I taught all my dogs

3 Steps for Teaching Fido the Basic Behavior Dog Training

• check out pet smart or pet co they have cheap classes. also 4-h in my area offers classes. i don't know of any sites try the dog whisper. or get a dog training book on labs at the library or book store


• No dog is born with good manners. Pooping on the carpet, leaping enthusiastically onto guests, pulling so hard he practically yanks your arm out of the socket when on walks--that's all perfectly acceptable in the canine world. It's up to you to teach your dog to behave the way we humans want him to. Not training your dog and expecting him to be pleasant to live with is like never sending your child to school and expecting him to ace the SATs.
  
  http://dogtime.com/training.html


• depends which tricks, after answering questions here a couple days, i started to collect the most asked for things in my blog, some of it is on base comands
  
  http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-xPA9.4wle…

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

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

Dog Training Fundamentals

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

Is Your Dog Training You?

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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

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

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

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

I will take any advice, please help.

Dog Training Bumpers and Dummies

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training... PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!?

I need help with my dog, he seems to be a mix between a lab and a poodle, so hes pretty big.he loves his crate and will go into it willingly and he goes in it by himself sometimes without us even having to give the command 'crate up'. but when we go to close the door and lock the door, he goes ballistic and barks like crazy and snaps at us and gets a wild look in his eyes. Its really quite scary. we have tried many things to get him to calm down but he will not stop. also, he barks all of the time just when people are driving by the house or walking past it and he goes crazy when someone is at the door. i really need help, any type of assistance will be helpful, thank you.

6 Dog Training Tips For a Well Trained, Well Behaved Pet

Recommended Answer:
If you're giving the dog attention when he barks, you are reinforcing that barking means good. He will just learn to bark because he is getting attention. Try ignoring him and if that doesn't work, you may be able to find some good training DVDs at the library.

Dog Training and Why it is Important

• Sounds like someone fought with him when closing the door of his crate.
  
  How about buying the DVD Crate Games by Susan Garrett and also some dog training from a positive reinforcement dog trainer.


• Once the initial phase of crate training your dog is over and he's at ease with the new crate, you can feed him while he's in it. Use the food bowl to lure him into the crate and then close the door while he eats. As he finishes eating, open the door again. Your dog might want out sooner at which point you can let him out but close the door behind him and keep his food bowl inside. If he paws at the crate door to be let back in, open it, let him in, and close the door again. You may need to repeat this several times during the meal.
  Once your dog is comfortable eating in his crate, you can try closing the door when he's not in it for mealtimes. Put food in a stuffable chew toy (peanut butter is great for this) and place it in the crate. When he goes in after the toy, you can quietly close the door behind him. Only keep it shut for a minute or two. Then open it, call your dog and praise him. Make sure the treat stays in the crate. Repeat the process several times, but each time leave the door closed for a little longer.
  
  If your dog barks or whines in his crate when the door is closed, do not open the crate! He'll think that barking and whining is what gets him out rather than you calling him. Wait until he calms down for ten to fifteen seconds and then open the door. When you go to repeat the exercise, don't keep the door closed as long.

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Dog Health Questions: Have you used Bark Busters dog training (the franchise, not a dog collar)?

They send trainers to you. It is $595 for 2-10 sessions, depending on what you need.
They guarantee it for life.
They come to your home. Is it best to have a trainer come to your home to help you with your situation, rather than just take your dog to classes?
Is trying to be the "alpha dog" the solution to many problems?
Please let me know your own personal situation and experience.
Thanks.

Important Dog Training Information

Recommended Answer:
Run, do not walk, to your phone and call Bark Busters!!!
Every pet store and veterinarian in my area recommends them because they are amazing...
My neighbor's aggressive dog was scheduled to be euthanized...the vet and other trainers said he could not be helped. They tried Bark Busters training and it saved his life! He's like a totally different dog now...
I used the same trainer for my dog and I saw immediate results - his issues weren't as bad, but in 1 lesson I got total control of my dog! I paid a flat fee and my trainer will give me ongoing help at no extra charge for the rest of my dog's life.
I tried group obedience classes, and after using Bark Busters I absolutely agree that In-home training is best because it's the dog's natural environment - the dog was much more focused and learned better and more quickly in his own home - too much distraction in a class.
Being 'Alpha Dog' or being a good Leader is most important because the dog understands pack law. Your dog needs to see you as Leader in order to trust you, respect you, and learn from you. Bark Busters teaches you a ton about the principles of dog behavior...how to show leadership in a dog way - it's kind of like a Harvard Education in dog psychology!
Bark Busters training is AMAZING!!!
If you want others' opinions, check out the thousands of testimonials on their website www.barkbusters.com. They also have a video clip on the site with tons of customer and vet testimonials.

The Basic Commands of Dog Training

• It's a franchise I don't agree with their methods or level of training they give their instructors.
  
  Alpha Dog ala Cesar Milan can get you in a lot of trouble. For a lot less, you can get a real trainer to come to your home and do private lessons.
  
  If you're just starting out, group lessons with other people and dogs is really the way to go. Call a local Humane Society or Rescue and see if they have classes. It's a lot of fun and great socialization for the dog AND YOU!


• I have used Bark Busters....love them ..love them..love them....best money I ever spent..they did such a good job, I even paid for them work with my grown children's dogs. I would do it over again in a heartbeat.


• Do they have a web site that I can review their method on?
  
  Many trainers are very good....This price is inline with national standards...a guarantee is nice if it means free lessons....remember this however: Your success is largely based on your understanding of what they do and say and your commitment to continue it....hard work is in order, but not for a long time....good luck
  
  I just found their website....I have to say this: They seem professional....however I'm always taken back by folks who claim they are the "only" ones who.....or folks who are also engaged in selling franchises.....


• We are using Barkbusters right now for an aggression issue in an ACD. The first time he came to the house to observe, he surprised us all with what we were missing in the behavior of our dogs. We currently own 5 dogs and also foster for a rescue group. In about 10 minutes, he had shown us some simple methods that had an immediate effect on our dogs overall obedience, and we were sold. He actually identified our pack leader for us(it wasn't who we thought it was) and suggested we work on the behaviors of three of our dogs in order to get the ACD under control. We have had three sessions and there is marked improvement in all of the pack, including the fosters. We are very thankful we hired this trainer, as we were terrified that we would have to put our ACD down.
  Their method uses nothing physical with the dog, which is great for us, because we don't believe in any of that. It is hard work, though .You have to be committed to your animals and practice and train every day, even if it's only for 15 minutes. If you can do that, you will be as successful as we are. It was well worth the money.
  For Sniffydogs, my instructor went through 225 hours of training for his certification. Plus he had a backround in dog training. I think that qualifies as enough.


• ***PAY**** somebody $600 to train MY dog???
  LMFAO!!!
  NOT BLOODY LIKELY!!!!
  I have a collar,leash,crate & BRAINS & a*SPINE*!!!
  
  Unless they "guarantee" it'll be able to dance BALLET PROFESSIONALLY!!!!

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Dog Health Questions: I am looking for westland center for dog training in michigam?

dog behavioral training

Easy Dog Training - 7 Top Tips

Recommended Answer:
Try this pet education center. They offer classes and have a schedule so you can check it out further to suit your time and needs.
Good luck to you, and give your pet a hug and biscuit from me.

Westland
Michigan Humane Society
Berman Center for Animal Care
900 N. Newburgh Road
Westland, MI 48185
(1/4 mile south of Ford Road)

www.goodindog.com/contact.html

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

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Dog Health Questions: Have you ever heard of or used "a better dog training"? Its located in TX?

Their website is www.abetterdogtrainingtexas.com. Their method of training is basically teaching you how to be the "pack leader". I'd really like to find someone who has used this program before so they can tell me if it works or not. I need to get my dog training because he bit someone and in order to keep him that's one of the many things I have to do. (I would have done it regardless). I know they work with dogs that have bitten someone before. Its going to be 400 dollars for four lessons. The lessons are a couple of hours long a piece and there's going to be about two weeks in between each lesson. (that time between lessons is supposed to be for me to practice with my dogs). Oh I forgot to mention that they will train both my dogs not just one....do you think I should do this? I really don't like the idea of spending 400 dollars on training. It's a lot of money. That's why i'd love to find someone who has used this program before.

4 Tips To Be Succesful In Dog Training Biting

Recommended Answer:
Yes, it is very good, you are just communicating with the dog through body language.

Dog Training Videos - Learn by Watching

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Dog Health Questions: Disagreements with husband over dog training!?

My husband has a dog who is not obedience trained. It has several behavior problems including periodic aggression toward people, and frequently attempts to attack other dogs. The problem is, my husband doesn't think there is a problem. Today he said that he didn't want to train the dog because then the dog would be a "robot" and not "fun". He is upset that I don't like the dog.
I told him that I would like a dog that is well-trained.
It also irritates me day in and day out to see my husband interacting with the dog in a way that trainers and experts advise against, such as baby-talking the dog, petting and stroking it constantly, and petting it and feeding it on-demand. It causes me to be annoyed for a good chunk of my day! Because I understand dog psychology and dog training, and he wants to live in a fantasy world where he anthropomorphizes the dog. This causes a lot of stress and anger in our marriage, because even though it is just a dog, it is such a CONSTANT and PERSISTENT annoyance!
I am trying to do the right thing, but I'm not sure what that is!
If you say get a trainer, how do I deal with the fact that my husband does not agree there is even a problem! He thinks the dog is great.

I am esp. interested in answers from people who understand that a dog is not a human, and that dogs must be trained!

Dog Training Tips For Hard-To-Train Dogs

Recommended Answer:
Dogs and children need trained. While children should not be trained like dogs and visa versa both need to be trained on how to behave. I'm always amazed to hear people actually brag that their dog has failed obedience class. To me the dog hasn't failed but the owner has failed the dog. An untrained dog doesn't get to have a life. They usually are not taken on walks, they're locked up away from visitors, and they are not welcome anywhere. Training does not make a dog a robot just like school doesn't make Little Johnny a robot. But than you know these things. What you might want to do is start taking this dog to a training class so that you can gain control of it. Realize that your husband will not be able to make the dog behave but the dog will learn to listen to you and be happy for it. Your husband might even become jealous on how well you and the dog begin to interact and may want to be a part of the game also. I wonder, Is your husband properly trained in something? Does it make him a robot?

Want to Learn How to Train a Dog? Simple But Important Dog Training Techniques

• So he basically thinks aggressive dogs are fun?
  A dog with no aggression is a better dog and more fun b/c you can trust the dog.
  This dog if his (also yours b/c as a family it is both your dog) is dangerous. If your dog some how gets away at bites someone he can be put to sleep and you both can be sued a lot of money.


• If there's no way to convince him to go to a trainers, maybe you could try training it yourself. Surely you must have some time when he's not home and you could have secret training sessions. Hopefully when your husband sees how much the dog's behavior has improved--and that the dog is still fun-- he'll change his mind.


• my husband is the same way but he only treats them like babies when they are calm and he trains them. our dogs are i guess you could say spoiled but disciplined. id say and i say it with no disrespect get a dog trainer and possibley a marriage counselor, since it is causing a strain on your marriage. good luck ill ask my husband how he manages this with our dogs. he's always trained his own since he was 7 years old.


• training is important but it is also important for the dog to be happy and you shouldn't be aggravated because of the dog if your husband and the dog are happy let them be a dog is a mans best friend my dogs always come first


• Hi GIRL XXX,
  
  You made a very good point about the fact that there is a lot of stress and anger in your marriage. The dog's behaviour is not the issue - it's the fact the your family is not a cohesive unit - even children feel secure with boundaries provided they are given with love. It sounds to me like your husband is deliberately allowing the dog's uninhibited behaviour quite possibly because he feels inhibited/restricted in part(s) of his own life or even sees this as an attempt to control him.
  
  The method I've used (successfully for myself) is to ask questions followed by other questions. eg: Do you feel that the aggressive behaviour by the dog is acceptable? (if yes) Just so that I understand it - why is this behaviour important to you? Is it possible that he could attack and injure someone - say a child - and how would you feel?
  
  1. Ask your husband if he is saying that all trained dogs are 'robots' and not 'fun'.
  2. Do you have examples of friends' dogs that are trained and 'fun'. (I hope so)
  3. Ask him if he recognizes that YOU believe there is a problem. If he agrees to that ask him to point out what it is that YOU think are the problems. Make sure that you have a list of your own.(including things like liability claims if the dog attacks and causes injury).
  4. Ask him if he had a child, would he allow it unfetted behaviour. Regardless of the answer ask why that is important to him.
  5. Ask him if he realizes that this IS causing stress in the marriage. If he doesn't, it's time to point it out.
  6. If he does realize it, ask him how things are going to improve (this won't happen by accident)
  
  If he can't acknowledge some of these points then you have a problem and a decision to make. Remember this is a people problem not a dog problem.
  
  If his position does change then you can look at dog training sources like:
  http://www.find111.com/dog-training


• Invite your husband to the park with you and the dog. Have him take the leash and have him experience first hand the aggressive behavior towards other dogs/people. You should see a trainer and have him attend class with you. He does all those things because he doesn't know any better.
  
  Training a dog is not about making it a "robot" it's about teaching your dog to respect you and to have manners. Does making a child go to school make them a robot? No, it helps them socialize and provides them mental stimulation. It's the same with dogs.


• Well at least you have a clear picture that this is NOT the man for you to have children with!!!
  
  If he can not adequately raise a dog, and you two have such different views on how a dog should be raised, this guy should not be the father of your kids.
  
  This is NOT just a dog issue, its a Relationship issue.
  
  You are right, its a dog, it needs to be treated like a dog. It needs to be trained, it needs to obey, and a dog that has aggression issues towards people should be euthanized. There is NO excuse for that.
  
  If it were me, one day while hubby was at work the dog would be taken for a one way trip to the vet.
  You can tell hubby the dog got loose and disappeared.
  
  It will cause much less friction in your relationship for this dog to just disappear then for you to have to deal with this aggressive dog and your unreasonable husband.
  
  I would deal with the dog issue first, husband issue after that. Neither one is a keeper in my opinion.


• You understand dogs much better than your husband, and I wish I had better advice to give you but it is really hard to change someone that doesn't want to change. One thing you could do is make a list of everything you think he's doing wrong and then offer a suggestion on how to fix it. Try to make him understand that he needs to be a pack leader and most dogs are happier being followers and being told what to do.
  
  That would really annoy me too!!


• What's your question? :) lol
  
  I've seen that same scenario reversed. Wife has a dog, treats it better than her husband and her children. (Her hubby has been sleeping on the couch downstairs for the last 4 yrs b/c the dog sleeps with wife in the master bedroom). Basically...he tried to take the matter into his own hands...training and exercising the dog...but eventually gave up b/c the wife didnt go along with the training.
  
  I'm not sure what to tell you...this would be up to your husband and you. If you cant find some middle ground....then you're probably stuck with this. Unless you get rid of your husband or the dog


• I think you should show him a well trained dog is a fun dog. For example, after all of the obedience training my youngest lab and I have been doing - we've also be doing DockDogs - it's nice that he's so well behaved. He stays focused and has fun at the same time.
  
  We also do Rally Obedience and that is a lot of fun too - but the dog has to be trained to do it. Take him to a local show - visit akc.org and look for AKC events.
  
  It's nice to go all kinds of places and I don't have to worry if my dog will behave or not.
  
  It's a shame that your husband doesn't agree on training - I almost don't think that he understands dog training. Take him to a local obedience club and let him observe - he'll see the dogs aren't robots.


• I do have to wonder what you saw in a man who refuses to train his dog a few commands.
  
  Do understand that any kids you have...don't have any with him. He won't be doing any discipline, and you'll be doing all the work.
  
  The ONLY thing you can do is both of you take this dog to obedience training.


• come on... honey. r u just gonna let a man run ur life or r u gonna take on some authority. if he wants to be that way..!. then confront him and say its me or the dog. wither i go or the dog gets trained or goes. refuse to do things with him. refuse sex for a couple nights!.!.! i wont let him run u like that. well i cant say that but u have just as much say in what goes on in ur house as he does.thx...


• Hire a trainer. Or better yet, hire a good behaviorist. Have the behaviorist talk some sense into your husband and tell him all the problems associated with having an untrained, aggressive dog. For pete's sake, the dog is a liability and could be put down if it bites a person!
  
  If he won't listen to the behaviorist, seek out a marriage counselor since this is really more of a problem with your husband than your dog. Your husband is in denial if he doesn't see that the dog's aggression is a problem.Add:
  IMO you need to treat this as a PROBLEM your husband has. Just as if it were a drinking problem, a drug problem, or a gambling problem -- your husband has an AGGRESSIVE DOG that he refuses to acknowledge or do anything about. You have to get him to realize that it IS a problem that will have consequences, and not only the possible future consequences such as other dogs being attacked, people being bitten, and his dog being put down, but also the IMMEDIATE consequence which is the strain it's putting on your relationship. Are you not more important to him than the dog???


• First, let me start by telling you that I despise it when people anthropomorphize any animals. Animals are not people and to say otherwise is in fact arrogant. We must respect animals for what they are and meet their individual needs, not try to meet our selfish gratification by turning "Fluffy" into a "baby"... lol, I digress...
  I want to say this gently because I first want you balanced-please, know something, no matter how annoying your husband's behavior is, ultimately YOU have control over how it affects you. Now, knowing dog behavior, you know that you being imbalanced will lead to an imbalance within the pack structure. You have to start off with finding a healthy mindset, in spite of how obnoxious it all is.
  
  As far as training goes, you do have a few options. First, you can try to sneak in a few minutes of training off and on during the day when your husband isn't around. Seriously, it's like my mother (who has trained dogs for over 25 years and received an OTCH, among numerous other titles and now is teaching obedience classes...) has always said-even 5 minutes a day can make a big difference. Seriously, find some sort of bait that is very enticing-chicken cooked with a little garlic powder, cheese, beef heart or liver, Charlie Bears, etc-whatever you find your dog responds to, use it to teach basic manners and commands.
  Furthermore, maybe ask your husband if he himself is a "robot". Tell him that during his childhood he had "training" on basic, proper behavior-to be honest, courteous, hard working, etc-all traits that people need to be productive members of society. Likewise, dogs NEED certain training to have desirable traits to be healthy, yet very individual pack members. If anything, tell your husband what he is doing is not showing your dog love, but it's cruel. The lack of structure is making the dog potentially dangerous, which could in fact lead to someone calling animal control, which could lead to the dog being euthanized. Furthermore, the dog does not enjoy nor does it care about the constant petting, baby talk or anything else. Dogs don't get the same gratification we do from it. All it's doing is reinforcing bad behavior and, not to be harsh, feeding your husband's ego.
  Tell your husband that if he truly LOVES his dog, the dog, to be a happy healthy dog, NEEDS proper pack structure and proper leadership from your husband. It won't make the dog any less who he is, it will actually make him a BETTER version of himself.
  
  Good luck!!! This is always a HARD fight because people latch on for dear life to the notion that Fluffy is somehow as human as they are. *sigh*
  
  add: Do you think it's possible somehow, somewhere along the way your husband was taught that "macho", "mean" things equate masculinity? Seriously? It seems that men who are insecure within themself and about their own masculinity seek out "mean" dogs and other things like violent sports to prove themself. Is there something lacking, be it in the marriage or in his childhood? Sorry to sound like Dr Phil, but you never know...


• Who shoved a stick up your ***? A dog that is meant as just an obedient pet should be trained. If your husband sees the dog as a part of the family, then it is FINE and PERFECTLY NORMAL for him to baby-talk to it and pet his own damn dog.
  
  If the aggression is constant and persistent then yea, look into a trainer. If the dog bites someone and/or attacks another dog, there is a chance animal control will get involved to take away and put the dog to sleep. Tell your husband this; it'll make him think twice.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Training Collars?

Does anyone have any positive experiences with dog training collars? I don't mean the shock collars (I would never do that to my doggie), I mean either the one the the Dog Whisperer uses.
Thanks in advance! =]

Dog Training - Beyond Conditioning

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Don't spend the money on cesar milans crap.

Get any training collar from the local petstore. The trainers there will show you how to use it.

Dog Training Tips - Rules for Dog Trainers and Dog Owners

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Dog Health Questions: Has anybody gone to this Dog Training School?

I am thinking about enrolling at the Animal Behavior College (http://animalbehaviorcollege.com/index.a… and I was just wondering if anyone on here as been through their program and if so how successful they were after they graduated.

Anyone else could you tell me wether this school looks suitable to start a career in dog training? Thanks!

Dog Training Tips - Basic Dog Training Courses

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I learned to play fetch and play dead there. I'm a good dog.

Reward Dog Training

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Dog Health Questions: In regards to dog training, what is your definition.....?

For dog training, what is your definition of a correction?

Please give me a detailed exampele of what you would consider a correction. You are welcome to give more than one example as well.

You do not have to actually be the type of trainer that uses corrections in your training either. I am just curious as to what people perceive.

Dog Training Tools and Advice

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An obedience correction is anything that's appropriate (aka no drop kicks or karate chops) that redirects a dog's attention back to you and/or tells a dog that he MUST obey you even if he doesn't feel like it, even if there's something more interesting going on. These are usually leash corrections or e-collar corrections but even a tap on the shoulder and a "Hey" or "No" is a correction. If a dog knows the meaning of "No", no becomes a correction itself. A dog can ONLY be given an obedience correction if it knows what you asked of it and refused to obey on it's own accord: Example: You tell your dog to sit, you know for a fact the dog knows what sit means but he sees another dog and decides to ignore your command, you correct him, give the command to sit again and he sits while focusing back on you. Another type of correction, a deterrent correction, is given when a dog doesn't know that what he's doing is wrong but you correct him to show him it's wrong. You give these corrections when you catch your dog digging in the yard, getting into the trash, or chewing on the furniture. A dog doesn't inherently know these behaviors are wrong and the only way we can explain that is through immediate "deterring" corrections. The 3rd type of correction is a correction used to build drive and is used by protection sport trainers, PSD trainers, and knowlegeable advanced obedience trainers (including those who work with gun dogs and catch dogs). These correction build drive and can take a dog to the next level of intensity via frustration....anyway this is a list of what I call corrections, the 3 different kinds, and what they're used for.

A Look At Bird Dog Training

• To me a correction is something that is used to tell the dog that they have done something wrong.
  
  There are two types a verbal or a physical correction.
  
  I use verbal. The only type of physical correction i use is negative punishment which for this I use ignoring.
  
  I also beleive you can never just use a correction you need to use something to tell them that they have done something right as well.
  
  And for things like barking collars or pinch collars unless it is necessary I do not use these types of corrections(for example a dog who refusing to learn the come command, I'd rather use a shock fence then see the dog get hit by a car). Its just my opinion.


• My definition of corrections would be the obvious: Alerting a dog to something done incorrectly or improperly.
  
  In training, there are levels of correction, each should be used correctly. For example, a level one correction is a verbal correction, and a level 10 is the literal jerk of the leash-- which lifts the dog off of its feet. Level five can be anything from an ear flick to a light pinch.
  
  In my work, the type and level of correction always depends on the individual dog. A dog which doesn't respond well to verbal commands (der) won't respond to a verbal correction.
  
  Most dogs in my field require physical corrections. Things like neck tweaks, tail swats, ear flicks, and on VERY rare occasions, lead jerks.
  
  The worst correction I've ever seen a trainer use would have to be the 'whip'. For a dog that was pulling its owner, he advised to use the lead as a whip and to slap the dog with it as it was pulling. To put it into a mental image, imagine a pulling dog where the leash is tight, and to 'whip' the lead towards the dog in order to hit the ribs and the back of the animal all at once---- it worked, but from that point forward the dog walked as close to the ground and as far away from the owner as possible.


• I try not to encourage my clients to give their dogs harsh or unnecessary corrections. A simple "eh eh" or "no" should be sufficient. My biggest correction would be withholding some of value, whether this be the toy, treat, or simply myself.
  
  Most of my border collies are toy motivated. When (and if) they act out, I simply withhold their favorite toy. My golden is food motivated, so I will remove the treats during training until she cooperates. My mutt is very praise motivated, so to get his attention when I mean business I simply ignore him. He hate this. You would seriously think I have just shot his best friend when you see his reaction to this.
  
  My methods are positive and require the dog to think for themselves. I will never recommend a prong, choke, shock/E collar. I will never recommend hitting or yelling at a dog. This includes "bopping" them or flicking them on the nose/ear, smacking their backside, etc. There is no reason, and I mean NO reason, a person should ever hit/jerk/kick/scream/yell or lay a hand on their dog. Ever. There is no reason for it. There is always another way to get your point across to your dog.
  
  Trainers who will recommend these sort of corrections make my skin crawl and makes me sad for any dogs enduring this sort of training. Alpha rolls, jerking of the leash, prong collars, and any other sort of """training""" (and I use that word loosely) is old school and outdated. Not to mention completely unnecessary and in some cases, unacceptable.
  
  Harsh corrections can work, but your dog will learn to fear you and in the long term it will create longer more complex problems.
  
  For example, a lady brought her German Shepherd to me who had been trained by one of the "top" dog trainers in our city (hah..). This dog was nervous, timid, anxious, stressed out, and would lash out in fear. The dog was never like this before she took him to this company who recommend the E collar. You could say his name and he would literally pee on himself.
  
  A few months later (yes months, it takes a lot of time and persistence to undo someone else work), he was an almost different dog. He would still flinch at the sound of his name (they taught her to get his attention by saying his name and shocking him apparently), but he was starting to be his old self again.
  
  I hate when people do harsh training and corrections on their dogs. It may work for short term, but in the long run it can create worse (and life threatening) problems for the owner and dog.
  
  My training is positive reinforcement based using clickers, markers, tons of praise, food/toys, and love!
  
  Boo negative.
  
  Yay positive!
  
  =)


• A correction, to me, is something you do that hopefully makes the dog realize that behavior is not going to produce a reward, so try something else. A correction, when properly given, should make the dog eager to try many other things. At least that's my favorite type of correction. I hate the corrections that physically hurt the dog, make them afraid to try more behaviors, or nervous to be taught something new. Even worse, it makes them hesitate to be creative, to try out a new behavior that could get a harsh reaction from their owners.
  
  The corrections I tend to use the most is to tell my dog he will be getting "no reward' for that behavior.
  
  I consider leash (yanking, choking, helicoptering), pinching, pushing, hitting, etc, as a human attack... not a correction -because that's how the dogs I've worked with reacted to it as: my human attacks me when I do something wrong, I better do right.- The communication usually isn't as high as it can be. And the dog doesn't understand what the correct behavior IS -most of the time. If the dog did, the correction shouldn't be anything more than telling the dog what they should be doing.- However, I'm very aware that some people see that as a correction. I just don't.
  
  Add: Just to clarify, I did not say "no treat" I said "no reward." A reward means anything the dog will work for. This includes vocal praise, scritches, a game, a toy, being allowed to play with other dogs, being able to meet a new person, and, usually only while training a new behavior or when nothing else is available, a small (pea-sized) treat. My dogs rarely if ever get a treat after they know a behavior and will perform it consistently.
  
  Since telling my dog "cold" or "eh" or something else that means "no reward, try something else" actually communicates to the dog that the behavior is incorrect, and begins to direct them to the correct behavior... it IS a correction. Just like a "click" can be a reward marker, the words I use are the "no reward" marker, and it's used as a correction.
  
  My PUNISHMENTS tend to be things like removing attention, removing the toy, removing the reward, etc. But that's not a correction. That's a punishment.
  
  I put in other edits to try and explain myself better, marked with -word- so that they're discernible.


• For me, a correction is a way to communicate to your dog that they have done something wrong.
  
  Like Patient Paws said, there are different levels of correction. However, I would consider the lightest correction to be withholding a reward and redirection, and the highest to be something worse than a simple leash jerk.
  
  The levels of acceptable correction, however, are a different story. The issue with correction is that the word has gained a negative connotation, especially among "positive only" enthusiasts, many of whom do not realize they are correcting their dog by not giving them a treat or by issuing a verbal "ah ah".
  
  Personally, I am not a big fan of harsher corrections because I don't know how to properly use them. Since I haven't had a need to, I only use the verbal "ah ah" or redirecting, as well as withholding a reward. I personally have a dog that is very easily frustrated, and corrections make her worse. However, I co-own a dog who is so hard headed that you could probably knee him in the ribs and he would still be bouncing all over you.
  
  I'm going off on a tangent already, but the point is that a correction is anything to tell a dog that you do not appreciate what they are doing (or that they are supposed to be doing something else).


• I pick positive reinforcement over physical correction type correction training. To let the dog no they did something bad I say "ouch" or "ehh" and turn my back on them or put them in a bathroom or isolated space. When they are calmed down and there's silence for three seconds you let them back or turn to them again.
  Dogs hate being ignored so if they're being ignored they don't like that, and that's a worse punishment they a slap or shock for them.
  then you start over. For some dogs it may take a lot of repetition for them to understand, but it's worth it for they will understand eventually.
  Patience is key.


• A signal to communicate to the dog that their current behavior is not correct. I guess the clicker-trainers out there would consider it the opposite of a "click". :)
  
  It could be a verbal correction (in my house, "Ack!" or "Ehh!"), a collar correction (pop with the lead), or a stim from an e-collar.
  
  The point is that it is quick, fair, and timed to show the dog that what they are doing *at that moment* is not acceptable.


• I correct by saying AH AH. No goes ignored so if my dog is doing something I don't like I say AH AH, and that usually gets her attention. When walking if she pulls I tug the leash to the side and sometimes I use a foot pop on her butt to snap her out of whatever she's focusing on and not paying attention to me, it's not a kick it's just a touch similar to what Cesar Milan does to "refocus" a dogs attention. I have always used postive reinforcment training because Weims don't respond well to "harsh" training methods AT ALL.


• whether the correction is a sharp "no," a snap of the collar, or a poke to divert the dog's attention (always followed by praise/treats!), what makes a correction is the energy behind it. if you correct a dog while feeling mad, anxious or fearful, the correction either means nothing to the dog, or confuses or scares him. calm assertive energy and consistancy is the key.


• I typically use a sharp vocal UH!, and/or NO, and that works well. My dog now will know it's a correction if I even go ahh (crescendoing the longer it goes). I typically also use a light tap on the bridge of the muzzle. Regardless of what people will think of me, it works, and it doesn't hurt the dog. It gets their attention and redirects it if nothing else is doing the trick.
  
  My dog is CGC and TDI certified, and I trained him using a choke chain. He never did pull on the leash, and still doesn't, but it puts him into a better mindset, and he walks perfectly now, on or off leash.
  
  I am okay with some positive reinforcement, but I disagree with the people who say that "not giving a treat is the correction". A dog should NOT be given a treat for every good thing it does. Let alone, simple psychology tests were done. If a dog is given treats every time it performs an action, if you take away the treats, then in a very short time the dog will no longer do it. If a dog is never given treats as a reward, it makes no difference to them whether you have a treat or not, and they will continue to do the tricks. If you use the treats intermittently and randomly, that's the best. They never know when a treat is coming, and so continue to perform no matter if a treat is there or not. Surprisingly many people that do "positive reinforcement" don't understand this simple matter in psychology, and they begin to teach the dog wrong.
  
  It's a lot of gray area, but I trust scientific findings and research projects. I give intermittent treats, and disagree with those who want to treat every little action. For initial training, or training of, say, abused shelter dogs, then yes more treats are better. However, once they understand what you want, the treats NEED to be weaned off and only used intermittently.


• A correction is anything from a word/sound to a zap from an Electric collar.
  
  A correction is simply any way you choose to let your dog know that it needs to do what you are asking of it.


• there are all different types- it can be a sharp "no" or a tug on the leash, a shock from a collar or an alpha roll. they are all used by various people with some degree of success.


• hi,
  
  No dog is born with good manners. Pooping on the carpet, leaping enthusiastically onto guests, pulling so hard he practically yanks your arm out of the socket when on walks--that's all perfectly acceptable in the canine world. It's up to you to teach your dog to behave the way we humans want him to. Not training your dog and expecting him to be pleasant to live with is like never sending your child to school and expecting him to ace the SATs.
  here's more info:
  http://www.mediumurl.com/?r=866733649442…
  
  hope this helps.


• I wouldn't use any way that is harmfull or "mean" to the dog for one major reason. FEAR doesn't make a well trained dog...well it might, but not a happy one.
  
  I perfer the sudden loud noise when it does somthing bad
  
  put it in a enclosed area for a few seconds when it does somthing bad
  
  simple spices on the places where it chews on
  
  methods.
  Always make sure your dog loves you, and reward and praise as much as you dicipline

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training spray for when a dog goes potty somewhere they aren't supposed to?

My gramma's dog goes to the bathroom on the couch, like peeing and pooping. My dog is in the same room as hers. I don't know which dog is doing it but I think its hers. Anywayz.. tomorrow me and my gramma are gunna go shopping for the dogs. So if anyone knows a good type of dog training spray thingy that will make them stop going on the couch that would be helpful.

Be a Responsible Dog Owner and Consider Using a Dog Training Collar!

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This comes up so often I have a Quick Text for it. If you're out shopping, read #4 and heed the other advice given thus far.

The rules of potty training:

1. Consistency: Dogs will usually go potty after eating, after napping and after playing. Learn your dogs schedule and take them out during these times. This will be much easier if you regulate their feeding schedule and quantity. Do not free feed.
2. Reward: Stay out with the puppy however long it takes for them to complete. Only reward when the dog is completely finished. We don't want the dog to learn to "pinch it off" to get the reward faster. Reward with a high pitched voice and whatever excites your dog. Don't go right back in the house. Wait a couple of minutes and allow the puppy to sniff or roam. We don't want them to associate finishing peeing as the trigger for going inside. If they enjoy it outside, they will learn to not go just to prolong their time out.
3. Supervision: You must be attentive to your puppy's whereabouts at all time. When you take a shower or can't supervise, have someone else do it that knows the rules or put the puppy in their kennel. If you find yourself unable to constantly know your puppy's whereabouts, tether them to your waist with some light cord.
4. Clean Up: Clean any indoor accidents with an enzymatic cleaner and follow it's instructions carefully. Enzymes, when activated and kept damp will eat any organic material leaving no residue or odor. For every ounce the puppy pees on carpet, blot up everything you can and use twice as much enzymatic cleaner. Saturate the area and leave it wet to dry naturally or cover with plastic to keep it damp for a day or two. To find missed spots, use a blacklight at night to search your house. Organic material will glow green. Be prepared for a shock.

Considerations When Buying Dog Training Equipment

• They keep going there because of the smell, so look for a pet deodorizer/cleaner. Such as:
  
  http://www.oxyfresh.com/pet/deodorizer.a…


• you can try simple dog training http://bit.ly/fAcQ6e


• that thingie that helps dogs not to pisss and crap inside the house is called HOUSEBREAKING
  
  get a book and read about it

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training???

Where is the best place to take your dog for Dog training? I have lots of family with lots of animals and they all say something different. Should I get a one on one trainer that will come to my house? Or should I go somewhere like Pets Mart and take the 6 week class? Thanks All nice comments welcome

Dog Training Aids - Best Tips for Using Crates

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The Pet store training stuff is crap. They're kids who took a 2 or 3 week course and are a certified dog trainer, none of which have gone to any formal training schools or ever attended a training seminar from a respected trainer. The dog isn't the one who needs training, you need training in how to train your dog. You may send your dog off and have him trained, he may listen to his trainer but not you when you get him back home. This is because the trainer is the one who earned his respect, not you. Respect isn't transferrable. I suggest to everyone that they train their own dogs, besides, who knows your dog better than you? Now if you can find a professional trainer who really knows what he's talking about (a good way to find out is to ask him what seminars he's attended recently and what training school/s has he been through) who can direct you on how to train your own dog, that's fine. Good luck and I hope all turns out well and you end up with a healthy happy fully trained dog.

Dog Training Books - Choosing the Best Dog Training Book

• I would recommend going to somewhere like Petsmart or a private trainer that has groups. They still offer one on one help if you are having a certain problem with your pet. Dogs need to learn how to socialize as well as how to listen to you. By being in a class they learn how to socialize with other dogs. They also learn to obey your commands and not what others are saying. I hope this helps!


• A formal obedience class that you attend, with your dog and you do the training.
  
  No to Petsmat or PetCo.
  
  Most cities have a Parks & Recreation guide that offers dog obedience. You meet a few days a week for maybe eight weeks and the dog earns a certificate of completion after attending the classes and learning what was taught.


• Personally, I'm partial to one-on-one training in your home. For may reasons, but I find it's easier to train the dog AND the owner in that setting, as opposed to a group training class.
  
  Most group classes teach only the first phase of obedience - the learning phase. They lack any training in the correction phase and they introduce distraction into the learning phase. No good.


• whatever works best for you. If you want one on one training you can certainly do that, though the classes elsewhere are usually better because it socializes your dog while it and you are learning. I wouldn't pick a training facility out of the blue, observe a few classes and see if you like the training style as each trainer is different.
  
  Good luck


• i say the best way to train your dog is at home strart out simple do the first things a week. this prroses my take long because it pays off. you and your dog become closer and your dog builds intelaginse.


• I, personally, would avoid the Petsmart/Petco training. (Seen it, not impressed at all!)- I would go to www.akc.org and look for dog training clubs associated with AKC in your area- these are not professionally paid instructors, but are people who have trained their dogs to high titles, have lots of experience, and are teaching because they want to.
  
  good luck!


• I recommend you visit the website I went to when my dog had behavioral issues a while back. It transformed my dog's behavior. Good Luck!

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