Dog Health Questions: How's the weather Dog Section?

Have any of you dog people ever been able to train a cat or other small critter using basic dog training principles?

I ask this as one of mine is sitting pawing at ever letter I type on the computer.

Dog Training Methods - How to Train Your Dog

Recommended Answer:
I had one cat trained to give me the mice he caught. If it was injured, I'd kill it and give it back to him. If it was unharmed, I'd let it go but I'd give him a yummy treat as a reward, so he wasn't losing out.

Revealed - Boxer Dog Training Secrets

• snow flurries here, with a couple inches forecast--at least its not going to be huge--feel sorry for NY and Boston
  
  Yes, you can train cats--positive reinforcement training rules!--mine would catch and fetch on command, knew sit and off and come when called by name. They also walked with the dogs and me although not on leash like the dogs (but went home when they saw a dog off lead.) I began when they were kittens, but I am sure that you could train older cats if you have enough patience and were consistent.


• The weather sucks here. It was actually doing pretty good, even got up to 59 degrees in the middle of winter which is unheard of in Nebraska, but we just had a winter storm come through. We got a snow day from school yesterday because it was snowing like crazy outside. Today, we got another snow day because the school board deemed it "too cold" for children to be outside. Which usually means, with windchill, it's probably -20 degrees outside. That's never fun...
  
  Anyways, I have never had a cat, so who knows. However, to those that say training cats is impossible, people train cats all the time. No, they don't generally learn tricks, but they learn manners, and that's part of training.
  
  Poppy: Even the two major colleges in our area have gotten snowdays for the past two days, which is kind of crazy. The first school to announce a snow day was the University of Lincoln, and I was going to be SO mad if those stupid college kids didn't have to go to school and I did. :) But, about four hours later, they called off pretty much all public and private school in Eastern Nebraska


• Actually the ferret I used to have growing up and my ex MIL's ferrets were really receptive to basic dog training. You go with what you know and when I had the ferret growing up all i knew was dogs. It worked though. Styxx(mine) and Snowball(ex MIL) were the only two out of the three that i managed to train to go fetch whatever they had stashed away in their lil storehouse.
  
  As for the weather great now but we got a buttload of snow on the way -.-


• Its currently 54 degrees with 30 MPH wind gusts where I live.
  
  They promise we will have some 70 degree weather by the end of the week. We have not seen that in months.
  
  I am still working on Husband training twelve years later, no time for the cat. I am about to use the E collar on hubby and every time he leaves the lid up---bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
  
  I started typing this with my bigger cat between me and the computer screen, he is now lounging on my lap.
  
  I know someone who has done clicker trainng with horses- the same dismal performance as with a dog.
  
  ADD: Here I am hours since posting my answer and I can say that I have been sitting on the edge of my chair typing today since the cat has taken residence on the seat of the chair.
  Obviously I know who has who trained.
  
  ADD2*** And here it is not 3 PM PST and I am still stuck sitting on the edge of the chair......


• The only cats I ever trained, were the two cougars used on the Mercury Cougar commercials. Yes that is right. My brother-in-law was the owner, I was about 16 when I started assisting their regular trainer and after about a year, he had me in the cage alone with the little darlings. I would go up after school and weekends to the ranch and train the horses and the two kitties. I did that for many years, until one day they mauled their regular trainer of 20 years and had to be put down. And the techniques were not all that different in some areas, except, in case of a confrontation with a cougar, you do stare the cat in the eye and intimidating it with controlled loud noise along with attack by rocks and sticks often drives the cat away. For dogs, you are told do not make eye contact, to be still or "like a tree". Well that technique does not work with cougars. The cougar would quickly approach and deliver a fatal neck bite. *;*
  
  As for the weather, fair to middling! lol
  
  added: I think it was obvious what they were trained to do from the commercials, stretch out their paw at you and growl on cue!


• Every cat I have ever owned has come when called, even the barn cats. All my cats have understood the meaning of NO. I have taught cats to sit & down on command. Taught them to Speak on command. And I have even taught one cat to sit up & beg. Used positive reinforcement. Pets & praise & food. I have taught a few cats to walk nicely on leash. And I've had a fair number of cats that played fetch. And I've taught all the cats Off, the same way I teach the dogs, by removing them. Taught them not to claw the furniture too.
  
  Weather is COLD! 9am & still only 12 degrees. Pretty darn cold for New Mexico. Won't stop me from going to train some Agility with my guys here within the hour though. And yesssss, it's outside!


• I taught my cat sit and down with hand signals. But. Using treats. And he would only ever do it with treats. Then came the time when I couldn't give him treats anymore. So the cute little tricks came to an end. I guess I could try another way. Hmm. Our second oldest girl knows sit. She too will only do it for a treat though.
  
  We've been snowed in for 2 days. In Georgia. There's six inches of snow topped with 1 1/2 or so inches of solid ice. Major highways and interstates have been shut down and the authorities have issued "Stay home" PAs.
  
  The dog hates the snow. No fair. LOL


• So far we have about 4" of fresh snow. Problem is it is not wet enough to make snowballs for my dog unless I hold it in my hand then hand freezes. Just using the broom to sweep snow up in the air for him to go after. He is loving it and can't say I am unhappy with it. Pretty. When I had cats they had ME well trained. When you call a dog he will,should come cat will get back to you. Have a good day, we are going to play in the snow till the wind picks up.


• Training cats....
  
  My daughter just moved home a few months ago and brought her cat. Although I am not particularly a cat person, I have to say he just breaks my heart. She got him from a rescue where as the previous owners has tried to de-claw him themselves, resulting in all but 2 toes being amputated on each front paw.
  
  Needless to say he is my little buddy. Since I have the 5 dogs and didn't feel it was right to separate this cat to live alone in one room... training began LOL
  
  So, now the dogs and the cat are getting along (always supervised might I add) and the cat now will sit, come and down for me along side my dogs. LOL cracks me up !Oh the weather ... Beautiful right now but snow on the way tonight and tomorrow


• The “Storm” that put our area under an advisory for LAST NIGHT is just starting. Here is hoping for a chance to go home early!
  
  I think I attempted when 2 of our cats were kittens to train them to simple commands. The only thing they picked up on that we use with the dogs is “Dinner Time!” They always know when it is time to eat because to them it is ALWAYS time to eat!.
  
  However, we do have a rescue cat who was clearly a “Street Cat” before the shelter got him (Broken ear, some scars, missing the tip of his other ear). He has been trained to walk outside on a harness and leash. He wants nothing more than to be able to go out, lay in the sun, eat some grass and come in. Unfortunately with where we currently live that isn't an option. So we started putting a harness on him and taking him out. He isn't a huge fan but we can tie him just off our patio while we grill and he lays there happy as a clam. So yes, I have walked my cat!
  
  But our other cats are barn cats who are probably a product of some sort of inbreeding, I can't really count much on their intelligence coming through at all. The cat we walk however has “Smarts” and is on a totally different level. We had to replace the doorknobs at our apartment from the handles you push down to the handles you have to twist because he learned how to let himself out.


• I trained my late cat to sit! I think... *shrug* he would sit when he saw the kitty treats.
  
  But he did come when called! Slowely, at his own pace, but sure enough he would come! (by come, I mean come across the neighborhood or from across the neighbor's llama field, haha, but you would usually have to go the last 15 feet to him).
  
  Oh, I've also been clicker training my birds to touch the end of a stick for treats. It's the first step in acclimating them to different types of situations. Also, my birds know what "step up" means... that is a princible trained much like a dog walking nice on a leash. You step up, you get to come out of the cage and cuddle and play... you don't... well... you get to stay. :)
  
  And the weather is crummy. It's frozen snow out there... and supposed to be more snow/rain on the way.
  
  @Myra -- I have zero appriciation for snow that is wet enough to make snowballs... Lol, it balls up on my shih tzu dogs' legs and tummies and faces... ugh... such a pain! But they have fun. I like it frozen in a powder.


• The weather is getting back to normal, so that means I can go to classes tomorrow. Yes!! Snowed sunday and yesterday. I enjoyed my holiday break, which was supposed to end on sunday.....but blah. 2 extra days didn't hurt though. Snow is finally melting. I hate and love it!!When I was a child. Yes, I trained a cat to walk on a leash (*cough-shoestring) and it worked well. I just never to him outside the house. lol!! I used to have a mouse that would only come to eat his seeds if I gave him the "okay" either with a click of my tongue or a scratch behind the ear. He knew not to bother me when I was cleaning his cage. He would sit on my shoulder and watch me. Scruffy was his name. Also, I taught him to sit and to hold still while I groomed him with a toothbrush. lol!!


• Weather is fantastic - we got 7 inches of snow yesterday (finally, as it hasn't snowed all winter) and it's 5 degrees right now. I'm about to head out to enjoy it -- our pasture hills will have some pretty awesome snow drifts :)
  
  Some of my cats know "up" and "come" and even "no", though they tend to use selective hearing unless it benefits THEM.
  
  ADD: @Clumsical - down here, they also got a second snow day, and I got a wind chill advisory message update on my phone. I loved the mild weather, which I think down here we do get a bit more of at least later in the winter, but I've been missing the snow :) Snow is classic; even the cats were out yesterday, jumping around have having a time of it. Of course, it was really nice out yesterday - I haven't been out yet, but I'm betting it's freezing -- I've never gotten a "wind chill advisory" before, just basic "wind" ones (big shocker in KS).


• My weather is pretty bad, unfortunately. Where I live in the US, we got 8-9 inches of snow overnight.
  
  I do not have any cats as my family is really a dog family, though I still like them quite a bit. My mom and I are mildly allergic to cats, also, so that is another reason we won't be getting one anytime soon.
  However, I do have a red, white, and blue betta fish named Patriot. He knows just as many tricks as Gracie, actually! Patriot follows my finger, jumps up and takes food from my fingers, swim under his bridge accessory in the tank, and push around ping-pong balls! (yes, I know what you're probably thinking, and I had quite some free time in the summer to teach him all these tricks lol)
  
  I am going to get some leopard geckos before too long, but I don't think I'll be able to train them to do anything except tolerate/like being held.
  
  Other than that, nope. And I'm guessing that the furry little guy/girl next to you is a cat. Tell me if I'm wrong LOL


• I had 1 cat that acted just like a dog..He would talk to you,he stayed on the deck and would'nt wonder off,he would come when called and do the basic tricks I teach my dogs..He passed at 18yrs and was just a great all around cat..
  
  The weather is cold cold cold and snowing again...I am waiting for the carpet installers to come and track it all thru my house..


• Cold, it is 27 degrees, there is a 30% chance of snow but it hasn't started, its drizzling freezing rain right now though. Pretty nasty. But that is nothing like what is happening in Australia, that is just plain awful.
  
  Yes, my grandmother's cat can do dog tricks, he thinks he is a dog anyways, she calls him her dog. He rolls over, he shakes, he heals, etc.


• You want to know the weather here?
  
  Flash floods, deaths, water levels unseen since the late 1800's. My town was completely cut off by road from 10.30am on the 11/1/2011. I have been unable to work for two days. Had to sandbag the front door of my house. It was horrible.
  Sorry about my little rant - it's VERY stressful here.
  
  I taught my cat to sit on command. It was very cute :o)


• Cold here, but pretty nice compared to the rest of the country....a high of 60 today. :o)
  
  You know, I have had cats most of my life, and never saw much difference between the ones we raised and dogs.
  
  They came when they were called, were very social, and would go hiking with us (not long distances, but hiking nonetheless.) We raised two kittens that lost their mom, and one of them was in love with my collie. When I walked the dog she would go with us, even in the snow. About half way through the walk she would start crying because her feet were cold, and I would have to carry her the rest of the way home.
  
  The ones I have had that other people raised have been more "catlike" and less affectionate, so Im guessing it was something about the way we raised them.


• I headed up the animal lab at college. We trained rats and hamsters. Yes hamsters. For those who were afraid of rats. Backfired though. The rats were kind and gentle. The hamsters, nasty little buggers who bit!
  
  Yes well.
  
  I heard that B.F. Skinner once, through operant conditioning, taught a pig to do a 4 bra strip-tease! Would have loved to see the film for that! Must still exist somewhere... Who said psychologists don't have a sense of humor??


• I had my homing pigeons "trained" to return to the coop by shaking the food can (but I suppose that's not really training haha)
  
  And worked with a friend of mines cat to teach "fetch"
  
  -7 degrees Celsius here today. Was about -14 when I woke up though. Ridiculous


• Snowy, cold, and gross. I'm not a fan of it right now.
  
  Nope, I haven't owned any cats, even though I would like one. I attempted to train a couple of my friends cats. I got them to sit, but I think that was just because I wouldn't let go of the cat nip.


• It is FREEZING here in the Great North speaking of weather.
  
  Our cat actually knows "sit" and "down" lol. But he's not normal to begin with...


• we once had a cat that used the toilet if we left the seat up (we never trained him he just did it).
  
  the weather is cold and wet


• good luck with that ;)
  
  my dog says 'yes, ma'am' my cat says 'suck it, lady'. haha


• Training cats....right.
  
  Weather is cold and nasty.


• the weather is frozen rain no school.


• Yes. I'm not sure if I just got lucky, or I actually trained her...but I taught my cat to fetch!


• Good luck with it


• I'm late..oh well...
  
  The weather SUCKS right now. It's cold, there is snow on the ground...yuck!..& I'd rather go to sleep & wake up in late March.
  
  My cat will occasionally play fetch, he will come when called with the classic "here kitty kitty kitty kitty kitty kitty kitty kitty".....good thing his name is Kitty...LMAO!
  
  No but seriously he will come when called & he will usually go away whenever I tell him to. I have seen a lot of people in here post that using a spray bottle with water of course works for their dog...but I use that method on my Cat to keep him off places I don't want him to be. When he was younger he was bad about getting on the counters not for food, but just out of curiosity. I even caught him on top of the refrigerator once..LOL.. After using the water bottle on him for a few years he no longer gets on the counter-tops, but he does occasionally get in the window in the kitchen during the Summer because he likes to watch birds from there & that I don't mind.
  
  I know that many cats can be trained to do "tricks" but unlike a dog, you as the owner have to make it worth their while. A cat isn't going to do something it doesn't want to do just for the fact of pleasing you...cats do things to please themselves...that's it.
  
  *&* that is why the spray bottle works so well on a cat....the last thing HE wants is wet & although my cat has never minded a bath or splashing around in water with his paws/feet....he certainly does not want it sprayed in his face or on his precious coat that he just spent an hour grooming very meticulously...LOL

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Dog Health Questions: Whats a cool Dog game online?

Something that you don't have to download a free trial or buy. Something semi-realistic or something? Do you know of one? I'm thinking of Dog training, or just a virtual Dog. A little more realistic than www.Furry-paws.com

Dog Training Clubs - Training and Competition For You and Your Dog

Recommended Answer:
Dogdayzz.com and Showdogs.com are great sites.

Teaching Your Dogs The Basics Of Dog Training

• Go to taking doggy on a walk or something like that, it's pretty funny, and free. Go to not Doppler sight, and search it.

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Dog Health Questions: What are some of the silliest dog myths you've ever heard?

It can be about anything related to dogs- training, nutrition, health, breeds, etc.

Please try to answer this question without using common myths, such as pitbulls being vicious.

Mine: Raw meat (and/or a raw diet) will make a dog vicious and bloodthirsty.

So You Want A Career In Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
1) If you stick your finger in a dog's eye and wipe the scum on your own eye you'll be able to see ghosts. (EEEWWW!)
2) All dog's LOVE children, therefore children are always safe with them.
3) Dogs fed a raw diet are malnourished and mean.
4) Only members of the herding group can work cattle.
5) If the bag says "vet recommended" or "complete nutrition" it's healthy.

add: Oh wow, my fan club is here!

Understanding The Concept of Dog Training

• To make a dog "mean", feed it gunpowder...


• that dogs don't think. everything is done by instinct.


• That you can tell how many puppies a dog will have by the amount of nipples she has.
  
  That your dog will get fat if they are spayed or neutered.


• This isin't really a myth, but one time a guy brought his pit puppy into the hospital I work at with suspected parvo. The man said he made him drink diluted bleach water because he heard it would kill the parvo....will people believe anything these days?


• If you smack a Boston Terrier on the back of the head it's eyes will fall out.


• Oh, this will be fun! A few of my favorites have already been said, but here's a few more:
  
  - papillons are members of the chihuahua family
  
  - all purebred dogs are created equally (meaning the puppymill petstore dog is equal in quality to the champion conformation dog)
  
  - dogs can only eat dog food, anything else is horrible for them (i wonder what these people think dog food is made of?)
  .


• - Pit Bulls will always turn on their owners.
  
  - Pit Bulls aren't good with children.
  
  - Crate training is a cruel thing to do.
  
  - Keeping a dog is horrible, a dog should be kept in the wild and living in their own nature and habitat. (I heard that one the other day .. Whatever. Lol.)
  
  - Shelter dogs - they will always have problems!
  
  - The Maltese, Poodle, Shih Tzu - THEY DON'T SHED! (Uh, yeah they do! I have a Shih Tzu - she sheds! It may not be much, but ALL of them shed!)


• -"rare" colors are actually rare and worth more money
  
  -there is such a thing as "teacup" anything
  
  -it's more healthy overall for a b*tch to experience having a litter than to spay her before her first heat


• that pit bulls have locking jaws, and the only way to get it to release is by sticking your finger up it's backside.(ewww)
  
  That dobie's skull's stop growing and puts pressure on their brains, and they go crazy and attack.(wrong!)


• Oh god Abbyful... thank you! If ONE MORE person tells me my Pap is or looks like a friggin' Chihuahua, I will throttle them. Someone did once try to convince me they were related to Chihuahuas... interesting, since the Chi developed in Mexico and the Papillon developed in Europe.
  
  I've also heard the raw meat makes them viscious rumor.
  
  There's the ever-popular "pit bulls just *snap* one day and turn on their owners" myth.
  
  Oh, and don't forget that it's *healthy* to let a female have one litter of puppies before spaying.
  
  I could go on and on... people are so dumb some times.
  
  EDIT: Oh and Lucy, I can do you one better than the Poodle/Shih Tzu/Maltese doesn't shed one... I'm now having people tell me (a professional groomer, mind you) that TERRIERS don't shed. Yes, terriers. It always stuns me that people will believe absolutely any little thing they hear.


• OOH OOOH!!!
  
  I LOVE the warlock doberman myth, cracks me up! It's such a stupid and horrible gimmick I cant believe people still buy into that crap. And they DO! We had a guy come to rescue not to long ago "lookin' for them Waarlock dobermens..." trying to get the country bumpkin accent across haha... I loved listening to our director Julie explain as patiently as she could that there is NO SUCH THING!(she's kinda like me, no patience for the ignorant) Supposed giant dobermans. Too bad they're a MEDIUM sized dog! I have had some jerkoff at the park argue with me about my female being a "warlock" because she's quite large for a female dobie. Thats her in my new Avatar btw : )... this guy argued with me for about 20 mins following me around the park, it was actually quite creepy. Another guy inisted that RUBY, my almost miniature doberman (at a whopping 45lbs and maybe 20in tall), was a warlock because she has a cowlick down the back of her neck, APPARENTLY this is a trait of the warlock line..... uhuh. Another volunteer that's been in the breed for almost 20yrs told me she had some guy at Petsmart tell her the same thing b/c her girl had a cowlick on her nose... about 30% of the dobies we get in rescue have some sort of cowlick around their heads. That's definitley my favorite. Next to the swelling brains/stunted skull/skull pressure/attack myth..
  
  I also love it when people continue to tell me that dobermans only come in black/tan and my fawn female is a weimaraner mix; and that blues/fawns are "special" and more valuable, and my FAVORITE about colors, that Albino Dobermans are white, not a mutation and that there are no health risks or temperamental/conformation issues, because "they're just a different color" hmmm the definition of Albinism is ABSENCE of melanin or COLOR! and furthermore, that since greyhounds were used somewhere in creating the doberman the white would have come out eventually, except it was a black greyhound which at the time was a TYPE in germany, and white in greyhounds is due to piebalding, just like in boxers, beagles and any other colored w white dogs. Albinism is a MUTATION and Albinos and carriers were all inbred from the same ***** that was born in 1976....


• Ewwwwww he licked me! That dogs mouths are filthy!
  Fact is dogs actually have cleaner mouths then humans when it comes to bacteria.


• Theres an old crazy myth that some people actually still believe, that dipping a dog in motor oil will treat mange.


• Dogs in shelters all have problems (dumb, dumb, dumb, more problems if you buy a puppy mill or byb dog
  
  Dawn dishwashing liquid is good to wash your dog in to kill fleas (shouldn't have any fleas, use Frontline or Advantage every month - the damn Dawn is horrible and can hurt your dog)
  
  Adopting a dog and paying an adoption fee so the shelter or rescue can continue to save dogs is the same as buying a dog (think this one out folks, doesn't get any dumber, talk about irrational thinking)
  
  All pedigree dogs should be bred at least once
  
  Designer dogs are a breed
  
  Beneful is great dog food - it's supermarket crap, mostly colored corn meal in fake shapes to appeal to gullible dog owners
  
  Science Diet is great,must be my vet sells it (you need a more honest vet who isn't paid to stock the stuff)
  
  Flea shampoo kills fleas (maybe some, but not the larvae or eggs)
  
  One human year is 7 dog years (not nearly that simple)
  
  All pitbulls turn on people
  
  Wolves and wolf-hybrids can be great pets (wolf is not a dog - never will be - shouldn't be expected to act like one)
  
  My pedigree pooch is show quality, where do I enter her for her championship?
  
  Sweets give dogs worms
  
  Ringworm is a worm
  
  You can catch a cold from your dog - or vice versa


• The one I hear on here a lot is that mutts are healthier than purebreds.
  
  Cave Canem all great points.


• You're right on about the pit bulls and the raw diet thing. Here's mine:
  
  1) that vet school is somehow vastly different than med school (it's actually very VERY similar!)
  2) crate training is cruel
  3) positive ONLY training exists (don't get me wrong, I train motivationally myself, but there are always corrections in dog training, meaning or not)
  4) the average vet knows the latest about training, behavior, and nutrition (some do, but many don't!)
  5) all shelter or rescue dogs have "issues" so if I get a shelter dog, it won't bond to me as much
  6) there are some breeds that don't shed
  7) a female needs to have a heat or have a litter to "settle down"
  8) prong collars are always cruel (Gentle Leaders can be very cruel!)
  9) dog parks are great ideas for all breeds
  10) vaccinations are necessary every year

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Section: I need help on ADULT dog socialization?

Okay,

So my dogs aren't that socialized around other dogs and in certain situations, and I'm trying to help fix it. I went to the library today and checked out lots of books on dog training and socialization. However, almost all of the books are just ranting on about "You need to socialize when your dog is a puppy" (which I already know) and they don't really explain HOW to do anything!

Here are the problems I need help fixing:

For Lily:
-Barks/Growls at other dogs, may occaisionally snap out of fear, which then becomes aggression.
-Is freaked by people wearing hats or large, dark cothing
-Startled in noisy situations

For Sophie:
-Barks/Growls at other dogs (when they are far away), becomes EXTREMELY nervous when they come near, and tries to run away and escape from them. Also, she once peed when a dog came up to her. (Sophie never shows any sign of aggression and has never once snapped at or nipped another dog)
-Scared in noisy situations, such as along a busy street (I live right next to a loud, busy street)

Are there any books that you thought were very helpful that you could reccomend for me to read? Or, do you have any sort of things I could do to fix these problems?

I can not get a professional trainer to come help because we are quite tight on money and it seems like all trainers are $1000 to come help!

Any suggestions/advice?

If you need anything else, ask.

Thank you!

Dog Training Career: Doing It and Loving It

Recommended Answer:
WOW you have your work cut out to you, and you are going to have major patience but it is fixable.
First I would work very hard on lead with sit, stay, heel etc. Use treats and lots of positive reinforcements just use your yard without any distractions. I always recommend a basic choke collar fit high on the neck right behind the ears for easy control and easy, safe corrections. A quick snap and release is all you need and the sound it makes kind of brings them back around.

You need both dogs to totally be fixed on you. The more they focus on your the less they will be distracted by the things that really bother them.

Once you have mastered this then slowly start adding some distractions. It would be great to enlist your friends with dogs that are reasonably calm. Keep them focused with treats and at the moment they start to break say a command like "ignore" use a quick sanp and release of the collar and treat as soon as they go back to looking at you.
This should help with both of their dog issues. Just remember the more they are fixed on you (and the treats) the less they think about the bad stuff.
The easiest was to help with the man issues is to have very calm male friends, come in your house, quietly sit down on the floor with a treat and let the dog come to them. Slowly you can add the hat.
Eventually you will be able to ween them of of the treats and just use the positive reinforcement.
It is hard to remember everything to type but maybe ai have helped a little:))

http://www.paw-rescue.org/PAW/PETTIPS/Do…

Dog Training: It's Not Just For Adults Anymore

• if you want your dogs to start socializing start having them go for walks togather with other dogs this makes them feel like the other dog or dogs there walking with are part of there pack and they want be agressive towards them, if your dog is afraid to be neir another dog just have it walking close to it such as across the street every time you walk it have the dog get closer and closer soon it will get used to that dog being their, if your dog is afraid of hats you could try just setting a hat out on the floor and let it become comfortable with it.


• Here are a few people I know that may help you with the books they have written:
  Patricia McConnell
  Brenda Aloff
  Suzanne Clothier
  William E Campbell
  
  And lots of treats. Dogs must smell it to believe it, just like humans must see it to believe it.
  
  I would go with cautious canine by patricia mcconnell based on what you wrote.


• Perhaps this site will help you out:
  
  http://www.dogstardaily.com-train-aft has a FREE book you can download and read. Also at the top of the page they have a drop down on training and behavior. I'd suggested looking at the 'fear' and 'aggression' sections.


• Lily's problem with black coats/hats is the easiest, either have a loan of one or get a second hand coat, and get a few different hats. Then you start to wear them around the house. When she is no longer bothered by you wearing it, then get guests to wear it at your house until she is happy with that. This is called desensitization, teaching her that there is nothing to fear.
  
  One problem you have is that much of your training will have to be done separately to begin with, so you will have to walk them separately. The below is also a desensitization program.
  Perpendicular Pooch Technique
  Your dog needs to learn a sequence of commands you expect it to follow, this starts at home.
  You must teach your dog to 'leave' a food treat (you can just drop it on the floor) & 'come' to you and to 'sit' still for 5 seconds, then make a fuss & allow the dog the treat. Repeat until your dog is perfect.
  1. Use a Halti or Gentle Leader, take your dog to a local park where there is a popular walking path.
  2.Choose a location where other dogs are unlikely to approach, approx 25 yards at right-angles from the walking path.
  3. Take your dog through the routine you taught it at home to make sure it is responding.
  4. As soon as a dog appears, tell your dog to 'leave' and turn and walk away from the path for five paces. Then tell your dog to sit. There are only two outcomes - the dog responds and sits - or it doesn't.
  If your dog responds then praise it liberally with pats, hugs and food and return to your starting point to repeat the process with the next dog.
  If it does not respond, issue another 'leave' command and continue to walk away from the walking path. Finish with a sit but this time tap your dog on its rump to ensure it gets the message. If your dog still does not respond, then you are too close to the path, leave the park and return another day and start at a greater distance.
  5. After a few days, if your dog always obeys then move to 20 yards.
  6. Continue until you are able to win the confrontations while walking along the path and are approaching other dogs head-to-head rather than at right angles.
  
  As soon as you have taught Lily leave, I would do obedience class with Lily. As she has more issues she would probably benefit from obedience classes, the trainer can give you advice when she sees the body language and your dog will learn to accept other dogs near her. The more a dog obeys you quickly, the more control you have over the dog. The main problem is neither of your dogs obeys you, and neither seem to trust you to protect them.
  
  Sophie would probably benefit from having a young pup over at your house for a very closely supervised visit. As she is so apprehensive of other dogs she should feel safe with a young pup (so long as she shows no aggression). she will feel safer at your house to start with. Also, on weekends take a book to a park and sit in a quiet corner and just read your book for a couple of hours, have sophie lay next to you, she can watch what is happening without being confronted. Remember dogs pick up cues from owners, so it is really important that you remain calm, if she shows any fear, tell her off, No, don't be silly. don't comfort her, if an owner comforts her dog then this confirms that there is something to fear. Ignore her fear as much as possible, just tell her off. when she sits quietly give her a treat, start when the dogs aren't around, the treat when they are approaching and going past. I would also spend time in your front yard so she gets more experience with noisy cars. You have lots of work ahead of you, especially with 2 dogs.


• Have you tried Bark Busters?
  
  I have used them and they only cost me 400 for both of my dogs! Plus its a lifetime agreement that if you need them they will come back!
  
  Before I used them my dogs were very noisy in the house and outside. Now after training them with Bark busters They are not noisy in the house and not nosy outside or when your on the phone!
  
  You should also train them separate not toether because its too distracting!


• I'm with Koter Boter. Barkbusters is a great professional trainer. I can give them a reference also.
  
  With all the problems you are having I think it is going to be overwhelming for you do to this on your own.
  
  The money will be well spent considering the stress you are going to put yourself through!

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Dog Health Questions: Military Working Dog Handler?

from a military perspective, what college degree or professional experience would be related to being selected to become a MWD handler? would someone with a dog training certification or previous experience as a professional dog trainer/handler be at an advantage for selection into this MOS?

Career in Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
you dont need any college at all.you just enlist into that career field.army mps have the option to become dog handlers if selected.air force security forces has combat arms or k-9 handler position when youre eligible to train for them.you cant just enlist as a handler you have to go into that career field do your best and hope you get selected for training.

Choosing Your Dog Training Video

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Dog Health Questions: My dog bites other dogs...?

I have a Staffie who is about 1.5 years old. I have socialized her since we got her at 10 weeks old. She goes to dogs training and to day care during the week. Only thing is she has started fighting with other dogs specially at day care which is strange because we are there so it's not like she is trying to protect us. I was told that after she has fought she goes and sits in a corner looking very ashamed. Please help as I have never had a dog that fights before (and i have had Staffie's before).

Dog Training Made Easy - Find Out How

Recommended Answer:
the thing with american pit bulls and staffers is they were bred to be fighters it is in their blood to fight Other dogs. you may have the best socialized pit or staff and still have to be careful around other dogs.you cant expect a dog in these two breeds never to fight if you do have one that never got in a dog fight its whole life you are lucky. trying to deny that they still will be tempted to fight is just lying to yourself it would be like expecting a hound dog to never be interested in hunting or a herding dog never be interested in herding. its just what their original purpose in life was and sadly still is sometimes.

i have owned a few american pit bull terriers while i was growing up and one staff. some never fought other dogs most did get into at least one fight. usually amongst themselves when no one was home to watch them so we had to crate them individually when we left. we never had more then three dogs at one time though we mostly fostered them.

i currently have one american pitty and he does excellent with other dogs but that doesn't mean i am going to ever let my guard down around other dogs especially strange dogs and i always carry a break stick with me cuz you just never know what can go wrong. im not anxiouse or nervouse when he is around other dogs im just aware if the potential danger.

Service Dog Training - How to Prepare Your Dog

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training?

I have a pug that is five and he was potty trained, but now he likes to potty on my couch and bed when I am at work. I work little more than 8 hours a day, so he is home most of the day by him self. I am at the end of my rope and not sure what to do with him? I do not want to have to give him up, but I cannot have him using the bathroom on my bed or couch. Any advice would help.

Dog Training Techniques - The Fundamentals

Recommended Answer:
Crate him after making sure nothing is wrong with him, actually you can shut your bedroom door (I assume). Have you always worked, or did the hours change recently? Also there is doggie day care, I sometimes take my dogs, but not all the time. Twice a week at most. My dogs love to go. The other thing you can try is having a school aged kid come over and take the dog out and play with him and let him potty, to break things up for him. Then you could crate part of the day and not crate all day because the kid could either take the dog out of the crate or put him in when he leaves. Good luck!

Shock Collar Dog Training the Quick and Easy Way

• put him in a crate, vets and trainers highly recommend you do that from puppy..he won't piss where he sleeps, or hire someone to take him out during day..


• Kennel him when you are away. I have to do that with mine and he's 7.


• Sounds like the little dude is rebellious and wants you home and letting you know it. LOL If you have had this dog awhile and always have worked and this has just started...there could be a medical explanation for this too. You might want to take a stool sample to the vet and have it looked at. Talk w/your vet. Maybe you need to spend more valuable time w/him when your home. He is trying to tell you something here. Stop and analyze the situation and really put yourself in his paws to think what is causing it. Good luck.


• Don't let him eat or drink!


• If your dog just starting doing that, it means one of 2 things.
  He is very upset with you for not being home. Or he is getting older and is not able to hold it as long. You may have to come home on a lunch break and let him out to go to the bathroom. I have seen this both ways before. If he is just upset you need to spend as much time with him as you can. When you get home from work spend a good 1hour or 1/2 hour with him.
  
  I have trained dogs most of my life.


• Has your vet examined him to eliminate a medical problem? If he is physically OK then I would reccommend crating him while you are gone


• Is he crate trained? If not, I would try this. It sounds as though he needs a refresher course. You can also get a belly band to put around him. This acts like a diaper. If he wets in it, he will not like it and will quit.


• Confine him to an uncarpeted area of your home while you are away.


• Crate the dog while you are gone. Problem solved.
  He is not going to potty in his own bed.
  Or put him in a small room like he bathroom where he can not get to your bed or couch.


• Seems pretty simple. Confine him to a crate or the kitchen when you're not home. Also, have him checked by a vet to see if he has a bladder infection or any other medical reason why he can't hold it.

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Dog Health Questions: I want to start my own pet buisness. What should I do to start?

It's going to be a buisness of dog-training, dog & cat grooming, pet boarding, animal rescuing, and fish, birds & reptile sales. I'm planning on getting a professional dog-training cerficate within a year. What else should I do? Where do I start? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!

Dog Treats for Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
After getting your certificate, use it to earn as much money as possible doing your own private thing. After saving up a lot of money, lease out a decent-sized building and turn that into a buisness! Ask for help and support from trusted friends and family if you really need it. Also, lots of experience is best!

Old Fashioned Dog Training

• That sounds pretty hard but if you aren't going to do it where ever you live and you don't have somewhere to do it I would suggest trying to get a place to buy for it but you will have to save up it is pretty pricey. Just save up for ALOT of supplies and everything. Make a website when you have almost everything done. You need employees unless your just going to do it yourself. Start small and build up. Try to look up some dog styles for grooming buy some books maybe or look on the internet or just go to other groomer places and ask for some tips. You will need everything you got to do this it is a pretty big thing ya know. I hope I helped and I wish you luck! Maybe I will actually visit your place if you get it doing because my dog Harley is filthy and he needs a good groomer. Good Luck!!! ^_^


• start out small i personally believe your trying to start out way to big, do you have certifications in grooming? how many years of experience, how would you deal with a lice out break brought into your shop if you plan on grooming? getting an IPG cert would be a start for the grooming, and keep in mind, if your grooming and its only you, you have to be able to do them fast enough to make pay for your supplies and your time if you plan on making money from it. if you had outside groomers, what would your requirements be? how are you figuring their wages? half of what ever the shop charges is average "wages"


• just what ever u do don't gety your birds and repitles from mills such as rainbow exoitic pet

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training HELP!!! Is it too late?

I have a 3 year old male chihuahua that I got when I was still living with my parents. I recently moved into a house with quite a few roommates. He is currently still at my parent's house because I'm afraid that he will get out of the house/back yard at my new house and run away. Unfortunately, I did spoil him too much and the only command he obeys is "sit", and even then, that only happens when food is dangled in front of his face.
I understand that this is my own fault, I don't need any answers telling me that...I need some advice on what to do to train him. Is it too late with him being 3 years old?
What can I do to ensure that he doesn't run away if brought to the new house? The roommates are kind of oblivious to dogs, so I can't rely on them to watch him when I'm not home.

Dog Training For Dog Problems

Recommended Answer:
It's going to be a lot more difficult, especially with Chi's but it is possible if you're willing to put in the effort. You probably would want to enroll him in an obedience class at some place like PetSmart or Petco. They usually see dogs of all ages, so you shouldn't worry about that.
Remember while you are training him that YOU are going to need to have a very assertive and calm attitude. You are going to need to be the dominant one, you can't allow him to have any attitude that lets him be spoiled. You know that already.
As to the backyard, the best way to make sure that the back yard is safe is for you to get down back there and check for things like gaps in the fencem holes in the house that lead underneath the house, and out to the street, weak boards that he can paw his way through. Another problem could be the dirt underneath the fence. If it's just loose dirt, and no concrete, he could dig his way out. Check for that to make sure that he would not be able to dig into the neighbor's house, or dig his way onto the street.
Once you bring him home, if you don't have any dogs right now, your roommates could surprise you by taking an interest, or at the very least, making sure that they watch him to see if he runs away. Either way, even then, you would not leave him the ability to run away under the nose of your friends. Try placing reminders around the house that tells them to close doors, and watch out for your dog. It would help you, and would help them from experiencing any guilt over losing your dog.

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

• No, it is not too late. Train him like you would a new puppy. Start ALL over, even with the sit command. I'm guessing your new house doesn't have a fence, so I advise keeping him as an inside dog. If you don't trust them to watch him, hire a dog sitter.


• Dogs are absolutely capable of learning at any age.
  
  Enroll yourself and your dog in a training class. Keep him on the leash outdoors.


• about the new house.. put up a fence.. at least a small one..
  
  i dont think its too late to train your dog.. granted it might be harder and it might be more stubborn.. but i do believe it can be done!


• Hie thee to an obedience class forthwith!!! And when you're not home keep the little guy in a crate in your closed bedroom.
  
  Old Dogs Do Learn New Tricks!!!!


• Enroll both of you in obedience training..


• It is not too late, if he hasn't had obedience training it might be a good thing. He can be weaned off foodtreats over time even if he expects them all the time now. The only way to ensure that your dog doesn't escape while you are away is to crate him, he may have to learn the crate is a GOOD place,also he needs to be gradually introduced to your new roommates.
  You need to make the rules clear to your roommates about YOUR dog so every one is consistent. Clickers are just another type of reward that you use just before treating the dog after immediately catching him doing the thing you are trying to teach him. (My dog ignores it
  Trial and errlor. A good trainer should be able to help as you go. Good luck


• Dogs are learning new things all the time! I have three dogs around my house and none of them are professionally trained. For some obvious commands you always have to reward him with food, practically this is the most important thing for them. Just give them a reward every time you ask them to do something.. This is how they learn. I've got an old doggy and we have just finished practicing on "Eat your breakfast or else I'm putting it away!"
  Don't worry! I'm sure it will learn, even though he is three years old.


• You can train him now. Age doesn't really matter as much as everyone thinks but it will be harder because of the bad behaviors he already has imprinted on him. Find a good dog trainer to work with and be strong. It is very difficult to not give in but it is better for the dog and you in the long run to stay firm.
  
  Since he's moving to your new house adding new rules will be easier since his confidence level with be a little unbalanced and it will be easier to become the dominant one in the relationship. Make sure you start off right and continue on the right path.
  
  Taking care of Chihuahuas while you're gone can be a problem. Since you should never leave chihuahuas outside, you'll need to keep him inside somewhere. Can he stay in your room so none of your roommates let him out? If a dog wants to run away there is nothing you can do to prevent that behavior. Especially if you're roommates are bad about leaving the front door open. If he stays in your bedroom you'll need to provide him with a lot of entertainment and maybe make it so he can see out the window. Also, you'll have to have a way for him to get outside occasionally so he can go to the bathroom or you'll have to come home and walk him.
  
  After he gets a better attitude you may want to get him a buddy to keep him company while you're gone. Chis are always happier in a pack. In the meantime you may see if there are any doggie daycares in your area. That way he can play all day with the other dogs there and not get lonely and anxious being alone too much.

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Dog Health Questions: What is a good puppy training book?

My friend has a 3 1/2 month old puppy that is getting a little out of hand. I am certified in dog training, but she doesn't even know how to get him to come to his name. Does anyone know of any good books that cover: play biting, house training, down, and tricks. He is a mini Australian shepherd. This book needs to be detailed and very clear. This is her first dog and she has no idea what to do with him.

Dog Training Online - Inside Secrets of Professional Dog Trainers Revealed

Recommended Answer:
Most dog training books will be useful.

Dog Training - You and Your Dog

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Dog Health Questions: Dog Training, Do ultrasonic sounds work?

I have a very big puppy (if you don't believe me check out my other question it has pictures). He gets very excited to see people and jumps on them. I've tried a few things to correct this and people have been okay with it. But I'm not! He could hurt someone or they could just claim he did and he could be taken away. He's on a leash but he looks like a pit so when he jumps on someone or pulls me it could scare someone. I do allow him off the leash in legal areas to do so and he does comes to me but when other people come around he just has to greet them.
I'm considering getting something called Pet Zoom to fix this issue. It sends out a sound only animals can hear. Has anyone ever tried something like this? It's a pain free training method.

The Three Dog Training Mistakes You Should Avoid

Recommended Answer:
I have something similar, and it works with some dogs, but not with others.....I mostly use it when a dog does not respond to me telling him to stop barking.

I would think a properly fitted prong collar would be more effective for your purpose.

Service Dog Training and Selection - Train Dedicated Companions for Disabled People

• If i cannot hear it, how do i know it is working? Keep the dog on a leash at ALL TIMES until you have this trained out of him. A good knee to the chest usually works well if done right the first time and popping the leash when he is about to jump.

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Dog Health Questions: House break dog training?

I have a 2 month old puppy. Everytime I take it outside we spend about 30 minutes if not more and she doesn't potty, but as soon as we go back inside she goes potty in my place.

What techniques woud you suggest when it comes to house break training?

Thank you

Basic Dog Training Obedience - Puppy Behavior Tips

Recommended Answer:
If you're not already using a crate, I'd suggest you get one right away. Crate training is the simplest, and quickest way to housebreak a puppy. This webpage will give you a complete guide to crate training http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com/crate…

If your pup doesn't eliminate while your outside, put him back in his crate and try again in 15 minutes. Do this until she pees/poops outside. Then she gets supervised playtimes out of the crate.

Set up a regular schedule of feedings, naps, playtimes and potty breaks to help your pups digestive system settle into a routine. Then you'll have a better idea of when she usually really needs to 'go'.

Best of luck.

Secrets to German Shepherd Dog Training

• ha ha ha i am haunting you,you can run,but you cant hide..................................i'm coming for your children


• Stay outside however long it takes to have them do their thing outside and then praise them. This will condition them and each additional time you go out it will take less time. Also, if you are not already giving them specific feeding times then do so. This will allow them to have predictable times when they have to go. Leaving a food bowl down for whenever they want to eat makes the timing unpredictable.


• If you see your dog eliminating in an inappropriate area say, "Outside" in a sharp voice. The sharp tone of your voice will startle your dog and cause him to stop eliminating. Quickly walk your dog outside so he can finish there. When your dog has finished praise him. Do not punish him for eliminating in unappropriate areas. This will only make hold his bowel and bladder and hide while he is eliminating.


• Your puppy already owns the place... I found, with all of my dogs, when they are young they get their own little habitat. I purchased a puppy play pen and put their dish, favorite toy and small kennel inside leaving kennel door open. That is their space. I also put o blanket down under the play pen in case of accidents, although there were none. Dogs will almost never potty where they sleep. Talk to your puppy. All of my puppies, now grown, still potty on command. I told mine "Potty" for number 1 and " Get all done" for number 2. As ridiculous as it may sound, it has worked on 4 dogs over the course of 20 years. Bring puppy out to potty first and reward with playtime. My puppies even understood "Nap time" At nap time they go into closed door kennel inside play pen. Try a little bite of a treat every time your puppy goes potty outside and a lot of praise.


• She doesn't do her business outside because she doesn't know what outside is for. You need to show her what it's for. You might want to take her out every 2 hours. Put her on a feeding schedule so you know when it's time to poop. Take her out 30 minutes after each meal, first thing in the morning (and I mean first thing) right after waking from a nap and right after playing and then every 2 hours in between that. Take her outside on a leash if you can and walk her around. Use a command word like Potty Time or Quick Quick, keep her moving (this stimulates the bowls) take some tasty treats with you and keep her moving till she squats to pee, once she does praise her really well, get excited and give her a treat. Then once she's calmed down try for a poop. If she doesn't then bring her back inside, confine her to a crate or a small room and then try again in 30 minutes.
  
  Look for signs she needs to go, sniffing the floor, circling around sniffing, pick her up immediately to go out repeat above. Once she's done his business bring her back inside. Right now you need to teach her that outside is for your business and nothing else at this time. If you catch her in the act of going, clap your hands together say OUTSIDE in a loud voice to startle her, pick her up and take her straight outside to the grass to go, encourage her and when she goes praise and reward.
  
  If he has an accident in the house, note how long between the last outside excursion that she went so you can adjust your schedule accordingly. Clean up the mess and DO NOT PUNISH OR YELL at the puppy ignore this behavior. You see the puppy cannot distinguish the difference between the act of going or the mess on the floor. If you punish she will associate it with the mess on the floor and that will make her HIDE her poop from you or be afraid of ever going in front of you again. Imagine how hard it will make housebreaking if she is afraid to poop or pee in front of you outside because she's afraid he will get punished for it.
  
  Reward the behavior you want, IGNORE the behavior you do not want. Eventually she'll learn what makes you happy and will continue to try to please you, but you must show her what makes you happy by praising and rewarding the behavior you want, it works the same way for teaching tricks, if you don't you will have one confused dog.
  
  Pick up books in PetSmart on proper housebreaking techniques.

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training shock collars?

I need opinions from those who have used shock collars to help with the training of their dogs.

My dog is 8 months old, large and active. I would only use the collar for recall when we go off leash in the field, NOTHING else seems to be working. I have tried praise, treats, making excited noises, leash training, but if he sees another person, dog, or anything else, I do not exist anymore.
Now, I know some people are highly against these collars, and I do want your opinions too, but keep in mind, these shocks are NOT a high voltage, I have put it on my own hand, it is a small, low shock that simply gets their attention. I do not see what is wrong with that. I would never use it for barking or anything cruel, just for his own safety and for the sake of other people and dogs in the field.

I need advice on how to go about the recall training the right way, because I do not want to start off wrong.

Learn the Significance of Dog Training Courses

Recommended Answer:
I personally see No problem with some one using a shock collar when they know what they are doing. I think most people including myself have no Idea on how to use a shock collar effectively so I usually worn against it-
However, there is a guy who goes to the same park area I do to let his dog run and he uses a SUPER long lead. I assume it's rope- tied to his collar- and he uses that to train. He's out there every day and when his dog doesn't come back he just real in the line- I think it's a great idea- The dog feels free without actually being free to get away:)

Dog Training Aids - Get The Right Tools For The Job

• I am buying a remote training collar for recall training my Mini Aussie. I have tried treats, clicker training, praise, using a long rope, running away from her, and nothing works.
  
  What I'm going to do is start with her on a long rope and when I call her and she ignores me or tries to go in another direction, I'll give her a little buzz, then recall her again. Then when she gets good at recall, I'd use the collar for when she goes off line, so she doesn't try to herd anyone/anything.


• i have a amstaff terrier, big muscular dog with very high pain tolerance.
  it said on a website not to even use a shock collar on this type of dog because he prolly wouldn't even feel it lol. but i got one anyway because nothing else worked, when he went outside, and for walks.
  to keep him in the back yard, i simply watched him and when he got to a certain point of leaving the back yard, i hit the "beep" button wich only lets out a high pitch noise you can hear as well. at first he paid no attention to this and kept going forward, after he got to another point i would hit the shock button (and yes i have tried this on my self many times on all the levels) so after while i didn't have to shock him any more . he knew as soon as he heard the beeping noise to stop and turn around. and nowa days he can roam freely without any collar or leash in the yard because he knows. as far as walking goes back in the day i put him on a leash and the shock collar and when he would try and pull me to go after someone or a squirrel or etc... then i would "beep" him and that's all it took. now all this time i used treats when good, and voice commands as well. so now he doesnt need the collar at all. its all voice commands now.


• my dogs have an invisible fence all around the yard which they were trained on so that they know the boundaries of the property and how far they can go. The dogs first hear a beeping noise and then if they go too far they get a shock. I think that if the dog is smart enough it will rarely get shocked, because the dog will pick up what it can and can not do. I think that if nothing else works this is definitely a good idea.


• I read the answer you got from ashley and she is right. I've trained hounds for years on a nintey foot rope and a shock colar. It has been very productive. Like humans dogs also have their own mind. The smarter the dog the less you have to sting him or her. I've had dogs that it only took one time, no joke. Probably the worst took two weeks. Just remember dogs like treats and praise. So be sure to let them know good or bad. I also use voice commands for standard training. Keep the commands simple. No. At. Good. and so on. Once the dog learns the voice commands should take over.

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Dog Health Questions: Petsmart or Petco for dog training classes?

I took my little girl, Ruby, to beginner classes at Petsmart. I loved the classes and she is a very smart dog because of them. We recently got a little boy, Wyatt, and I want to take him to classes as well. However, I want my fiance to go this time, so that he understands better and can be fully effective in the dog training. The problem is, is that we work opposite shifts and we may have to go to Petco because Petsmarts schedule is very full until April.
What are your experiences with Petco and do you think it would be a good idea to go there? I really enjoyed Petsmart and am sad we won't be able to go there. If you have had training experiences with both that would be great!!

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

Recommended Answer:
As a professional dog trainer for over 16 years, I have to tell you my strong opinion that you AVOID these group classes for obedience training.

These pet warehouses are there to get you to buy their products and hang around their strore. And their trainers are their employees...never forget they have an agenda.

Most of the trainers have very little education--if they had actual training and skills they wouldn't be there making just over minimum wage--trust me on this.

But even if they did have experience and talent...a group setting is a terrible place for learning to take place. It's distraction training and it is the LAST phase of training not the first. You wouldn't have your child try to do their homework in a toy store, would you? Of course not...the level of distraction would be too high! It's the same with dogs.

Having said that, these classes can be an excellent way to socialize dogs...but not to train them.

And while they appear to be cheaper than a professional trainer...you have to attend many more sessions to get the same results because of the poor learning environment--so you wind up spending MORE money for less training than you would with a professional.

Save your money and go to someone who actually knows how to train dogs. OR, read books and try to train your dog yourself. There is nothing they train at a Petsmart or Petco that you can't do yourself with a couple of hours of reading.

Good luck.

Top 10 Successful Dog Training Tips

• first you schould go to bolth places and bring your dog and talk to the trainers and see if your dog likes it there. it is important that your dog is happy when you train


• I'd just start training him until they have an opening


• petsmart absolutely


• I am a Petsmart Trainer and our program is great. But I agree that you really need to meet your specific trainer. Not all trainers are created equally.
  
  Petsmart is trying to save lives of animals and prevent them going back to shelters by making training your dog affordable and fun.
  
  Avoid any "send away" camps....
  
  If you go with a private trainer... ones who "claim" they have more experience... just remember they are basing themselves off their own standards and don't always train in a correct and humane way.
  
  If they put a choke or prong collar on your dog right away... they are sadly mistaking on their training techniques.
  
  Socialization is a very important part of a dogs growth and development. And group classes are a great way for learning. I teach both group and private, and the group dogs always tend to do better!
  
  Look for reward based training programs and just remember... your dog cannot speak English and are probably smarter than you think.
  
  I am not sure about what Petco trainers must go through to become a teacher so do some research and ask questions!


• I would go and meet the trainers, before signing up for the classes, if possible. Also, watch the trainers during a session, to see if you agree with their training.
  
  I know that where I live, the Petco trainers aren't that great, especially one of them, which is just borderline abusive!


• The best thing to do if you are unsure about Petco is to meet with the trainer and ask questions that concern you. Also see if you can sit in on a class, even if it is without your dog. That way you can get a feel for their training techniques, since you are already familiar with Petsmart.


• I have never took my dogs to training classes, but I worked at Petco for several years during my teenage years. It doesn't necessarily matter which place you go to. You just have to look at the actual trainers. Because all use slightly different technics and won't be the same from store to store even if you compared to different Petco's to each other. With my experience from the trainer at my store they were very good. Good enough I have never had to enroll my own dogs in training classes because I picked up so many helpful tips I could do it on my own. I am pretty sure you will have a good experience no matter which store's trainer you will pick.


• i would go...meet the trainers or maybe sit in on a class and see if you like it...if you do i dont see a problem in going...
  
  i am planning to take my yorkie, Petey, there as soon as i can


• I don't think PetSmart does that. Try PETCO!


• I think it would all depend on the trainer, make sure you see good qualities in the new one like you saw in the old one. And you can train your dog at any time, i just saw on myth busters where they trained two 7 year old malamutes (who have the rep. of being stupid and impossible to train).

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Dog Health Questions: DS: Why dog training classes rarely address behavior issues beyond puppy/beginning classes?

I was just thinking and pondering that all the dog training classes I've seen no longer address behavioral issues pass beginning. Or do yours?

Is there a reason why most dog training places don't address correcting behavioral issues in classes pass beginning classes? Since behavioral issues will most likely also come up pass puppy months and/or a 8 week beginning course, why wouldn't they also address them in those classes? It's weird to me, because I would think they would continue to.

Given, intermediate and advance classes need a lot time to teach new cues/proof old ones but I think behavioral issues should also be addressed. I don't know. Any opinions or experiences?

A Look At Bird Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
i think the trainers kinda rely on the questions coming from the students.
if they don't have any problems and they are not asked to solve a question,
they don't go there.
my trainers always asked if someone has problems and/or questions.
i have dealt with 4 different trainers.
they adressed jumping, nipping and housebreaking.

Teaching Your Dogs The Basics Of Dog Training

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Dog Health Questions: Dog training - Vocal commands and hand signals?

For example, if you were training your dog to give his left paw and his right paw, what commands would you use and why?

Also, do you use hand signals as well? Or just vocal commands?

Puppy Dog Training For Obedience - How To Train Your Dog Puppy Properly

Recommended Answer:
I always use BOTH. But.. they usually respond to non-verbal commands better.
Even human do.. researcher tell us the 98% of communication between humans is non-verbal.

What You Should Know About Dog Training Techniques

• My dog learned faster for hand signals, so I started with hand signals and added commands later, I also did some clicker training, works amazing!!
  I use hand out and say paw for shake, hand slid back for crawl, hand up for sit and hand down for lay down, etc.
  My Mom uses completely different commands for her dogs tho, whatever works for you.


• I will usually teach Hand Signals and Voice Commands, and either use both, or one or the other when my dog has been trained to respond to the command.
  Because 'shake' isnt an Obedience command that you are going to get tested on- there is no right or wrong way to teach it.
  Some people prefer to have the dog shake hands like a human- i.e. Right paw to right hand.
  
  I generally just let the dog choose, but encourage the dog to reflect my hands (i.e. right hand, left paw because she is facing me)
  I dont have my dog trained to shake hands on voice command, because I like to add different words, so they work only on the hand signal.
  I love asking my dog 'do we have a deal?' and presenting my hand for her to shake.
  
  When you have the dog trained to touch each hand- rather than just the standart handshake, you can start to play 'patty cakes' with them, or train them to 'give 10' where they put both hands up.
  I like this with dogs that are prone to jumping up on people because it encourages their natural behaviour provided that it is under your control.


• IDK, the words/signal I give just kinda happens, I don't think about the cue too much.
  
  Hand signals first,then I add vocal. My sheltie responds to both.

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Dog Health Questions: What are your thoughts about "fear-based" dog training?

My ex and I have joint custody of a dog. We started using Barkbusters (www.barkbusters.com). Our dog experienced more anxiety (one of our biggest issues was separation anxiety). I had never heard the term "fear-based training". Now I am even more confused, as is our dog.

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

Recommended Answer:
"Fear-based dog training" went out with the stone age. No reputable trainer would use this method today! Find a new trainer ASAP and hope they can undo the damage that has been done. Look for a trainer that uses positive reinforcement (reward-based training methods -treats,toys,clickers,etc). Your dog will respond out of a desire to please you... that is their greatest motivator. Having said that, some aversion training can be effective if positive reinforcement does not work (this explains the unseen fence, citonella collars, spritzing the barking dog with water, etc.) But FEAR is something you NEVER want your dog to feel...ever!! Find a new trainer today!!!!!

Using a Dog Training Harness to Train Your Dog

• Fear based Training? Da . . . FEAR! how would you like someone to instill fear in you when you have a emotional problem already. You must seek help with someone who does not use fear or any sort of harm. But understanding and compassion.


• i agree with the others. Fear-based training is a terrible method. Instilling fear in your dog makes it more likey to 1. bite you 2. have anxiety towards visitors 3. be attacked by another do who could hurt/kill it.


• yes, pressure the dog until it bites you. how dumb.


• well just think about how a child would feel, if he was bad and he had to learn from somone scaring the crap out of him. its your call, but if barking is the problem, maybe fear isnt really the answer. good luck


• Well, 90% of dog bites are a response to fear, not aggression. So do you really want to instill fear in a dog? Probably not.
  
  Find a new trainer ASAP.


• Fear has no place in dog training..


• Fear based training is very very bad.

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Dog Health Questions: Police Dog Training Tactics?

Has anyone here been involved with police dog training. If so what were you able to learn from doing that? Anything that is being used for police dogs that I could benefit from as a dog owner?

6 Step by Step Instructions For Dog Training Preparation

Recommended Answer:
I am a grad student studying Vet & Animal Science. We train all types of service dogs. For the blind, elderly, disabled, hearing impaired, and many more. Its a great way to bond with your dog, improves obediance and sociallization skills. It is very time consuming, but if you have the time, its SO worth it. Anymore questions, feel free to e-mail me. GOOD LUCK:)

Hunting Dog Training Equipment

• My oldest son is a cop and he said they train their dogs commands in German. I guess since here in the US not many people speak it. The dog will only listen to German commands. Hope this helps?............Well thanks for the info Gang, I learned something new! I didnt know why for sure thats why I said "I Guess"


• Well geeeeeeeeee...how about BASIC OBEDIENCE???
  duh?
  
  & using German words for schutzhund is *just* tradition,st.lady. NOT gonna stop a TRAINED dog from chopping YOU or any other "bad guy"! I know hollering PLOTZ ain't gonna drop a dog in it's tracks!


• You may want to check into Schutzhund training - it sounds like something you may like: http://www.dvgamerica.com/


• I don't recommend that you train your family pet with police dog training tactics.
  If you want an obediant dog then there are many training websites that you could check out depending on the level of training you are interested in.


• Most use Schutzhund, a dignified German Police/Protection Dog Training Program.
  
  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schutzhund
  
  It involves bite work, scent discrimination, and protection work.
  
  It is not for everyone, but it is a highly prestigious and competitive dog "sport".

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Dog Health Questions: If I have multiple dog training sprays will my dog get confused?

Like if I have a spray to tell him not to pee there, and if I have one to tell him where to pee.

The Three Dog Training Mistakes You Should Avoid

Recommended Answer:
Take your dog out on a regular basis. Forget the "sprays". That is a lazy way of non-training a dog.

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

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Dog Health Questions: Where can i find dog training insurance?

i am trying to start a small time dog training business on the side, but want to make sure i am insured for my customers, and my safety and comfort. i have searched several times but am unable to find reasonable insurance, does anyone know where i can find any? thanks!

Clicker Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
I don't know specifically, but a good source of information would be other licensed trainers in your area. Google dog trainer or dog behavioralist for your area, and see if you can call somebody local who has a training business up and running.

Dog Training & Dog Obedience Guide

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