Showing posts with label training a dog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label training a dog. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Car sick dog and how to fix it?

Hi there,

I have a question for all the dog people who have ever had the misfortune of a car sick dog. I have a Shetland Sheepdog who I got when he was just a puppy. He was about 10 weeks old and flew in on an airplane. We went to collect him and on the ride home he was evidently car sick. We thought nothing of it and two years have passed and he still gets very car sick. We were told by the vet that he would probably grow out of it but it never happened. The real problem is, he is a very shy dog already and does not enjoy going to new places and trying to socialize and even when I have tried in the past, he has always gotten carsick and then when we get to the new place or even to his favorite dog park, he has terrible diarrhea and ends up looking tired and sick. We have tried on several occasions to get him used to the car by just placing him in it and giving him cookies and praise. We go through that for a few weeks and then we start moving the car and as soon as we go more than a block he starts to drool very badly and we know he's getting sick. We've tried medicine from the vet and even then he still pukes and has bad diarrhea. I got him for the main purpose of taking him with me everywhere and doing dog agility with him but I can't even take him to a dog training class because of how sick he gets. I've never been able to take him to places to get him truly socialized and I feel awful about it because now he's two years old and I've really missed the mark. Anything I can do so I can take him places and get him to a dog class without him being sick to his stomach?

Get Dog Training Shock Collar As One of the Most Effective Ways to Train a Dog



Recommended Answer:
If I were you, I would try walking with him, or having him walk beside you if you ride your bike. Surely he won't be sick by that. But still, there are limits that way... I know that some carsick people do better when they can't see out the window. That's what causes car sickness-seeing yourself move without moving your legs. Try keeping him on the floor when you drive. See if it makes a difference. Try different pills at the vets. I found a good article that I am posting here. I didn't write it.

What Causes Dog Motion Sickness?
Dog motion sickness is more commonly seen in puppies and young dogs than in older dogs, just as carsickness afflicts more children than adults. The reason for this is because the ear structures used for balance aren't fully developed in puppies. This isn't to say that all dogs will outgrow travel sickness, though many will.

If the first few car rides of your dog's life left him nauseated, he may have been conditioned to equate travel with vomiting, even after his ears have fully matured. Stress can also add to travel sickness, so if your dog has only ever ridden in the car to go to the vet, he may literally worry himself sick on the road.

Signs of Dog Motion Sickness
Dogs don't turn the unflattering shade of green that people do when they're experiencing motion sickness, but there are some signs of dog travel sickness you can learn to identify. These include:

Inactivity
Listlessness
Uneasiness
Yawning
Whining
Excessive drooling
Vomiting
Treatment for Dog Motion Sickness
The best way to prevent dog travel sickness is to make the car ride as comfortable as possible for your dog.

Your dog will experience fewer nauseating visual cues if he faces forward while you're traveling, rather than looking out the side windows. One way to guarantee this is by using a specially designed dog seat belt. If you choose to have your dog ride on the front passenger seat, keep in mind that air bags do pose a potential hazard to dogs. Even though you can't be sure your dog will face forward while riding in a travel crate, many people prefer to use crates for safety -- and they do have the added benefit of containing vomit, should your dog become ill.

Another thing that may help your dog's motion sickness is to lower your car windows a couple of inches while the car is moving. This helps balance the air pressure inside the car with the air pressure outside, which may help reduce your dog's nausea and discomfort. Also, be sure to keep the car cool and well ventilated, as a hot or stuffy vehicle can contribute to unpleasant sensations for your dog.

One trick used on the show circuit to prevent dog motion sickness is to limit your dog's food consumption prior to travel. Then, right before the trip, give your dog a small piece of sugary candy (like a jellybean), which seems to reduce sensations of nausea. Never give your dog chocolate candy, however, because it is toxic to dogs.

If your dog has learned to associate riding in the car with feeling stressed and nauseated, there are a variety of conditioning techniques you can try to lessen this connection. These include:

Taking a break from car trips for a week or two.
Changing vehicles to avoid association with past unpleasant experiences.
Taking short car trips to places your dog enjoys, like the park.
Gradually building your dog's tolerance to car trips. Start by getting your dog used to approaching the car, then spend some time in the car with the engine off. When your dog is ready, take short trips (think: around the block) to build tolerance before progressing to longer car rides.
Using treats to make the car a fun place for your dog (but be careful you don't give too many and make your dog nauseated.
Buying special toys that your dog enjoys and only has access to in the car.
Dog Motion Sickness Medications
Dogs that don't outgrow motion sickness and don't respond to conditioning may benefit from the use of medication. There are a variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications that may quell your dog's motion sickness symptoms.

These include:

Anti-nausea drugs.
Antihistamines, which can lessen dog motion sickness, reduce drooling, and offer sedation.
Phenothiazine and related drugs, which reduce vomiting and provide sedation.
Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before purchasing any over-the-counter treatment for dog motion sickness.

Did this help you? :)

Dog Obedience Schools - How to Get Free Dog Training by Learning What's Taught at Obedience Classes


  • Shelties very often have problems with riding in cars. I've used Bonine with great success when showing in obedience trials. You need to give it to him at least an hour before you go for a car ride, but it lasts 24 hours, is chewable and doesn't make the dog drowsy.

  • My sister use to give her lab motion sickness pills since she had to drive 2 hours to come visit us..

    Ask your vet if you can give your dog this and how much..also which brand ; )

  • If he is riding in a seat or allowed to be free in the car he may be in state of mind where he doesn't know what to do with himself in a moving car, so he gets sick, so a crate big enough to fit him will contain him and perhaps make him feel more comfortable and secure in one place.
    Also try not having him eat before you go somewhere that way he doesn't have a few stomach to vomit up.

  • Do you think maybe it's possible that it's not really the car that's making him sick, but rather he's worrying himself sick because he's really nervous and anxious about traveling to a new place? Or maybe it's a combination.

    I think maybe you already tried some form of this, but I would think that a good thing to do would be to teach him that getting in the car doesn't have to mean going to a scary new place. Put him in the car, drive around the block, and then back to your house. When you get back, give him praise and treats, and he'll probably be relieved to see you're back at the house. If you're consistent with this and do it every day, I think eventually he'll have a lot less anxiety about riding in the car.

    Another thing that would probably make him feel less anxious would be to make the car feel more like home. Put his bed, his blanket, and his favorite toys in the car. It may help him to calm down.

    Here's a product for travel anxiety/motion sickness that you may want to try. http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseac…

    If you want to take him to training classes, an option may be to drive there really early, and give your dog a chance to be out of the car and recover from his motion sickness before the class starts. Does he usually feel sick for very long after being in the car? As a person, I get motion sickness sometimes, and if I get a chance to get out of the vehicle and sit down for 10-15 minutes, I usually start to feel better. So, maybe that would help your dog, too.

  • With my border collie, we had to fly her on a nine hour flight from the U.S. to Europe then when she got in the car she got sick and this lasted until she was 4 months. She stopped after doing these things with her:
    - Let her sit in the car, play in the car, and sleep in the car to let her know it's just another place
    - Do this while having the engine on (but don't move) and give her LOTS of praise
    - Just go down your driveway in the car and have someone sit in the back with him to give him reassurance
    - Do this for a few weeks, then gradually increase the distance to down the street than around the corner
    Remember to stop immediatley when you see him drool because making him sick will get you no where, in fact, you'll go back to square zero. Also, once you reach your destination ( down the driveway, around the corner, down the street, have the person who is isn't driving walk him back to your house.
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Friday, October 5, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Dog Training?

Dachsund Mom: Would you like to train my 1 year old dog who just bit the very same trainer who was trying to stop him from biting? You would be my hero.

Dog Training - Teach Your Dog the Sit Command at Once



Recommended Answer:
well you could just keep on smacking his nose and in a deep voice yell no in his face! it worked with my dog but all she does now is nip when she plays we are still working on that part though. or you could put some like hot pepper sauce on your hands and you companys hand before they see the dog and when the dog comes up and tries to bite them he would get the sauce in his mouth and if he doesnt like it then he may just stop biting!

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


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Saturday, September 15, 2012

Dog Health Questions: What is your favorite dog TV show on TV now?

Whenever I'm at my sister's house I watch tons of Animal Planet. Surprisingly, there are a lot of really good TV dog shows on. Do you have a favorite and why?

Bonus: Least favorite dog show EVER?
I have a lot of beef with a dog training show in canada called "At the End on My Leash." REally REALLY dislike it for too many reasons to list. :P

Find Out About Purchasing Yourself Some Dog Training Books, They Could Really Be Quite Helpful



Recommended Answer:
Well me and Saber like Its Me Or The Dog and Dog Whisperer, dog 101 [Only a little, like i swear I turned on my TV this morning just to have some form of noise an dog 101 were presenting designer breeds...I wanted to slap myself]

I like Underdog to Wonder dog, It's cute and it make you feel good that not all humans are horrible stupid ignorant about dogs, I mean for got sake some people kick their dogs when they do something bad, abusive.

......I only saw a couple of Last Chance Highway but it seems good.Hate, I don't think I hate any dog show or at least seen one that I hate, I don't watch TV so often.

The Many Types Of Dog Training


  • Favorite- Pit Boss, Underdog to Wonderdog & Animal Hoarding. Pit Boss because it helps spread the truth, it helps find excellent homes for needed Pit Bulls and also is entertaining. Animal Hoarding is kind of creepy, but also entertaining, and it also spreads word that people ARE like that & they NEED help! Underdog to Wonderdog because I just love it. It's cute, it's helpful, it's truthful, it's entertaining, etc.

    Least Favorite- Dogs 101 because all of it's information is false and with that being said, false information + pre/owners with the wrong education on the said breed are in for a huge surprise. Not to mention it did an episode on designer dogs, that made me want to throw my baseball bat at the screen.

    I'm pretty 'meh' on It's Me Or The Dog & Dog Whisperer. The reason being because I don't like or watch those shows, but those methods are used by people. I have no problem with that.

  • It's Me or the Dog! I'm so excited about the new season! =)

    I'm about to finish Victoria's book "It's Me or the Dog - How to Have the Perfect Pet." It's a great book! Every dog owner or future dog owner should read it! =D

    EDIT:
    Yippee for thumbs down! You're just spurring me further towards IMOTD! Her methods work WITHOUT harsh punishment and WITH praise and rewarding good doggy behavior.

  • I'm kinda becoming fond of "Pit Boss". I work most of the time it's on, though.

    Least favorite? "It's Me or the Dog." To me, it almost seems like the dogs will only behave when you have food in front of them. A dog should listen because it knows it should, not because it wants a fatty treat.

  • There's a TV show here in Australia called "Send in the Dogs". It's about detection and Police dogs. It's good for its entertainment value.

    BQ: Least favourite? I wouldn't have a clue. We don't get many dog shows here.

  • pit boss or last chance highway:)

    least: dogs 101, its misinformative and horrible...

  • Is It Me Or The Dog

  • One of my favorites is "Pit Boss". I love that Shorty's Rescue is trying to change how people see Pit Bulls because they are not the vicious dogs people think they are. I also love "It's Me or the Dog". I like that Victoria Stilwell uses positive reinforcement training and is very calm yet firm when training the dogs (and their owners). She is also against any training techniques that cause the dog any pain. And she doesn't use food all the time, just until the dog associates the behavior with something good and then treats no longer need to be used every time. She also suits the reward to the dog, so if they like toys more, she'll use toys or whatever the dog likes best. I have used some of her techniques with my own dog and was very pleased with the results. Both of these shows are on Animal Planet. As for a least favorite, I honestly cannot think of one.

    Edit: I take that back. My least favorite is "The Dog Whisperer" as well. His tactics are borderline abusive (and most are abusive and inhumane in my opinion).

  • I LOVED Blues Clues when I was little! The old Blues Clues episodes with Steve, not Joe. In my opinion, the show was ruined when Steve left and Joe took his place!

    Other than that no, I don't have a favorite dog show. I don't watch Animal Planet. I used to really enjoy Animal Planet, but now all they broadcast is disgusting shows about morons getting attacked by wild animals! I think that channel should be ASHAMED of themselves! They're supposed to be educating the public about animals! Not broadcasting how IDIOTS get themselves mauled by sharks etc.

    I like it's Me or the Dog, but I don't watch it very often. I have nothing against Victoria Stilwell. At least she's not running around abusing dogs like Cesar Millan is so fond of doing!

    My least favorite dog show EVER is the dog whisperer! I DESPISE Cesar Millan! He is the WORST thing that has happened in the dog training world!

  • Dog Whisperer, It's Me or The Dog, Blue's Clues

    Least Favorite:
    Any propaganda show about puppy mills

  • Eddie on Fraser
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Sunday, July 29, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Are there Govt' monies available for people wanting to be dog trainers?

I was wondering if there are any grants, scholarships or any type of funding available to people who want to become a dog trainer? The only programs I know of are for people with some type of learning disability or who have been laid off at no fault of their own(I don't qualify for any of those). The dog training programs can cost anywhere from $3-12K. I live in Missouri if that helps.

Thanks for reading, any positive input helps

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



Recommended Answer:
HAHA monies, how are you going to train a dog if you don't know proper English. There is no such thing as "monies" its money. I doubt it. You don't make a lot of money dog training.

Six Dog Training Tips to Modify Negative Behavior


  • OK those guys are *******, but to answer your question: I don't think there's any government programs set up to turn people into dogtrainers per se. It doesn't require a college degree, only certification. BUT you may be able to spin it so that someone else foots at least part of the bill. The most practical thing I can think of is to get a job at a training facility as something else - a receptionist, pooper scooper, etc - and see if they have some kind of tuition reimbursement program. You could also look into programs like JobCorps to see if they have animal related training available (depending on how old you are). If you look, you will find something that meets your needs. Dog shelter, maybe? Do some cold calling, put ouyt feelers, start a network. You'll get it.

    And to the poster who said something about half her paycheck: Yes, the government falls all over themselves to get people GAINFULLY EMPLOYED you stingy bastard. Instead about feeling good that your money may go to help someone become EMPLOYED and thus, a TAXPAYER, you ***** about them. Bravo.

  • Government money for DOG training?

    That's nice....I'm glad that half of my paycheck goes to programs that are this necessary and relevant
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Thursday, July 19, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Dog training questions?

OK Now that I know what to do with my dogs I have more questions. How much should yorkies eat and 2 or 3 times a day. Also just how often should I let them out???? BTW if my other dog is half the size a yorkie how much should it eat???

Helpful Tips on Dog Training



Recommended Answer:
Yorkies generally should eat 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 cup of food daily. What you might want to do it break it into two 1/4 cup feedings for your dog. You'll want to keep an eye on your dog to make sure it's not only eating it's food but that it's not eating your other dog's food too. This could result in a pudgy Yorkie.

Also, when you say "go out" are you referring to exercise and playtime or in generally be let out to use the bathroom? It really all depends on your dog. But for exercise and playtime you should try to either go on a decent walk or let them out to play a couple of times throughout the day. And be sure to provide toys for your Yorkie as well while inside the house.

As for your other dog, it really all depends on what breed it is. DogChannel.com has a lot of breed specific articles if you wanted a good resource on dog care.

Teach Your Dog (And Yourself) Some New Tricks With Online Dog Training Programs


  • Hi Alice,

    A yorkie does not need too many calories, only maybe 1/2 cup to 1 cup of good food daily but make sure it has all the vitamins and minerals it needs to be healthy.

    Most dogs need to go out about every 3 to 4 hours.

    I put a link below where you can get a free dog owners manual.

  • I dont know because my dogs all eat human food . I suggest human foods for your yorkies . My dogs (i have 5) all eat this secret recipe: (delicious and healthy)

    - ground beef
    - olive oil
    - cheese
    - rice
    - carrots
    - salt & pepper

    I recommend that recipe because its healthy and easy to make. It is great for bigger dogs but you just have to give your yorkies less. As for taking them out i'd say about once a day .

  • I have a miniature yorkie. She ways 4 lbs. I feed her half a cup every day and let her out every 4 hours when possible but she can go 8 hrs without peeing. I have a miniature pom who ways 7 lbs and eats a cup a day and goes out every 4 hours and can hold it for 10.
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Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Is your dog trained with pee pads?

My vet said to train my pomeranian puppy with pee pads until she got all of her shots. Are you a big fan of them? Are pomeranians easy to train? I have been having difficulties, but is it just because she started learning? Please help. The person that answers all of the questions, or a person that answers some but they are good will be getting best answer. Please help though, any of your answer will help.

Myths of Dog Training and Dog Training Solutions



Recommended Answer:
Pee pads are pretty difficult to train with depending on what kind of dog you have. It was very hard for me to train my bulldog to go on pee pads while he was still getting his shots. He really didn't get the difference between the pee pad and the carpet. They sell different sprays that you can spray on the pee pads to encourage the puppy to go on them, but they never worked for my puppy. They also sell trays to attach the pee pads to, to prevent stains if the urine goes through the pad; this was a lifesaver when I figured out what worked. I put the pee pad on a tray and put it on my porch outside, once my puppy learned the command "go potty" which is pretty easy to teach, he started going on the pee pad most of the time. Just repeat "go potty" every time your puppy goes, and she will soon associate it with going potty. Also, my vet told me that I could let him go on grass if I knew the area was frequented by dogs.

Dog Obedience Schools - How to Get Free Dog Training by Learning What's Taught at Obedience Classes


  • 1: No. They are extremely in-efficient and a POOR training technique.
    2: No. Toy breeds are almost always difficult to housebreak. It is so easy for them to sneak behind a chair or under a small table, and it takes only a few seconds for the deed to be done. The results can be hard to see. When you don't see it, you don't correct it -- and so the bad habit becomes established. If you hope to housebreak a toy breed, consistent crate training is mandatory. Pomeranians should not be loosed in the house for many months, until their small internal organs become strong enough for reliable control.

    #

    "Is your dog trained with pee pads?"

    No. My dog is trained with Crate Training. Which I did even when they didn't have their shots.

    As long as your dog isn't next to others that often then she CAN GO OUTSIDE. Using Pee pads are bad because it trains the dog to potty in the house. When the dog goes on the pad "good dog" but if the dog goes on the carpet/floor "bad dog", it's just too confusing for a dog. It's always best to train a dog to potty outside right from the start.

  • I have trained my dog with them. I also have a toy breed (Maltese) and like the pom they are very difficult to house train. It's not just when they are beginning. The breeder I bought my dog from said she has had toy breeds that were never 100% housetrained. LIttle dogs have a harder time holding it. She is really good with them though, if I leave the house for awhile she likes to sleep on the couch but will run to the pad in the batchroom if she has to pee.

    However, I have heard that pee pads are bad because they teach the dog it's ok to go in the house. It's worked ok for me.

  • No, my pup never been pee-pad trained because I don't like the idea train her to do it on pad as it only trains pup to potty INSIDE the house and make it more harder to re-train do it outside when pup have all their shots. My house had fenced good sized garden so its no way pup get dieases as long as no contacts from other dogs, I leash her up and allow her to do potty on grass then praise her cheerful only when she does pee/poop outside. I even crate trained her. Then began to walk her when she had all shots.

  • :NO PEE PADS

    unless you plan on having your dog use the INSIDE of your home for the next 10 years as a bathroom

    bring the pup (carry it) outside every hour

    invest in a crate also,, and research on how to use it properly as a positive training aid*** a pee pad is NOT a diaper,, it is a cloth on the floor,,, they train the dog to pee INSIDE, not necessarily on the stupid pee pad either

    save your money and have your dog potty OUTSIDE
    1 year ago

  • Small breeds dogs can be tough to potty train - some of them taking a year to be reliable.

    I never would train any size dog to pee inside the house - that is what you are doing when using pads. Take the Pom outside for potty from the start and you'll be a lot happier.

  • no my dog is not i do not believe in such things as they get the dog used to peeing in the house i train my dogs when pups by taking them outside to a sealed environment ie a small run that way they are limited to any diseases they might catch and as it is only for a very short time i get by i have never had one get sick that way in fact i use a balcony i have, i have never had any problems housbreaking a dog til yet. i am also a non believer in crating dogs i prefer the old fashioned way everytime

  • they can come in handy but i think they are a waste of money...most of the time they get chewed up by the dog. its cheaper to take your dog out to go potty...im sure your dogs has had some shots...it will be fine to pee out in the yard. as far as training goes all dogs are different. just be consistent with the training and things should go smoothly. start early, its better off.

  • I think they are a waste of money, your time and yeah, gross.. sorry, I think they are lame! lol
    Poms can be difficult sometimes but they are good dogs.
    You need to be adamant and consistent that's all. Good luck!

  • My grandmother uses them and it works good with her. I don't think there the best idea but I guess its good with puppy's who are just learning.

  • i have a 9 month old pomeranian pup and never used pee pads. but it may work on some dogs and not others

  • Nah...I prefer for my house to be free of dog **** and piss. That's what OUTSIDE is for.

  • NOOOOOO!!!! Do not use pee pads. Pomeranians can be difficult to potty train, and if you start using the pads you will only make it more difficult. You should take the pup outside to go to the bathroom. Dogs do not distinguish between certain places set up in the home for them to do their business; they go where they want.
    I recommend hanging bells from your door. Show it to the puppy, and whenever the puppy rings them say "Wanna go out go potty?" in a real excited voice! Take the puppy out, wait for it to do it's business, then treat and praise before taking it back inisde.
    NEVER scold a puppy for going in the house if you haven't seen it do it. The pup will know you're mad, but won't know why. If you catch the pup squatting in the house yell NO real loud to scare the pup, and immediately pick it up and take it outside. I usually say "Go outside go potty" as we're walking to the back door so they know that is what I want of them.
    Make sure that you listen for those bells, and let the pup out EVERY time they ring because even if the pup wants to go out to play, it understands that those bells get it to go outside, and if you work on housebreaking outside, the connection will soon follow.
    Take the pup out every morning after it wakes up, after eating, sleeping, playing, and before bed. I also recommend crate training. This keeps the pup safe from cords and other tempting but harmfull treats, and will ensure that if you're not watching the pup it can't do its business on your carpet or floor. it also offers a safe place for your pup to go and relax. Puppies need that security, and they sleep a lot.

  • i love the pee pads. especially for smaller dogs. usually small dogs can be difficult because they are so full of themselves. if given correct guidance then it shouldn't be difficult. probably she just need a little time to getting used to learning someone elses rules. i sugest you get tips form professional trainers.

    hope this helps.

  • Pomeranians are very easy to train. Thus, it will be better to train them to pee outside of your house rather that use pee pads. She might get used to it and you will have difficulty training her later to pee outside.

  • plenty easy. it just takes patience. pee pads are fine i used them with my dog. She needs to have motive to have good training but as i mentioned before it takes alot of patience.
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Saturday, June 2, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Indoor/outdoor dog training?

Why does my 5 yo female chihuahua poop on furniture, but will urinate on her wee pad as she was trained? Once or twice a year, she'll poop on the pad as she should and is wildly praised. I believe her bad behavior has to do with dominance, but I have no idea how to handle it.

Also, she is trained for both indoors and outdoors. When the weather is too cold or snowy, I'll take her out briefly to let her experience the cold and she always runs back to the door. She'll urinate on the paper once she's in, but will not deficate. Most of the time, I'll find it after the fact, but on occasion, I'll catch her in the act. I've tried everything: a low growl, "No"; direct her to the paper; abruptly flip her on her back; transfer the stool to the paper and use phases such as "good girl"; ignore her; etc--in all sorts of combinations. She'll sulk, then go to the pad, urinate for which I praise her and all is right in her world once again. HELP!

Dog Training - Basics



Recommended Answer:
Sounds like your dog is confused.

In her eyes... you've taught her it's okay to potty in the house. When she soils the puppy pad, you switch it for a nice clean new one and praise her. Well, the couch seems pretty much the same. She goes potty, you clean it up. Fresh clean place to potty!

I understand pads are popular with little dogs, but this is why I do not use them and insist my dogs go outside only. Most dogs have a hard time differentiating between the potty pad and the rest of your house.

Dog Training Tips - Training Dogs For Your Own Benefit


  • She seems to think it is ok to poop wherever she wants. You should start from the beginning with potty training.

    Good luck!!!

  • Sounds like you are not in charge, or the alpha, in your home.
    You need to get back to basics and make her understand you are the boss, and she is in your pack.
    Get a good book on pack order and how to be the boss.

  • Oh please - stop with the dominance and flipping her on her back - she's a chihuahua for goodness sake, what's to dominate? That is so overdone and over used - Cesar Millan should be shot for bringing everything down to dominance, alpha and "calm state" - the guys not a trainer, just a t.v. actor.

    Your dog sounds confused - you vary her routine so much, in, out, weewee pads and papers sometimes - stick to one thing no matter what the weather and stop messing with her mind. Get her on a specific routine - wake up, go out, eat, go out, before bed, go out - same routine - watch for signs she has to go potty and base the daily routine with her around that - she's a dog, you're a human - you can figure this out and potty train the poor thing.

  • You need to prohibit access to places your dog has accidents, period. Confine the dog and gradually increase the roaming space. If the dog backsteps, so does the freedom to roam the house. You have to take control of this situation and make a better effort to stop it.
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Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Dog Health Questions: What dog training method do you favour?

Clicker? Treat/reward? Praise? Bribery? Punishment (physical or yelling)?

I've used a mix of reward and bribery and it's worked great! my terriers surprise people by how obedient they are - heck, sometimes they surprise me! LOL

I have tapped a nose when they were tiny and biting but only once or twice ;-)

Old Fashioned Dog Training



Recommended Answer:
I have to say I think this one depends on the dog some dogs respond very well to treat and praise others don't really care we use mostly treats and praise with out puppy but our older dog could care less about treats or would only obey if he knew he would get a treat and on that note he also could care less about praise. We tried a lot of methods with him and he still has problems but we won't go into that we have had trainers that helped us with his issues using various methods.

I think you should start with any method that does not hurt the dog and only uses gentle corrections such as a slight but quick leash tug with a nylon training collar but always with the guidance of a professional trainer and then if you have to try another method I very highly recommend you got to a pro

Considerations When Buying Dog Training Equipment


  • I think praise is the best but it depends on how smart your dog is. If it isnt so smart you can use clicker or punishment

  • I'm the sme as you.

  • Treat and praise -- that is all that is needed with my chi!

  • Clicker. What a marvelous way to teach a dog what is expected of it.

  • I am a huge fan of clicker training. After the initial training to the clicker, it made all our other tricks so much easier, and faster.

  • For obedience I use a Martingale collar with lead corrections as necessary, rewarding with 95% praise (verbal & physical) and 5% treats (at random). The less I am reliant upon treats to have my dog respond accurately to my commands, the better. So 5% seems to be a good number that's working for *us*. He feels plenty rewarded with a short ear scratch and a "good boooy", and the *chance* that he *might* get a treat this time helps to ensure a quicker response.

  • Reward has worked with all my dogs and they have al been well behaved, one needs extra help, she's had a rough life but she's doing pretty good and she know when she does, looks back when walking like how am I doin', never physical or yelling.

  • I'd have to go treats with praise. The combination always works great!

  • I have a Dachshund and I have had to use rewards and punishment. Punishment is only reserved for when she runs after a person or animal that she has seen outside well really just when she chases animals because we have a problem with people tresspassing in our yard to get to the next street since we dont have a fence and if she sees someone and we are outside she will go after them. Oh well that is there problem but sometimes she will see a cat outside and if I go to leave she will bolt out the door if I am not paying attention and there is no way to stop her so I spank her but in that situation but I make sure if there is a cat myself and everyone else knows to watch when opening the door and she doesnt chase them as far as she used to either lol. She will sit pretty forever just for a hollywood star liver treat lol.

  • For me its the carrott and the stick method, I could count the amount of times I've had to slap my dog on one hand and should only be as an immediate reaction to very bad behaviour. For example, he used to chase horses on moorland on walks one day he chased a horse when I told him to heel and the horse tried to kick him he ran back an got an immediate slap on the backside, it wasn't enough to hurt him but he has never done that since and can now walk amongst them safely (under close supervision, naturally). Having said that (before the vegans firebomb me) bribery is by far the best way of training and produces the best results everytime.

    By the way vegans and thumbsdowners, Reward=bribe in the dog world, get real, your softy methods are the cause of dogs running riot all over the country, "I never give him discipline, all we need is cuddles"

  • In order to keep our puppies attention, I use a really excited voice. For example, for the come command, I'll wait until he's distracted, then I'll tell him "Ruger, come!" in an excited voice. He'll perk up and run over to me. I verbally praise him then will give him a treat. I try to keep it fairly hyper and excited, lots of positives to keep him enjoying it... I want obedience to be a delight, not a chore-I want a MOTIVATED dog! :)
    Or, say he has something he's not supposed to. I'll swap it out for a treat. I'll hold a cookie up to his nose, and tell him "out", when he releases it I'll FIRST verbally praise him THEN give him the treat. I want him to associate verbal, not food as the positive reinforcement.
    There is definately a time for consequences, but really, I try to keep it enjoyable for him, but still maintaining that I am leading him, and that he has to do as I tell him...

    I'm reading Bobbie Anderson's book right now, she's brilliant!

  • Lure/reward. "Reward" is anything that the dog wants or likes: treats, a walk, play time, a car ride, petting, etc. I always have students praise in addition to giving a more tangible reward so that eventually the praise is more pleasurable to the dog and can be used alone. I have met very few dogs who find praise rewarding enough on its own to truly learn a behavior - and those have been Pit Bulls who would do just about anything to make their owners happy!

  • I use a conglomeration of clicker, treat/reward and praise. I don't think bribery gets you anywhere- I have used it for an INITIAL attempt at something- to get my dog ON the dogwalk, for instance- but I find that with bribery, more often than not, the dog is simply following the reward- not actually "learning" anything-

    I don't use clicker for anything I want to stick- anything that is important for me. I'm not smart enough! LOL! I will use it for tricks, because I enjoy the method and I love watching the dogs respond.

    I use praise if/when my dog will work for praise. Not all dogs will. In fact, few dogs will actually work for praise.

    The treat/reward is the most effective method for ME. I hear people all the time saying "My dog won't work without a treat"- So- give him/her a treat! I see no reason to "not" give my dog a treat if it's available. They still get a treat for going in their crates- etc. My dogs get treated for the things I ask for so often, that the few times they do it without is no big deal- they will still do it happily.

    As for punishment- I find it is extremely ineffective. The only time I would use this is in extreme measures (life threatening)- Most of the people who use punishment don't do it consistently or when they need to- and it usually backfires.

    The most important thing to remember, is that not all training methods work for all dogs. Since my oldest girl was my first obedience/agility dog- and was so stubborn- I went through LOTS of training methods trying to find out what worked! LOL!

  • That depends greatly upon the dog's temperament and what I am training for, but, I am a big proponent or Bill Koehler and his methods.
    They have worked for many years and many dogs long before I was even born.
    I am not a believer at all in the new clicker training methods or the bribery techniques that newbies are using.
    Hope I helped!!

  • My favorite method is the Koehler Method of Dog Training (KMODT). Most things called "methods" are usually a combination of tips and tricks and techniques mixed and matched as needed.

    However, KMODT is a method developed after the author trained 10,000+ dogs (either personally or dogs that were in his classes) and extensive records and stats were kept that were used in the creation of his method that works for the VAST majority of dogs (regardless of temperament or breed).

    It uses no food.

    The dog is taught what a command means and the dog is practiced and practiced and practiced. Then once the dog shows (via various tests along the way) comprehension, corrections are introduced and distractions are used early on so that they become a cue to the dog to pay closer attention to his work. Because teaching is done before corrections it is quite fair to the dog--meaning the corrections aren't used randomly and the dog understands his job and responsibility.

    Praise is also used LIBERALLY to be sure the dog understands when he's doing things right. The goal is off-leash reliability and done "by the book" most dogs will get there in about 3 months of steady, 6-days-a-week work.

    On the opposite end of the spectrum...if a person refused to use corrections I would recommend Clicker Training because it is similar in the sense that the small steps prevent loop holes in training. Done well...it probably still takes longer, but better than the wishy washy in between methods, in my opinion.

    I don't consider either a nose tap or rolling a dog on his back a "Method" -- each of these is an example of a discipline technique... a way to correct something you dislike. Yelling or physically hitting a dog is NOT training and just a lack of personal control over one's emotions...hey sometimes I get mad enough to yell but that has NOTHING to do with training.

    Training is about getting a dog TO DO something on command in response to a verbal, hand, or environmental cue each and every time, reliably. Obviously there are subtleties and the common adage of "every interaction is training" has truth to it.

  • Praise and reward seem to do the trick for my two Labs, never punishment, this only instills fear in them, a firm "No" is all that is required.
    Although Labs love to please, so I think I've got an head start.

  • I only train using Praise. This reinforces to the dog that you are the pack leader because it teaches them to work for your approval. Bribery spoils the dog, clickers are irritating (to me), and punishment is too sophisticated and confusing for a dog to understand. When I must punish my dogs, I roll them over on their backs and get in their face and say NO. They get the message immediately.

  • I tend to like the "praise" idea, but not all dogs will go for that. My dog usually doesn't care how good of a girl I think she was, so she usually gets treats. Not always, but usually. With that said, she'll do pretty much anything for a tiny little treat. . . so it's tiny little treat pieces she usually gets unless I'm lazy and out of pre-cut pieces.

    I do yell (or at least sound very unhappy) at her sometimes if need be. That *plus* praise/treats when yelling made her stop and decide to follow my rules worked really well for house-training.

    Clickers haven't really fascinated her ever, other than that she's learned to associate that with getting a treat if she hears it and comes running into the room from elsewhere in the house. It works as a rather distinctive "come", but that's been about it for us.

  • Any positive reinforcement method that works for your pup. My pup is more motivated by praise than treats.

  • hi a mixture of praise bribery and reward hugs

  • I'm a balanced trainer. This means that I use the method that works best for the dog that I'm training. I use a good combination of treats, marker word, placing by hand, and praise to train a behavior that the dog doesn't know. Once the dog starts to understand the behavior, I start adding corrections. A correction can be anything from saying "NO" to placing the dog back into position, to a leash pop. The correction depends on the dog. Some dogs need a gentle reminder, others need a firmer correction to get the point across. I also will train in more distracting environments so that I know that my dogs have an understanding what I want.

    I don't "Bribe" because that is dishonest to the dog. If I want my dog to sit for a treat, I will have a treat available. I will not pretend to have a treat as that is dishonest. I also do not "Yell". Dogs have excellent hearing. In fact, they hear better than people do. I give my commands in a soft firm voice. I don't beg, plead, or nag either as dogs are very smart and training in this manner demeans their intelligence.

    I train using fair and consistent methods which dogs understand. Notice I said "methodS" not method. I make the method fit the dog not the dog fit the method. Good trainers have many different ways of making a dog understand what they want them to do.

  • I will only use reward and praise, no yelling, and I hate the clicker, some dogs just do not respond to it and others do, mostly don't....I do not yell at my dogs or punish them, if they don't get it right, we train till it is done right.

    and then if still does not get it, I just sit down in the grass and cry...just kidding ha ha

    it is in your voice, your praise, the touch of your hands how well you can train a dog........the dogs will respond more to kindness than any other method of training, and anyone can disagree with that, but I truly believe this and this is the way I train my dogs and anyone else's dog, and my Jr. Handler classes are trained in this method also.....and everyone of them have had good results..

    its not what you train the dog, its all in how you train the dog.

    Breeder/show/handler 15 yrs

    Gentle hand, gentle voice, you don't have to use brute force on any dog to train......and I have helped train Great Pyrenees and they are hard headed, but it was done with ease and done the right way...

    Sorry, but I am very passionate on how dogs should be treated, no matter what the situation is......

  • Positive reinforcement works best. There's no need to every tap or hit your dog. By helping him understand the "Good Boy" and "No" trigger commands, you'll make the training process a whole lot easier.
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Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Is http://www.casinstitute.com a legit place to learn dog training?

I heard on a forum it was decent, just wondering what y'all thought. is it worth the $ to get into?

http://www.casinstitute.com

Dog Training Aids - Do You Know How Safe The Methods Used For Dog Obedience Training Are?



Recommended Answer:
It's a "Hole" designed to throw money into....nothing more.

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


  • look if u wanna learn dog training go find a animal training course thats what i did :) u well like it i did look up tafe couse or collage where ever u r look it up on the internet to see what it says if u more if they have email then email them if they have a phone then ring them look iam not a american but i never heard of them before yes it is worth it ..........

  • as an aprentice dog trainer, i would say it would be a lot easier to learn dog training in person. reading about it is one thing but actually doing it is another. It would probably be better if you got a job at a local dog training facility (one that focuses on dog training, not petco or petsmart) and read behavior books on your own. I'm reading a really good book "The Dog's Mind" by Bruce Fogle.

    good luck and have fun!

  • Sorry, I don't know for certain. Their methods are strictly positive reinforcement, and in my experience this is fairly ineffective, but I understand that some people believe in them. It's not a school I would attend, but if that's your prefered method, it looks fairly legit.

    Have you considered this place? I haven't taken any courses here, but have met many of the staff and found them to be professional and capable individuals who have a lot of respect for their dogs.
    http://www.tomrose.com/

  • It doesn't look bad, at least it has some accreditation. I have definitely seen worse. Email them and ask about their methods. Of course you would need lots of hands on training also

  • Its a correspondence course and you don't learn dog training filling in paperwork and doing paper based assignments..........it is yet one more business who has jumped on the bandwagon of people wanting animal related jobs.........it says nothing about the 'certificate and diplomas' being part of the accredited framework.....and they need to be and it is very easy for a real college to do this...........this unfortunately is another way to 'con' the general public that the trainer/behaviourist is qualified....you can go into photshop and produce your own diploma which would just be the same, except you haven't paid someone else for the privilege of printing it...........dog training is a practical skill, not paper based and certainly not a tick list, pay your money and get your 'qualification' nor is it a buy a membership.............go and ask a quality trainer if you can assist or a local dog training club, you will learn more in a month than you will ever learn on this course.........as putting paper qualifications into reality is very different...........and I am not apposed to academic learning I teach animal behaviour at a University where the students do four years and have a one year placement and I have four students on their final year placement at my centre doing practical work..and every one of them has also done practical work at animal related businesses, like the zoo, wild life trust, rescue centres or with dog clubs and trainers.when they finish their degree it will mean something real.......many of these students fail in the first 6 months, great at the academic work however once assessed 'doing' the work they just can't do it, haven't got the natural instincts needed..my advice is don't waste your money not on this one anyway
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Sunday, May 13, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Animal help?? dog help? training?

im getting some guard dog. how to i take care of them so they wont stink like crap and their teeth and hair be shiny???

hiow do i wash them?
feed them?
what kind of food is best?
brushin teeth?
brushing hair?
being a great dog owner???

train them to be inside dog?
train them to listen to me??also i need help with lotion??

how do i apply it??
and where??
and how much daily??
.com
i never used it

Search And Rescue Dog Training Advice



Recommended Answer:
You are basically telling us that you have no idea how to care for a dog, much less two or more dogs, and guard dogs at that. Please do ALL your research before you purchase a dog.

Won't stink like crap: Wash them when they are visibly dirty, or at least every 5-6 months depending on the length of the coat.
Clean teeth: Brush their teeth once a fortnight or so.
Shiny hair: Feed them nutritious solid dog food (kibble), as well as big bones to chew on.
How to wash them: Fill a kiddie pool with water. Pour a bit of dog shampoo on their back, scrub. Avoid getting any soap in the eyes and ears. Rinse. If warm, let them run around to get dry. If cold, wash them in the bathtub instead, and towel them dry.
Feed them: Your veterinarian will tell you the best brand for your dog.
Brushing teeth: Get a child sized brush and dog-safe toothpaste.
Brushing hair: Dog brush. Depending on the length of coat, you may need to groom every day.
Being a great dog owner: Possess caring, proactive, and responsible personality traits.

Inside dog: Give them love and attention inside the house. Feed them inside. Have them sleep inside. Basic obedience training.
How to make them listen to you: Be an effective and responsible Alpha Dog, plus basic and advanced obedience training using only positive reinforcement.

Help with lotion: No idea what you mean. People lotion? Follow the directions on the bottle (?)

Dog Training Techniques - The Dog Whispering Technique Explained


  • Hey thomas I understand the problem you've gone through when trying Secrets of Dog Training, My friend is in the same problem as you, and nothing worked for his dog unit he came across the Dog Training solution program, he's been having great success with it ;
    maybe this something which could be right for you

    Well good luck.

  • Hey I see that you need some sort of guide that will give you tips and tricks
    to help your dog become fully trained and more healthy. Recently one of my friends really
    needed some advice on how to train his dog, he followed the dog training academy course
    to successfully have a full trained dog in a few weeks.

  • Hey ! I see that you need some sort of guide that will give you tips and tricks to help your dog become fully trained and moore healthy. Recently one of my friends really needed some advice on how to train his dog, he followed the Dog Training Masters Home Study Course to successfully have a full trained dog in a few weeks. Maybe this is something for you.

  • Try the site below for a start
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Thursday, May 3, 2012

Dog Health Questions: What is drive in puppy training?

Also, what is steadiness in Adult dog training? I'm doing a research project in animal science about how quail are used for dog training.

Protection Dog Training - Frequently Asked Questions



Recommended Answer:
drive means prey drive. its how a puppy reacts to small, fast moving objects. some breeds are bred to have a higher prey drive like herding/shepherding dogs. although its a mainly inherited trait so they are born knowing how to hunt.

steadiness is to do with how easily scared they are. this is a trait they often needed for military, police and schutzhund work

Choosing Your Dog Training Video


  • I would say that "drive" might be equated with the pup's willingness to learn, or desire to learn. Steadiness might refer to the dog's ability to focus on the task at hand rather than be distracted by every little movement or sound that might interfere.

  • "Drive" usually refers to as Prey Drive, which means that they will stalk prey. Usually sight hounds will do this, or any dog breed that is bred to, will do this by instinct. But, you can also teach voice commands to tell your dog to stalk.I think.

  • Prey, Pack, Defense......

    http://kayehargreaves.com/articles/under…
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Saturday, April 21, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Neep Help! Dog Training tips?

I have a dog named max. he is a very big dog. when he was a puppy we put in a electric fence. we have recently moved to a place without a fence of any kind. Our new neighborhood has many cats and people bring there dogs for walks past our house. there have been many instances when max has gotten off the leash and has almost attacked
dogs and cats. recently he bit a person while not severe it has disturbed me to a point where i have to do something i really need help please send me a tip on how to train his so he is not as agressive and protective.

Dog Training Videos - A Great Way to Learn How to Obedience Train Your Dog



Recommended Answer:
My first suggestion is to get all the "Dog Whisperer" videos you can get your hands on. Dog aggression is a potentially dangerous issue, and acting appropriately now is critical.

Dogs are always doing their best. Your dog probably needs more leadership from you and your family. You did not say what breed it is, but if it has not been trained in any way, your dog will do what comes naturally to him. That may not be the best thing.

Obedience training and lots of interaction that shows you are a firm but loving leader will help your dog learn his boundaries, which he clearly lacks at this time.

This is not a fast and easy task, even if Cesar makes it look easy. It requires commitment and effort on your part. But it will be worth it.

How to Begin a Dog Training Career


  • You might want to check the local dog training program and take him in for a class. They will teach you how to be in control and him to be obedient. Good luck

  • Put a new fence up. Take him to dog classes you could find some on the internet or ask people around. Take him for walks really early and late when there are not many people around that way he cant really attack any one. Tell him off when he does something wrong and praise when he is nice.

    hope i helped :)

  • That sounds like a very serious issue. I would suggest you to train your dog to avoid unnecessary problems with your neighbors and authority.
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Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Dog Health Questions: Bird dog training?

We are going to get an english pointer in approximately 7 weeks. We are looking for recommendations on training books for the new pup. We plan to use her for birdhunting and home. Any recommendations would be great.

Dog Training - Why and How to Train Dogs



Recommended Answer:
Old fathfull, As a british hunter and fan of the english and german pointer as well as an owner then my suggestion would be to use the power and reserch you have at your fingure tips.
When i trained my dogs i used the internet as well as stand in a good bookshop and make notes in my head of all the good tips that some books suplied.
With pleanty patients and persaverance i took the job on of training my dogs, the result is 4 great working dogs that are a joy to watch as they work together. Like you say you plan to use it for bird hunting, they come into there element when doing this on open ground.
Good Luck

A Review of Secrets to Dog Training


  • OK, first, see if there any reasonably priced trainers in your area, I have done drills with dogs that were profesionally trained or where the owner went through a training course with a profesional trainer, and the dogs are superior to dogs trained from a book, not that you would not try, but my brother had a Lab, his name was Strike, Sky Watch Radar's Lucky Strike in full, I know he had more than 750 points in field trials, just not sure how many more, plus this dog kicked *** in the field (my brother actually used to show him off by having him return birds to other hunters who didn't have dogs, on whistle signals alone; this dog knew right from left by whistle better than people I have worked with know it by word), he was trained by Bill Cox of Labs Unlimited in Valparaiso IN (219) 464-3647 not sure if he trains pointers or not but he might steer you right and he won't mind being advertised

  • go to
    http://www.navhda.com/
    North American versatile hunting dog association. i have been a member for over 20 years. they have a great support structure for those new to hunting with dogs. there are a lot of very knowledgeable people with contact info on the site. i hunt Pudelpointers and Labs and have gotten great tips and advice from members.
    best of luck and enjoy.

    http://www.navhda.com/training.html

  • http://www.gundogsonline.com/
    There is an online magazine on this site that is very informative. You can also search all of their back issues.

    "The complete guide to bird dog training" by John R Falk is one of the more popular training books. It's extremely comprehensive, teaching you what kind of dog to pick, how to pick from a litter, how to train the different breeds, etc.

    One of the best tools i've found for dog training is a show called "The Dog Whisperer" by Cesar Millan. His show is on the national geographic channel (which I don't get). I picked up Season 1 of his show on ebay for 35 bucks. It's worth every penny. This will teach you how to get inside your dogs mind and to understand how they think. If you don't get anything else, get this dvd set.
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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Dog Health Questions: How do I get my 4 month old pup to stop biting on our 6 year old dog??

Do I need to spray the older one with apple bitter spray?! Seriously though, we've been trying to introduce this pup to her house mate & she's being a total pain about it. The adult is always sniffing her & willing to sit on the couch & chill, yet the puppy thinks she needs to nibble on her & go nuts. My dog training guide claims I should leash her while the adult is nearby & give her treats when she sits/stays in her spot. But, all that's been doing is getting her more riled up & ready to pounce on the adult! The adult growls at her when the leash is taken out too. Overall, the damn puppy is being nippy anyway. She's a shepherd/lab/chow mix & the adult is mostly labrador. Is there any hope? I wasn't sure if she's just being like this because she's a young dumb-dumb of a puppy.

Animal Husbandry And Other Unnatural Acts: A Career in Dog Training



Recommended Answer:
You are pack leader. Then comes all humans in the family,then comes older dog, puppy is the lowest in pecking order. Keeping a close eye on them, you should allow older dog to discipline the puppy, the way it occurs in nature.
You should walk the puppy at least 45 minutes at a time, this means YOU walking PUPPY, not puppy walking you. You decide on route, and sniffing time. You are the boss.

Dog Training School


  • Hit him.

  • When your older dog gets tired of it, he/she will let her know! Sometimes it takes another dog to teach the little one to stop biting on them! I have 2 AKC registered shelties, and my little one has already learned a thing or two! He's only 12 weeks old!

  • Get a spray bottle with water and spray the puppy whenever she does something bad like this. If that doesn't bother her, make a loud noise like clapping your hands. The point here is to do something unpleasant every time she does something bad. You could also try hitting her on the nose, works for some dogs, but I don't think hitting is a good idea in any form, and sometimes it just makes them more riled up.

  • my problem is the other way around, my older dog will not leave the puppy alone. go figure

  • whats wrong with you,just let the dog sort it out do not leash one and not the other,that is asking for trouble.
    let them loose and when the bigger dog has had enough he will growl and then bite the little one
    and respect is born ,if they are both males a fight is unavoidable and has to happen in order to establish pecking order,
    they will settle down if nature is given the change to run its course.but dont have one constricted and the other one not
    also pet bopth dogs at the same times and fuss over both at the same time,Dogs like people can get very jalous.

  • NEVER HIT YOUR ANIMALS!!! female dogs will always try to be "top dog" your other dog will let her know if she is out of line. I have a 4 yr old male Akita and a 2yrold female Akita. when I first introduced them to each other she did the same thing and my male did let her know when enough was enough. needless to say she is the ruler of him the big Bitc* all females do this and it is normal.

  • If you spray the little dog while it is chewing on your other dog there is a good chance that you will get the older dog wet too and that might prove to be very confusing for your adult dog. Same with clapping your hands. You know your adult dog best. Has he/she ever shown aggressiveness towards other dogs? If not let them work it out amongst themselves as much as possible. They can communicate in their own language. If the older dog snaps the little dog it will probably be a warning. Even if the puppy yelps a little. This will work provided that your adult dog is not seriously injuring your puppy.
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Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Dog Health Questions: What was the song on the budweiser commercila when the dog trains the horse?

what was the song on the budweiser commercila when the dog trains the horse

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



Recommended Answer:
Sorry as I can´t see a Joke or Riddle I can only surmise you have perchance strayed into the wrong section.........try "The Music Section. " who I am sure will be able to help you .....bye and good luck.

Best Dog Training Books


  • I think it was the Rocky Theme Song

  • It's not "Eye of the Tiger" which was in the movie Rocky III.

    The commercial uses "Gonna Fly Now" by Bill Conti, which was the theme to the original "Rocky" movie in 1976.
Read More...

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Dog Health Questions: The role of genetics in dog training?

I asked this a few days ago and got only a few answers:
It is a proven fact that genetics play a part in the training and behavior of dogs. A dog with a history of well tempered, trainable dogs in its background will have these same characteristics to an extent.

However, what if a dog with a good genetic background falls into the wrong hands or situation early in life. For example, if that dog is not well socialized when it is young, will its genetics enable its rehabilitation once it is removed from that situation and provided with the proper training and handling? Can its past be overcome by its good breeding? If so, is it expedited by genetics?

Choosing an Online Dog Training Program



Recommended Answer:
Yes, since genetics is the basis of all temperament issues in dogs, even the ones that have the genetic capability will bounce back, most of the time, and become the dog they were meant to be in competent hands.
I have seen dogs with EXCELLENT genetics stay away from any training and exposure to life and jump right into it with both feet once they were exposed to it by good trainers...bomb proof temperament...great genetics!!! Hope I helped.

A Beginner's Guide to Dog Training


  • It really depends on the dog and the breed. Siberian huskies, for example, have insanely high prey drives. mine have been raised around my maine Coons so they are wonderful with cats; while my males littermate has actually killed two. Terriers fall into the same category, excaept it is proven that they tend to take abuse/neglect/abandonmant more "personally", therefore tend to have more difficulty working out the kinks if not properly trained and socialized early. My female Sibe is an abuse rescue. I adopted her @ amlost 5 months old. i am a certified trainer, and I still have issues with her and she is almost 5 yrs old now. there is no guarantee that ANY dog will turn out ANY specific way, even when they are bred correctly. it is all about the specific personality, the socialization and training they recieve, and the enviornmant they are provided. Genetics DO play a role to an extent, but it is not a guarantee you will be able to get your Lab to swim just because he is a "water dog".

  • Not beyond the basics.

    Only when work on real breed specifics comes in is there any major differences.
    A Peke CAN be rote-trained to run out & circle behind a flock but it will never make even a decent herder.
    Buzzwords like "rehabilitation" doesn't mean anything more than training."Socializing" is another...it doesn't mean tea-parties w/da udder doggies,it just means exposure to new situations. Which CAN be done at any point...by competent humans.
Read More...

Friday, December 23, 2011

Dog Health Questions: Hang signs for dog training?

I have a yorkie that i got 1 week ago and ive been training him since then to do simple commands like sit down etc. but everytime i want him to go down to roll over i have to lure him down. i was wondering if there is a way to make him to do commands through hang signals. Also, he doesnt do commands without seeing a treat? please advice =] Thanks!

Small Dog Training - Searching For Dog Training Courses Online?



Recommended Answer:
Be patient. You are training a lot for a dog in one week. The dog will associate whatever hand signal you use. It's a result of what's known as conditioning. To get away from treats, use other rewards like petting or toys. Also even if you have a treat, don't treat every time. Check out my own training adventures at http://trainingthehyperactivedog.blogspot.com/

Obedience Training for Dogs - Training Guide


  • I think that working towards one command/week is a very obtainable and reasonable goal. After the first command is mastered, you can start with the next one and add to the repertoire.

    Overloading a new dog/puppy with too many commands is frustrating and unsatisfying for the dog and owner.

    Take it slow and enjoy your new friend's companionship. I try to keep training sessions to 30 minutes or less just to keep everyone fresh and alert.

    Your dog will WANT to please you in time. Good luck!

  • I have used sign language for my dog and also my children when they were little (so I wouldn't have to yell in the store). You can probably find basic signs on the net, if not you can get an American Sign Language book at the library. Start with one command, it is ok to give treats, but slowly remove the treat with back rubs etc.. After you dog masters one command add others. Start by saying the word and the sign at the same time, then just use the sign if you would like.
    Good Luck

  • I use different commands, sounds, and hand signals for each of my dogs. Sometimes I use the actual sign language signs, and sometimes I just use "thumbs up" and "thumbs down" I guess it depended on the puppy. I think you are doing it right, it all just takes time. I use treats when they are little, and then back off and just give praises, and make a fuss.

  • Anthony, Congrats on your new Yorkshire Terrier.

    As for the training...well...one thing at a time and take your time of course. He will learn one thing quicker than several things at once. For example, what do you want him to do first, sit? stay? roll over? go potty outside? Pick one thing and teach him the most important one first. When he has mastered that one, move slowly onto the next and so on until your Yorkie is the best little guy on the block!
    I teach all of my dogs the hand signal methods as I am hearing impaired and it looks way too cool when you want to show off to family or friends a dog who can do a command without voice! As mentioned, get the hand signal book, then read and practice before doing anything to your pup. Decide which thing you want first and then teach him to just that one.
    BTW Roll over and shake are considered "parlor tricks". Save those if you must do them at all for last.

  • THE PREFERED ONE
    i think it is pretty early for the dog 2 learn.but in future never get him trained from a from someone coz ma frnd's dog lost his one eye and went in depression.(the trainer could be a non-professional one)
    better 2 teach him step by step on ur own, i mean one thing at a time.
    if u want him/her 2 learn how to sit down on the command, then wen the dog is standing, just make him/her sit and tel him this is how u sit down.
    make him do this at regular intervals but not disturbing the food time.
    be polite and tap him or show love while teaching him/her
    dnt get hyper if him/her is not learning at once.it wil take time.
    but i still say its a little early for u to start teaching him.let him/her be a little more close to u. let him/her start trusting
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Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Dog Health Questions: How much does Schutzhund dog training cost in California?

Points to the best answer!!

Dog Training Collars - How to Choose One



Recommended Answer:
Call a Shutzhund club and find out

Here is a link that has many California clubs

http://www.southwestschutzhund.com/sw_cl…

5 Basic Dog Training Mistakes


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    Friday, December 2, 2011

    Dog Health Questions: Positive Dog Training Using Food?

    I have been doing a lot of research on dogs and am so far a big fan of Cesar Millan's (calm down people, I unlike most, know that his "forceful" techniques seen on his show are used for dangerous, aggressive dogs, and not training). If you actually read his book, you would know that he is full of information on how dogs should be properly treated as far as exercise, discipline, and then affection. That being said I am looking up positive reinforcement dog training which often uses treats. My question is, when your dog associates a command with a treat, and then you take that treat away, and expect them to do a command, won't they miss the treat? I understand that you are suppose to replace the treat with affection, but they are not the same thing to a dog. Can you just use affection and not treats in training?

    The Benefits Of Positive Dog Training



    Recommended Answer:
    You gradually take the treat away, however not completely. Think about it like a slot machine. People will sit there for hours and pour the quaters in hoping for that one win, they will keep trying because we are "trained" to know that it is possible that the next time we drop in the money, we could win.

    So in the beginning, give the dog a treat every time they preform the command. Once they have it down SLOWLY start taking the treats away, once every other time, then even more distance. The trainer I've been using has said once every 5 times is a good place to be. It has worked wonderfully with my pup. Good luck!

    Dog Training Tips


    • yes you can. i for example, had a dog that wasn't interested in treats, and only worked for my affection. but that isn't most dogs.

      dogs live to please a pack leader. the treats are just a bonus. if you are coupling treats with another positive reward like a verbal or loving touch then when you take the treat away, he will still associate doing the command with a good feeling. if he knows he is pleasing you and you are otherwise doing everything to make yourself a respectable leader, you shouldn't have any issues when you remove the treat

    • No they won't miss the treat because you replace the treat with praise and affection.

      You don't cut off the treats cold turkey - it's gradual - combine the treats and praise together, start giving fewer and fewer treats, and slowly increase your use of affection and praise.

      I almost never use treats, I always use "GOOD!" or "YES!"

    • the idea is to gradually take the treats away so they only get treats every once in a while. this way the dog will still do the behavior because they think 'this might be the time i get a treat!' so they keep doing the behavior in hopes this time will be a treat. i use positive training on my dog and it works wonders! dont let ne one give u crap for it either. trust me some will. :)

    • It's best to use treats as a random form of positive reinforcement.

      I learned this while in college in my experimental psychology class. We had rats, and the goal behavior was to get the rat to press a level as often as we could. We found rats that were randomly dispensed with a food pellet as reinforcement would press the lever more often than those that were given the food pellet every time.

      Reinforcement in behavioral psychology is really a fascinating subject. Amazingly, it works just as well on people as it does on animals!

      With my dog, I used treats randomly on a behavior he was still learning. I was consistant in praising and affection with every occurance of a desired behavior. After a few tries where he had the command down pat, I simply eliminated the treats altogether in training, until the next time I was teaching him something new.

    • It often depends on the dog.

      A friend of mine with a Australian Shepherd took some private training lessons with me & my German Shepherd. Her Aussie responded VERY well to affection as a reward and also treats. But, at first, my GSD would almost ONLY respond to the treats. I think the tummy may speak louder than the heart, though, in almost any situation with any dog... at least slightly. ;)

      The deal with the treat is to use it as a quick way for the dog to learn this is good & beneficial behavior. It helps them to make that association pretty quickly. You wouldn't stop giving treats as a reward cold-turkey. You would just require the dog to do the trick/behavior for a little longer before rewarding with the treat. And then, eventually, phasing the treat out.

      For instance, one thing I wanted to teach our dog was to come inside from the front yard right away when I called. I did this at first by having the juiciest bloodiest piece of beef liver ready for him in my fridge. Then I'd call him & run inside straight to the fridge (by this time he was chasing after me maybe thinking it was a game or something) and giving him a piece of that liver. (Of course I was praising him as well.)

      I did this several times this way. Then, eventually, I would only reward him with a treat every other time. And now, I don't usually reward him with a treat at all. I'll still praise him, though. And every once in a while just to be nice & to remind him that coming in right away really is a good thing, I'll still reward him with a big juicy treat. But I probably only do that once every 3 weeks or a month.

      So, I don't think you ever stop using treats COMPLETELY. I do it now b/c I WANT to. But in the beginning, I did it b/c I HAD to in order to "jump start" my dog into doing what it was I wanted him to do.

    • My dog would rather have affection. He is Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dogs International certified, and he got through all of his training and certifications WITHOUT treats. Sometimes dogs are smart enough to know when they will and won't get a treat. I also know, through psychology, that unless you teach using the treat occasionally, but not all the time, the dog will just associate the trick with the treat. Once the treat is no longer used, they will reject doing the trick. If you give treats sporadically (not everytime they do the trick), they have a higher success rate of repeating the trick once treats are removed.

      You can use affection alone, but otherwise I recommend the sporadic treat method that I explained. I can give you more details if needed as well.
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    Tuesday, November 22, 2011

    Dog Health Questions: 15 y/o dog training?

    I'm fifteen years old and I want to start a dog training business.

    My experience includes training two highly obedient, well-mannered dogs, both easy-to-train golden retreivers. I am mature and organized, enough so to train one or two dogs over the summer and keep a schedule and track payment.

    I was thinking of using a program along the lines of (7) [1] hour lessons over the course of [7] weeks. I would consider charging $75-$100 per session. (about $10-$15/hour)

    I would create a curriculum and incorporate a member(s) of the family into the lessons.

    Dog Training: Tips and Tricks the Professionals Use



    Recommended Answer:
    I work with a trainer who has been breeding, showing and training dogs for 25+ years. She has titled dogs in conformation, obedience (up to UDX), agiltiy and now Rally-O. She runs a 7 week class, one hour each week, with a proper cirriculum and charges each individual only $50 for the 7 week course.

    Do you have experience in the obedience ring? Have you title a dog in obedience yet? These are criteria I would certainly consider when deciding what trainer to go with and if the price were acceptable. If you have not done this yet, maybe you should consider lowering your cost to start to a reasonable amount which reflects your credentials and experience. Goldens are lovely dogs, but they are also a breed very easy to train. Are you able to assist an owner with a high energy border collie and isn't able to figure out how to properly handle and train a dog with such a high drive?

    Are you a member of any local training clubs? Do you have respected trainers who will back you up and agree that you are fully capable of handling a training class with potentially any breed of dog? This is something else that would greatly benefit you.

    I'm not trying to shoot down the idea and I'm not saying that you aren't possibly capable, it's just that many feel that because they can train their own dog, that they can teach others, but the truth is that dogs vary from breed to breed and you need to be well educated on the possible breeds that could come to you.

    Crate Training Your Dogs - Ultimate Dog Training Method


    • What kind of method do you use to train dogs?

      75$-100$ is a good price, but it depends on what you are training the dog to do. trust me if you have trained that many dogs, then you can probably start a business. (some people think that 15 is to young.) well good luck!

    • Keep in mind that there is a world of difference between training a dog tricks and doing true obedience training. This is not to insult you, your skills or your accomplishments. It's just that many people who bring their dogs in for obedience training have already taught their dogs to sit, lie, give paw, stay, etc. But those dogs are also far more willing to break those commands. That is, the dog may sit, but then promptly get up. A truly obedient dog will sit and stay seated. If not, the owner knows how to correct the dog and keep him in the position until released.

      You also have Golden Retrievers. As you admitted, these wonderful dogs are, in general, far easier to train. Try working with a tougher breed, like Dalmatians. If you have success with them, then I will not doubt your skills at all.

      As you are 15, I would actually recommend you seeking work with a professional trainer. Having just two dogs trained, while a start, would not impress me at all (sorry) and I would not use your services. However, if you gain experience working with a professional trainer who has worked with many dogs, then you can build up your c.v. and advertise in a year or so as a "dog trainer".

      You are headed in the right direction, but at present, you do not have enough experience. Don't rush it - the experience you gain working at shelters or with a dog trainer will prove invaluable.

      Good luck!

    • You realize you'll have to apply for a small business license and file taxes with the IRS or you can get in a lot of trouble, right?

      I don't think a lot of people will want to hire a kid who happened to teach his dogs to sit and stay to train their pet. You should wait until you're older. And why on earth would they pay those prices to someone with no background, no training, no certification (yes, REAL dog trainers are certified and take classes for it) ?

      It's a nice idea, but I don't think it's a good one.
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