Dog Health Questions: Can someone with a knowledge of dogs help me?

I'm working on a psychology essay, and it relates to dog training. I just have a question or two about a dogs instincts.

Do dogs have a natural instinct to chase/retrieve? For example, if I were to throw a ball, does the dog at least have the instinct to chase down that ball and pick it up?

Dog Training With A Clicker

Recommended Answer:
Retreivers are bred for their natural instinct to retrieve.

Terriers and hounds are bred for their natural instinct to hunt (give chase).

If all dogs had those instincts, there would be no need to develop specific breeds to do that job.

I have one dog who will just look at you like you are crazy if you throw a toy or ball.

Career in Dog Training

• Dogs are a lot like modified wild animals. Their killing instinct, with most dogs, has been modified to perform a certain (arbitrary for survival, really) function. So with labs or golden retrievers, then yes, they are going to instinctively want to not only chase the ball but also to bring it back (retrieve). However, even wolf pups and other various canids will play with objects that are not prey: sticks, fabric blowing in the wind, and even balls.


• Dogs have a natural instinct to chase prey, which could extend over to a ball. Not all dogs have a natural instinct to retrieve if they were not bred to do so and some have to be taught/trained to do this. However, it's been said that a dogs natural instinct is to chase therefore if he won't come the trick is to run away from the dog kicking in his natural instinct to chase.
  
  So while I will say with 100% certainty that dogs have a natural instinct to chase I believe that only applies to "prey" or things that run, which may or may not be a ball or other inanimate object.


• Depends on the breed. Most dogs will take notice of a moving object. However some breeds will only chase and stop/give up once the object has stopped moving (think terriers or sight hounds) Other breeds will chase, pick up and bring back (think retrievers) Other breeds will try to stop the object from moving (think herding breeds)
  
  Some dogs just cant be bothered to do any of the above and will just sit and watch. A lot also depends on how a dog is raised. Spaniels trained to the gun stop anytime an object moves


• Different breeds have different levels and types of prey instinct that makes them chase moving objects. All dogs have some prey instinct but dogs bred for hunting or killing vermin or reacting to sudden movement such as herding dogs have more prey drive than dogs bred to be strictly companion animals like many of the toy breeds. Retrieve is trained. Bringing back the object is not necessarily instinctual.


• the actual instinct of the dog is just to chase something for it to eat it afterward
  (like a pray)
  
  the human trained the dog to bring it back and the dog was doing that because he knew he would get treats
  
  so the answer is no, the instinct is just to chase and catch


• Most dogs do, but that instinct is greater or lessened depending on the breed. Certain dogs are bred to chase (Foxhounds, for example) and will be much more keen to go after something than a dog that's bred to sit around and be pretty.


• Depends upon the breed of the dog; if it is a 'toy' dog or lap dog type breed, then their prey drive will likely not be as intact as their working or sporting class cousins.


• Go to akc.org and look up what different breeds were created to do. Not all dogs fetch, retrieve etc. mostly it's in the breeding.


• It really depends on the dog, but most dogs would probably chase anything that moves, might not bring it back to you but will probably give chase!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dangerous Dog hearing tomorrow?

Okay I know I've posted a question about this before but a lot of you who answered were asking for more details. My dog Jake bit someone a few weeks ago when I was walking him. I was about 18 weeks pregnant at the time but still very capable of walking him. He saw these boys tossing a football and for some reason he started barking at the boy who was closest to us. He lunged and pulled me down (i was walking my other dog as well) and got away from me and bit the boy. The bite was bad enough to need stitches but the boy is okay and the family isn't suing me. Jake has never done anything like this before. This is the first time. Tomorrow I have to attend a "dangerous dog hearing" because I was given a choice.....either put him to sleep or attend this hearing. I was going to put him to sleep but could not go through with it. I've raised this dog from a puppy and I know he's not a bad dog. I am willing to do everything possible to get him help and to make sure it never happens again. I have bought him a muzzle already and if the hearing goes well i'm going to be paying 400 dollars for training. I know a lot of you are going to say "think of your baby that you're going to have" and I am that's why i'm going to get my dog training. My question about the hearing is....what should I expect? I've never been to any kind of hearing before. I'm really scared they're going to force me to put Jake down. I don't want to do that because I love him and care for him very much. I live in the state of Texas. I have walked my dogs hundreds of times and have been around many different type of people and neither of them have ever even shown a sign of aggression towards anyone. I know how serious it is though. I am willing to accept the consequences of what happened....even if it means being forced to put him down....I'm allowed to bring evidence to the hearing. I have a few pictures of Jake and a baby I used to babysit for and also pictures of him and my friend Venessa. I'm also bringing in the muzzle I bought for him to show them I'm taking precautions. I am so scared so if you have any kind words and or advice please let me know. (and I don't need any negative responses please. I'm dealing with this and my husband is in iraq and i'm pregnant....so its very stressful already).

Understanding the Differences Between Various Dog Training Courses

Recommended Answer:
Relax, and don't worry - this will hurt your unborn child. Surrender your anxieties to God, and allow Him, trust Him, to work things out on your behalf. I'm not just saying this because I'm a sympathetic grandpa, but because I actually know that it will work for you.

It doesn't seem as though anyone's going to hurt you or your dog. You have a good attitude and it will come out in court, I'm sure.

Be sure to mention to the judge that your husband is in Iraq; he will sympathize with your situation, I feel.

Good luck to you, say a prayer, and I will include you in mine. God Bless.

The Shocking Truth About Electronic Dog Training Collars

• Shanna has a really good answer\
  Im really sorry about your dog....


• All you can really do is show them what you plan on doing to prevent it from happening again. Pictures of the dog with certain people don't mean much because pretty much every dog can get along with at least some people.....what they want to see is what have you planned as prevention. Do you have a fenced, secure yard? If so, bring pictures. If you plan on having the dog go through training, have a letter from the trainer you plan on using stating that you have them lined up to use their services and have the trainer outline their plan for working with this dog. Bring the muzzle, and any other training tools you plan to use. You need to have everything planned and mapped out, from how you plan to exercise the dog without people getting hurt to how are you going to deal with people coming to your home without getting hurt....etc. These are all questions they may ask and you need to have an answer ready. The more prepared you are, the better the chance that things will go your way.
  Good luck.


• I definitely remember your story, and also many of the awful responses you were given. I am so pleased to see you back here with an update. After your question was removed, I was very worried for you and the tough road ahead. That said, I think you have done all that you can do and you just have to trust that justice will prevail.
  
  In addition to very specialized training, I would also tell them that you are willing to have him evaluated by a behaviorist to determine if he is temperamentally sound. I just hope that whatever decision is reached will be in the best interest of Jake, yourself and also that baby in your tummy. If it is determined that he is a dangerous dog, take heart in knowing that you did exhaust all resources available to you and did not just give up on Jake at the first sign of trouble. You have been very strong through this, especially considering what a full plate you have had to deal with.
  
  Best of luck, and please let us know how it works out!


• i am so sorry for you your dog was protecting you and you should make sure the judge knows that with your husband gone to iraq and you being preggers your dog is more protective and not normaly that way i cant beleive they pressed charges good luck god bless you


• I'll try to highlight the positives here, but to ask people to 'shut out' the rest isn't very realistic.
  This is the first time he's ever bitten, so that's good. But he bit hard enough to require stitches, which isn't good. Dogs that aren't 'serious' will rarely inflict deep wounds. But let's assume that this is just a case of the dog mistaking the boy's football throwing as a threatening gesture, and that he may in fact have felt protective of you. Now you know what to watch for and in the future can not only muzzle him on walks, but avoid situations. Often dogs will react differently with teen males and men than with other people and children. They seem to have a sixth sense that men pose a greater threat than women and kids.
  What you have to face is a temperament assessment of your dog to determine whether this was a bit of a freak occurance, or whether he's showing signs of being overly suspicious and aggressive.
  It's a bit late now, but ideally you should have an experienced behaviorist/trainer evaluate him and take him/her to testify at the hearing.
  Now, many dogs who are overly protective with strangers can be FINE with their own family members, including children. But this isn't something you should take a chance with. You love your dog and if you weren't expecting a child, you might be able to promise the dog will be trained and muzzled whenever you walk him, and that would be good enough. But you have to go into that hearing and whatever expert assessment they may present, with an open mind and 'big picture' mentality that your responsibility to your dog comes second to your child's safety, and even that of your community.
  So, stay calm, prepare a written statement to read rather than 'winging it', because nerves are not your friend at a time like this. Answer all questions truthfully and let your willingness to do what's right come through while conveying your desire to give the dog a second chance.
  If you do win at the hearing, please, please follow through with training and temperament assessment.
  Good luck!


• I'm not sure what to expect. I've never gone through one. But make sure to tell them you're willing to muzzle him and have him go through classes, etc.
  
  My mom's sheltie did something similar, and I know with that dog it was herding instinct. She seen the kids running away and wanted to bring them back towards the house. Nothing came of it but I don't think anyone reported it...I live in hickville USA though so who knows.
  
  Good luck and let us know how it goes, I really hope things come out good for you and Jake!!
  edit:
  
  I just wanted to add I think it's freaking AWESOME that you're sticking up for your dog. I have seen so many people just put it to sleep because they'd rather not. You're alone and pregnant and yet here you are doing the right thing and standing up for him. Way to go and if it does turn out bad, just remember you did your best.


• Honestly, you've already got the right idea. Do absolutely everything you can do to stress that you have a trainer lined up, have purchased and use a muzzle in public situations, and intend to do everything in your power to correct the behavior.
  
  If I were in your position, I would also say that I believe that the dog was protecting me due to the pregnancy. Some perfectly docile dogs will become very protective and territorial when their mistress is pregnant. Especially because your husband is gone, your dog may be feeling the need to protect you even more so.
  
  I would also try to tug on some heartstrings by saying that the dog and the baby will be all you have until your hubby gets back from the war. Nothing wrong with trying to get the sympathy vote!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Can I take him to the dog park?

We have a 2 year old Boxer/Pitbull mix who has grown into his terrible habits - he has become very food aggressive towards my other two dogs and during walks he lunges and barks at other dogs.

This all JUST started, last year we were able to walk him, he pulled but didnt bark or whine when we saw other people.
AND he was GREAT at the dog parks - we just stopped going around August becuase of a wedding and weather.
He just finished dog training class where he actually had to be blocked off from other dogs in the class because he would park at them (he was tethered to the wall). I'm not sure if he is really dog aggressive or just wants to play. The trainer wants us to hire a behaviorist but I am wondering if the dog park will help him be more social and not so crazy when he see's other dogs.
Just proof to show you he was at the park here he is with other dogs he was about a year old.
http://www.prodoggroomingsupplies.com/dog-forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=29835&d=1246016310

Its awfully frustrating because he is so smart in the class - he does all the tricks and obstacles well its just the other dogs that distract him. We aren't allowed to more forward till he deals with his self control.

The Worth of Dog Training

Recommended Answer:
No way can you take your dog to the park while he is acting out like that,he could hurt another dog or child,then you will have a lawsuit to deal with.Get him a trainer that specializes in behavior..

Dog Training Advice - Tips That You Can Use

• Don't take him to the dog park if he cannot behave reliably, it would really annoy me off to find a badly behaved and potentially dangerous dog milling around and causing trouble. You'd need a harness to stop the lunging and a muzzle to stop any aggression (say if another dog gets a treat).
  The trainer is passing the buck and I expect the behaviourist will pass it back to you.


• You already asked this question and got some very good answers. Why are you posting again?
  
  http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;…
  
  It doesn't matter whether you posted it in the UK section or not. If your dog is dangerous and aggressive, it doesn't matter what country you're in. Don't take it to the dog park.


• No!
  
  Please read:
  http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.p…
  http://www.pitbull-chat.com/showthread.p…


• You already asked this question, regardless of if you posted it to the UK website it still shows up all over on Y/A! as I'm in the US and answered it previously.
  
  http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;…


• Do not subject other owners and dogs to your dog's poor behavior. Get a behaviorist.


• No, don't take him to the dog park if he might be aggressive with other dogs.
  
  You are aware that dog aggressiveness is a trait of pit bulls and that a pibble or pb-mix who gets along with other dogs as a pup and 1 year old can become progressively aggressive with other dogs?
  
  For the record, I am NOT slamming pit bulls. I am just saying that some pits become dog aggressive when they hit the 18month to 2 1/2 year stage. I would have him checked out and observed by someone who KNOWS dogs and pit bulls in particular and see if this is something quirky or a inbred trait that you are going to have to address.


• I would have to say no. Don't take your aggressive pit bull mix to a dog park. It's not good or fair for the other dogs that are being good.
  I took my dog to the vet last week and another lady was in there with her Cocker Spaniel and he was very nervous and jittery. She said he had been attack at the dog park by another dog and had been this way ever since.
  So if you think this could possibly happen DON'T take him. It's just not fair to other dogs that are being good.
  A dog park is for dogs that are friendly with people and other animals because they obviously wont be leashed. Your dog with its aggressive tendencies could very well hurt another dog or someone. I wouldn't do it.


• Well my pit is a lil aggressive over her food and bones also but she has a blast at the dog park. I can't tell you why he might of changed, did you get a new family member of some sort or lose one animal or human, i know that effects some dogs pretty bad, they are also keen on your emotions. have you been stressed or upset before he reacts by lunging and barking? But my suggestion with the dog park is take him, but, keep him on a leash walk around the park calmly and allow other dogs to approach, do NOT allow a group of dogs to come up to him at once shoo them away or something the reason i say that is because he can get over whelmed and feel trapped which will make him react aggressively, barking doesn't always mean they're being aggressive. If he starts growling and flashing his teeth take him away from that dog take his attention somewhere else and let him know everything's alright. If he's doing well go to a spot in the park that doesn't have a whole lot of people around and let him off the leash. be sure he comes when you call him.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Can a Pit Bull be a good family dog?

I recently adopted a 10 week old female spayed Pit Bull. We have a 5 year old son and 1 cat. Most of what I heard is that they can be great dogs if raised well. I have only heard a couple of horror stories about the dogs turning on either the owner or another animal, but I don't know all the details of where they came from. I plan to socialize her as much as possible and attend dog training soon. Just looking for some experiences to ease my mind......

How to Begin a Dog Training Career

Recommended Answer:
Yes, they are the "best" family dogs in my opinion.

They are bred to be human friendly so aggression towards family members is only found in this dog if the dog was badly bred, not properly socalized or not taken care of. Secondly, they are the Second most versatile dog bred in the world so they can deal and live happily in almost any situation or home setting, apartment, farm...ect

These dogs are also wonderful with children, and thats where they get the nickname the nanny dog from. Overall wonderful dog to have in a family setting, but it takes a lot of time, patience and determination to train/socalize such a powerful bred, if you dedicate the time do to that, you good to go.

Do You Need Dog Training Tools When You Train Your Dog?

• Yeah, it'll be a great family dog. If you come near it's puppies, it'll chew you to bits. :) Seriously though, I don't know about having a pit bull around a five year old. Everything I've heard about pit bulls has been negative. People who have actually had them can probably give you better insight then I can though.


• She should be fine. Just work on socialization and obedience training early and often, and don't encourage her to play aggressively (no wrestling or tug-of-war). Enroll her in a puppy class where she can get used to other dogs and get started on obedience. Establishing dominance through training and walks is important. She needs to know her place in the pecking order, and that you (and especially your son) are her pack superiors. The more that's entrenched in her mind, the less likely she'll be to challenge your authority and act out.
  
  Shelters do pretty intensive temperament training with dogs before they adopt them out, especially with pit bulls. This isn't foolproof, obviously, but the fact that they allowed her to be adopted out should be a fairly solid indicator that they saw no evidence of aggression or territoriality during temperament training.
  
  My eye did stop when you said she was 10 weeks old and already spayed. That seems awfully young to me (my puppy was fixed at six months), but...*shrugs*


• "I have only heard a couple of horror stories"
  
  You're a bright one, aren't you? A great parent at that. In the town next to us, a five year old boy went outside where the pit bull was sleeping, scared the pit bull and ripped out his jugular. It is their natural reaction no matter how you raise them. They can be the sweetest dogs, yes, but they react differently then say a golden retriever.


• its not what you want to hear but no, i dont think it would be a good idea.
  
  unfortunately a majority pitbulls tend to be owned by thugs to give them an a certain image, they dont treat theyre dogs well and in most cases train them to attack or kill. because there have been a lot of cases like this pitbulls are now illegal in the uk so if someone notices the breed and informs the authoritys the dog is taken and put down. (i know your from the USA.. just a little bit of extra info for you).
  
  personally i wouldnt have a young child and a pitbull (as most these stories suggest the dog was fine until it suddenly snapped and attaked) but if thats what you choose to do make sure your son is never left alone with the dog.
  
  btw google image pitbull and see how much muscle they carry, if your dog were to latch on to your son you wouldnt be able to get him off... plus i think they look evil anyway, try a friendly loving dog like a labrador. also if youve never had a dog before theyre one of the easiest breeds to care for
  
  and to the user "eyes of a warrier" its a staffordshire bull terrier thats the nanny dog, not a pitbull, your talking rubbish.
  x


• From what I saw last night NO
  
  My 6 month pup sniffed a pit bull and it bit down on his nose and would not let go.
  I had to kick hard in the head then the pit bit another man that was trying to help.
  Absolutely not be trusted. Dangerous dogs.
  
  Get a Golden retriever and don't even second guess your question.


• they CAN BE a great family dog under the circumstance that he sees NO OTHER dogs
  pitbulls have a history as fighting dogs but they can be sweet but they can turn on you in a snap
  he may hurt the cat


• A well bred American Pit Bull Terrier can be a great family dog.
  
  As dogs of bulldog and terrier lineage that were selectively bred throughout their history as fighting dogs,the potential for dog/animal aggression and prey drive are high.Animal aggression is independent of and does not evolve into human aggression.
  
  Should be friendly and outgoing with all people.Human aggression is out of standard and should never be accepted.
  
  Very high energy dogs that require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.Without it they can be easily bored and become destructive.
  
  Eager to please,easy to train if they have a firm consistent owner.
  
  Not a breed for the first time,novice or meager dog owner.
  
  More info can be found here:
  http://www.pitbull-chat.com/forums.php


• Just to start out... I am a pit bull owner and I have a 1 year old son. I also have a 3 year old schnauzer mix and a 1 year old schnauzer mix.
  
  I want to start out by giving you some heads up on what they are like to own. Or what my experience with Stella, my pit bull was. In the puppy stage, she was high energy. She always wanted to play with her toys, was always up for a walk, wanted to chase a ball, wanted to run in the yard, she liked to dig holes in the yard, always wanted to just go, go, go. She's now 3 years old and has calmed down a bit, but it took probably about a year just to get her out of the "puppy stage."
  
  As far as whether they make good family pets, the answer is a resounding yes from me on one condition. That condition is that you are the pack leader. You are the one in charge. You are the one who tells her where to go, what to do, when to eat, when to go outside, and how to play. Believe me, dogs love this. Having a dog that has to make all these decisions and has to protect his pack too makes him nervous and unhappy. Which are feelings that make him unstable. If you are not the pack leader, the dog will assume the position and feel like it's his job to protect you and your family, stressful for a dog.
  
  Socialization and dog training are wonderful steps to having a lovely pit. Just be sure you pay close attention in training. I've found that training is more for the pet owner because if you have a stable dog, he'll do whatever you tell him to.
  
  Now, with that out of the way... Let me tell you about some of the perks to having a pit as a family dog as opposed to my schnauzer mixes... Pits are breed partially and unfortunately, to withstand pain. My one year old can pull Stella's tail, pull her hair, put his hands in her eyes, push on her... (pretty much everything a one year old would do...) And Stella takes it like a champ. She just sits there and lets him do whatever he wants, as opposed to my other two dogs who basically just run from my son. They see him coming and quickly maneuver themselves to another room or a higher place on the couch while Stella will sit with him on the ground all day and let him try to figure her out. My son has even grabbed a hold of her neck and jawls only to have her lick him.
  
  Keep in mind though, that she has been trained, socialized, and is not the pack leader in my home.
  
  The only problem I'd foresee with having a pit, is that they do get big, but they always think they should be able to sit in your lap, and cuddle with you on the couch. An 80 pound pitbull does not make a good couch napping partner seeing as though she takes up at least one whole cushion herself.
  
  With the right training, socialization and exercise, you will find your new addition to be one that you never knew how you lived without.
  
  Good luck with your 80 pound lap dog. :)


• Ummmm, I've never heard of a nice pit bull. In fact, your hear all the time of where children accidently were killed/mauled by a pit bull. It is GENETIC with them. Even if they are raised with the best owners, they always always have this in them.
  
  I work in a pediatric ER and have seen kids faces RIPPED OFF by dogs............
  
  Please give this dog to a no kill shelter and get a safer breed for your 5 year old. You know how kids are, they are bound to do something to anger the dog, taking a treat away, anything.
  
  PS..............did you know that your homeowners insurance will probably drop you? There are certain breeds of dogs they do NOT allow.
  Some dog breeds make premiums go UP and some they will cancel you. Think about it. Your kid has a play date and your Pit Bull kills or mauls your kids friend ?? The parents are gonna sue you and take everything you have and your homeowners insurance is NOT gonna pay.


• I believe that pitbulls are one of the best family dogs around! We had two when my son was born. One was rescued at about a year and a half old(in terrible condition) and the other was on her way to being sold as a fighting dog, when my husband bought her. She was 6 months old at the time. My son came along a few months later.
  
  Pitbulls(Am Staffs, Staffy Bull Terriers, Pit Bull Terriers) are well known for their undying loyalty, high level of emotional intelligence and high pain tolerance. All of these combined with socialization and consistent, fair discipline make for an exceptional family dog.
  
  Jazz, the female, was 'game bred,' had lots of energy and a very strong prey drive. Kato, the male, was far more laid back and usually just wanted to cuddle. Although our dogs had very different personalities, they were both wonderful with our son, especially when he was a toddler! As a clumsy and rough toddler, he often walked on, fell over poked or pulled on the dogs(usually on accident) and they never growled or snapped at him. He even ate some of their food right out from under them once, and they just sat back... a little confused.
  
  As far as other animal, however, it would be best to be very careful and never leave them alone with other animals -just in case.
  
  Kato(70 lbs) was submissive when he was rescued and for several years after, but when he was about 5, he became dog aggressive. From then on, he had issues with most other males. He was terrific around cats though. In fact, he helped us foster more than a dozen kittens throughout the time we were blessed with him. He was never aggressive toward people. He once growled at a large drunk man who scared me and he once peed on a man who had been smoking crack (I guess it reminded him of a previous bad encounter from before he was rescued?). He was often surrounded by neighborhood children and was a real champ despite their loud, erratic, and occasionally rough play.
  
  Jazz(60 lbs) always had very strong prey drive and was never trustworthy with other animals, such as cats or birds. She was fine with other dogs until about a year after my ex took her(4 yrs old?). Now she is ok with some dogs, but not others. Jazz has always been a people lover. She used to get a little too excited and butt bump my son sometimes, knocking him off balance.
  
  It is very possible that our dogs got dog aggressive because we slacked off on keeping them socialized with other dogs. I don't know.
  
  Please keep in mind a few things: Pitbulls have been bred for a very long time to never be aggressive toward people, but to be aggressive toward dogs. It is very likely that at some point you will face a dog fight. Train her, socialize her, have a breaking stick and don't take unnecessary chances. Many pits never get dog aggressive. Many pits live very happily with cat and never have problems. Make sure [for the rest of her life] that any human can take her food, treats, toys and personal space with out a problem. Be consistent and fair in your discipline. Love her as she loves you. Finally, BLESS YOUR HEART for giving that little pit a loving home!


• Every dogs temperament can be different from genes, to its parents temprament, or how it it raised. I own a pit bull and both of his parents were friendly dogs. When the mother of my dog had her pups she let us go near them(us, meaning the people she knew) but when another dog approached her litter, she jumped at him. thats just pit bulls sense to protect, as well as any other dog. My pit bull is very friendly and hyper like his parents. If you socialize the dog with humans since a pup there should be no worries, unless you're abusive towards him. You will need to train your dog to sit and not jump. besides that they like to please their owners. good family dog, will protect the house, can sense when something is wrong.


• All dogs can be a family dog if they are raised right. As shes young she should be fine. Just make sure you set boundaries and she knows shes at the bottom of the "pack". The dog training and socialising is a great idea do it as soon as you can.


• I would not want a pit bull with a child - just my opinion but the breed is not trustworthy.


• Not being mean at all but you should always research the breed before adopting the puppy. In answer to your question, pit bulls are amazing family pets and excellent with children! What is most important when having a dominant breed like this is to immediately establish yourself as the pack leader. Always use CALM and ASSERTIVE energy. Things to nip in the bud right away are nipping, jumping, food aggression.
  
  As for nipping, is he nips make a "yelp" noise. This will startle him and he will probably stop, If that doesn't work when he nips, replace your hand with a toy but do NOT quickly pull your hand away, more freeze up.
  
  As for jumping. If he jumps on you immediately turn your back to him. After a few weeks at most, he will get the point that jumping gets him ignored.
  
  The proper way to feed your dog is to make them sit and "focus" on you. He needs to look in your eyes. This will make him realize that you are the one who feeds him. Sometimes people just put it on the floor and the dog will begin to become food aggressive. NEVER do this.
  
  Another things is to remember the order you must do things in order to be a good pack leader. This is the order:
  
  1) exercise
  2) discipline
  3) affection
  
  We tend to do affection, affection, and more affection, but our dogs actually want guidance and structure. One last thing. Never give free treats. Always make the dog work for his rewarding (including petting as this is a reward) So example, ask for a sit and when he complies reward him with a treat
  
  This is a good start for you. Best of luck and congratulations on your new addition to the family.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: The Dog Whisperer?

Why does it seem like everyone here is suddenly promoting Ceaser Millan's training methods?

Millan uses a very old form of dog training- positive punishment. He is giving the dog something it does not like (IE: taping, alpha rolls, etc. etc.).

In all honesty, his methods are not only out of date, but also downright dangerous. I've seen little old ladies trying to give their giant breed dogs an alpha roll because it playfully nipped at the maltese it was playing with. Are you people kidding? The answer to every problem is NOT "your dog is being dominant". The only real pack leader replacement is another dog! YES you can be a part of your dog's pack. YES you can communicate with your dog. But don't fool yourself into thinking that you can give your dog "alpha rolls" every fifteen seconds and expect it to have any self-respect.

What you see on camera and what really happens are two COMPLETELY different things.

So, what method of training do you use?

Electronic Dog Training Collars - Should Your Dog Wear One?

Recommended Answer:
The power of TV and celebrity. It's a shame really. Not only are his methods outdated but the whole concept of pack hierarchy was based on studies of captive wolves, which as it turns out do not behave like wild wolves.

I also think that Cesar's technique fit in well with the way westerners think of relationships in general. Someone's on top and someone isn't, someone is the leader and someone is the follower. Not that that isn't true in some cases but to base relationships with an entire species on this foundation means that people see dogs' behaviors as challenges rather than what they most likely are, patterned reactions to a certain set of stimuli or just basic doggie opportunism with no agenda or challenge involved.

So while the guy has good instincts and can handle dogs his training methods and worse, his diagnosis of problems, provide more reasons for people to hurt and scare their dogs. And yes, scaring a dog can change its behavior, so people see that, not the underlying body language that shouts, I'm doing what you want, but I'd rather run and hide! Dogs aren't thinking when they're afraid and so changes in behavior will not likely 'stick' when the pressure is taken off of them.

I have heard that he's making some changes and has actually encourages people to books by trainers like Jean Donaldson and Patricia McConnel, Ian Dunbar, etc.

www.fearfuldogs.com

Dog Training - How to Handle Outdoor Dog Training

• ....Thus, the disclaimer at the bottom of the screen at the beginning of every episode.
  
  I use his method, and have never had better trained dogs (5 of them). My family is EXTREMELY dog-centric and we are very tuned into our animals, and can see that our approach is working. People on walks comment on how well-behaved and happy our dogs look.


• His concept is completely sound.
  His methods are crude.
  It's a TV show for masses.
  IMHO, better than nothing for many dog "owners"


• I have never seen him alpha roll a dog.. He makes them lay on their side til they forget about what they were worked up over.. He gives them a slight tap in the rear w/ his foot to get their attention.. Break their focus on what ever it is that has their attention.
  
  There are many things that he does that are great.. There are things he does that he shouldn't be showing on tv, and making people think that just anyone can do that..
  
  Just like any trainer out there.. there are good things and there are things that not everyone would agree with or not everyone should practice.. He has helped alot of people understand their dogs more.. Just the mere fact that he tells you that DOGS ARE DOGS is a benefit and a value..
  
  He has his place... just like everything else.


• I use Cesar's methods and not only do I rule my 4 dogs my 5 cats do also.


• I agree with the first answer, while I personally have never used alpha rolls, nor do I promote them specifically, Cesar's approach to training is right on the money. You CAN be the leader of your family's pack, and there are different ways to get there, but it definitely creates a more harmonious living situation and more trainable dogs. I don't believe anything he does endangers himself or the dogs, and he DOES say that he doesn't suggest you try any of that stuff at home. He also doesn't ever say that every problem is related to the dog being dominant; just as often the dog is not dominant, but is fearful because nobody else is showing dominance either, and it doesn't know who to follow.
  
  Everybody is always going to have their own take on Cesar, but personally, I think he's a genius, and I'd love to meet him someday.


• I treat them with respect and firmly tell them no when they do something they should not. When they do something good i pet them and give them a treat. After a month or so they start to act in the manner you wish with out and positive or negative reinforcement.


• We watch the Dog Whisperer over here and have some of the dvds too. It has helped us quite a bit. I cant use some of his techniques because they are too harsh for my sensitive big guy but people need to be smart enough to pick and choose methods that seem to suit their dog's needs. A lot of his philosophies have really helped us over here and we do have a beautifully behaved English Mastiff. I think it is more important for dog owners to realize that there is probably not one method that will apply to their dog but many in combination.


• well I like the dog whisperer because I learn alot about different dog breeds. And I like SOME things he says, like to use more exercise to fix any behavioral problems, thats simple and I found it worked with mine..and better than any thing harsh or using drugs to calm the dog down or something.
  I did try that dog roll thing when my puppy was in that puppy biting stage, and it was NOT a good idea definately. She saw that as just more struggling. i think only professional dog trainers should do the puppy roll thing. or in some cases if you have to break up a dog fight?
  One more thing I like about the dog whisperer is he says dogs live in the present, i found that to be true and something helpful to remember.
  But yeah I agree his methods arent for every dog or dog owner, and i like positive reinforcement better.
  
  Whoops one more thing i learned and liked about dog whisperer is watching for clues of bad behavior/fixation and stopping it before something bad happens.
  
  but yeah when i see someone answer a question with Just "watch dog whisperer" thats kind of annoying


• Although his methods may be out of date, they certainly do work. I totally disagree with you on your idea of the only real pack leader replacement is another dog. When you decide to adopt or purchase a pet, you are assuming responsibility on that animal, thus becoming it's caregiver. You are the one that has to train it to listen to you and follow your commands. You provide food for your pet, provide shelter, and water. I believe that in the wild this is what the alpha or pack leader also does. Hence, you are the alpha pack leader as your pet depends on you to provide all his needs. As for the comment on giving your dog "alpha rolls" every 15 secs., this shouldn't be necessary if you have a dog who is well trained, and loyal to you. Everyone has their own opinions of things, and I respect your opinions on Mr. Millan, however, don't try and push your believes off on others.


• While I don't completely agree with some of his methods, being 'top dog' in my house has gotten me out of some pretty sticky situations.
  I have brought dogs into my house (rescues) and put them in their place by standing over them and ignoring them until they came to me for attention.
  I can also back down my dogs by walking up to them and using a certain tone of voice w/o ever touching them.
  One of my dogs, will not roll over on command b/c he is trying to maintain some sort of dignity, but the other does it almost immediately (especially if there is food involved).
  Honestly, I am the pack leader, and I am not afraid to reassert this leadership roll if I have to!


• i agree with u. people here say "call cesar millan he will come and help u" for every training problem. his methods r very outdated. i dont use them. never have never will. i use my own methods of training my dogs. i figure out ways of training my dogs. and if i am having problems i call a trainer IN MY AREA that i can actually contact and talk to about my problems. sure some people think that watching the show is going to help them with their problems but in the end nothing beats a trainer u can go see for urself and meet in person that will actually help u


• I don't use his method for training, since it isn't a training method. I use it to modify behavior and it works if you actually "get" how to do it. I'm not on camera,,but it still works like magic, in almost not time at all. I am able to groom dogs now with no muzzle or fuss, when before they were impossible to give a good smooth haircut, and constantly snapped and bit. I never have to resort to laying them down, and since they don't belong to me, I would never get physical. I only use the 'energy' part, and it is amazing how it works. My personal dogs had no issues with actual training, but now when I go in to feed, I don't have to rush in the gate so they won't rush out,,,and they sit down and wait for me to pour food. I don't really care about the camera parts, or how much money he's making, the fact that it works for me in convincing enough. I don't however believe that everyone can grasp what he's saying. Like maybe you. But for the people who understand, it really is working. To each their own.
  
  As for actual training (sit,stay,heal etc) I use repetition,example and reward with affection . I don't use food,baby talk or treats, nor do I hit and smack or yell.


• I am very fortunate. My dog will wash the car if there is a Milk Bone in it for him!
  
  I have always used the repetitive approach for sit, stay, settle, wait - the basic commands. I have also used this for teaching "get the ball", "Where's your baby", and things like that. Work with them about 10 minutes a day, and after a few days, they know what you want. As soon as they get one command down, add another. Then, be sure you "review" every so often. I have trained many dogs this way, except for one Jack Russell Terrier that trained me!!!!


• I follow Cesar Millan, I respect his experience and intellegence. I also realize what he accomplishes isn't done in the 15 minute TV segment. Exercise, disipline then affection, is not a horrible thing to keep in mind when dealing with an ambitious animal. Too many people say well the yard is fenced in why should I walk the dog? And they forget they are at work all day, while the poor dog is in the crate or kennel. Every dog needs exercise everyday, companionship with the owner while on that walk. Benefit both. Cesar on TV is great, people seeing this will learn more than if no trainer was on TV.


• Just because a method is older does NOT mean that it isn't effective. I watch Dog Whisperer every day and have yet to see him preform an "alpha roll" on any dog. What I have seen is an imitation of what another dog would do and that it does work. There is no "perfect" method that will work for every dog or trainer. The disclaimer is there specifically to prevent untrained misinformed people from attempting to use the method and causing more harm than good. I use an adaptation of his method with my boy and have seen improvements. I have a ton of respect for Cesar Millan because he not only promotes RESPONSIBLE ownership, he also encourages people to let their dog be dogs. IMHO, you should try actually watching instead of surfing the show. As for what method I use, I use my own. I take information that I find useful and/or helpful and mesh them into a program that works for me/my dog.
  
  add: BTW, since I'm seeing many comments that seem to show a lack of understanding as to what an "alpha roll" actually is.... An "alpha roll" is when you forcibly put a dog onto it's back and hold it there by the chest or neck. It is used by a dominant canine as a method of LAST RESORT. Alpha rolling shouldn't be done because your dog has problems, it's useful as a guide for figuring out a puppies dominance/submission levels and for little else. Cesar uses stiffened fingers in a bite pattern to administer a firm but harmless touch. It works to get a dog to lose focus on what it's doing and refocus on you. They are two VERY different things.


• I watched him and took from him some points of training to help me out...I don't follow any one method 100% I do what works for us. I have pinned my rottie down when she was younger, just cradled her to get her to submit to me since she was being pretty darn bad in puppy hood and showing her own stubborn side...she is a very submissive dog now at age 2 maybe that helped maybe it didn't, but I would not ever recommend someone with a large dog trying this out of the blue to make them submit..large dogs are fairly strong so if they feel scared they are likely to react very negatively and someone is going to get hurt!. I have also used the tap the toe into the uptuck of the dog when walking to get her attention when calling her or giving a yank on the leash did nothing, it get's her attention, it's not being rough and she has learned to now listen to a stern no where before she was in crazy hyper mode cause of cars or the horses next door and you couldn't break that concentration without some sort of contact. So I think he has some good ways but then again he is a professional and some one who has no real idea just what they see on tv going to try something drastic with a dog will probably do more harm than good. The whole pack thing is over rated too...some dogs do feel like they are more the boss but I think the whole human/dog pack is more of a novelty people like to use to explain every bad behavior their dog shows. Sorry to ramble on so long..just my thoughts.


• I think people only fucus on the fact that he alpha rolls, and nothing else.
  Yes, his methods are old, but they are sound. He does things other than rolls, and has helped many a person walk their dog. His advice about energy and your dog is great too. Just because you see him roll some dogs on tv doesn't mean that is all he does, i have seen him achieve total submission without even laying a finger on a dog.
  I alpha roll my dogs, frequently, but i also know that that isn't needed for every dog, nor all the time. I have 5 dogs, one gets rolled all the time, another never has to because just giving her the look does it. He never says his physical techniques are right for every dog, and says that if you aren't absolutely sure you can do the roll, to not even try.He mostly promotes calm-assertive leadership, which is right for every dog.


• His methods may be old, but I wouldn't say they are entirely out of date. I don't agree with everything he does, but chances are you will never find any trainer that you do agree with all their methods or ideas. I usually take bits and pieces from several different trainers that I like, and therein lies my only real problem with Cesar Milan - He uses the same method on EVERY dog, regardless of what the problem is.
  The thing I do like about him is he helps the general public understand pack mentality and that you shouldn't baby a dog. I think that right there is invaluable.
  Also, as DP said, I have never actually seen him alpha roll a dog, I have on many occasions seen him roll a dog on their side, which has more of a calming affect rather than the whole "Alpha roll" thing. Rolling them on their side, provided you are not dealing with a dangerous dog or that you know what you are doing, allows the dog to calm down and refocus their attention on something else.
  I happen to disagree with you entirely that a person cannot take over the alpha role. In a dog's mind, their people are their pack, the dominant one will naturally rise to the alpha position, whether it is a dog or a human.
  There are times that I think what he is doing is totally ridiculous, but he does some great things too. Anyone that can have that many dogs under complete control is not a complete idiot and must be doing something right.


• Quote: there's only 1 thing that 2 dog trainers can agree on, and that the other one is wrong.
  
  Every person has an idea about how to train a dog. EVERY person. There is some validity in just about every technique out there. There's validity in positive reinforcement, there's validity in negative reinforcement - it's all about what you are comfortable with as the owner. If you don't buy into a training technique, your dog will totally see through it and it will be ineffective.
  
  Many people comment on his disclaimer stating that makes his methods unsound or bad. I have season 1 and 2 and the National Geographic channel. I watch his shows. Sure, they are edited. Sure there are some things he does that I would never do. But any good trainer - and responsible trainer would tell you not to sinply try these things at home - that if you are having behaviourial issues you should seek out a trainer to guide you in person.
  
  Would you learn to drive simply by watching a video? No - you'd wreck your car. People that simply watch his show and then try and reproduce what he is doing are in for a wake-up call a lot of times - it just won't work as well! You don't have experience and you don't have someone standing there to help when things go wrong. So watch the show -take what you can, use it, leave what you don't like or don't agree with - but most importantly, if you are having issues with your dog that is beyond your level of expertise - find a trainer who suscribes to whatever methods you are comfortable with! :)


• I to don't think i have ever seen him alpha roll a dog..i have seen him tell others not to...on one show it was dogs in the office. some turned their dog over and cesar asked them not to. the only dog he maybe did this to was the jino. that was very aggresive.
  
  I like cesar. there are a few things i learned.and so i don't aggree with..and like everyone said there is no way that i agree with all trainers i have read on or seen on tv. I don't like clicker training. so i don't use it. I use a choke chain on my dogs and for the more extreme i have used a prong. they are not cruel when used right. nor is a tap or a touch. If you have never worked with dogs that get so focused on one thing yelling does nothing but annoy the nieghbors.
  
  he lets a dog be a dog which few people do and yes it is a human problem. and there is a reason why they put that warning at the bottom...he does know what he is talking about be even he gets bit some times.
  
  however for most major problems watch the dog whispher is a horrid answer. when most people can not read a dog. or think something is aggressive when its not.


• I use positive reinforcement training method, we utilize clicker training to mark behaviors we want.
  
  Now, that's not to say that I don't correct my dog, as I most certainly do. In obedience training, it is a gentle correction and all that I really need. In a behavior issue, it is somewhat harsh, but needs to be to get the point across. In herding training, corrections are very harsh. When you have a dog that has her eye on the sheep, sometimes it requires a harsh correction to get them to refocus on you, the handler.
  
  It's funny, because with obedience training, harsh corrections shut my dog down, entirely. She won't work. But with herding, and really harsh corrections, it does not phase her one bit. There is a huge difference between general obedience training and training in an area a dog has a natural instinct for.


• It's one of many points of views, in my opinion, and something to be taken with a grain of salt. I think to take his word as law is drastically oversimplifying, not to mention dangerous.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: How do I trap and catch pigeons in my barn silo?

I have a plethora of pigeons in my empty barn silo and thought, why don't I catch them and use them for bird dog training? But, how do I trap them in the silo, and then how do I catch them in a 30 ft high silo?

Dog Training: What Is Dog Training?

Recommended Answer:
The traps are usually not effective if there is plenty of food available in the area (often the case on a farm), so the best choice is to catch them at night in the roost. The best description I've seen is at http://elibrary.unm.edu/sora/NABB/v017n02/p0053-p0059.pdf

Top Dog Training Tips

• bird traps youtube how to catch a live bird and videos will come up or email/call an exterminator and ask them how they catch them aliveset up some bird feed under a box that has a twig holding it up when the bird bumps it the box will fall catching it. put a weight ontop so it falls quickly


• I've caught birds in Havahart traps before. Wasn't what I was trying to do, but it's what happened.
  
  But any sort of cage trap can work, especially if they're used to being fed.


• go here
  
  http://www.bugspray.com/catalog/traps/bird_traps.html
  
  http://www.critterridders.com/pigeon_trap.htm

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Outdoor dog training?

I have been training my maltese-shih tzu to go on these indoor training pads. He's only been doing indoor training for about 9 months and i would like to train him outside for convenience. Any advice please?

6 Step by Step Instructions For Dog Training Preparation

Recommended Answer:
Hi!

You need a full and proven dog training program.

"SitStayFetch" is one of the most popular dog training products on the market written by Daniel Stevens, an experienced dog trainer, for every dog owners who know that the experience of training their dog has or will continue to establish a better relationship with their four legs friend.

First when I read SitStayFetch ebook, I was surprised at lots of information has been covered. The 186 page book is broken down into different sections step-by-step, each one dealing with a different aspect of dog ownership. SitStayFetch starts from a basic that dog owner should know. For instance, things to consider before adopting a dog, choosing the right breed, dealing with breeders, the secrets of dog training; and then moves on at common dog problems including biting and nipping, aggression, jealousy, digging holes, disobedience, separation anxiety, fights with other dogs, destructive behavior and even understanding how your dog thinks.

The core of SitStayFetch system is the communication between dog and owner. Daniel Stevens understands that most of common dog problems are from the lack of communication. Your dog simply doesn't understand what you want. SitStayFetch demonstrates how dogs communicate, what are they thinking, how you can communicate with them effectively.

This simple technique helps in improving the relationship between you and your dog. And it also doesn't just focus on one or two aspects of dog ownership. SitStayFetch deals with all common problem behaviors, step-by-step approach tells you exactly what to do and when to do it.

SitStayFetch works because of the tips and advice come directly from the author's real-life experience. You also can sign up for free 6 days mini course which covers selected training methods and behavior fixing methods that are used in SitStayFetch ebook.

So if you want to have a good relationship with your dog and get rid of dog problems, I think SitStayFetch will definitely help you reach your goals.

Check my source, hope it helps. Good luck!

Basic Dog Training - Where To Buy Your Dog From

• keep moving the pads closer and closer to the door. when you see him go to them, put on his leash and take him outside. then praise him a lot. after a while you should be able to take the pads away and he should go to the door.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog training issue?

not a daily problem but becoming more frequent....our dog wakes each morning with us and is let out to "take care of business" but......is too "hungry" for food it seems to do anything other than "pee"....so, she comes in, gets fed....while I am in the shower...and I come out to her "present of poo" - so, then, I figured....ok, I will feed her on the porch.....and let her "pee....eat....and then poo.....and then come in" only, she comes in....and decides to still go on the carpet!! not sure why, she definately knows it is wrong....you can tell by her bahavior when I notice it.....she runs. I don't punish her other than to say that "poo goes outside!!" and she just looks down and runs to the other room. I am in a hurry in the morning getting the kids ready for school....rushing to take a shower, etc., - there is no time to spare.....so, I basically need some ideas. She is crate trained...but stays out at night and sleeps on the boys' bed and we let her out right before we go to bed.

How Good Dog Training Makes For a Happy Dog

Recommended Answer:
Hmmmm... before you let her in do you actually witness her urinating? If not, you maybe letting her in too early. She should be monitored to be sure she is actually relieving herself outside.

Know The Basics Of Dog Trainings

• reward her when she is relieving herself outside. maybe you should try the crate until she understands that the only time she is going to get rewarded (even if rewarding is sleeping out of the crate) is when she does her business outside.


• Watch her and don't feed until she's pooped. My dogs poop PRONTO so they can come in and get fed.


• I think the only way to solve this problem is to get up a little earlier, maybe 20 mins. Remember, it's only temporary until she gets the hang of the daily habit. Let her pee, then feed her, but as soon as she's done eating, call her to go outside and watch her to make sure she poos where she's supposed to. Once the deed is done, praise her and hop in the shower! Eventually, with repetition and tons of patience, she'll know what's expected of her and more importantly what makes you happy!


• Sometimes dogs think pooping on the floor and you cleaning it up is a fun game. Don't let her see you clean up her accident, for some reason that seems to encourage them to keep on doing it. Take her right outside when she does have an accident on the floor. When you do clean, put her in her crate (out of site of your cleaning it). Are you using any type of cleaning spray? There are some out there that will break up the enzymes and "knock out" the odor so that they don't do it again (at least in the spot they did it before).


• Maybe you can try putting her in her crate to feed her breakfast, and THEN putting her outside.


• I think your dog wants your attention,
  
  With a crazy morning getting the kids ready for school or day care and you for work, what are the chances of you getting up earlier to feed and take the dog out before everyone gets up to do their things. Or feed your dog when you are eating dinner or getting dinner ready.
  
  If you are not able to do the above things, do not feed your dog until you are done getting ready, or if your dog is able to stay outside while everyone is getting ready keep the dog food out for her and do not let her in until you either see her do her thing or until your return from your daily routine


• Get up a few minutes earlier and spend a little time with the dog. She is jealous of every one getting your attention in the mornings but her. Pet her and feed her before you start your routine and then let her out. You may find she goes pooh outside for you. If she does, praise her to encourage the behavior.


• Anytime a dog regresses you need to take a step back. A few days or remedial crate training should fix the problem. When you bring her in and go in the shower crate her. Then when you come out take her back outside. Also, make sure you are praising her for going outside.


• Jenna, my Service Dog in Training, started doing this a few weeks ago. She's a relatively young dog still (9 months old) and may be going through some changes. I've started getting up earlier than usual (daughter has to go to school now) so before I get my daughter up, I take my two dogs outside. I walk and wait until Jenna has 2 bm's before we come back in. Usually it's about 5 to 10 minutes at most. The dogs then run the living room for about 20 minutes until it's time to wake up their human sister. I get Serenity her breakfast and as she eats, I fix breakfast for the girls (kibble and a spoonful of yogurt). Crate them so they can eat. Then they're good to go till lunch time. Usually when I let them out of the crate, I take them outside immediately to potty.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Could anyone tell about dog training DVDs?

i really need it.
thanks

Dog Training: It's Not Just For Adults Anymore

Recommended Answer:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=lsNOX7-l2I0
http://youtube.com/watch?v=3uj1IhJmpME
http://youtube.com/watch?v=LDyyGMa3Sc8
http://youtube.com/watch?v=XryUAV2atu4

Dog Training - More on Dog Training Hand Signals

• I normally use a "frisbie'


• You mean like these?
  http://www.totalretriever.com/
  
  Like these you will find that most of them are very specific in content. So you will need to narrow your search substantially.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: How long do you have to keep a dog in crate training? Also will this prevent "excitement dribbles?

We rescued out adult aussie/husky mix, Remmy, from the pound last weedend and we soon figured out she wasn't potty trained yet. So, I read through my dog training book and searched on the internet, and came up with this "crate training method". My dad bought her a good sized crate and this is the first day of crate training.

What the book told us to do it keep her in the crate throughout the day, exept for letting her outside every hour. (I take her on a long walk everyday after school too) When she eliminates outside I praise her and give her a treat. Then I take her back in the crate. I've been keeping track of the times she's peed/pooped outside today and I will do this everyday this week until I can see a pattern and predict when she normally goes. If I keep this normal schedule up how long do you think this training will last until she has become potty trained?

Also, she has this problem whenever she gets excited (like when I wake her up in the morning or when I come home from school) a few drops of pee lands on the floor. Can potty training stop this too or is it a different problem?

Understanding the Differences Between Various Dog Training Courses

Recommended Answer:
Are you feeding her on a regular schedule as well? That's a necessity.

You don't have to crate her all the time. It's not supposed to be a prison. A crate is where she should hang out when no one's around to supervise (when you're at school and when you're sleeping), but under supervision there's no reason for her to be cooped up in there. Just keep walking her every hour, and watch out to make sure she doesn't try to go indoors.

The submissive urination is a separate problem.

Dog Training - Avoiding Common Mistakes During Dog Training Sessions

• The dribbling is submissiveness. This will resolve itself as the dog feels more comfortable at your home. Just ignore it. Making a big deal of it will just make it worse.
  
  I always let my rescues out of the crate for a while after they have gone outside. I only put them back in the crate when I can't watch them. If you look for the signs, you know when they have to go. Of course, watching for the signs means not watching anything else but them, no TV, no friends, no homework, you get the idea. This should only take a couple a weeks at most.


• Sounds lik you're doing just perfect with the potty training! She should catch on quite quickly since she's an older dog- and the fact that you're praising and giving a treat after she does is great. When she does go though- I'd suggest putting a command to it like "go potty" she'll start to associate the two quickly and after awhile you'll be able to use the command to TELL her to go when you want her to.
  
  Once the potty training is a little more solid, try having her drag a leash around instead of the crate or restricting her to a kitchen with a babygate so she's not going from the crate to a big open floor plan.
  
  The potty dribbles are another issue altogether. Its called submissive peeing, ad stems from some slight unconfidence- although probably not due to you. I write a dog blog @ www.shespeaksbark.blogspot.com if you go there use the search bar at the top and search for these 2 articles. "Dealing with submissive urination" and "giving confidence a boost" both have tips that will help you out with these issues. She should get over it as she begins to feel a part of the family. Good luck and congrats on your new pooch!


• Each puppy trains at their own pace, so do dogs. Limit the space she has in the house until she can behave in that room and graduate to more space, supervised of course. She should only have to be in the crate if you are not watching her, all other times she should be practicing how to be good in the house. Use a bell method so she will let you know when she needs to go. I use a crate* to potty train with, but only for potty training and then I break it down and store it. I put blankets and a small food and water dish in the crate. Dogs don't potty where they eat and sleep. When they are first little, I only expect them to hold their potty for 4 hours, and then 6 hours, then 8 hours and so on. So when they are first little, I set a timer or alarm clock to wake myself up at night to take them *out. I only allow my puppy in the bedroom* or the living room, only one room at a time. They have to graduate to more space. If I allow them to have full run of the house, it will overwhelm them. I take them out the same door each time. I tie a dinner bell to the door handle. Do not use a jingle bell as they could get their toe caught in it. So when they are little, I ring the bell for them, and then open the door to go *outside to potty. When they get bigger, I take their paw and whack the bell and open the door to go potty. Eventually getting to the place where the puppy will ring the bell and let me know when they need to go potty. Dogs want to please you, so it is your job to let them know what behaviors please you and what doesn't. So when my puppy goes potty, I give her a treat*, and clap, and make a fuss and praise her. So she learns that going potty outside makes me happy. If she has an accident, make a disgust sound like “tsst” and take her out right away. I never yell* or spank* my puppies. Take them out when they first wake up, after they eat or drink, before nap, finish romping, when their activities change, or when they are sniffing around. Some puppies go pee right away, but may not go poop until 10 minutes later, so wait for the poop. I have a little play time here, because sometimes I think they are done, and they are not. Puppies train at their own pace. While I may have a puppy that hasn't had an accident in several weeks, I don't let my guard down. I don't expect my puppies to be "fully potty trained" until one-year-old. If they have a setback, shake it off, and start over. I only have my puppies in the crate when I am not watching them. When I am sleeping, cooking, ironing, doing chores, basically when I am not watching her. All other times, she is out of the crate practicing being a "big girl." This is the time I train her how to behave in the house. So we are practicing "no barking", 'no biting", "no jumping", and "don't eat the furniture." I also have to practice "playing inside" so she doesn't knock over things. You must keep the puppy in sight when they are little because they don't know the difference between newspaper and carpet, and you don't want them sneaking off and getting into trouble. Some puppies can sleep through the night around 3-months-old, but their bladder is grown around 6-months-old.
  
  REVISIONS:
  *I use a CRATE to train with. It is the method I prefer, compared to other methods I have tried. I noticed that if they are in the crate, while I am doing chores, they are o.k., because the crate allows them to see me and be re-assured. The crate can also be a comfort when stored in the basement for dogs who live in areas where thunderstorms and tornados are an issue. . However, use the method that works best for you.....a laundry basket, a cardboard box, a woof-woof house, x-pen, child gates, whatever works for you.
  *OUTSIDE, pee pad, litter box, whichever method you are using. When the puppy is first little, keep the pee pad, litter box near the food and water dish, so the puppy can eat and drink, and then go potty. You can move it away as they get older. The pee pad has a scent that smells and initiates potty. Sometimes a pee pad makes a sound that scares some puppies, so you might want to use a litter box if that happens. The pee pad allows a puppy to walk around, but a litter box keeps the puppy in one place.
  *BEDROOMS, I use the bedroom and living room for training, because it works for me. Choose rooms that work for you, but watch for rooms that are damp, or drafty. While my puppies sleep in the bedroom during training, once they are trained, I let them sleep where they want to. They don't have to sleep in the bedroom forever.
  *TREATS. While I use treats for training, you don't have to. I like Charlee Bears for training (a little cracker for a little mouth,) I use them for training, but once they are trained, I cut back on them.
  *SOME PUPPIES will go potty in the same spot each time. Some puppies have to be told to go potty. A command like "go out" for pee, or "go finish" for poop, might work for you, keep saying “go finish” until the puppy poops. This is a good thing to train if you travel with your dogs. By using commands, the puppy won't get confused when you are visiting someone, on vacation with you, or when you get to a new home. The command will tell them what you want them to do in an unfamiliar place. You might also want to use a leash method, so the puppy doesn't sneak off, or for strange places.
  *YELLING. It is not a good idea to "yell" or "spank" your puppy and then take them outside when they have an accident. They may get confused and think that going outside is punishment. While you want to correct them, if you are extreme, they may not want to go outside again. Shake it off, and resume your schedule. You have to keep it real. Puppies train at their own pace, but a puppy can only hold their potty for a few hours. A guide would be 1 hour for each month of age, plus 1 hour, so a three-month-old puppy should only be expected to hold their potty for 4 hours at most.
  SOURCE: These tips, tricks, and ideas were contributed from many brilliant minds. Thanks for your help!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Training a puppy to fit the ideal dog persona?

I got a 10 week old puppy three days ago. Mind you that I have trained JRT's, German Sheperds, Australians Sheperds, I decided to check out what the new school of dog training advice was out there. I am kind of dissapointed in advice people are dispensing about training dogs. I was wondering if anyone feels the same way? I think the trainers forget that people have different ideals. For instance, training a hunting dog is different from training a hunting breed to live as a family pet. There is this one guy who went on and on about not allowing a puppy/dog to sit on your lap. I have never had a problem with any of my dogs, and they were all allowed to sit/rest-head on my lap. I think he just didn't want a dog that sat next to him, or maybe he had a bad experience. What one considers misbehaving can be considered appropriate to another person. This goes for how people raise children as well.

I also don't want my dog to like all people, and have no problem if my dog growls at strangers. I don't want strangers touching my dogs without me interacting with the person first. There are many trainers who want to take this form of aggression out of dogs. If my dog bites someone who approaches my dog while I have her on a leash after I told them she is not good with strangers, shame on that person. I would teach my child, to not interact with strangers as well. This is what I consider ideal. Maybe some say, "what if my dog escapses". Well shame on me. I have not had it happen yet over 20 years of owning and training dogs.

How do the rest of you feel? Do you feel like some advice just does not fit in to what you consider an ideal dog?

Send-Off Dog Training Versus a Dog Obedience Training Video

Recommended Answer:
There are many different training methods out there and one doesn't just fit every dog, as you said. If you want a dog for protection, you aren't going to sign up for your local basic obedience classes using positive reinforcement. Just as you don't go to one doctor for all of your medial needs (my internist won't fill my cavities, my dentist won't adjust my back, etc.), I feel it's the same with training. It depends on how you want your dog to behave. I find it hilarious that people think no matter what their dog does, they are trying to 'dominate' them. Our dogs are allowed on our furniture. They have to ask first (they do so with a paw up), but we taught them that because we have company that comes over who may not want our drooling AmStaffs on the couch with them. They may weigh 70 pounds, but they still try to sit on my lap. This isn't because they are dominant, but because they love to cuddle. People watch too much tv and believe everything they see on it.

Jumping dogs drive me nuts. When we were training our youngest, it would really tick me off when she would jump, I would correct her and someone would say 'no, it's okay.' It's not okay. She will be a big dog one day and then she's going to knock someone over. We have friends who think its adorable that their labs jump on everyone that enters the house. Acceptable for them, not for us. People definitely have different views of what is acceptable and what is not. Our dogs are allowed on furniture, my dad doesn't allow his dogs on furniture. Our dogs aren't allowed on our bed, but my bestfriend lets her dogs sleep with her. To each their own. I did find it funny in my very first training class that someone tried to tell me we should always eat before our dogs do or they will think they are the boss. Really? Just because I ate a few potato chips before Max and Lily got their kibble on the floor, they're going to think they own the house? But some people really believe this. My dogs sit for their food. They wait until they are given a release signal to eat. I don't make my children do that. We eat as we please. I seriously doubt they think they're at an elevated status because I fed them their kibble before I took a half hour making a complete breakfast for my husband and kids, of which they got none. To each their own, and whatever works for your individual dog, though.

While I agree that it is shame on someone for approaching YOUR dog even after you have said it doesn't like strangers, I don't think the court will see it that way if it bites a child. The problem is not your dog, but children these days. Their parents don't teach them about dogs. We have a little 'biter' in the neighborhood who is in the middle of a dangerous dog hearing and his owners may lose him. He is an extremely nasty little purebred Jack Russell from questionable lineage (pet store pup) that has bit almost every child in a two block radius. Why should the owner not be allowed to walk his dog? It's not HIS fault that these stupid kids coming running right up to him and stick their hands out. However, their parents don't agree and have sued. The parents have won and medical bills have had to be paid. After all of this, the dog is likely going to lose it's life. Why? Because people don't ask. They just see a small, cute dog and reach for it. While I agree with you, the courts don't see it our way.

My dogs are extremely friendly, it's inherent in the breed and there wasn't a thing we could do about it even if we wanted to. They welcome strangers with open arms. We are fine with that.

Dog Training Ebook Review - SitStayFetch

• Get a lawyer. You are suit bait.


• it can be hard to train them to do stuff like that and only bark at certain people i've had my dog for 5 years and she still barks at friends that she has seen many times


• i wish my dog was like that she is the friendliest puppy to all people but if she meets a new dog she will FLIP OUT. she will growl, stand up and try to make the other one become submisive altho never actualy hurts the other dog


• research the breed of the dog. base your training on it's natural instincts. 10 weeks is very young for obedience training. Try the umbilical cord approach. Keep the dog's leash on (inside the house too), and tie the other end to your belt. The dog will learn you are the boss and will want to please you.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Seeing Eye Dog Training?

I was wondering... Are seeing eye dogs trained for protection also?

Dog Training Books - Choosing the Best Dog Training Book

Recommended Answer:
no. my family raised seeing eye dogs as pups. at the first sign of aggression they are removed from the program

Hunting Dog Training and Snakes

• No, they are not!!


• Absolutely not!! NO they are not!

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Need some advice/tips on Bird Dog Training?

I am interested in turning River into a bird dog but he's going to be an "artificial" bird dog & even his training is going to be artificial since in Malaysia, it is illegal to own guns & it's also illegal to shoot any animals so, definitely there won't be any shooting of game birds for River to retrieve. Since he's still a beginner at it, I'll be using dead birds (that will be slaughtered at the wet market) & then maybe later I'll use live ones.

I have a few questions to ask those who do field work/hunting with their dogs:

1) Can I just use chickens instead of other birds for this training? The wet market nearest to where I live only sells live chickens. No other birds. I know most of the time people use ducks, pheasants & pigeons.

2) Once I am done using the dead bird for training, all I have to do is just keep it in the freezer right? And before I use it for training, should I defrost it overnight so that it is not too rock solid?

3) How are the birds used for this training usually killed? The chicken I got was slaughtered the traditional way which was by slitting the throat. It's okay right?

4) How do you normally introduce the pup/dog to birds?

5) Is the "whoa" command important to teach & is it only for "pointing" breeds such as Pointers? Or can other breeds be taught this command too? I am interested in training Riv this command.

6) Are there any tools I should be using to command River like a whistle, etc?

Sorry for asking too many questions. In Malaysia, there are absolutely no bird dog clubs or groups that I can join & ask training tips from so I'm basically just gonna learn everything myself by asking other people online & reading online articles. :) And furthermore, we're doing this just for fun since there won't be any field trials over here for working gundogs.

Here are some pictures I'd like to share with you all of River's 1st retrieving lesson. He actually retrieved the dead bird on command three times!!!
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p139/…
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p139/…
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p139/…
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p139/…
http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p139/…

Dog Training - Avoiding Common Mistakes During Dog Training Sessions

Recommended Answer:
Hopefully you get some other good answers here. While I DID actually work at a field lab kennel, and I DID train (and watch a lot), it was very new to me and I've never personally owned one because they're not really my 'thing'.1) Can I just use chickens instead of other birds for this training?
I can't see why not. I would stick to a small chicken. BUT, you don't need to use a bird at all (and if I were you, I wouldn't). A huge percentage of training is done with retrieving bumpers (with scent on them if you want) instead of birds. The birds get slimy and gross in the water. http://www.gundogsupply.com/dog-training…

2) Once I am done using the dead bird for training, all I have to do is just keep it in the freezer right? Well... you could. But, the only reason people train with real birds is because the dog NEEDS to know how to handle a real bird for when he eventually has to be able to retrieve real birds. If you aren't going to be in trials and don't hunt, it's not necessary at all. If you want to use something more "life like", you can use something like these deadfowl dummes. They have a rope for the bird's neck so the head flops around like a dead bird to start getting the dog used to that. http://www.gundogsupply.com/dokdeadfowtr…

3) How are the birds used for this training usually killed? Because we had many dogs and lots of training to do, the dead birds for the dogs just starting out were simply the live birds that had already been shot for the dogs before him. Or, in my experience, the guys just broke their necks.
Here's a training scenario at the kennel I worked at that I regularly helped with : The handler has the dog sitting next to him, the helper is out hidden in the brush somewhere. The handler tells the helper he is ready (we always used walkie talkies), then the helper gets a live bird out of his bird box (or picks up a bumper or dead bird), calls with his duck call, lets the bird go (or throws the dummy), and shoots the bird out of the air (or just fires a blank round while it is in the air). When the bird lands, the handler will send him after it. In the event a young dog gets hopelessly lost, the helper might have to give him a hand by throwing a rock in the water near the bird to make a splash and attract him to the right spot, or yell out a "hey, hey" to try and redirect the dog.

4) How do you normally introduce the pup/dog to birds? Basically, once a dog retrieves well with a bumper, you would want to go to the dead fowl dummies, then play fetch games with a dead bird, then use a dead bird in the field, then eventually shoot a live bird in the field. Live birds can be tricky because some of them are very much not totally dead yet when the dogs get there and they can be in for a surprise when they go to retrieve it. (which is why you practice with live birds if you are going to actually be hunting - so the dog knows what to do)

5) Is the "whoa" command important to teach & is it only for "pointing" breeds such as Pointers? Or can other breeds be taught this command too? I am interested in training Riv this command.
We always used one solid whistle to mean the dog was to stop, turn around to look at the handler, and sit down. This was so that the handler could provide directions to the dog if he was lost, or in some cases because the dog did not see the bird drop and the handler has to direct him to it. For this, hand signals are used - where you would put your right arm out if you wanted the dog to turn that direction, straight up if you wanted him to go out further, or left for that way. A repetitive short whistle meant "come to me".

6) Are there any tools I should be using to command River like a whistle, etc? Frankly, I don't know how you'd do it without a whistle. I used whistles all the time (even when we went out to play) just because the dogs can't even hear your voice on a windy day.

If you don't have a helper, you could get crazy and buy one of these really cool bird/dummy launchers http://www.gundogsupply.com/dt-dummy-lau… http://www.gundogsupply.com/dtsybila.htm… (both of them require ammo, as one is fired off a blank round and the other would actually release a live bird you'd have to shoot - so I don't think they will work for you) You can still do retrieves as far away as you can throw a dummy without a helper.

Here is a nice video of a junior hunt test, looks just like the way we trained.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgxNgkf9m…
Watch the Master hunter tests - they're really pretty amazing.

Dog Training Aids - Best Tips for Using Crates

• I did hunting with my Springer Spaniel back in Italy... I don't do it with my Britanny these days though. Not much hunting to do in Miami, aha. :(
  
  1) I never used chicken, but I think that would be OK.
  
  2) Just make sure not to leave it lying around for too long. They create a horrible smell a while after. The freezer seems a good idea.
  
  3) If you buy a chicken from the market, she comes like all the chicken in the market. Most of them are shot, sometimes also hunted by other dogs.
  
  4) Here's a helpful video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZDFV0x1x…
  
  5) Yes, it's important to teach "whoa", not only to Pointers. I taught "whoa" to my Springer. In case of danger, you might also use "whoa" to warn your dog and get his attention.
  
  6) I personally like using whistles for attention while hunting, rather than my voice. You might also want to get a "dog coat" if its too cold, however, nothing that will be unconfortable or will make the moviment harder for the dog.
  
  Here are a few sites you may want to use:
  http://www.gundogmag.com/training/
  http://www.huntingretrieverclub.org/
  http://www.ducks.org/hunting/retriever-t…
  
  I adored those pics! River is such a cute boy. I think it will be a pleasure to work with him! Do you have more retrievers? Are you planning to hunt with them too?
  
  It's always a pleasure to see another hunter! If you have any other questions feel free to email me, though I may not answer them correctly.
  
  Good luck!


• Exciting! I've got some tips for you, since I''m just learning myself.
  
  1. Get on a schedule. Mike Lardy sells a set of DVDs, but other good ones are Fowl Dawgs, Smartwork, and the Farmer/Aycock series. These will walk you through everything- you really need to be on a schedule rather than going at it piecemeal (a lesson I learned!)
  
  2. Pups are introduced with wings- you should be able to order these online. Since he's older, using real birds is fine. Just make sure to with live birds that you give him room and time to check them out on his own. If he starts shredding it or mouthing it, take it away.
  
  3. Start with basic obedience. Everything is built on top of basic obedience. The programs will walk you through this. It's really not any different than any other OB work with retrievers, since you want a really solid 'sit' anyway (unlike with pointing breeds).
  
  4. If you want to use him as a flushing dog (or train him), then you need to train him to sit when he finds scent. This is like the point in pointing breeds. You can definitely train him to woah just like you would a pointer if you want. People get all worked up about pointing retrievers, but you can train any dog that caan find birdscent to point- the pointers just do it more naturally and stylishly.
  
  I'm not really sure about keeping a chicken- i wouldn't imagine that freezing it and thawing it would be very nice :-/ Can you just keep it in a bag in the fridge? That should keep it fresh for a while. It's not going to last all that long (week maybe), that's just part of the process.
  
  As far as using chickens, it should be fine as long as they're smallish, since you want to encourage him to carry them. If live, you can tie their wings together when you introduce them to him. When you're planting them for him to find, you can rig them so they don't fly too far. This is hard to explain, but you tie a length a rope to their feet, then run it through about 2 1/2 feet of hose, then tie it to something on the other end to keep the rope from sliding back through (small stick or something). This is useful, because when you want to flush them, you toss them and they can fly, but not too far b/c of the trailing hose. It imitates flushing a bird, then having the shot bird fall so they can retrieve. It helps teach marking.
  
  Also, you will need a whistle, white paintrollers/training bumpers, a slip lead and I prefer to use an ecollar (tritronics or dogtra) It's not a cheap hobby!
  
  Thats all I can think of offhand, but I'm sure there's more ;-) Definitely get on a program like the ones I've linked below, it will really explain everything for you!
  
  Good Luck, Have fun!
  
  http://www.gundogsupply.com/smartwork-dv…
  http://www.gundogsupply.com/fowl-dawgs-d…
  http://www.gundogsupply.com/retriever-tr…
  http://www.totalretriever.com/training.h…


• Actually I like to introduce dogs to live birds first (builds the fire to want birds), and you will want to use smaller birds like a pigeon. You will want to pull the flight feathers or they will just fly off.
  As a dog progresses we use frozen birds all the time, just get them out of the freezer a couple of hours before training and they will be thawed enough.
  Bird hunting dogs in general can be broken down into two categories #1 non slip retrievers, and #2 upland bird dogs. You should first decide which you want to train the dog for.
  For your purposes I would then suggest you get a copy of "tri-tronics Retriever Training" By Jim and Phyllis Dobbs. Don't worry the book isn't about using an e-collar, they were just employed by tri-tronics at the time that they wrote it.
  You can find it at www.dobbsdogs.com

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Does anyone know a website that teaches basic dog training?

i have just acquired a pomeranian and i need to teach him a few basic commands.

Proven Dog Training Methods

Recommended Answer:
I do basic obedience as well as problem behaviors. Please visit http://www.geocities.com/libertydogtrain…
or email me at libertydogtraining@yahoo.com

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

• www.petco.com and www.petsmart.com


• You'd be better off enrolling at classes at PetSmart. It's great bonding time with your dog.


• clickertraining.com has info. Also, www.hsus.org has a few video clips on training in their "pets" section.

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Does anybody know any good free dog training sites?

i need some good sites for training dogs. like training him to sit, stay, heel and so on. thanks!

Dog Training Has Many Benefits

Recommended Answer:
The given site (by the other answerer) is goodFor interesting LISTENING, go to "Calling All Pets" on NPR. It's a great show and she gives wonderful tips on training and dealing with pets. Here's one possible link...use a search engine and find a local station you can listen to either on webradio or your car/house radio. Great show!
http://www.wpr.org/pets/

What Is The Best Approach To Dog Training?

• This one is great www.so-easy-dog-training.com I found it on google and have used it many times. Good Luck

Read More...

Dog Health Questions: Dog Training - The wisdom of allowing a dog to play rough. Recommended or not?

I have a dog and I'm not really sure of the breed, but I think she's a bird dog. She's a great dog with me, my wife and our 3 kids.

I enjoy playing rough with her. We wrestle on the ground and she will growl very loudly and wrestle back. She will mock bite me, never biting down or anything, but she'll get my arm or hand in her mouth. She never gets near my face.

I think this rough play freaks my wife out because the dog gets really aggressive, even though it's still obviously play. She'll growl and bark, but all I have to do is hold my palms out and say "Brook, Calm" and she'll calm down. Her tail is wagging the whole time during this rough play and she has never hurt me.

Lately, her growling is getting louder, but I just attribute it to the fact that she's comfortable with the play, not because she's getting more aggressive or anything.

Anyway, would a dog trainer say that this is dangerous or foolhardy? I'd hate to be training her by doing this and putting my family at risk.

Service Dog Training: Training Your Dog To Perform Human Tasks

Recommended Answer:
Aggressive play can lead to some aggressive tendancy's. It is good that she will calm down when you say too. That shows that she does see you, (at least sometimes), as a leader. The problem lies when she trys to rough play with someone else, example: your children, your childrens friends, or strangers. Anyone that may be either smaller than the dog or doesn't know your dog. Read the Article: "How to tell if your dog has a superiority complex, and what to do about it." at the website below. Does your dog show any of these traits? It is important to teach your dog that you control play time. If your dog initiates the play, you must ignore her. Giving in to her demands signals to her that she is the leader. This also goes for normal petting as well. If you do not have full control at all times the rough play can lead to more serious problems. Although you may see it as playing, other people may not and you can get into alot of touble if something goes wrong. I would suggest playing that makes your dog use her mind. Example: hide-n-seek games and "Find it" These will be just as fun to your dog and will diminish rough behaviour.

Dog Training - Tips For Consistency

• it is very dangerous...you let her do it to you but how about the kids you are telling the dog that its ok to tackle u to the ground so one day she might do it to your kids if it becomes a bad habit


• I do not think it is good to play rough with the dogs. Now, rough play between the dogs is okay as long as it does not get to the point where they get mad. I would just be afraid that the rough play with you might end up making the dog aggressive.


• If you do it, the kids may try it. If they get overexcited or scared, the dog may sense it and actually attack. It's not a good idea.


• when your dog is playing with don't ever let her put her hand in your mouth.She will strat biting you if she thinks it is ok to do that.My dog had the same promble when he put my hand in his mouth i would snap then put my hand up and say.NO!


• no rough play premotes fighting and fighting promots athoities putting him down


• I wouldn't reccommend teaching your dog to play rough because your dog will eventually look at u as a equal or below them. All respect for you will be lost. In my case, my dog loved to play fight with me, but when I was getting ready to spank her for peeing on the floor, she snapped at me. That was exactly when I knew the play rough game was a bad idea.


• I would say do not play for the very reason it builds aggression.
  Your dog may be fine with you playing this way but it may get out of hand if it were your children or wife playing this way. It is best to not teach the dog that this is ok. A bark is a warning before a bite in most cases as well. This may not be your dog in a way to bite but the wrong circumstance it can be. A dog is an animal and this is one behavior not recommened. :)
  Also, a reply to another answer prior to mine about spanking a dog for peeing, never never hit your dog. There are other methods of training.


• It is not only not bad but it is good if you have done it from the time she was a puppy as it is the only way a dog learns Bite inhibition.
  Dogs learn just how hard is acceptable to play and bite by playing with their brothers sisters and parents. (which is you)
  If they don't learn then they will hurt someone.
  Look at wild dogs... They play very rough and when they overstep they get a warning growl or nip.
  
  I have worked with dogs my whole life. Trained in Obedience and assisted in Schutz Hund (attack, tracking, obedience)
  I see all the time dogs playing with another and it becomes a fight because one doesn't know how to act.
  I have a 150 lb. Bullmastiff and we play like that all the time, It scares the hell out of anyone that watches (except my wife) and they usually say what the others above said, but they don't know what they are talking about.
  The whole issue should be that the dog sees you as her pack leader as well as your wife and children. I also have three children (boys) and my dog has to defer to them, my 6 yr.old can take his food from his mouth.
  I wouldn't ask a VET about Behavior issue's anymore than I would ask my Doc why my son might get bad grades.
  It isn't their occupation.

Read More...