Dog Health Questions: Has anyone had their dogs trained at Petsmart?

I have a 3 month old Wheaten Terrier that is extremely intelligent. I work during the day, so I need some help in the training department. I would like to house train her, "sit" train, "shake", etc. Since she is so smart I don't think I'll have a problem getting her to learn these commands. I've never trained a pup before, so I could use a little help. Would anyone suggest Petsmart training?

8 Dog Training Tips Every Dog Owner Must Know

Recommended Answer:
I am currently taking my puppy to PetSmart training classes and she's doing well. However, I think you may want to meet with the trainer and find out how long they've been training before you sign up because I've heard that sometimes the trainers, to quote someone, "don't know their head from a hole in the ground". I would also suggest you check out the show "Its Me or the Dog" on Animal Planet. That lady really knows her stuff.

Shock Collar Dog Training the Quick and Easy Way

• No I wouldn't.


• I taught my dog almost 20 tricks now and have never gone to training, it is really easy if you have patience.


• It's great socialization, which is never a bad thing. Petsmart training will teach you to teach her, but I wouldn't put too much stock in her learning it from the class. You will learn alot about training her and then you can start to train at home the little novelty tricks.


• For the money you spend on Petsmart training, you can get a good local trainer to enroll you in a basic obedience class that will give you 10x more value. No offense to anyone who works at Petsmart, but I just don't think that their training program is a good one at all.


• My concern with PetSmart training is 2-fold:
  Their trainers may or may not be qualified to handle difficult situations if they arise. At least the stores by my house give the trainers a 2 weeks, 1 hour per week, training session on how to teach, and then put them in command of a class. yes, they know the basics and how to teach them, however, if there are behavioral issues that come in during class, they may or may not know what to do.
  
  Also, the stores in my area do not teach a lot of the basic commands. They teach sit, stay, and come, but do not go into down or heeling or any distractions.
  
  I strongly recommend basic obedience for any dog, but I would check out the store, what do their teachers do to qualify for training, and what is taught during the session. You may pay a little higher price, but you may be better off going to a kennel, shelter, or doggie business in your area for training that is a little more thorough.


• I would highly suggest it! I had my Jack Russell trained through petsmart. I took the puppy training(basic) and I enjoyed it so much that I came back with my pup for intermediate training. I've had people ask me if she is actually a Jack Russell and then when I reply, "yes" they ask why she is actually listening to me. Petsmart has great programs and you also get to socialize your pup with all the other youngsters!


• So many dogs go through Petsmarts that I would be worried about a puppy getting parvo. Try to find a puppy obedience class where they don't take adult dogs. If you must go to Petsmart, make sure they sterilize the floor and carry your pup all the way to the training area.


• i was in the same predicament you are i had to work and i had a aussie who is extremely intelligent i had already taught her a lot but she needed to be social so i signed her up at petsmart training classes weve been there for 5 weeks and she has learned nothing she didnt already know i feels it was a waste of many and they dont teach you anything you cant learn yourself. many of the things i learned was off of watching the show its me or the dog on animal planet heres a link if your interested
  http://animal.discovery.com/convergence/…
  but yeah i feel you would be wasting your money if you took your dog there and thats from experience


• My vet took her dog there. She recommended the social atmosphere for a puppy to introduce them to other dogs, people and environments. They usually have classes based on the age of your dog and they offer advanced training. In checking around, they were very competitively priced for the training they offered.


• I have taken a couple of classes at Petsmart, beginner with one of my dogs and intermediate with two of my dogs (I trained the one dog up to the intermediate level by myself before starting the class with both dogs). Both were adults when I adopted them. While the classes do not lead to a trained dog, I do believe that they help give you the tools to train your dogs and they come out of the classes knowing the basics. You just need to keep up the work at home so that the learning becomes innate behavior. In my area, the Petsmart/other pet store classes are the best value. With my new puppy, I am following the general lessons from Petsmart and my five and a half month old puppy knows sit, down, stay, come, leave it and drop it. The leave it and drop it commands are the best as he is always trying to pick up stuff on our walks and finds stuff where I would swear there was nothing. He can also give his paw, which is just for fun.
  
  With my present dogs, I tried training classes for the first time and it helped me figure out how to work with them on a level they could understand, which was the best part. Agility with my Corgi helped tremendously to create a relationship where he looked to me to tell him what to do. Our training went much better after we started agility. Once your Wheaten gets older, it may be something to consider. Good luck.
  
  ETA - I agree about the quality of the trainers. I have heard that it can vary from store to store. My classes did train loose leash walking and heel and the intermediate classes involved adding distractions, including the trainers' slightly manic border collies, to all of the commands. Go to your bed was a great command that I never would have thought about, but it allows me to get the dogs to a safe place if there is an issue.


• I've heard of people having some success with Petsmart/Petco classes, but more than anything it can be a good socializing experience. It takes more than just taking the course for you and your dog to be successful, you'll also need to reinforce the training at home and work daily so they don't think they only have to obey occasionally, because if your dog is smart, occasionally turns into seldom which turns into unruly.
  
  I was discouraged from doing those classes since I have a GSD and they require a little more in depth training and they latch on to inconstancies VERY quickly. Training an intelligent dog does not mean it's going to be easier, it's still going to take time and lots of work. Having an intelligent dog, like a GSD he sometimes "questions" what I ask of him when we first started training. He was an adult however, and a little bit of a different situation.
  
  The only advice for Parvo is that most cleaners do not kill the virus and the workers there will not be able to "sanitize" the training area. If another dog walked into the area, and wasn't carried, you're in the same boat as if you walked your dog in as well. I've heard you should wait until their last round of puppy shots to start training, but check with your vet first for clearance.
  
  Training is a great bonding experience and good job being proactive!


• I just finished the Petsmart puppy class with my two pups and they are now in the intermediate. I love it and our trainer is great. I agree with other posters that in class you are taught how to teach your puppy and all of the actual training comes outside of class. What I liked the most was being able to get my puppies socialized around all types of dogs and people and to have a place to ask questions every week. For example, my little boy has been the sweetest puppy ever and always played well with all other dogs but last Monday out of no where he started attacking other dogs for no reason. Because my trainer (from Petsmart) knows him better than even my vet she was the first one to help me figure out how this changed happened over night. He is getting fixed tomorrow to see if that will help but if not she is going to help me make a program to train him and work with him on it.
  
  I also agree with everyone else in that it really depends on the trainer you have. My trainer is AMAZING!!! She actually just got a promotion and in 8 weeks will no longer be a trainer. I personally don't like the other trainer at the store and wouldn't recommend her so it is really a toss up.
  
  I am a first time puppy mom and what I have learned has been really helpful but I also got really lucky with such a great trainer


• We took both of my dogs there. The first time we had a great teacher. We had already trained Lacey on most of the basic commands before we took her to Puppy Class. We mostly took her to help with socialization and it did. We did learn a couple of helpful commands I hadn't heard of before which still help.
  
  The second time we took Logan and the teacher wasn't so good so we stopped taking him. I feel so bad I have a Puppy School dropout :)
  
  It really depends on the teacher. It is mostly for you to learn how to train your puppy. One class a week is not enough for your puppy to actually learn any commands. The class is just intended to teach you how to train them at home and remember you have to put in the work.
  
  Hope that helps and Good Luck
  
  Stephanie
  http://www.purebredpups.org
  http://www.designermixes.org


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Off leash dog training?

I have 3 year old beagle/German shepherd mix. He like to chase after small animals and other dogs. When ever genus off leash, he runs away. How can I train him to be off leash without chasing any thing or run away? Detailed answers please!

Dog Training And Electronic Shock Collars

Recommended Answer:
There are many training options to get your dog to walk on loose leash, and some options work better than others. Regardless of which option you choose, there are definite rules that you should adhere to:

http://lnk.nu/dogtime.com/ryk.html

The Newest Kind of Dog Training

• I would start by putting him on a really long leash - something like 5 or 6 yards of clothes line. Take him somewhere secure and fenced in and take with you a bag of treats. Loose the line as if he was being let off the leash and almost immediately call him back and give a little tug on the line to make him stop. Keep calling him and pull the line in till he gets back to you. Then praise him and give him a treat. Repeat this several times until he starts to get the idea.
  
  After a while (this could be several days/weeks depending on your dog and time committments) let him off the line in the secure fenced area. Rustle the treat bag while you call him back close enough to hold his collar. Praise him, give him a treat and let him go away again. If you put him straight back on the leash he will associate coming back with being restrained. you want him to associate it with praise and treats.
  
  Keep doing this until he is recall trained. If necessary go back to using the long line to remind him what you want. When it comes to letting him off somewhere new, I'd be inclined to use the long line to begin with.
  
  Good luck.


• This is going to be very difficult with the Beagle part of him. He was bred for hunting small animals. It's in his blood which makes the training harder, however with consistent training, not impossible. You'll want to start with the "leave it" command. Use his favorite things (such as food, toys, etc), walk him past it on leash and as soon as he starts to look at it, give a gentle correction and say "leave it". Do this every chance you get until he gets the idea. Once he has that down, expand to a longer lead (I use a 10 - 16 foot) and repeat the process. This gives him the feeling of freedom while keeping you in control. Use it in the house while off lead as well. Take walks on lead and use the command "leave it" when he shows interest in other animals. He may never be completely reliable off lead due to his breed, so for his safety, you may want to confine his off-lead time to a fenced enclosure.
  
  Good luck.


• Obedience training class might help to refocus him on watching you at all times for signals, but at that age you might be better hiring a dog trainer as that mix is sure to be both intelligent and single minded.
  In the meantime try taking his favourite squeaky toy out with you in order to redirect his attention to coming back to your call. Also have some of his very favourite treats with you and let him know you have them before he runs away off leash. You might need to condition him for a while on a long extending lead or rope in a park or other safe place (never use an extending lead on the road, they can wrench it out of your grip, twirl and get caught up with disastrous results).
  I have often found that when you make friends with another dog and it's owner, then your own dog is much keener to keep an eye on you.


• No dog, especially a herding or prey animal should ever be allowed off leash until it has the emergency recall command mastered 100%. This can not only save another animals but save your dogs life. Practice around your house first (I use a 30 foot training lead) where the dog is most familiar. This is one of those commands that can not be a "once in a while does it right" thing. You must make this the most important command your dog ever uses. Start close. Give a command that you don't normally use like come....try "here" , "home", or any other easy to use one syllable word and only use it for instant recall (you can use the come word for every day use but it is equally important to use. The second your dog comes to you reward it like you have never rewarded anything else. This is used for emergency recall only and if you over use it then it will loose its effectiveness.
  
  Practice this 2-3 times a day until the dog can go to the end of the 30 feet and instantly come. Start backing off to 1x a day then 1x a week to 1 x a month....keep up with practicing the everyday "come" and praise word. Move to a large outside area and practice....use the come word and only use praise as a reward, save the recall word and use the yummiest food treats your dog has ever seen. Only use it once a day to start then back off that as well. Your dog should be associating come as a great thing and will come 95-100% of the time the moment you call him but as soon as you use your recall word it will associate it to the greatest thing since chasing rabbits. This is why you make it the one word that in an emergency or to call your dog off running away you can save it. Every time you use this recall it will loose effectiveness so spare it.
  
  If you have been practicing daily the normal "come" command your dog should be very proficient in listening and responding immediately. My aussie got to put this to the test when her snap came off and she took off after some geese. I was so amazed that she stopped dead in her tracks and ran back to my side. I didn't have her great treats but I made it a huge deal for her and praised the heck out of her. Good luck, shepherds are amazing and beagles are challenging so be patient and consistent and you should have great responses from him.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Survey Questions over PetSmart Training Center - School Project, Please Help?

Posted this yesterday, but would like to get more input from new people as well. If you've been to PetSmart's Training Center, please help me out! It's for a 5-7 page English Paper, so I need the feedback! Copy pasting answers or just giving letters/numbers is all I need. Thanks!

Please answer all questions in reference to your first experience with the PetSmart Training Center for purposes of this survey. Thank you for you participation!

1.) Are you Male or Female?

2.) What is your age range? Under 18 18-25 25-45 45-65 over 65

3.) What is the age range of the dog's primary trainer in the household? Under 18 18-25 25-45 45-65 over 65

4.) Have you used an other dog training service before?

5.) What was the first class your dog attended at PetSmart? Puppy Beginner Intermediate Advanced Click-a-Trick

6.) What was your dog's age range when the first class began? Under 6 months 6 months-1 year 1-2 years 2-7 years over 7 years

7.) What were your reasons for joining a PetSmart Training Class? Please RANK CHOICES from highest priority to lowest:
A. To teach tricks B. To address a specific behavioral problem C. To strengthen your personal bond to your dog D. To strengthen overall obedience skills E. To provide your dog with socialization to other dogs, people, and places F. To teach your dog to protect you G. To build up your dog's confidence in himself

8.) How would you rate your knowledge of dog training before your PetSmart Training Class? 1: No Knowledge 2: Some Knowledge 3: Pretty Knowledgeable 4: Very Knowledgeable 5: Expert

9.) What methods do you use or believe are effective for obedience training? Please list all that apply
A: Positive Reinforcement B: Negative Reinforcement C: Punishment D: NILF (Nothing in Life is Free) E: Clicker-training F: Crate Training G: Force-Based Training H: Hands-On Training (Physically assisting dog into a position, such as sit, gently) I: Shaping J: Alpha Dog/ Pack Dominance Theory (Caesar Milan's methods) K: Aversion Techniques (Bitter spray, Bullhorns, Ultra Sonic Devices, Motion-sensored alarms, Citronella Spray bark collars, etc) L: Use of Corrective Devices such as Gentle Leaders, No-pull harnesses, martingale/greyhound collars M. Use of Corrective Devices such as prong/pinch collars, choke collars, shock collars, underground fencing

10.) Which of the above methods were recommended by your training instructor &/or were employed in class?

11.) How would you rate your trainer's knowledge of training methods on a scale of 1-5? 1: No Knowledge 2: Some Knowledge 3: Pretty Knowledgeable 4: Very Knowledgeable 5: Expert

12.) How would you rate your trainer's enthusiasm and willingness to help on a scale of 1-5? 1 being nonexistent, 5 being highest

13.) How would you rate your trainer's professionalism, salesmanship, and ability to lead the class? 1 being out of their element, 5 being remarkable

14.) How would you rate your experience with PetSmart's Training Center overall? 1 being horrible, 5 being best

15.) How would you rate your knowledge of dog training after your PetSmart Training Class? 1: No Knowledge 2: Some Knowledge 3: Pretty Knowledgeable 4: Very Knowledgeable 5: Expert

16.) How would your rate your dog's improvement after your experience with the PetSmart Training Center? 1: Regression in behavior &/or obedience 2: No change in behavior or obedience 3: “Well, he does it at home, but not in the training center!” 4: Improvement 5: Much Improvement

17.) Has your dog completed his or her Canine Good Citizenship Test?

18.) Do you find the price of classes in the PetSmart Training Center to be worth the services it provides?

19.) Have you enrolled in another PetSmart Training Center Course since your first experience?

20.) Would you recommend the services of the PetSmart Training Center to a friend?

Additional comments also welcomed. Thanks again to all who respond!

Train Your Dog - Don't Let Your Dog Train You

Recommended Answer:
1. Female
2. 25 -45
3. 25 -45
4. no
5. Puppy Beginner
6. under 6 months
7. D
8. 1
9. A, E, F, H, K
10. All
11. 5
12. 5
13. 5
14. 5
15. 4
16. 5
17. no
18. yes
19. not yet
20. yes and I have

Do a Good Job of Dog Training

• This is for a school project? I think this is a survey for Petsmart. Why be sneaky about it??


• i am sorry im too lazy to fill that all out but i will say petsmart dog obedience is crap.... reason being is they do not do any distraction for the dog to learn from
  
  example telling my dog to sit and stay ok great she will sit and stay ok thanks petsmart but what did they do to distract her and make that stronger and reinforce her to stay there???
  
  did they throw her favorite toy and correct her??? a treat or walk many other dogs around her or kids playing???? theres many flaws especially people thinking oh my dog is trained now when i leave and dont do any maintenance training (to reinforce her training throughout the years.......


• 1. Female
  2. I'm 25-45 years old
  3. I'm Tiger's ONLY trainer, so 25-45 years old
  4. Yes
  5. Intermediate
  6. 1-2 years
  7. The only reason was D., To strengthen overall obedience skills
  8. 1., No Knowledge
  9. I use positive reinforcement
  10. Prong collar, choke collar, and physical punishment.
  11. 1: No Knowledge
  12. 1., no knowledge
  13. 3.
  14. 1.
  15. 1.
  16. 1.
  17. No, because I don't know how to get him into Canine Good Citizen.
  18. NO. They DO NOT know how to train dogs, only make them worse.
  19. NO! I'D NEVER DO THAT AFTER THE FIRST CLASS!!!
  20. Not even to my worst enemy.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training issues?

I have a pomeranian/toy american eskimo puppy( he is almost 2yr old). Anyways when I let him outside he will urinate in about 5-6 different spots. A short while after letting him in, he will head straight for the dining room table and urinate on the same chair/table leg each time. He does not empty a full bladder or anything like that. It is just a small bit. Could he have troubles emptying his bladder? How do I break him of this? Also is there something that I can use to treat that spot to ensure that he will stop doing it? Any help or advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

Top 6 Dog Training Mistakes - Are You Making These Mistakes When Dog Training?

Recommended Answer:
He's marking his territory. It helps if you get him neutered. You can use Nature's Miracle to clean the chair leg. There is some stuff you can get that will make the dog want to pee only in a certain area of the yard. I'd do that, but when he comes in the house and tries to pee on the chair leg, you're going to have to be very stern and consistent in telling him no. You have to treat it like potty training and be adamant that he not pee inside. You could try putting some pennies in a can and shaking it near him when he tries to pee inside. It will scare him and most dogs don't like it.

Shock Collar Dog Training the Quick and Easy Way

• no, i dont think your dog is having trouble emptying its bladder; my guess is that your dog is trying to mark his territory. you could try putting him on leash and restricting the area he has available. i know that most petstores sell stuff to make the grass green again and also to remove the scent, so then your dog won't be able to smell the urine. if the problem persists, it may be wise to take him to the vet.
  
  i know my dog used to do that as a puppy, but stopped as he grew older. Hope this helps!


• neuter the dog.
  
  spray the chair leg with a mixture of white vinegar and water
  
  try a belly band. That's basically a band that cvers your dog's privates when you don't want him to pee...you can find them on ebay.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: My dog is too dumb to learn anything?

I have a pomeranian yorkie mix and she is a year old , dumber then a box of rocks she barks at her own shadow , there is just no hope should I take her to dog training classes or something?

I don't really see the point in her knowing how to sit and stay and stuff.

Don't call me a bad dog owner I have a lab/German shepherd mix and he is the smartest dog ever he knows how to sit, stay, shake, roll over, speak , and so many other things , and I taught him those things .

A Guide To Your Dog Training for Law Enforcement

Recommended Answer:
She's not dumb. Matter of fact, Poms are one of the more intelligent breeds (23rd rank, pardon moi) The problem is that smarter dogs can think for themselves and therefore can also be very headstrong due to that. Chis rank way on down, but I've managed to teach mine lots of things (like speak, DON"T speak- very important with small yappers).

It's probably that the training methods you use with your lab mix are not working with her temperament, so you need to try something else. If your main concern is keeping her from barking so much, rather than teaching her common manners and things that will protect her in certain situations, I suggest you join a forum or chat group of Pom people and ask for advice.

Therapy Dog Training - What Are the Various Methods of Obedience Training For Dogs?

• No your dog isnt dumb. Heres some tips on teaching her sit:
  
  . Get a small treat in your hand and hold it up above her head.
  . Say 'Sit' and push her backside to the floor.
  . when she is sitting, say 'Sit'!
  . Try the process a few times by pushing her backside to the floor and saying 'Sit'
  . Then when her backside isnt as stiff to push down, say 'Sit' without pushing her down. if she does sit, give her the treat. If she doesnt, try the Pushing her down tacktick.
  . Everytime she sits by herself, praise her and give a treat
  
  she will get it eventually!!
  GoodLuck


• She barks at her shadow? Is she perhaps bored and that's a fun game or is she visually impaired? The great thing about training classes is that a good trainer will know how to tailor training methods to fit your dog. Apparently the method that worked with your other dog isn't working with this girl, so getting outside suggestions is the way to go.


• Dogs do not come pretrained they have to be taught what you expect. Dogs are only as good as the owners makes them. You find sit/stay useless??? What about if the dog is running into traffic or something like that. Don't you think it would be a good idea if she was trained to STOP. Training is for the dogs own good.
  I am sure anyone visiting your house would much prefer a trained dog that is not all over them, barking and stuff.
  
  If you are not capable of thaining the dog then yes take it to classes


• Well dogs are the same as humans some do not like doing tricks.
  
  As long as she sits, stops, and is obedient I would leave it at that. She not dumb just not interested.
  
  Who said you were a bad dog owner. You are not. But never compare one dog with another she is herself and has her own personality.


• No he not dumb he just need more times to learn things my dog took five moths to learns sit but now he learns in Min's. Just get the dog use to be train like do rewards like treats to toys. If you cant teach him anything then yeah i would do the training class.


• It is not the dog, it is the owner. There is a saying, "a dog is only as smart as its owner".
  
  "I don't really see the point in her knowing how to sit and stay and stuff." This statement proves my point.


• Well you should have instilled what you wanted when she was young. Now she's use to frolicking around as she pleases. I would be alot more stricter if that fails dog training classes it is.


• You cannot teach a dog if you cannot respect her.
  
  Every dog should know basic manners. Their lack of gives little dogs a reputation of being horrible little monsters.


• Some dogs are just more stubborn than others. Some problems are due to bad breeding/bad genetics. Just be consistent and don't give up.


• take the time to teach her . Yorkie/pom mix are not dumb .

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: A good dog training book?

I have 4 different types of dogs. 3 are mixed breeds and 1 is a dachshund. The dachshund is trained already. The other 3 I need some suggestions. I have 2 outside that I need to be trained to guard the property and I have one that is inside to guard the inside of the house. If it helps I know that Furby is mixed with Great Pyrenees and we think Australian Shepherd, Bully is a mixed bull mastiff.
The inside guard dog is a mixed Collie.

Any suggestions anyone would have will be greatly appreciated. These suggestions will also be used during my volunteer time at the local pet rescue center. Thanks.

Dog Training Classes - Dog Training to Unleash Your Dog's Full Potential

Recommended Answer:
I have two pyrs and an Aussie. Pyrs don't need to be taught "how to guard". They need to understand what or who they guard. If they are livestock guardians, they are to live with the livestock. If they are property guardians, you walk them around the perimeter fenceline so they know the outer limits of their territory, and as they mature, they basically work it out to understand what they need to do.

Pyrs tend to guard by intimidation, so they bark a lot at night as they patrol. If you're in an area where this is a problem, you have to keep them close to the house and keep the yard well lighted to have any chance of less barking.

My Aussie is my inside guardian, and my pyrs are outside all night and much of the day. They are happiest when they have a job to do. They seem to know instinctually what to do. LIsten to their barks and learn what they are telling you.

You can also join a good Yahoo Pyr group to ask questions of those who know the breed.

I don't know of a good book, but others in the group do. But you don't need to train a pyr how to guard. And pyrs tend to train the other dogs in the pack how to guard. -!-

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

• My suggestions for dog books are anything by Patricia McConnell, especially The Other End of the Leash and For the Love of Dog. While not step by step training books, they are full of invaluable information for successful training. (she talks alot about her Great Pyreness).
  I have heard good things about Ian Dunbar's training books. I read his "How to Teach a New Dog Old Tricks". That is more of a step by step puppy training, but can be applied to older dogs. I didn't love it, but again, learned alot. He uses treat training, which I didn't care for, but that was just for me and the dog I was training.
  Don't Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor is a great training book. Again, not step by step but excellent. She is a proponent of clicker training. She also trains dolphins.
  
  I haven't read any books on teaching to guard. I have read books on teaching protection work such as apprehensions, etc. I am not sure what you mean by training to guard. If you had an understand of the basics of training, you could teach the dog to bark under certain cues. Other than that, you are getting into a territory where you need professional help, not something you can get out of a book.
  
  Some other great books are Bones Would Rain from the Sky by Susanne Clothier (loved it, has a bit about training) and anything by Stanley Coren.


• Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer guy, has several books and DVDs on dog training. His methods are fantastic. My in-laws have a boxer and they used his methods. I'm absolutely astounded at how well it worked. So my recommendation is to get anything from him (whether it be an ebook, hard copy book, or DVD).

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training question.?

I am moving into a house that is less than a half block away from a busy street. I have a border collie that whenever she's off the leash or gets out she darts away. I'm worried that she will get out and run off and get hit by car. Does anyone know how to train a dog to stay near and not chase things when off the leash?

Dog Training - The Right and Wrong Way

Recommended Answer:
Never let them off-leash. I have Bloodhounds that will never come back if they get loose. You need a high physical fenced yard.

Dog Training Leads And How To Start Dog Training Products Business?

• I hear ya, I know exactly what your talking about. Besides trying to always have your dog on a leash when outside, you will have to work on your basic obedience,(stay, come, etc.) the basics are the building blocks and if you dont have them your dog will never be reliable when you call him, or tell him to stay, or anything. Also, Border collies are just one of those breeds that have the urge to run and chase things. you cant blame him for doing that. Make sure you know what your getting into and what training challenges youn will face when choosing a breed.


• Yes, same here! My male puppy does the same, darts off across the street and where ever he wants! But he went to obediance classes and they said to get an invisable fence or, you can walk around with them in your lawn and show them the bounderies by putting like little flags and walk around with them on a short thin wire leash and when them go past it, pull them back and point where they went over the boundary and say "NO!" Good Luck! ;)))))


• Well, border collies are very hyper-active, so I don't really think you can keep one standing still for longer than 5 seconds. The best advice I can think of is to keep her on the leash during your walks. You can let her off the leash in a park or a place suitable for walking a dog, but try to keep her occupied with something, like a ball, for example. Play fetch with her or find her a dog she can play with. After the play and walk is over put her back on the leash, especially on a busy street. You can try using one of those dog whistles, or just consult a professional dog trainer. Also make sure your dog can't leave your back yard on her own. Build a fence, patch up all the holes if there are some. If not don't let her out of the house before you put her on a leash. I know it's kind of a drag keeping your dog on a leash all the time, especially if they're active like your dog is, but it's the best way to keep them safe and out of the harms way. Good luck!


• I would suggest that the dog never be let out off the leash.
  You could however look into getting a regular fence or an electric fence to contain her. The problem with an electric fence is that unless the dog is properly trained to stay in the fence and is fast they will get zapped on the way out and not want to go back in. An electric fence is cheaper than a regular fence but make sure you learn how to train her for it.


• Sounds like you need some training help... There are some really excellent dog obedience training courses out there that you can use. Be careful though - there are some pretty bad ones too. Here's one I recommend (a ton of people have had success with this one):
  http://dogobediencetraining123.com/course


• I'm waiting for some good answers...I have the same problem...


• Make sure you have a good fence around your property and dont let her off the leash in the street. Im not sure about where you live but it can often be illegal and if your dog causes a car accident you are liable for the damage. The best thing is to only let them off leash in parks (designated off leash ones) or open areas where they cant get hurt or cause damage. Our old family dog was eventually great by the age of about 5. The best thing is to begin in parks and open fields and train from there. I dont believe that at an early age they can really be trained that, they are too excited and inquisitive. When she is older perhaps she will be better. But start off training off leash in parks taking her for walks and getting her to walk beside you. Allow her to wander a bit away from you to check things out (trees etc, but not other dogs, even if you trust yours u cant trust others) and just keep walking, always keeping an eye on her though. You will find most dogs will see their owner is getting too far away and she will chase after you and keep up with you. It takes a lot of time and persistence.


• That breed has instincts that would cause it to run. I don't know if training could stop that instinct to dart, and it's not worth the risk. You might consider setting a an obstacle course in your yard for her. Border collies love to have that kind of a challenge. They were bred to herd, so as a pet they can get bored easily and they run fast.


• We regularly walk our puppy around the property line where he is allowed to go. Once he knew basic commands we let him off the leash in our yard. He stayed pretty well but we would have to stop him at times. He is pretty used to it now and stays where he is supposed to. He is never outside alone though.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training help please!!!?

I have a five year old jack russell terrier.. :) And im having a bit of trouble training him? We didnt train him well when he was little but he knows some basics like lie down, sit, shake, and speak. He always listens to my dad when he says go home, go to the garage, go to the patio... but he doesnt listen to anyone else. I think its because my dad is a little be more tough on the dog then we are? Like he can yell at him and not feel bad but if i yell at the dog i end up feeling sooo guilty... :( Also when i try to teach him with food, all he does is sit and stare at the food in my hand, and if he cant see the food then he doesnt listen. Im trying to make him stop barking and to come when called but he only listens when i have a treat and he knows it, and half the time when i have a treat thats the only thing he pays attention to.. How can i train him to listen?!

Dog Training Books - Why You Need One to Obedience Train Your Dog Correctly

Recommended Answer:
You do not need to yell and holler to successfully train a dog. In fact, since what you want to be is firm and unwavering, randomly screaming at the dog may simply make you appear unstable and erratic in your behavior. So, just be calm. Speak clearly and firmly. Hold yourself up straight and tall, but don't be stiff; your body should be totally relaxed. A true leader exudes confidence, he's not tense, nervous, a bully, etc. He's just cool, calm and collected -- and, most importantly, in control of the resources. Make it clear to the dog that he has to work for what he wants, because you, the leader, are in control of those resources. Start using the "Say Please Protocol," which is more commonly known as "Nothing in Life is Free:"
http://ahimsadogtraining.com/blog/say-pl…
http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm
Again, note the difference between being threatening and bully-like and forcing him to obey out of fear, and being confident and calm and giving him proper motivation to obey. If the dog shows any calming signals, then chances are you're being more like a bully:
http://www.canis.no/rugaas/onearticle.ph…

It sounds like he's quite dependent on food, but at the same time, he's clearly motivated by food, so it's helpful that you know what motivates him. So, here's what to do: have several short (five or ten minutes long), fun training sessions with him every day. Do not let him know that you have any treats on you! Have him leashed so that he can't ignore you and leave. Be patient, lighthearted. Make training enjoyable! Calmly give a command for a trick that he knows. If he doesn't obey, then just wait. And wait. And wait. And wait. If, for example, you told him "down," chances are that he'll eventually lay down out of sheer boredom while he's ignoring you. That's when you magically produce a handful of super-delicious treats (chicken, hot dog, cheese, steak, liver, etc.) and reward him handsomely. Then, have him do something else -- with your hands empty again, no treats visible. Again, just wait. He's got nowhere to go, so he's bound to eventually obey. When he does, reward him. He'll soon figure out that even though he doesn't see any treats, he should obey anyway because you actually do have rewards, and so he'll respond a lot faster to get that reward. When he's got the hang of it, start varying the rewards. Sometimes give him one, sometimes four, sometimes just praise, sometimes play with him. You want to be unpredictable so that he's always willing to perform on the chance that he'll get the really good reward. You want to be like a slot machine or lottery ticket -- most of the time the reward is lacking, but he stills "plays" because of the chance of getting the jackpot. And, because he's leashed to you, he'll also be learning that he can't just ignore you. Combine these training sessions with making him work for everything he wants (going outside, getting dinner, going for a walk, etc.) and he should certainly be more responsive.

As for the specific problem happening now, what's he barking at? That makes a difference in your response. If he's barking at something, then teach him to associate that thing with good things so that he doesn't feel compelled to bark at it:
http://www.mastiffonlinecommunity.net/vi…

If he's barking at people outside, then get up and block him from the window. Don't bother talking, just stand in front of the window with your arms about a foot or so from your body (palms facing the dog). If he tries to go around you, then move with him. Stay there until he's quiet for a couple seconds, then give him back his view. If he starts barking again, then repeat. With patience and consistency, he'll learn that the only way to keep his view is to be quiet and that barking results in the loss of what he wants.

If he's barking because he wants something, then ignore him. Never give him what he wants while he's misbehaving.

If he's barking just to hear himself bark, then give him something more constructive to do. A stuffed Kong, a Buster-Cube, a Nylabone, another sort of puzzle toy, etc. Not only will such an object reward him for being quiet and focused, but it will help to mentally stimulate him.

As for teaching him to come:
http://www.dogtrainingbasics.com/come.ht…
http://www.mastiffonlinecommunity.net/vi…

Good luck! Remember, be firm, patient, consistent, benevolent, confident and in control of the resources.

Some Tips To Help You Through All Types Of Dog Training

• That dog doesn't need to know more. he is fine the way he is. Some dogs just cant learn more or don't want to.
  
  The reason he takes to your dad and listens to him is because he thinks of your dad as the top dog or the alpha. That is usually how it is to the dogs, they listen to the most dominant person they can find.


• If you want him to stop doing something, a good old spritz with a spray bottle always works. We had a similar problem with my dog; he would listen to my boyfriend but no one else, but if one of us grabs the spray bottle he always listens.
  As for your other problem, I have no idea. I taught my dog to come early on so it isn't really a problem. Try calling a trainer or going to a training website.


• Jack Russel's are know for there stubbornness. Its either there way or no way. Call in a expert trainer quick if he gets too old it will be even harder to train him. Good luck.


• Nobody should have to yell at a dog at all to get it to do something. To teach him to stop barking, when he is barking, take your treat and put your hand down to him as if you're going to give him the treat. In order to eat the treat, he has to stop barking, so you'll get that split second of silence. Click the silence and reward with the treat. (Sorry, I clicker train, you can say "Quiet" or whatever word you want and then reward. For training other things, lure him with the reward and get what you want that way. Eventually he will do it before you get the treat out. With a five year old dog, it will take patience and persistence. But, believe me, dogs view people who supply them with food as their god. After all, everyone goes on about the pack leader supplying the food, and that's what you're doing. Do a google on clicker training, too. It's a fabulous way to train a dog.
  
  ETA:- From the site Maxi gave......"Some dogs see their ability to demand attention as confirmation that they are the "alpha", then become difficult to handle when told to "sit" or "down" or some other demand is placed on them."
  
  This is complete and utter rubbish. My dogs "demand" attention all the time......yet they will down, sit, stay, jump, twizzle, you name it, whenever I ask. It's called training.
  
  ETA:- Moof......you said...."Then, have him do something else -- with your hands empty again, no treats visible. Again, just wait. He's got nowhere to go, so he's bound to eventually obey." Really? So you ask him to Sit, and he lies down and goes to sleep. What do you do then? It sounds to me as if you have NILIF and clicker training mixed up. I would stick to clicker training myself. :-))


• HI =)
  
  Start with your tone of voice. Women/Girls have the easiest time with what I call the "Good Dog" tone of voice - the one that is most often high pitched, soft, sweet, and generally in a falsetto.
  
  Men have the easiest time with the "Bad Dog" tone - the one that is deep (but doesn't have to be!), stern, and sometimes gravelly. Men also have the easiest time with the "Command" tone - the one that is neither good nor bad, but has a firm (usually lower) tone.
  
  Remember, commands must be firm, short, and to the point, with the tone going down at the end, never letting the word drag on.Teach other words the same way. Simple one word commands work best. Say the dog's name (to get his attention - remember that communication link!), follow with a command, and then SHOW him what you want. PRAISE IMMEDIATELY when the action is completed - even if you MADE him do it! Eventually you dog will learn to respond to the command without needing to be shown - but you should never forget to praise!
  
  I find a gravelly, growly "EGH!" (hard to spell a sound but it's like you are vocalizing while pushing air out of your lungs) can be used to halt activity. Or try "Angh, Angh!" - our sound for no, without saying the word - only say it with a growl, and sharply.


• To get him to stop barking, DON'T yell at him. The louder your voice,the more the dog will think you're barking too,and he'll get excited&keep barking. Once he starts barking, simply and firmly, not yelling, say "Quiet." or "Enough.". Once he stops barking and listens to you, have him sit&give him the treat&a pat. That way,He will associate the word with being quiet&getting love& a treat. Also, remember he might not get it the first time,so keep trying. it will eventually pay off,and JRT's are very smart,so he should learn quickly. :) hope this helps!!


• Learn from your dad.............
  
  Your guilt, your treats just 'tells' te dog that you are 'weak' as it gives off weak energy to your dog, your dads energy is strong, your dog knows exactly where it is in the pack and knows he is the pack leader, feel confortable and confident that your dad as leader will look after him, the dog respects him, so listens...............you on the other hand he thinks as below in the pack order...........read this, stop feeling guilty and stop feeding him treats to make him do things and learn how to become a better leader for your dog so he feel safe and secure with you http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm


• Your Dad has shown you how to train a dog.
  It's not being mean. The natural state of a dog is to have a leader that they listen because the life of the pack depends on it. The pack will even kill a dog that is endangering the pack.
  So, using a strong firm voice and letting that dog know that you mean business is a NORMAL part of a dog's way of thinking. It's not mean- having a dog come when it is called can save their life. It is mean to raise a dog that has not been provided with clear direction.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: What is a reasonable time to get your dog trained in basic commands?

All dogs need training, but how long is too long when taking the time to train your dog? Does this include or not include proofing? If a dog gets trained and proofed in the end, is the person a good trainer regardless of how long it took to get there? I am talking about basic obedience commands like: sit, lay, stay, walking nicely on a leash, heel, leave/take it, come.

Also, how do you feel about the "watch me" command?

How to Explore the Numerous Advantages of Online Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
The short answer is..... as long as it takes. 'Watch me' is a great one to teach. Ideally you should incorporate training in to play sessions, much more fun for both of you. Lots of short session all day. Check out http://doglifetraining.com that site has great advice on basic lifestyle skills and how to teach them, helped me put lots of things in perspective.

Dog Training Using Electronic Collars

• It truly depends on the dog, and how consistent you are with training. Whether it takes a short or a long time to train a dog, you have to do what you have to do to make that dog well trained. I have a 11 week old Doberman puppy and she already knows every command, plus more. It only took me a few times to show her what I wanted her to do, and she learned instantly. Not all dogs catch on fast, but that doesn't make them dumb or that they got bad training.
  
  Dogs learn at different rates, and you just have to train all the time with love and affection. If you don't give up, neither will the dog and in time the dog will be what you put into it, it will be great for the both of you.
  
  The watch me command is a good one to teach, I use that one too.


• Basic Commands 2+weeks depending on how consistent you are. To completly trust the dog in all comands in all types of distractions without a leash it could take 2 to 3 months depending on you and your dog


• For "ON-leash" only...10-12 days. Off-leash....couple of months. As far as "watch me".....it depends what my final purpose with the dog is.


• When I trained my girl, i just did really quick training sessions (10 mins maximum) about four times a day. then we would play games :)


• as soon as you get home, you start training.


• u should start when you get the dog and you should only do it for about 20 or 30 min the dog will get bored


• My puppy begins training the day I bring her home. I dont waste time in gymnasiums, or in church basements or in those classes that demand your puppy sit for 30 seconds when its 8 weeks, and then 1 minute when its nine weeks (just an illustrative anology - I dont know what they all do these days).
  
  Example: When I got my 8 week old dobe, I took her canoeing at 9 weeks (one week later). That day, she had to down stay in the canoe for about 30 minutes, not because I wanted to show off, or earn some ribbon, but because it was important and necessary (I didnt want to be man overboard and die). I needed her to lie down so that I could paddle. So she did.
  
  Next day, we did it again - she was now pretty comfortable, so we went for 1 hour. During that time, she was allowed to get up to stretch- then lie down again. Again, it was important to me, so she did it. Yes, I had her on lead, and I communicated to her what I needed her to do.
  
  When we reached camp - it was time to relax. She was allowed to play and be a dog.
  
  So, this is it. My dogs have two disciplines - serious and not serious. When I paddle - its serious. When we reach camp, its not (well, not forever, but this is supposed to be a short story)
  
  So how long does it take to train a dog - a lifetime. You never stop training your dog because life is not static (unless you live in a bubble). Proofing - when are you every really sure - will your dog recall if it scents a deer in the bush - mine didn`t this morning (that 9 week old puppy is now 3 years). So, they went back on lead, and whenever my dogs are leashed they must heel (not with their head contorted around me because I need to prove I can dominate them, heel means walk at my left side without pulling or interfering with me so that I don`t trip and fall face first into the pavement but also, allow them to see where they are going since I trust my dogs to alert me to danger too)
  
  On watch me - no I dont `command` they stare at me (why). The work is integrated into my daily life and theirs, I dont ask them to jump just for the sake of jumping, or watch me just for the sake of watching. If we are in the field and need to climb a fence, we climb it together. Its a bond of mutual respect and trust - and its simple.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training help for new dog owner?

i just got a brand new, 9 weeks old chocolate lab puppy. i need some advise and tips on when i should start training him and how. any previous experience would also help.

Teaching Your Dogs The Basics Of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
An obedience class is better than no training at all. You will have better results if you Google dog training clubs for your area. These folks will be happy to show you the way. It's a bit of effort, but a well trained dog is as fine a companion as you could ask for.

Dog Training Using Electronic Collars

• You can start training him now. Puppies are like little sponges, willing to learn whatever you want to teach them. Remember, puppies have very very short attention spans, so keep whatever your trying to teach him very short and very fun. Start teaching him his name immediately.
  
  Naturally, you will start housebreaking now. Get a crate thats big enough for him to stand, turn around and lay down. Any bigger, then he will learn to elminate in his crate. You can also buy a regular size crate for an adult sized lab and make it small with cardboard.
  
  Start taking him outside to elminate right away. Of course, keep in mind that puppies bladders are not mature enough to hold pee or poop for any length of time, so in order for him not to have accidents you have to take him out very often. Puppies are peeing / pooping machines. You will not belive the amount of liquid that come out of these little creatures.
  
  If he makes a mistake in the house, you can only blame yourself for not watching him closely enough or not getting him out often enough. If he drinks water, take him out 10 minutes later. When he eats, figure you need to take him out a 1/2 hour later. He should not have free reign in the home, unless you can give him undivided attention to make sure he doesn't get into trouble.
  
  What I found real helpful was I borrowed a friends XPen and kept the pup in the kitchen in the pen. I put paper down on one side and water on the other, this way, the pup wasn't in the crate the whole time, could move around and was in "family" area of our home.
  
  Have fun, keep learning short & positive. Oh yeah and socilize, socialize, oh and did I say socialize. At this age, he should be meeting lots of nice people. Keep him away from strange dogs. If there are other dogs in the home, I would only allow them to interact while supervised, otherwise, the pup should be in the pen or crate.
  
  Start looking for a good obedience class, one that offers a puppy class would be helpful. Visit the AKC website to find a local obedience training club http://www.akc.org
  
  Lastly, remember that puppies have sharp little needle like teeth, your pup will need to chew chew chew. He will also loose his baby teeth and get adult teeth, like human children do.


• Congratulations on the new addition!
  
  The first thing you should do is find a puppy class, so you'll have a chance to socialize and train your dog starting immediately. Check out www.apdt.com or www.ccpdt.org for a trainer near you.
  
  Next, get Dr. Ian Dunbar's puppy books (my favorite is "how to teach a new dog old tricks.) He has some great puppy stuff on www.dogstardaily.com, including a free download of one of his puppy books.
  
  If you have any immediate concerns, such as house training, play biting or socialization, there are tons of articles on dog behavior on www.aspcabehavior.org:
  http://aspcabehavior.org/search.aspx?pet…
  
  And lastly, take lots of pictures! They all grow up so fast, and I always find myself wishing I had more puppy pictures of my dogs! :) Enjoy your new puppy!


• Hi,
  
  Congrats for having a new member to your family. It's important to help your new pet acclimate to your home by being prepared and being patient. It may take anywhere from a few days to two months for you and your new dog to adjust to each other. Here's more info:
  
  http://lnk.nu/dogtime.com/wg6.html


• lol you make him sound like a car! Sign him up for obedience classes! Good Luck! <3

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training certification?

does anyone know where i can get information on getting my dog training certification, in(or near) Cleveland, Ohio?

The Significance of Dog Training Videos

Recommended Answer:
Dog Fancy magazine usually has a list of training schools, etc. in the back with the ads.

Dog Behavior Training - Dog Training to Correct Behavior Problems

Read More...

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!

Secrets of Dog Training Professionals - Why Use Food?

Recommended Answer:
If you don't have the best answer until now, why don't´ you try on http://www.google.com ?good luck.. . .

Using a Dog Training Harness to Train Your Dog

• The school looks good! But be sure to look at other schools for comparison!
  
  Good luck! ;)


• I have not gone to that school neither has my dog gone to school. Trained him myself at home.


• I went to that school, Now, I can roll over, play dead, fetch the newspaper& slippers,and sound the alarm in the event of intruders! Woof,woof !

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: What does the Bark Busters dog training company charge to train your dog?

Hi. I was wondering if anyone knew how much it would cost for a dog trainer from Bark Busters to train my dog. My dog jumps up, barks when the doorbell rings, does not come when called, etc.
If you could give me an estimate of how much it costs to use Bark Busters, that'd be great! Thanks!

Top Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
I wouldn't recommend Bark Busters unless you plan on doing a lot of the work. They will not come to your dog and train them for you. They will come to your house, tell you a proper plan of action... show you what to do and then go on their merry way. You have to spend most of the time training them yourself. This isn't necessarily a bad thing--but does require that you be the one to implement the procedures.

We paid $695 for a lifetime guarantee. Then $195 for an additional dog. I would not recommend them personally--I would have rather taken them to puppy training classes and spent the money that way.

Shock Collar Dog Training the Quick and Easy Way

• When I got my dog 31/2 years ago, and I hired a trainer before bringing the puppy home. I found a number of people listed in the phone book. I did a phone interview and Bark Busters was one of them. Most charged $50.00 per hour visit. Bark Buster was different. They had a plan, that cost about $500.00 but I may be wrong on the price. This covers everything.
  
  I did not go with Bark Buster for two reasons: First I had a good puppy that my goal was to help her grow up. Second: After interviewing different people, I found other trainers who were more knowledgeable.


• the best thing to do is call "Bark Busters" and ask them what they charge.... I'm pretty sure they'll tell you.


• I actually had a great experience with Barkbusters. They charge a flat fee of $495 to teach YOU how to train your dog. They evaluate, come up with a plan of action, teach you how to go about it, then give you homework. The whole idea here is that the Barkbusters guy isn't going to be around forever. We all need to know how to train our own dogs.
  They also give a lifetime guarantee once the training is over. If the same problems crop up again, or if new ones surface, they will come back at no charge to teach you some more.
  My particular trainer was very knowledgeable about the breed I was having difficulty with. We asked him many questions and found out these guys go through 224 hours of training themselves before they are allowed to train. I was very happy with the results and would recommend them to any dog with issues.
  The training lasted more than three months, and it took as many visits as we needed.
  
  Just to give you an idea of my training needs, my girl was child aggressive and had fear-bit two people. She is now a very obedient and well-trained dog, and we continue to train her because we know how to handle her.
  
  They also gave us a discount because our dog was a shelter rescue.
  
  Edit: The whole idea behind the Barkbusters principle is the dog belongs to you, not the trainer. You can send your dog out to be trained, but that is the lazy way out, and if you don't know how to continue the training, it will surely fail and you will be right back where you started. Training is not a one-time thing. It is something that happens every day of your dog's life. You need to be able to commit to doing that for your dog. Dog ownership is a priveledge and it involves work.
  Anyone who counsels you otherwise is incorrect and probably does not have a well-trained dog.


• I'm sure if you ring them they will tell you all you want to know!
  Remember, having someone else train your dog is all good and well, but it is up to YOU to reinforce all the things that you BOTH get taught.

Read More...