Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Introducing A New Dog

When we adopt dogs from shelters, it is good to remember that almost every dog will be in need of some type of rehabilitation. We need to make sure that we have rules, boundaries, and limitations set for them, and that they get exercise, discipline, and affection (in that order). Before you bring your new dog home. Try taking them for a long walk.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Aggressive Dogs

Hey guys, tonight we are talking about aggressive dogs, and what can be done. I wish I had a dime for every person that has said that they were thinking about putting their dog down if they could not get them under control.
We need to think about our dogs in the following way.
Animal
Dog
Breed
Name
Almost all types of aggression in dogs are a result of something else in their life, and aggression is just the end result. One of the best things we can do as dog owners, is to establish ourselves as true pack leaders in our homes. Dogs do not follow weak people, or weak dogs. When we are in control of our dogs in a way that the dog understands, it is much easier to get them in control. Dogs are looking for direction, and always respond well to the right person. Training should begin often and early. Socializing our dogs with other dogs and people at an early age will help. If your dog is aggressive towards people, or other dogs it is not too late. It is our responsibility to give them the education they need to have a well balanced life.
The dogs in the following picture wanted to kill each other every time they saw each other. After only a couple of sessions, the owners stepped up, and with calm assertiveness they took charge of the dogs, and within a few hours we were in the house for the first time with the dogs together. As you can see from the photo, all it took to get things started was calm assertive pack leaders that were willing to listen for the good of their dogs.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Aggression


Hey guys, just wanted to check in, and tell everyone about a dog I have been training. The dog in the photo is Lycan, and he was a very aggressive 117 pound dog that wanted to kill anyone or any animal in sight. There are many types of aggression that can be displayed from dogs. They all have their own personalities, and dispositions. This dog turned out to be a very good dog. The owner who was a petite girl, was giving the dog all kind of affection, but at the wrong times, and in the wrong order. The dog had been raised for several years with no rules, boundaries, or limitations. The first time I saw the dog, it tried to come through a sliding glass door to kill me. However, I soon realized that this dog was acting out of instinct from a lack of training. The dog had become the pack leader, and was protecting the pack with his life. After helping the owner to step up, and take charge of the dog, it did not take long for the dog to see itself as a follower of the pack not a leader. The dog is doing much better, and the owner has a new confidence that puts her in the front of the pack. Remember, "If you are not in the front of the pack, the view never changes". If you would like to know more about dog aggression, please feel free to contact me.