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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Answer:
sounds like a job for the Dog Whisperer

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

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


• Stay away from the dog!!


• kick em fo sho


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training?

i have a toy poodle, not a toy just shes small, and shes 3 1/2. she keeps peeing in the house. i have tried everything any tips?

Dog Training Programs - How Do You Decide?

Recommended Answer:
Crate??

7 Top Dog Training Tips

• Dog training is a great idea! Enroll in a local obedience class, and they can help you with many issues, including potty training.


• You could enroll her in a dog class. Try petsmart (if you decide to enroll)
  But when she goes in the house scold her say "no" and take her outside.
  Once she goes outside praise her or give her a treat.
  I think once you do this for a while she will begin to realize that going to the bathroom outside is rewarding.
  Hope this helps!


• yes,it is difficult to start ,i have the same experience with you ,but at last i find a gorgeous book that help me to train my labs ,and i no longer need to send them to the clubs,.
  
  You'll get everything you need to know about puppy and dog training in some quick, no-nonsense, get-to-the-point-fast lessons.
  
  that is http://dogstraining.info , i recommend it for you,
  hope you like!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: My dog sometimes bite people?

My dog is a 1 year old Schnoodle named Chip and he is the sweetest dog he literally hugs me and hes never bit any one in our house but my mos friend came and he bit her son and he started bleeding i think he was scared that he was hurting someone because he was pushing other kids in a hammock also he bit the mailman he goes insane when he comes my other dog also hates the mailman also he has bit my fiend. We have teach him tricks and obeisance he does the stuff but when he thinks someone is in trouble and he doesnt no the person who is "hurting/scaring" and he goes insane unless we come over and yell at him. Hes a nice dog how do we stop biting he went to dog training school.

Help With Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
You need to keep him leashed around people. You needs to go to a advanced obedience class or consult a dog behaviorist or advanced certified trainer. He is not a well balanced dog and he is fear biting. Any bite can result in his euthanization.

Tested Dog Training Tips - The Way to Hone a Dog's Behavior

• Train him how to handle stressful situations like meeting someone new. Dogs get excited and have nothing to use except their mouths. We have hands, they have their mouth. Additionally, know what he doesn't like. Perhaps your mothers friends son pulled his tail or put his hand in his mouth. Dogs are fun to play with and really super cool, but they don't like a hand down their throat any more than you do.


• Ask your dog trainer for advice and change his name from Chip to something like 'lick'. He might just get the message.


• Simply lightly tap him when he does and scold him.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Is this a good argument to give to my mother to get another dog?

Why A 13 year old should be able to get a new dog.

This is a report to my mother about how I should Be able to get another dog.
The reasons for this report is because I was told by my english teacher, in all the years that I have gone to school, that if I want to get a point across, I should do my research, and make a report/ presentation. So, I will.Reason number one::

Sebastian is lonely. You want to know why Sebastian is constantly chewing up your underwear and socks, he is bored, lonely. So he is trying to amuse himself. If there was another dog, there would be another toy, another friend for him to distract himself with. Because, as you know were are gone for an average of… oh about 40 out of 90 daylight hours on a given 5 day week. So that's 40 hours of pure lonely ness and boredom. Now, imagine you can't go to the bathroom, or eat, and are totally bored, with only 1 small book, in a big empty house for 40 hours, what would you do, be bored? Wish you had a friend? Exactly.

Reason number two:

Yes, We do have a dog, whom we love dearly. And as you know, he is 7 years old. That is old, for him. And when we got him I was about 7 or 8. So, obviously, I was a bit novice when it came to dog training, all I thought I had to do was give it a treat and it would know what he or she was supposed to do. But, now, as a responsible 13 year old girl (might I point out that girl mature faster than boys) I now know that I must feed it, walk it, train it and love it. I know you are probably thinking ‘shouldn't you be happy with Sebastian' and I am. But, also, I never really got the chance to ‘own the dog' for I was little and thought, as previously stated, that giving him a treat and he would know everything.
And I want the chance to actually be able to say I taught him everything he knows.

Reason number three:
Facts state that in shelters approximately 3-4 million dogs and cats each year get put to sleep. So, if we adopt, we will be helping a dog, and saving his or her life. We don't even have to adopt, we could foster. Foster (although you already know) means to: Care/ Take care of a dog, cat, human, etc. until he or she is ready for adoption. So, if we do that for about a month or two, we would save lives, and no permanent dog, but it also proves I'm responsible enough for a dog of my own!

Reason number four:
I know I have been known to not be the most responsible owner in the past. But, as you have seen, I have matured a lot. I have also become slightly neurotic about having a clean room, thus proving I am becoming more and more responsible. I am making myself a chore list of things to do to Sebastian and around the house. These things include:::

Cleaning up dog doo
Brushing
Walks
Sweeping and
Dishes.
I also will inform Alex to tell me everyday to do my chores. I will put the list on my bed (which drives me crazy!) to remind me everyday, when I get home from school. Now, I will not guarantee
that everyday when you walk in the door the house will shine. But, Bass will be brushed, The dishes will be gone, and the floors will be mildly clean!

Reason five:
As you know, I have always do research. So I have recognized the best breeds for us. But, we also could ,as previously stated, we could just adopt at the shelter. Anyway, the best breeds for us would be
-Yorkshire terriers
Reason: Low shed thus hypoallergenic.
Biggest problems are barking and potty, and I can train them out of that.
Good with kids and other dogs.

-Maltese
; Common, easy to find, friendly, hypoallergenic which means minimum shedding. Child friendly and dog friendly. Easy to train, and few health problems

-Poodles
; Friendly, hypoallergenic, comes in different sizes, Toy, Mini and standard, common. Smart. Calm when need be, hyper when outside. Can do well with little or much exercise, doesn't show much domination.

-Mini schnauzer
(see poodle)

German shepherd
Reasons
Family dog, low shed rate. Friendly, tolerant and nice.

Collie
You rememberSo five conclusive paragraphs with details and reasons that are very good and well. So, if we would be able to adopt a dog, much less foster, that would be very wonderful and I love you so much mommy.

Links:

http://www.utahdobes.org/ten.htm
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/articles/sec…
http://www.guideofdogs.com/html/why_a_do…
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm

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

Recommended Answer:
You have the right idea. And you sound mature enough to be able to handle another dog. A word of advice though. Re-write the report so that it sounds less condescending and a little more respectful. This will earn you more points with your mother, rather than sounding like you are smarting off.

Oh and include in the report that just because you have a new dog, Sebastian will not be ignored.

Hope you get it.

Dog Training - How to Train Your Dog Effectively

• good argument, but I have a GSD, and she sheds a lot. there are constant fur ball blowing across the hardwood floors. they also blow their coat 2x a year. I just really wanted to point that out.


• I think if you dog is left alone for that long and has become destructive through boredem, then I don't think it would be fair to allow another dog to go through this too. Your dog is getting on now, let him spend his last few years in peace and without having to share the attention with another dog. Make the most of your time with your beloved dog rather than thinking about getting another one.
  x


• Hi, I suggest you don't have a chat with your Mum about buying a dog, don't get me wrong its a great argument but as soon as you get a dog yes its great but it won't be as great as it will be in a few months, and they are allot of money. And also christmas is coming up and your mum will know what you want but maybe she wants a break?? She knows you want one....I suggest you ask for a Pleo for christmas...
  It is NOT a toy its a gadget so not only will you be cool but its fun and just like a dog.
  It has
  -sensors all over his body so you can pet him
  - a USB port
  - light sensors so he detects light
  -movement sensors
  -futre downloads
  - All pleos have different personalitys
  great for pet allergies cheaper than a dog and a loveable pet for the family and when he is tired he falls asleep in your arms
  
  Watch this video of him:
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wZ5NlvKo…
  
  Also he is $249.99 on amazon or £199.99 Uk
  Good luck


• i don't think a girl your age should be getting another dog at all.
  
  why?
  
  because;
  1. you can't afford it yourself therefore can't be responsible for that aspect of it's life; your parents will have to pay for everything.
  
  2. you can't drive and therefore won't be able to spend nearly as much time with it or bond with it, or take it anywhere to socialize with new people, places, and other animals.
  
  3. you will soon be obsessed with boys and friends and won't want to be home all the time to take care of a puppy or dog.
  
  4. you're entering the most important part of your life; highschool, and having a dog will most likely take away from the grades.
  
  5. you can't even train/spend time with the dog you have now, if you're gone so much, you shouldn't own one dog, let alone two. that's just common sense.
  
  wait till you're 16 or 17 then see where you're at, if you can afford one, and if you really want one. they are a lot of work and you have to negotiate a lot of your life for a puppy or dog.


• Nope, sorry - no means no.
  
  Breakdown of your reasons (mom may use them) -
  
  Reason One:
  If the dog is bored, then YOU play with it or give it something to do. There is no guarantee that dog number two won't be JUST as bored as the first dog. A bored dog needs a JOB and EXERCISE - not necessarily a companion.
  
  Same for when the dog is home alone - you would more than likely have TWO bored dogs, not just one, and that's double the destruction. Crate the dog, no more destruction. Leave it with a puzzle toy (that is SAFE for when you are gone ) and no more boredom.
  
  Reason Two:
  One person in the family does not "own" the dog. The dog belongs to the family. When you begin to refer to the dog as "yours", "mine", etc then the dog will get confused and there CAN be a rift created in the pack. As for training, EVERYONE must be involved. Period.
  
  What is wrong with working with your CURRENT dog?
  
  Reason Three:
  Solid, i admit.
  
  Reason Four:
  You shouldn't have to be reminded to do chores. And why should mom count on it being done when you get the dog, if you can't do it now? Prove to her you'll do it, then ask again when you've been successful.
  
  Reason Five:
  You did NOT do enough research. No such thing as Hypoallergenic - any person can have a reaction to any breed of dog. Period. Small breeds (Yorkie, Maltese) are NOT necessarily good with kids - too fragile and easy to injure, also can be very snappy. A Schnauzer is NOT the same as a Poodle. GSD is not "low shedding" - it is MAJOR shedding year round and seasonal VERY HEAVY. Also harder to train, can be dominant, and NOT best for a young handler that may not be able to PHYSICALLY control the animal.


• I got my 13 year old another dog,I also got the promises and the notes etc .This lasted 2 weeks.Now I walk,feed,groom and clean up any mess.The novelty wears off very quickly for kids and it's us parents who are left to take care of the dog.


• At your age you are probaly not considering all the different challenges that come with adding another dog to the family. First of all, your current dog will most likelyn NOT want the extra company because of his old age. He will probaly be barking and growling at the puppy because puppies always want to play and will annoy the heck out of him if he's trying to sleep. Trust me on that one.
  Another aspect that you have to consider is all the differeent costs! Yes, the initial cost of the dog may not be really expensive especially if you adopt him, but the vet bills will get CRAZY! Add in all the nessercary things like a crate, bowls, leash, collar, food every week ect .. it will add up.
  Lastly, as you state you are rarely home, and that is just not fair to the puppy! Puppies need CONSTANT attention if you want them to grow up well trained and happy.
  
  Puppies are not always fun and games. They bark throughout the night and will pee and poo everywhere (inclusing on themselves!) and you will be the one cleaning it up ... not fun. They bite hard and will often destroy valuable things (mine chewed up my ipod!)
  
  I honestly do not think you are suited for another dog.


• Very nice report. However, I do have a couple of things
  #1. Why don't you work on training Bass. 7 is not too old.
  #2. Why don't you start doing those chores without someone reminding you or making a list for you. If you need a list, make one yourself. When your mom sees first hand how responsible you are and the extra time you are spending with your current dog, and the new things he is learning, She may be more open to any additions.
  Since you admit you have not been the most responsible owner in the past you can SHOW her how you have changed with your new devotion to your current dog Bass. Prove it to her.
  #3. If you bring a new dog in, it is most likely that the the old dog will show the new one the ropes and you will have two dogs chewing underwear & socks. So you should train Sebastion to not do those thing before you bring in a new dog. Or,the easiest way is to keep those items out of his reach.
  #4. You need to do some more research on the breeds. German shepherds are horrible shedders, They need tons of training and exercise, they can be great family pets (with the right training) but as a whole are not friendly with strangers. In fact the standard says they should be aloof with strangers.
  
  I do think two dogs in a home where everyone is gone most of the day is sometimes a good idea, but you need to work on the one you have first. Then get another one.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Civilian jobs for military dog handler in Texas?

I want to know if there are any serious jobs (not petsmart or it's competetors) that involve dog training outside of the military. I have 5 years of experience including 2 combat tours in Iraq. Does anyone know of a company that trains dogs for either security/law enforement or humanitarian purposes?

Dog Training Man's Best Friend

Recommended Answer:
Law enforcement and corrections are always begging for people like you. It is also a para-military environment that you will understand much better than a civilian entering the same field. Otherwise, private security doesn't pay jack unless you guard a nuke plant which is also para-military. Most private security firms will use you then lose you. Airport security pays well and needs dog handlers, but you will be working around some of the most incompetent people in the whole world. You probably already know that.

A Working Dog - Training

Read More...

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

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

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

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

Any input is appreciated on what we should do.

Thanks

The Worth of Dog Training

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

Dog Training - 4 Quick Steps to Good Doggie Manners

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog trainer???

i am fourteen and i started training dogs when i was 12, i know i dont have much experience but i am really good at it. i think most people dont trust me to help them train their dogs because im still kinda young, i need a way to show off my dog training skills but i dont know how. im gunna do a little show with my dog at a park this summer, but if anyone else has any ideas plz help me.

Dog Training - Advantages of Clicker Training

Recommended Answer:
Hi, Tyler. I think it is awesome a young person likes animals enough to do what you do:P Both our boys, a Rott & a Husky/Jack Russell Terrier mix, have been to a Group Basic Obedience Class and Agility and it was great for them for socializing and skills and fun for me too!

We volunteer with an Animal Rescue Group by helping at events and occasionally fostering. I dont know if they will help or not, but here are some ideas. Hold an event at a local park or large grassy public area and :

1. if the park will allow it, set up a little mini training or agility course. have your dog, or a dog you trained,go thru it. it could be something as simple as putting up circles made of cones and going from cone to cone to demonstrate dif commands. If the park will let you set up some things and you have done Agility, set up a small course. You can use scrap lumber to make a "mountain" (thats what our trainer calls it, the thing that goes looks like an upside down "v"), some cones to "weave" thru if you dont have weave poles,etc.

2. You might invite people to bring their dogs and have a informal dog show. Give whacky prizes like 'Most whiskers', 'americas next top model', etc. Make sure to have enough ribbons that all dogs get a prize. You can make up their titles as you see them.

3. And/or urge people to bring their dogs in costumes and give costume prizes as well.

4. Once you get started ask someone from the crowd that you need a dog that has had little or minimal training. Work w/ it just a little in front of the crowd on a basic like "heel" or "sit". Then get out your dog / a trained dog and do a run thru of basics (I would do "heel", "sit", "auto sit" (automatically sitting when you stop as you are walking/heeling), etc. Show people that with the right training and time,ANY dog can have basic manners.

5. Make pamphlets with:
* your info on them.

*Also, put facts on there like how your pet can go more places with you if he/she is trained. You might mention the Canine Good Citizen Test. (you can look all the info up about it on the web). You train your dog and then go to a state test site. If your dog passes, it gets the "Canine Good Citizen Test" award. Lots of hotels will then allow your pet to stay in your room with you if your dog has this. Emphasize these benefits of having a trained dog.

*List basic commands that are "good dog manners" like being told to "stay",etc.

*Emphasize how a group class can not only help the dog / owner learn commands but can help a dog w/ socialization and increase the human / dog bond.

*List what commands your dog knows and briefly describe your teaching methods. Mention positive re-enforcement like praise & treats as opposed to hitting a dog.

Just use your imagination. Also, make sure to get the word out ahead of time. Make and post fliers, stuff mailboxes, put an ad in the paper,etc. I know our local group holds "AdoptAThons" all the time. If your shelter or a local group does that, ask them if you can demonstrate some things at one of their events.

GOOD LUCK
Brandi

Abused Dog Training - How to Train an Abused Dog

• you might want to work or intern with an established trainer? (look online in your area and ask if anyone needs assistance - donate your time and services). That way by the time you are out of high school, you will be well establishlished and have lots of what everyone will consider to be 'real experience' - and will happily take their dogs to you.
  
  Good Luck !


• You could volunteer to help train dogs at your local animal shelter. This will give you a lot of experience with all kinds of breeds and breed mixes. You can maybe ask if you can hold little seminars on dog training for potential adopters after you have proven yourself to the shelter staff.


• I used to do most of my training either in the park or on the street. The neighbors noticed how my unruly canines turned into well-behaved companions, so they were willing to let me train their dogs as well. The more dogs I trained, the more word got around.
  
  I also competed in obedience trials, so I had ribbons to prove my dogs were well-trained.
  
  It's also a good idea to attend obedience classes with your dogs, and to read, attend seminars and learn as much as you can about the subject so that you can speak with knowledge and confidence.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training........?

I was wondering what kind of stuff at home that I can use for dog agility training without buying those expensive things for real training....We have a large area in our house that I can train my dog...

What kind of stuff commonly found at home...Example chairs...etc..Thanks again

Understanding Dog Training Schools

Recommended Answer:
I use a hula hoop for a jump plus built an A frame. I also use a curtain rod in a doorway for a jump. Large boxes from stores make tunnels..

Choosing The Best Dog Training Treats

• When we were little, me and my sister used turn the living room into an obstacle course for our dogs. We used pillows stacked up to climb on and jump over and sheets to make tunnels, using the sofas to attach sheets to and as extra high jumps. I guess you could do the same thing for your dog.
  
  Just make sure that if you are making him jump over anything he won't hurt himself if he doesn't make it, i.e. if he catches his back legs the jump needs to fall without hurting him if it hits him. Also don't stack up things that will make a noise if he knocks them over as it may scare him and put him off jumping all together.
  
  Having said that, I bought a tunnel for my Yorkie that only cost 12 pounds and I'm sure you can find other things that are equally as cheap! Although just practising jumps, etc, is going to help him improve in agility, I don't think it will recreate the exact feel, so investing in the proper equipment may be worth it if you are taking/ plan to take agility classes. However, if you're just doing it for fun at home then stack up those pillows!
  
  Hope that helps!


• Your other answers are on the right track in giving you ideas of things to use to make agility obstacles, but I just wanted to say that just because you are not going to be using expensive equipment does not mean that you will not be doing "real training". Your dog will not know the difference between genuine agility course equipment and what you come up with at home. Any training you do is real training.


• Here are some plans you can buy for $10 on Ebay that will tell you what you need, and how you can build things yourself pretty inexpensively.
  
  http://cgi.ebay.com/Dog-Agility-Plans-DI…
  
  http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vie…
  
  I bought the plans in the second link, and while I haven't had a chance to build any of them yet, found the plans to be pretty thorough.


• Place a long board between 2 chairs.
  
  I know you don't want to spend money but you can purchase a tunnel at a kids store. They aren't as heavy as the ones actually used in agility but they work.
  
  Also, you can place sticks in the ground to make weave poles.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog Training Questions?

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

Hunting Dog Training Equipment

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

A Working Dog - Training

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


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


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


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


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: What would constitute as dominant dog training.?

This sounds very stupid but I want a Doberman but when ever a website talk about being alpha they really aren't clear and I want a direct answer like step by step because they say be alpha and how to but not specifically. I want to know if one is right for me but no one is clear
Please no rude comments I just want specifics because like 5 training books arn't even clear.

Get the Most From Your Dog With These 5 Dog Training Tips

Recommended Answer:
There are lots of small steps to showing your do who is the alpha. I'll just give you the ones I can think of off the top of my head:
-Don't let your dog eat before you do.
-Don't let the dog on the furniture, including in your bed.
-Use the alpha roll often; when the dog exhibits any behavior that isn't acceptable to you, roll him over and pin him with a hand to the chest. Keep him there until he whimpers or licks your hand. This is a VERY important part of showing your dog who's in charge.
-Don't play tug of war, especially with anything that you won't want your dog to chew in the first place, like a towel or sock. Once an object becomes a toy, its really hard to go back.
Its good that you're doing research into your breed's needs before getting one. Way to be a responsible dog owner! Its all about being fair, consistent, and firm, but you never have to be mean, violent, or hurt your dog. This will just produce timidity or aggression. Most of these behaviors are seen in the wild and are done to reinforce the pack bond and hierarchy. They will lead to well balanced, polite, manageable dog.

Therapy Dog Training, Helping the Infirm

• there is a school of thought that states you must be the dominant one in the relationship with your dogs. Your the boss, the leader, the alpha. What varries greatly is how people reach that state.
  
  Some people use punishment and sharp corrections.
  Others use clickers and rewards for correct behaviors.
  
  What will work best for you is purely up to you and your dog. Some people couldn't give a sharp correction on a collar if their life depended on it. And others are naturally as gentle as a freight train. I have used the Volhard Method of training for years quite successfully with Borzoi, grayhound, two pit's, a couple of shepherds and a fox hound. And seen others suceed as well. ( http://www.amazon.com/Training-Your-Dog-… )
  
  Also Leerburg has some articles on dominant dog training
  
  and check the DPCA site http://www.dpca.org/PublicEd/PEC/PECTrai…


• I don't want to explain all the things, as it will take way too long! Some are: your dog can not eat before you, can't have any of your food, can't be on the furniture, can't go before you when going through a door way, can't pull on walks, etc. I learned how to be the "pack leader" from watching the TV show The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Milan, reading all his books, and going to his seminars when he comes to my state. Here's a link for his website. It has DVDs and books for sale, tips, videos, and everything. Check it out, it will help you a lot:
  
  http://www.cesarsway.com/


• there isnt specific instructions for being an alpha. but as you know dogs are a decendant of wolves and therefor follow a pack mentality. if no person takes charge the dog will asume he can do whatever he wishes. to be an alpha is to be the leader. if a dog knows you are alpha he will listen, and train easier. if your dog will be a puppy let him/her get older first (6 months atleast) then do things like taking them for walks if it pulls pull back. if it runs somewhere awa from you pull the leash back to you. this will tell it that it goes where you want it to. also, at home (this might sound bad) dont look out for the dog, if its standing in your way dont go around it. keep walking. the dog has full power to move on its own and if u avoid it, it thinks that it is stronger than you.so make sure you show it your alpha and really lay down the law. little tip. dogs that think they are leader will keep there tail in the air. dogs that know the arent will hang their tails low, and sometimes tuck it in between their legs


• Do Not READ about the breed!! Find some reputable breeders and talk to them about their dogs, how the pups are raised, temperament of the parents, why they are breeding their dogs etc! Most Dobies that I have met are real sweethearts with a heart of gold....
  
  http://www.dpca.org/
  
  Find a specialty show for Dobies, meet the breeders, their dogs, the pups and take it from there...


• Forget about being alpha that is old school dog training. Scientific studies have proven that positive reinforcement is better!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Any dog training ideas/advice?

My dog is very behaved most of the time.. and we have been letting her off her leash in the yard to do her business and a little playing time or whatnot.. well, today I came home and thought I'd bring out the ball and play some fetch with her and she loved it, only it wasn't too long until the ball wasn't enough excitement for her and she felt she needed to go check out the road where she knows she isn't allowed, and I tried telling her come here, heel, etc. all of which she knows, and she didn't listen, and continued to just go on and check out the neighborhood, and so I walked after her issuing the same commands, and of course every time I would get close, she'd run farther. She has never done this before.. I don't know what got into her. I'm a little weary about letting her out at all without the leash now.. How did she all of a sudden turn into an evil dog?? how do you punish a dog correctly?

7 Types of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
ok well first u dont just want to punish the dog. u want to make the dog want to come to u. so try buying a 30 foot leash and strapping it on her collar(just dont let her get out of reach) then when she wonders off and gets distracted u can grab the leash, say come(or whatever command ur using) and if she doesnt come then u give the leash a nice firm tug and say come once more and if she doesnt come then try it again a lil harder and when she does, be really happy and dont be afraid to throw a lil ball or give her a treat or something. ur teaching the dog that coming to u is better than going off on her own. and contionue to do this for a while then try no leash and call her often and a lot of praise each time and occasionally gop back to using some treats and when she gets rusty then go back to the leash.

Using a Good Dog Training Tip

• Well you really got understand their point of view, you gotta have patience, and you gotta have treats! try checkin out some books on dog training. There are tons of tricks to teach. This goes for all tricks you wanna teach, you have to have a treat, say the name of the command, and show the dog what to do. After you show him, give him (or her) a treat. Do this over and over. Eventually they will catch on and learn


• show her more love..show her that you love her..give her attention..apparently she wants more attention..take her for walks..play fetch or tug a war! she'll love you again in a heart beat if u give her a lot of attention!


• you should lightly tap her on the butt and tell her no and reward her when she starts doing stuff right and she will start to be the same dog she was

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training help improving walking.?

I trained my dog of 7 months all basic tricks
there is just one thing i need to know how to train her at, its not running after moving stuff...especially little kids, she seems to whimper and and pull much and hard when walking with her and then when pass by barking dogs she does the same...

its really fustrating , she can walk properly and such but its those two obstacles that annoy me and i dont wannt her to go and bite little kids, well not sure what she wants to do.... she is a husky X German Shepard. How can i teach her to calm down, she is sorta getting stronger and takes a while to pull her away but she dosnt seem to listen when kids/other dogs pass by.

Is Your Dog Training You?

Recommended Answer:
Try reading "Control Unleashed: Creating a Focussed Dog" by Leslie McDevitt. She teaches you games to get your dog to focus on you and to stay under threshold for barking, reactivity etc. Also has DVD so you can see how to train some of the games.
You won't go wrong using her methods. They are light years ahead of any others out there and really work!
And, yes, you can use them while you are walking your dog. They work both on and off leash. I used these methods on my dog and they work really well.

Dog Training - Why and How to Train Dogs

• Use a Gentle Leader (can order online). This will help with the actual pulling and once she's an adult (about 2 yrs) she probably won't have the desire to run after everything. It's normal for a dog this age to want to be a part of everything they walk by, but they can be trained to ignore it.


• I dont know this either, but when my dog passes a dog he really likes, he somehow comes out of his collar. luckily, that person grabbed my dog and gave him back to me. I dont know but my dog does it rarely. Go to some dog trainer. that may help a lot.


• Dont worry. U must work with patience. Plz follow the link below for the solution
  
  http://dog-training--help.blogspot.com/


• Tips for dog training
  
  1) Avoid giving your dog combined commands which are incompatible. Combined commands such as "sit-down" can confuse your dog. Using this example, say either "sit" or "down". The command "sit-down" simply doesn't exist.
  
  2) When giving your dog a command, avoid using a loud voice. Even if your dog is especially independent/unresponsive, your tone of voice when issuing an obedience command such as "sit","down" or ""stay", should be calm and authoritative, rather than harsh or loud.
  
  3) Whenever possible, use your dog's name positively, rather than using it in conjunction to reprimands, warnings or punishment. Your dog should trust that when it hears its name or is called to you, good things happen. His name should always be a word he responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear.Check my source, hope it helps. Good luck!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: How to stop a dog from barking HUMANELY? Training or high pitch noise collars?

My dog barks constantly and it has gotten to the point that when she barks my grandfather hits her- which I cannot stand. When I speak up I get called a "hippie" and blah blah blah. I refuse shock collars as they are extremely inhumane. They have a new collar that emits an ultra-sonic high pitched noise when ever the dog barks, which my grandmother wants me to get. I read thats it's vet approved- but also that other dogs barking makes it go off, or even air planes.
I thought about buying dog training lessons, but they're really expensive, and I'm pretty much broke, and don't start working again until school ends, and I don't think it can wait that long. The collar is $20, but I won't get it if it's inhumane. What do you think, training or collar?

Dog Training and Obedience

Recommended Answer:
Dogs who are socially isolated or confined for long periods without supervised exercise need some outlet for their pent-up energy. A dog who is left alone all day is likely to take up barking as a hobby because no one is there to control him. In no time at all, barking becomes an enjoyable habit. And for many dogs, once they start barking, they tend to continue barking for the sheer fun of it.

Your dog may be barking excessively because you unintentionally trained her to do so. Poochie speaks and you obey. "Woof" and you open the door to let puppy out. "Woof" and you open it again to let her in. "Woof" and she gets a treat, "woof" for a tummy-rub . . . you get the picture. Your dog has learned to get attention through barking. It is easy to fall into this trap because the very nature of barking gets your attention. For the same reason, it is easy to forget to praise and reward your dog when she is not barking.

The first step in obtaining peace and quiet is to realize that lots of barking is caused by the dog being lonely, bored, frustrated or frightened. These are all situations that you can help to alleviate. A well-exercised, happy dog is more likely to sleep all day while you are not home. Spend time playing with, training and exercising your dog.

Obedience training is great mental exercise. Thinking is a tiring activity for dogs, as it is for humans. Most dogs really enjoy a rapid paced, exciting "game" of Come here, sit, heel, sit, heel, down, stay . . . come here for hugs, a massage, a celebration of praise and treats. Don't allow training to be a boring, tedious routine.

If your dog lives in the back yard most of the time, she probably needs "social exercise." She needs walks around the neighborhood, so she can investigate all the sounds and smells that tantalize her while she is in the yard. Bring her into the house when you are home. She needs to feel that she is part of your family. Having a large yard is not equal to having a well exercised dog. You may see your dog dashing madly around your yard, but he is not exercising. He is doing the doggy equivalent of pacing, fidgeting, or other human forms of nervous activity. Provide your dog with fun things with which to occupy himself, such as a digging pit or special chew toys.

Dogs are social animals. They need friends and companionship. Take your dog to the same dog park daily or weekly and let her make doggy friends. Dogs romping around and playing together tire rapidly and will sleep happily while recovering from the good, hardy play session.

7 Important Dog Training Tips For You

• I have this same problem and after many different things I tried and hundreds of dollars spent I found something that works. :) its called the ultrasonic bark bird house its about $50 and I also give her a kong rubber round hallow toy and fill it with a little peanut butter and dog food and stick it in the Freezer it keeps her busy for hours and hours. She is Quiet as a mouse.


• Don't hit your dog. Don't give shock collars they are inhumane. What hurts your dog could hurt you. Don't do that ultra-sonic high pitched noise either. Although, you can't hear it. It kills your dogs ears. Whenever your dog is barking don't scream or yell, he is just going to think you are playing with him. Instead clap your hands or do something to distract him. When he stops barking praise him.


• First, hitting or yelling at a dog is abusive. And the dog will just misbehave more. It thinks you are barking with it, when you yell. So stay calm and say shhhhhh, place your hand gently around her muzzle, when she is quiet: Give her praise and a treat. But if you keep calm and say thank you-and give her a treat. She should learn. Get a training book.


• Training, your dog hasnt learned how to be disiplined, it is not the dogs fault.


• Surgically debarking the dog is much more humane than being hit, I would say.
  
  Is this something you have looked into?


• Bark collars only treat the symptom, they do not solve the actual problem.
  
  Excessive barking is caused by a lack of exercise and mental stimulation. Tired dogs do not bark excessively, they sleep. It's a simplistic way of thinking about it, but it's the truth. The reason people resort to bark collars instead of training is sheer laziness. It's easier to go out and buy a bark collar than to spend hours running around with your dog.
  
  Combine exercise with a "quiet" command. I use a clicker. When the dog barks, give the quiet command. When the barking ceases, click the clicker and give the dog a treat. He soon associates "quiet" with receiving a treat.
  
  Voila! Problem solved.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Adult Dog Training Advice?

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

Hunting Dog Training Equipment

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

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

Dog Training Tips - When Should Dog Training Start?

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


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


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Therapy/Assistance Dog Training Question?

My family just bought a German Shepherd puppy. I was wondering what kind of training program to enroll him in. I am considering getting him trained as a therapy or assistance dog for myself. I have a severe anxiety/panic disorder. Before recently prescribed medication, I had them every single day. It was horrible. I still get them but not as often. It's hard to leave my house, especially alone. I'll get shaky, sweaty, and my heart rate goes up. It's hard to focus or function properly when this happens and it happens more often than I'd like. I also get on-again-off-again depressive episodes that last anywhere from a couple weeks to a couple months. And when those episodes start, I get VERY depressed. When I'm not having one of those episodes, I feel anywhere from calm and happy to hyper and crazy. I am seeing a professional for this, but I thought that since we just got a new puppy, I could train him to help me instead of depending on medication 24/7 and worrying if I brought my anti-anxiety pills with me or not. Or worrying "Am I going to have a panic attack today?"

So, my questions are: What kind of program would be right for the dog? And can you train your own personal therapy/assistance dog?

Some Helpful Tips To Help You With Your Dog Training Abilities

Recommended Answer:
There's no such programme, no such training, beyond the proper training that all pooches should have.

We cannot tell how much of your problem is due to lack of confidence (in which case a devoted adult dog may give you enough missing confidence), how much due to chemical imbalances (in which case only medication can help).

One of my pen-friends gets periodic "black dog depression". For a while she had a bit.ch sensitive enough to alert her to the need to take her medication SOON - LIKE NOW! But training such a dog by starting with a randomly-chosen puppy is not a practicality - the dog has to display sensitivity to the changing chemistry/pheromones of its human, then be rewarded for demonstrating that it has recognised a crucial change. She bought the bit.ch out of curiosity about a not-yet-accepted new breed and because her previous personal protection dog (NOT one who alerted to her chemical imbalances) had died.

To increase the chances of your pup developing the required sensitivity, do what EVERY dog owner should do:
•1• Concentrate on reward-reinforcement techniques for EVERYTHING, starting in Day 1. Enthusiastically PRAISE each almost-right thing Pup does. Rewards vary according to the pooch's likes & dislikes, and include:
· Physical = pats or rubs on croup, ribs, between front legs, at ear bases.
· Games = Ball-Chase. Tug-o-War. Tracking.
· Tidbits = a salted peanut. TINY slivers of: hard cheese, baked liver, crisped bacon. A sprig of broccoli.
You need the pup to REALLY bond strongly with you as being the source of everything good in the universe.

•2• Concentrate on "familiarisation-&-confidence-building" (a much more descriptive term than the widely misunderstood "socialisation") so that by the time Pup is 13 weeks old he has experienced (always starting from a distance that PUP considers safe) every movement, reflection, scent, sight, sound & texture on your property while he is still in 'home quarantine', and then in your district (but avoiding places where dogs run loose or piddle/poo/vomit), being allowed to stop & think about each "maybe scary thing?" (while you stand still-&-silent, telepathing "I'm not scared of that, so there's no need for you to be") then being praised & rewarded when he decides to either ignore or investigate that thing.

•3• Booking YOURSELF (note: YOURSELF, not just "him") in nice and early to a proper training club's weekly classes, ready to start when Pup is 18-22 weeks old. There YOU get coached to improve your awareness & techniques; at the same time Pup learns to pay attention regardless of what other dogs & people are doing.

It is likely that just becoming aware of your pet's needs, and forcing yourself to focus on meeting them, will help improve YOUR confidence, too.

There is no way, under existing regulations, that you will be able to get your dog licensed as an "aide/service dog" - such dogs have to, on command, do something their human is not capable of doing, whether that be seeing obstacles, or hearing phones & doorbells, or picking up dropped cheque-books etc.

◙ Add http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/The_G… to your browser's Bookmarks or Favorites so that you can easily look up such as rescue groups, feeding, vaccinations, worming, clubs, teething, neutering, size, diseases, genetics.

◙ To ask about GSDs, join some of the 400+ YahooGroups dedicated to various aspects of living with them. Each group's Home page tells you which aspects they like to discuss, and how active they are. Unlike YA, they are set up so that you can have an ongoing discussion with follow-up questions for clarification. Most allow you to include photos in your messages.
Les P, owner of GSD_Friendly: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/GSD_F…
"In GSDs" as of 1967

The Effects Of Dog Training Collars

• Most assistance and therapy dog organizations will not train your pet dog to be an assistance dog - there is a very low success rate with that training situation. If you are in need of a psychiatric assistance animal, there are a few things you should know:
  
  1. Dogs for purely psychiatric disabilities ARE NOT generally covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act, according to court rulings, and so DO NOT have access rights except those given to regular pets - no restaurants, no planes, no public transportation.
  
  2. The presence of an untrained or home trained pet with which you are well bonded will be as effective as the services of a trained therapy dog for calming, etc, unless there are specific tasks that the dog need to perform (such as getting a phone to call for help, blocking your access to doors, etc).
  
  3. There are organizations that can match you with a psychiatric assistance dog if you meet their requirements. Find them here: http://www.psychdog.org/index.html

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training help??? Two dogs i need help with.?

Ok. i have two dogs that i need a little help training. One is my deaf pitbull... i cant tell her no or yell at her becuase she cant hear... We're trying with treats and hand signals but she sometimes cant or wont corporate.. Any ideas on how to get her attention. Oh BTW shes deaf because the people who had her before as a puppie left her out side and she got two really severe ear infections. She can hear a dog whistle but nothing else.
My other dog is a 6 month old male. Hes doing really well only he has a problem with picking on other dogs. He is a chiweenie. He likes to play but sometimes he takes it to far. whats the best way to nip this in the bud. oh and im going to get him fixed... would that help calm him down or is that just a myth?

Dog Training Part I

Recommended Answer:
If your female can hear a whistle, then use that in your training. There are training methods for hearing impaired dogs, you just have to find a trainer that is comfortable with that type of thing. I think a professional would be best to help with this, along with you and your dog, in person. Too hard to help online.

As for your other dog, neutering will help, but not as an instant calming agent. It will reduce hormones that might cause a problem in the future. But at 6 months old they are just starting. More likely, he is just a bossy little dog. Get him into a basic obedience class, and that will probably be enough.

Good luck.

At-Home Dog Training Tips

• Try to help her with the signals like sit put your hand up then down once if she won't do it try putting her butt down where it is on the floor. Next to teach her shake make her sit and shake her hand make sure to give her a treat.


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: PetSmart Dog Training, Is it any good? ?

If you've taken your dog to any of there training classes.

Did they work?
Did you take your dog back?

Would you suggest it to a friend?

:)

Dog Training Clubs - A Great Way to Help Train and Socialize Your Dog

Recommended Answer:
It definitely depends on the trainer! I went to one class with my first Siberian puppy and was told that I couldn't participate in his loose leash walking section of class because my dog would never walk loose leash because of his breeding...now that's complete bologna, but to the first time dog owner that news could have been devastating! I went back years later to take another Siberian through and this time the trainer was wonderful! She really knew her stuff, but she had been professionally training for 20 years. We learned a lot more from the second trainer than the first...and I now have 4 Siberians that loose leash walk just fine as well as 2 Malamute mixes that also do just fine on leash.

Small Dog Training Tips

• It depends on the individual trainer


• Never done it, but I'd say it depends on the level of training you are going for. If it's puppy classes, that's mostly for socialization, so in that case it's totally worth it. Beyond that, I think you could find better training.


• ive been told its great but it depends on how devout you are to help train, because you have to do alot of homework when you take those classes. i took the classes but.. i failed out in 2 weeks.. my dogs were too kool for them anyways!!! :)


• I took the beginning level and the intermediate level training at a Petsmart. And my trainer ROCKED!!! For the money, it was great training. The only other training programs I could find in my town were twice the price. The socialization was great too.
  
  But you have to make a commitment to go. I was in a class of 6 in the beginning level. Only three of us showed up on a regular basis. And the intermediate, well, it was basically a private class for me and my dog. We started out with 6 people but by week two, it was just three of us, and then two, and then just me and my dog. The trainer catered the class for us and started to train us for the CGC certification because she knew that was my goal (still is, just no good training where I moved to).
  
  Yes, I would recommend the Petsmart training to anyone.


• As the previous poster said, it depends on the individual trainer. I have taken my dogs to PetSmart for the puppy class and also the beginner class for my older dog. I was very pleased with the trainer I had and the overall experience. I took one of my dogs back for the intermediate class also. I would meet the trainer prior to signing up to see if his/her training methods seem like they would be a fit for you and your dog. They use a standardized training program, but are able to vary from it to personalize it for their training methods. Both of the trainers that I worked with used clicker training, which is very easy and seemed to work with my dogs. As with all training situations, you get out of it what time and commitment you put into it.


• You can also try calling one of your local dog boarders like Camp Bow Wow or Lucky dog and see who they recommend. You can also call the American Kennel Association in your area and get a referal from them or from your vet.


• It depends on a few factors here. Most of these classes are to teach YOU not your dog necessarily. It's up to you to keep up the practice. But sometimes the trainers are really devoted and they are phenomenal. I've done the class once per dog, soemtimes the trainers are just ok but others are great. What it did though, was show me many approaches to communicating with my dogs. It really gave me a good foundation to be able to train my own dogs and to see what kind of approach works with each dog.
  


• I took my yorkie-poo to beginner and intermedite training.
  
  They really worked for us! My pup really took to it and so did I. We worked on basic commands and our trainer discussed emergency issues and had question and answer time for any problems or questions we had that week. We did have homework and it was important to devote some time to it...maybe 10 mins everyday or twice a day. Sometimes my pup and I did every other day with 2 sessions the day before class. We did okay. They really worked. I credit them for a lot. Once my black dog ran outside at night and I never would have found my puppy baby if it were not for us learning the "come" command and added techinques to get him to come.
  
  In intermedite we worked on making them more realiable and duration of commands. If we did more on our homework we'd have done better in the course but, it was good...we met friends and my pup enjoyed it. He always brightens up when we get close to the ring and see the trainer.
  
  We just rescued a pup and I plan to take her in for the next training round. So, I would deffently suggest it! Of course speak with your trainer and see if you like them before you enroll but, I really do like the program.


• I am in the 6th week of the beginner training course with my Boston Terrier and I would recommend it. Our trainer is very good and our puppy really enjoys it and has learned a lot. You do have to commit to working with the dog at home, we work with her several short sessions a day. We have 2 more weeks of class, and we plan on continuing to reinforce everything she has learned after the class is over.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training: Treats or Praise?

My family and I are teaching our "old "dog (only 3 yrs) new tricks. Or I should say more obedience. He knows the basics, sit, lay down, come, crate, go. He's not too good with sit stay but we are working on that. Anyway some of us train him with treats and some of us are training him with praise. Good boy, thatta boy, lots of pets and love when he obeys. He responds to both but Of course treats are his favorite but I feel in an emergency when we need him to obey immediately we may not have a treat with us. Is either or both ok to do?

Understanding Dog Training Schools

Recommended Answer:
Treats are best when you are first showing your dog what you want him to do. But you have to start weaning him off the treats once you know that he knows what is expected of him.

Example of weaning dog off treats:
Sit, treat, sit, treat, sit, treat, sit, treat, sit, treat, sit, treat.
Sit, sit, treat, sit, sit, treat, sit, sit, treat.
Sit, sit, sit, treat, sit, sit, sit, treat.
Sit, sit, sit, good boy, sit, sit, sit, treat
Sit, sit, sit, good boy, sit, sit, sit, good boy.
See, now you've weaned him off food and he still responds with praise.

BTW, there's no such thing as, "you can't teach an old dog new tricks". :) I've had dogs as old as 9 yrs. old in my obedience classes.

spazrats
http://spazrats.tripod.com
Dog Obedience Instructor with 30+ years experience. Presently working in a CKC registered dog club.

Dog Training - Basics

• a bit of both is best for everything he does right give him a big praise and 1 treat.
  if you want to teach him to stay get him to sit first and repeatedly say the word stay with somebody standing behind him holding him by the collar and slowly letting go of it and if he tries to move before you tell him to come catch his collar and put him in the sit position again and if he sits all the way through until you tell him to come give him a big praise and a treat for it.
  it worked with me so it should work with you . good luck with it


• Well some time or another he will have to learn without the treats u cant let a dog "ALWAYS" rely n treats to do tricks


• i love dogies ,give him treats


• We train with treats, and then after a while, she got used to doing the command without treats. Just do it often, so right when you say the word, the dog knows it right away, and would do it right away. For instance, for the first couple of weeks, we always used treats for sit. Now I can take her on a walk, and test her by making her stop and sit. She listens, even without the treats now.


• he should learn to obey with or without treats eventually


• Both are okay, but too many treats are bad because alot of treats have fat in them that shouldn't be given too much. I'd stick with praise because he needs to learn how to do it w/o a treat.
  
  Lets take the command "sit" for example. The dogs name will be Rover.
  
  You: Rover, "sit:"
  Rover:-doesn't sit-
  You: Give him a stern no, and tell him sit, and push down on his rear. If he sits, praise him w/o treats.


• Don't worry, you are doing a great job. Praise and treats are an excellent way to reward you dog for doing well. If you are afraid of him not responding when there is no food, start minimizing the amount of times you use treats as a reward. Also, make sure that when training with him, you do not have the food visible. That way, he doesn't know that there is a definite treat reward. By hiding the food treats during training and giving them randomly (switching between food and praise) your dog will eventually do the tricks without knowing there is a food reward in the end.
  
  I do want to remind you that when teaching a new trick, food rewards are the best. When he starts getting it down, start using the praise more and the treats less. Good luck!


• I switch back and forth with my dogs, when we train sometimes they get a treat and sometimes they get verbal praise.


• either is fine to get your dog to learn to begin with but then he should be weaned off the treats. you are absolutly right, in an emergency and you don't have treats what are you going to do. your family needs to sit down and come up with a consistant method of training or he will learn to only repsond to the person who has food. you can start with treats and praise. then start slowly not giving the treats and just the praise. you dog should sit for praise, not just sit take a treat and then get up. sounds like you have a good head about things, now just come to an agreement with the rest of your family. good luck.

Read More...

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

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

Small Dog Training - Obstacles You Need to Know About

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

Time To Find Out More About Appropriate And Efficient Dog Training

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog Training for American Staffies?

I have a one and a half year old amstaff which is a gorgeous girl, but utterly untrainable. if you have food, she will sit, stay, shake and go to her bed but aside from that, jumps all over guests, generally won't do as asked, will not come when called (unless it suits her), and still nips occasionally.
i love her to pieces but she is a naughty dog!
has anyone got any training advice?

Dog Training Collars and Harnesses - Making the Proper Selection is Essential to Training Success

Recommended Answer:
When guests come, she has to be on leash so that you can catch her. When she jumps up, gently put her back on the ground and give her an "off" command. When on the ground reward her and tell her "good off".

When she is out and about, she always has to have a leash on. Don't try and chase her, they think it's a big game! Run the other way! When she comes back, give her TONS of treats and lots of praise. If you have a friend who can help you, you can practice restrained recalls to get her come a lot better. Have your friend hold her collar. You then tough a treat to her nose, run away and call her in an excited voice. This gets the dog excited to come to you.

When she nips, give her a firm "No" or "Ouch" and then ignore her for a little bit. If she sits or starts acting polite, then reward her for being a good girl.

Terriers have a mind of their own! They can be very naughty and generally just want to do what they want. Don't get frustrated and stay happy. Who wants to come to an angry person! So patience is the best thing with the Terriers even thought they are difficult.

Dog Training Videos - Are They Really a Good Resource?

• my dog was like that too when he was that age. at the age of two he is finally settling down and getting to the point where he can be trained really well. i reccomend obedience classes and maybe even hire a professional trainer.

Read More...