|
Dog Trainers' Training Tips, Puppy House Training Aids & Information
Pupforum.com's contributing columnists include some of the best and highly sought after dog trainers from all over the world who give you some of the best advice as specialists in a wide variety of methods in dog obedience training. With advice on how to make use of dog training aids to helping you understand the differences between a number of different kinds of dog training collar options are out there, our team of experts can give you the advice you need.
While the information given in these columns is intended to be informative — dog behavior, handlers and situations vary widely; for example, puppy training versus training an older dog use very different tactics, and there is a marked difference in how to go about puppy house training and teaching a puppy not to chew on household items. You should always consult a professional dog trainer to assess your own dog obedience situation. Click here for more information.
Have a question for one of our dog trainers? Submit your dog training questions here and get dog training tips! Ask a trainer
for the training advice you need.
 columnists
column archive
Puppy Runs Away When She Is Called
By Elaine Allison (12/30/07)
My daughter has just gotten a 7 month old female shepherd/heeler mix puppy. We live in the country and do not have to leash my 8 yr. old male dog and would like to be able to do the same for her when we are outside. However, when you say
read the rest of this column
Catahoula Is Talking Or Growling?
By Evelyne Bliss (12/2/07)
My male Catahoula puppy is now 7 months old. He growls at me when I get within 12 inches of his face & then turns his head real fast. I'll be petting him & talking to him, but he gets this real serious look on his face & growls when I get close, and tries to get up & leave even. Two times I noticed him growling at toddlers, when they approached him. This happened on different days. How can I correct this and why is he doing it?
read the rest of this column
Howling Yorkie/Daschund Mix
By Fran Williams (11/2/07)
We have a year old Yorkshire Terrier/ Daschund cross who just loves to howl (not bark) for no apparent reason. His brother (a purebred Yorkshire terrier) only seems to bark at normal things and does not howl at all, however the cross is very rambunctious and will howl at everything. It's cute and annoying at the same time.
read the rest of this column
Elderly Dog Is Acting Very Strange
By Evelyne Bliss (10/3/07)
Chinese Shar Pei - age 12 Monte has been a wonderful dog and I would like to make sure that the rest of his life is as happy as I can. Monte has started to act strangely. He will shut himself in a bathroom and then destroy it trying to get out. He has chewed the molding and pulled everything out from under the sink.
read the rest of this column
Very Shy Rescue Dog
By Elaine Allison (9/6/07)
I adopted a dog from a shelter; unfortunately she has turned out to be a very shy dog and is scared to death of people. I have had her for four months and we have made slight progress but she still runs away and hides if a person comes into a room where she is and we have had to put boards next to all of our beds to keep her from hiding under them.
read the rest of this column
Can a Puppy Go Outside Before He Is Fully Vaccinated
By Fran Williams (8/8/07)
I just adopted a pitbull/shepard puppy that is three months. I’m trying to potty train her at the moment and that can be frustrating. The other articles on housetraining are helping and they assure me that I’m on the correct path with my training her. The shelter told me not to let her out of the house until she’s six months of age and has had her three shots and her rabies shot, is this true?
read the rest of this column
My Boxer Is Jealous Of My Boyfriend
By Evelyne Bliss (7/25/07)
My boyfriend and I have a 6 month old boxer/lab mix. We go for walks and runs with her twice a day. We have taught her sit, down, and rollover. Recently she started going under our dining room table when we eat our meals and barks at us. She puts her snout in our crotches and barks and nips at us. It’s not at all enjoyable. We also found that when we sit on the couch she keeps trying to jump up. She will not stop. It seems to be only when my boyfriend and I are together that she acts like a completely different dog.
read the rest of this column
9 Week Old Puppy Won't Listen
By Elaine Allison (7/12/07)
I have a 9 week old Boston terrier- Chihuahua female mix. I am having a hard time training her to be obedient to my voice. She when I tell her to “COME” she runs. She will go under things were I can’t reach her to pull her out. She will run and make me run after her. She runs around if I tell her to sit. She just does everything opposite to what I want her to do.
read the rest of this column
Doberman Is Hard To Walk
By Evelyne Bliss (6/28/07)
Hello, I have a five year old male Doberman named Hunter. He is overall a wonderful boy! He was housebroken easily at 10 weeks old, does not chew on anything, he is very lovable, and loves kids and other animals. I would really like to walk him on a leash but when he was a puppy I got pregnant and had to tie him out rather than walk him. Now he pulls me all over the place when I try.
read the rest of this column
Terrier Mix Is Territorial Around Other Dogs
By Elaine Allison (5/11/07)
My 4 year old terrier mix has suddenly become territorial around other dogs. She's been with me for 3 years and I've always been able to trust her off leash in the front yard when I'm gardening, etc., but lately she's been charging at other dogs, snarling but not biting. What do you think is causing this and how can I stop it? She has been to obedience school with me and knows the
read the rest of this column
Dog Pees Around Male Owner
By Jean Crooke (4/24/07)
I have a male chow/collie mix about 3 1/2 yrs that I adopted over a year ago. He is a great dog but has a problem with I call it nervous peeing. He doesn’t care for men too much, he is always by my side and he never does this with me. Whenever my husband, who has shown him much love, takes him out he generally pees by the door as he is putting his leash on.
read the rest of this column
Mastiff Puppy, Fearful Or Dominant?
By Evelyne Bliss (3/15/07)
Mastiff puppy, is his barking dominant or fearful? I have 8 mastiffs, all fit into slots of dominant and so on down the pecking order. All eat together and we have only the occasional minor disagreement. I have always known how to deal with each dog, but I have a 4 month old make who is sending cross signals , when I take him out and he sees strange dogs, he barks nonstop, stands stiff legged and alert, chest extended, hackles up, head and tail raised. If the other dog approaches him, he turns tail and runs away; stopping to turn and bark.
read the rest of this column
Two Terriers Play Very Rough
By Elaine Allison (3/5/07)
I have an 8 week old American Bulldog. He's a wonderful puppy, but he plays too rough with my Boston Terrier. She holds her own, especially because she's still bigger for now; she's a tiny one, only 12 pounds. I'm afraid this is making his temperament too aggressive little by little because she gets just as rough.
read the rest of this column
German Shepherd Is Digging In The Yard
By Evelyne Bliss (2/12/07)
We have a 6 year old German Shepherd male and a 3 year old German Shepherd spayed female. The male is constantly digging in the backyard. He digs around propane tanks, under the house. They have a large fenced in backyard to run and play all day in. I feel they get plenty of exercise.
read the rest of this column
Two Rotts Can't Be Separated
By Fran Williams (2/9/07)
I have recently acquired 2 full grown male Rottweilers of unknown age. The previous owners stated that they needed to be kept together, that they had been together since birth. They are brothers. Usually, they are both sweet and lovable. I am not capable of playing with them together for any length of time because they become jealous and want all the attention. I have tried to separate them, but they want to be close to the other one.
read the rest of this column
Looking Between The Bars - How to best pick the right dog for you and your family
By Elaine Allison (1/31/07)
Define! What kind of dog owner are you, or do you want to be? Your new dog should fit your lifestyle, not the other way around. You choose the dog. The dog doesn’t choose you. Think about what you’d like to do with your new dog.
read the rest of this column
Pitbull Won't Be Housebroken
By Jennifer Shryock (1/23/07)
My boyfriend and I have an 8 month old Pitbull who has been impossible to pottytrain. We have tried everything from kennel training to rubbing his nose in it. We bought a doggie door and put his kennel against it so he could go in and out but he has chewed the flap off the door. We are getting him neutered hoping that it will help the
read the rest of this column
Husband And Wife Can't Agree On A Puppy
By Evelyne Bliss (1/12/07)
Choosing a puppy by what charateristics? I have read how to pick your dog part I and II, and with these questions, have narrowed down my pick of a Welsh Terrier puppy. Unfortunately my wife has made her pick also, and we don't see eye to eye.
read the rest of this column
Doxie And Dobie Are Playing A Little Too Rough
By Fran Williams (1/9/07)
Advise on how to get a 5 month old Doberman to play gently with a 9 month old Minnie Doxie. So far I keep the Dobie on a leash when they go outside to play and leave them loose in the house for a little while each day. The Doxie can go under the couch or chair if the Dobie gets too rough. I sometimes use a water bottle to squirt them on the butt if they get to running in the house or get too rough with each other. Any ideas would be a big help.
read the rest of this column
My Beagles Are Fighting
By Lynne Gifford (1/3/07)
I have two beagles. One 6months old male and one 3month old female. They don't seem to be getting along. The little one always starts the fight and it turns into rage. When I'm home I can stop the fight but the problems is when I'm not home. I've got a complaint letter from the neighbor that they're too loud. They don't usually bark except when they're in a fight. So I'm assuming they're fighting all the time when they're left alone. I tried to separate the two but they howl and cry.
read the rest of this column
Biting Boxer
By Elaine Allison (12/29/06)
I recently picked up a 9 month old Boxer from a rescue. I have now had the dog for 12 days. The dog had been in 3 homes already and supposedly let go because of barking. The dog is caged during the day while I am at work and at bedtime as well. He is a very nice dog who walks well on the leash, sits on command, just adorable. This will continue until I know for sure that he will not destroy the house while I am not there...On 2 different occasions, while on a walk, the dog grabbed the end of the leash in his mouth and when my wife tried to open it to get the leash, he attacked her, biting her (quite severely) on both arms.
read the rest of this column
Searching For The Right Companion For A Special Needs Child
By Jennifer Shryock (12/9/06)
I would like to buy our daughter, 4 1/2 with some special needs, a puppy to be her forever buddy. I truly think this would be a good thing for her. (Special Needs: Developmentally behind gross and fine motor skills and significantly in speech. Babbles most of time, says a sentence occasionally). I am considering a Goldendoodle or an Australian Shepherd for their intelligence and temperaments.
read the rest of this column
Destructive Goldendoodle
By Evelyne Bliss (12/3/06)
I have a wonderful Goldendoodle Mojo. He is a wonderful dog, except that when we leave the house, he goes crazy. Our doorframe is clawed, he knows how to open the front door, he has even jumped out of a second story window, twice! We left him in the car about a week ago, and in 5 min, he chewed off of a seat belt, tore the interior off, and scratched everything while we were paying for gas.
read the rest of this column
Black and Tan Coonhound Barks Too Much
By Fran Williams (11/22/06)
I need to know more about coonhounds and how to exercise them. I took my Black and Tan out for a trail walk (all trees and park) -- he barked a high-pitched park the entire time. Where can I take him and let him have fun smelling and not get the bark?
read the rest of this column
Counter Surfing And Separation Anxiety
By Elaine Allison (11/17/06)
My family has a one and a half year old goldendoodle. She is a great family pet, and has recently started a most annoying behavior. It appears as though she may be suffering from separation anxiety, however her destructive behavior is not the typical chewing on household items, doors, or windows. To my knowledge, she does not howl or bark when we leave either. Her items of choice are food or sometimes my daughter's things (like crayons or colored pencils).
read the rest of this column
Raising Two Puppies From The Same Litter
By Lynne Gifford (11/14/06)
I am in a tough situation and don't know what to do. My husband and I adopted two male 6-month-old Maltese-poodle puppies from the same litter about two months ago. They were the last two of the litter and we felt bad about separating them and thought maybe we could raise them together so they could keep each other company. I really wish I had researched this before we made that decision because now I am reading so much information on why it's a bad idea.
read the rest of this column
Visla is Beginning Bad Behavior With a New Toddler in the House
By Jennifer Shryock (11/10/06)
I have a 3 and a half year old Vizsla who has very recently developed aggressive behavior around food and toys he picks up. With a toddler in the house, this is becoming more and more of a safety risk.
read the rest of this column
Puppy Shreds Puppy Pads When Left Alone
By Jean Crooke (11/5/06)
My husband and I added Kihei, a beautiful black Labrador Retriever puppy, to our home a month and a half ago. We currently live in a large apartment and have her in a playpen with puppy pads while we are away at work. The longest stretch of time that she is alone is 4-5 hours in the afternoon. Our problem is this: She tears her puppy pads to shreds! As we have carpeted floor where her playpen is located, taping down the pads has not worked.
read the rest of this column
10 Week Old Boxer Mix Plays Very Rough With GSD Mix Brother
By Evelyne Bliss (9/25/06)
I just bought a 10 week old female Boxer/Pitbull mix who is such a sweetheart...until she plays/wrestles with my 6 month old intact male who's a Pitbull/German Shepard. He too is very sweet and such a lapdog! I've had her for about 10 days now and my male will not hurt her, but she goes after him as if she is trying to be the alpha.
read the rest of this column
Australian Shepard Is Aggressive Towards The Cat
By Fran Williams (9/21/06)
We have a 13 week old Australian Shepard female. When we brought her home and inside the house, she spotted our cat and became very aggressive toward her. We seem to be unable to stop this action.
read the rest of this column
How Early Should I Train My Puggle?
By Elaine Allison (9/12/06)
Hi, I have a 3-month old puggle. He does OK, as far as house training, but occasionally he does make mistakes on the carpet. My question is, at what age should he and I go to a trainer? Is he too young now? I would like him to be obedient (all the time), use the bathroom in the right place and to stop begging for food all day.
read the rest of this column
My Dog Hates Puppies
By Lynne Gifford (9/1/06)
My dog is almost 3 years old. He grew up in a house with a full grown husky mix and a Siberian Husky that are his age. He LOVES them both. However he HATES puppies. All my friends have been getting puppies lately and my American Eskimo Memphis growls at them. Then if they keep pestering him he bites them! It embarrasses me, also I am concerned because we want to breed our Siberian and we can't have him being mean to the new pups. I have no idea why he is like this and need to know how to stop it!
read the rest of this column
My Dog Is Aggressive At The Door
By Elaine Allison (8/23/06)
We have a half English / Neo mastiff. He is about 3 years old. If someone comes to the front door he is very aggressive. He jumps on the door, barks and it is like he wants to attack. My husband thinks if we have him neutered that this would take some of the aggressive moves away. What can we do about this problem with the door?
read the rest of this column
Old Dog, New Dog
By Evelyne Bliss (8/10/06)
We currently have a male 7 year old terrier mix who is a very gentle submissive dog. 3 days ago we adopted a male 6 month old golden retriever puppy. Our terrier mix is having a hard time adjusting to the pup.
read the rest of this column
Advice From Fran
By Fran Williams (8/7/06)
I am thinking about adopting a Lab/Rottweiler mix puppy. Have you had any experience with this mix? I am wondering if it will be a loveable,
read the rest of this column
Vacuum's are Scary to Some Men, Too!
By Simon Goodall (7/27/06)
I just have one problem-HE HATES THE VACUUM CLEANER & THE BROOM!! I have to put him in my car to clean! Is this common? What can I do to help him get over his fear of the vacuum cleaner & the broom?
read the rest of this column
Another Skittish Rescue Dog
By Evelyne Bliss (7/12/06)
When she is alone in the yard she plays like any normal pup so I know she feels okay. The only one she seems fine with is my 2 year old granddaughter. It has only been one week but I truly want to make
read the rest of this column
My Chihuahua is a Man Eater!
By Jean Crooke (7/6/06)
I recently adopted a chihuahua from a rescue in Pennsylvania. So far I've noticed he is fearful of men to the point of aggression
read the rest of this column
Aggressive Puppy or Just a Tissy Fit?
By Lynne Gifford (6/27/06)
I have a unknown breed pup of about 8 weeks. He's very cute but uncontrollable at times...he gets very angry when he can't have his way when we're out walking so he then begins to attack me.
read the rest of this column
My Insomniac Poodle
By Simon Goodall (6/20/06)
He won't fall asleep until at least 1:00 or so. He paces on the bed, wants to get off, wants to get back on, wants to play, humps everything in site (then when I take things away he cries and cries). I've tried walking him, feeding/water him, everything.
read the rest of this column
My Skittish Pit Bull
By Evelyne Bliss (6/13/06)
He is extremely skittish. the only way he will come in from outside is if you open the door and walk away from it. if you stand at the door waiting for him to enter he will sit and wait for you to walk away leaving the door open.
read the rest of this column
Two Crazy Akitas
By Fran Williams (6/12/06)
I was given two pure breed Akitas; a two year old male and a 9 month old female. You can't separate them. They go crazy when I take them separately for a walk.
read the rest of this column
My Dog Won't Stop Chewing!
By Elaine Allison (6/7/06)
My husband and I have recently moved to a new home and our 1 yr old shiba Inu has decided to chew on every piece of wood he can find in the house. Is there some product I could use to put on wood that would make my dog not want to chew on it because it tastes bad?
read the rest of this column
Dobe Nips Her Brother When People Walk By
By Elaine Allison (5/9/06)
I believe the problem I am having between my two dogs is Redirected Aggression. Teah is 14 months, Diesel is 3 years both Dobermans. When someone walks by the house Teah will start nipping Diesel. He will get very loud because he knows that she will start her stuff and she will not back down. It’s very frustrating because it ends up very loud and she should not nip Diesel like this.
read the rest of this column
Adopted Dobe Is Having Trouble Adjusting
By Fran Williams (5/4/06)
I have just adopted a rescued 18 month old neutered male Dobie who appeared to be a happy healthy youngster. His former owner committed suicide, so we know he's been through some awful stuff, but not much more is known about him. The foster said he was a great lovable little guy, but seemed aggressive toward one person, her brother.
read the rest of this column
A Wild Sheltie
By Lynne Gifford (5/1/06)
I am asking this question for my grandmother. She has a 7 month old sheltie who has always been a good dog with no behavior problem for the past dew day she has been barking and growling and just going crazy she is being violent with her toys and tearing them up as well as running a rampage on the house. She has never acted like this before and we were wondering if there was anything we could do to help her clam down again.
read the rest of this column
10 Week Old Puppy Is Chasing Feet
By Evelyne Bliss (4/28/06)
Hi, I have a new 10 week old puppy that I just brought home yesterday. She is tiny, 2.5 lbs! Anyway, she is obsessed with our feet. From day one she jumps up no matter what she's doing so she can chase our feet as we walk across the house. Of course it's cute but I want to break her of this immediately because she's going to get hurt. She runs right in front of our feet and she's so little we have to be so careful not to step on her when she's doing this.
read the rest of this column
The Saint Bernard And The Cat
By Simon Goodall (4/27/06)
I just brought a cat home and my St Bernard will not stop barking at it or leave it alone. She has been around cats before but that was a year ago at a foster home. The cat is not helping the problem either; he just stays out of reach and growls at the dog. I know my Saint just wants to say hello and check out this new friend but she gets so worked up because she can't get close she obsessively barks, which scares the cat more. My eardrums can't take this anymore.
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking A Two Year Old Rescue
By Elaine Allison (4/26/06)
HELP, We are considering adopting our 2nd dog from a shelter. The 1st one we adopted was 8 months old at the time and already housetrained by his foster mom. He has been a part of our family for 1 1/2 years now. The dog we are considering to adopt has been at a shelter for 18 months now & she is TWO yrs. old. We have gone to see her twice and seems very kind natured. However we did see that she urinated in her kennel with no thought about it, just peed with no smelling or advanced warning. We are leery now that being that she is 2 yrs old & been living in a shelter for 18months that she will be impossible to housetrain now. What can we do?
read the rest of this column
2 Year Old Adopted Chihuahua Won't Get Close
By Fran Williams (4/25/06)
I just got a new dog and I need to some different things I can do to help this 2 year old Chihuahua trust and like me. I am asking this because she has nipped at me and she will not move from the end of the couch. I know she will have to adjust but I need to know how to help her along.
read the rest of this column
Aussie Bumps Owner On Walks
By Evelyne Bliss (4/19/06)
I walk our Aussie pup daily and she does VERY well except for one quirk that she has ALWAYS had and we can't seem to break her of. She watches me thru out the walk...but she also BUMPS ever so gently into my leg...sometimes almost causing me to trip!
read the rest of this column
Lab Puppy Doesn't Want To Leave The House
By Fran Williams (4/17/06)
My 11 week old Labrador puppy is reluctant to leave the boundary of the house for walks. He has been going out for 1 week now and apart from the first day where he was absolutely fine, now each time I take him for a walk we get about 100 yards and he stops behind me, whimpers and sits down refusing to go any further.
read the rest of this column
Blue Heeler Australian Shepard Mix Snaps Back
By Lynne Gifford (4/4/06)
I adopted a Blue Heeler/Australian Shepard mix from the Humane Society when he was about 3 mos. old. The problem is on occasion when he gets mad, when he is reprimanded or even sometimes in play, he growls aggressively and on two occasions has bitten me. Today he bit me as hard as he could and drew blood. I reprimanded him severely and he did not give in for some time, still trying to attack me.
read the rest of this column
Jack Russell Terrier With Separation Anxiety
By Jennifer Shryock (3/25/06)
My Jack Russell Terrier has severe separation anxiety from me. If I just walk down to the mailbox she whines and cries and throws a fit. If I take off jogging and she sees me leave up the hill she whines and whines according to the rest of the family (my husband and kids) she does this and paces and looks out the window for me till she sees me returning.
read the rest of this column
Crate Training An English Bulldog Puppy
By Simon Goodall (3/22/06)
I just got my 8 week old male English Bulldog Thor. We are in the process of crate training him but he is left alone for approx. 4 + hours a day. I don't want to leave such a young puppy in crate for that time due to him learning to eliminate in the crate. We use a spare bathroom for a place to leave him while we are gone. The moment he is put in there he whines and barks. I timed it 1 day and it lasted approx. 20 minutes and he was quiet for 10 before I let him out.
read the rest of this column
Golden Retriever is Guarding Food After New Puppy Arrives
By Elaine Allison (3/20/06)
Hi there, My situation is this, we have had a Golden Retriever for about 2 years now. He is a very well behaved and loving dog. We have recently got a new puppy, an American Bulldog, and the situation seemed to be going very well. They do seem to play fight a lot, but there has never seemed to be any serious aggression from either of the dogs. My problem is this, the Golden Retriever has suddenly become very food protective. He actually bit my husband when he accidentally bumped him when he was eating.
read the rest of this column
8 Month Old Dog Is Getting Into Everything
By Fran Williams (2/24/06)
My dog is 8 months old and is yellow lab/blue heeler/Chesapeake bay. She was completely house trained, and only chewed up her own toys with the occasional mishap with the toilet paper. I recently started working again (I haven’t worked since we got her at 8 weeks.) Now she gets into everything, and only potties on the floor when my husband is gone for a couple days. She has doesn’t listen to me anymore only my husband. What can I do to get her back to the good doggie she was before I started to work?
read the rest of this column
Goldendoodle Wants To Play In The Evening
By Evelyne Bliss (2/22/06)
I have a 6 month old Goldendoodle, she is great during the day but around 6pm she is a different dog. She will come up and bump you with her nose and then bark and growl and snap at us. I know she wants to play but she is too aggressive. When either my husband or I sit in a recliner at night she attacks our feet, nipping at them again growling and barking.
read the rest of this column
What To Do About Loose Dogs On Your Walk
By Elaine Allison (2/17/06)
My dog is a 5yr old neutered male Chow Chow who I take on leashed daily walks in our neighborhood. I always carry pepper spray with me
read the rest of this column
Carsick Puppy
By Simon Goodall (2/16/06)
My 5month old Husky/German Shepard puppy is travel sick. Could it just be nerves, and how do we overcome this problem?
read the rest of this column
Yellow Lab Is Showing Aggression
By Lynne Gifford (2/15/06)
I have a 2 year old yellow lab. We adopted her a year ago and immediately took her to training classes. Since we have got her she has been around numerous other dogs with no problems. Within the last 2 weeks she has snapped at a friends' dog and my parents' dog.
read the rest of this column
How To Earn Your Heeler's Respect
By Fran Williams (2/14/06)
This is my first heeler. She bit my face, I instantly put her on her back and held her down until she realized I was the boss. She still bites and I am afraid she may think I am not the pack leader. But I don't know what to do. I will not tolerate her biting, so I continue the nose tap, and it doesn't seem to work, she thinks I am playing.
read the rest of this column
Ball Obsessed Goldendoodle
By Norman Taylor (2/13/06)
We have an 18-month old male goldendoodle who has become obsessed with balls when he goes to the dog run. If he gets a hold of a ball at the dog run, he will not play with the other dogs - he just lies down and chews on the ball. When I try to get the ball from him (either to get him to run around or because the owner wants it back), he barks at me (while still holding the ball in his mouth - it's quite a feat) and runs away. I used to be able to get him to drop it by offering him a really good treat, but even that no longer works.
read the rest of this column
Dog Will Not Get In The Car
By Jennifer Shryock (2/10/06)
I have a 4 year old very healthy and very active Golden Retriever. Brodie is a very well behaved, lovable boy who I can't complain one iota about except for one small thing, which is quite an inconvenience for me. He will not jump in the car by himself. He has done it a couple of times and is perfectly capable.
read the rest of this column
Newly Adopted German Shepherd is Very Shy
By Evelyne Bliss (2/8/06)
I have recently adopted a beautiful white German Shepherd that goes by the name of Jeff. He had sores that indicated that he always slept on concrete, he never barks, whines or makes a peep, which indicated to me also that someone might have kept him in an apartment. But the most disturbing thing of all is that he is NEVER aggressive! I think that the previous owners may have broken this beautiful animals spirit. Is there anything that I can start doing to regain it back?
read the rest of this column
Jack Russell Terrier In The Laundry
By Elaine Allison (2/7/06)
I have a almost 2 yr. old Jack Russell Terrier and my problem is this he keeps eating and licking my underwear. He even goes as far as knocking the hamper over to get them. I have even sprayed them with apple bitter and that hasn't stopped him. He has millions of toys and I don’t understand why or what to do about it.
read the rest of this column
What You Need to Know About Your Dog and TV Sports Events
By Jean Crooke (2/3/06)
I am an animal rescue worker, not a big sports fan, but I did notice football games on TV over the Thanksgiving holiday, which reminded me of all the phone calls so many emergency wards and animal shelters around the country will be receiving this Holiday Season, as the country gears up for the big event, Super Bowl Sunday.
read the rest of this column
Walking Nicely On A Leash
By Simon Goodall (1/26/06)
I have a beagle/lab mix age 1 month years we have been trying to train to walk on a leash not run, she pulls and tugs instead of walking. We stop when she pulls but to no avail.
read the rest of this column
A Bossy Min Pin
By Lynne Gifford (1/23/06)
My girlfriend and I have had a min pin for two years and every time we get close to each other he growls or nudges himself between us. He also attempts to bite us every time we leave the house. Is this a separation anxiety problem?
read the rest of this column
A Very Fearful Lab
By Fran Williams (1/18/06)
I have a 1 year old female black lab mix and an 11 month old female french bulldog. My husband and I got the lab at the humane society first. We love labs and plan to have children and agreed that a lab would be great with kids. However, she was always very shy and acted as if she had been abused as a puppy.
read the rest of this column
Growling Papillion
By Evelyne Bliss (1/10/06)
I got a Papillion from a dog rescue about 1 1/2 years ago. He had a very rare problem with nipping when anyone did something he did not like, but was very infrequent. The majority of the time he was on anyone's lap who would let him. Now his
read the rest of this column
Female Dog Showing Dominance Even After Spaying
By TD Yandt (1/4/06)
Well, as of this morning, December 18th Luca's started to attempt to grasp my leg and hump me, It is annoying and confusing, as I thought that after a while the sexual hormones dissipated from the ovaries being removed?
read the rest of this column
Fear Biting Cocker Spaniel
By Jennifer Shryock (1/3/06)
Should I return my adopted dog to the rescue? Please let me explain... I adopted Sadie, a 4 year old cocker spaniel, six months ago. Sadie is very friendly, cuddly, playful and obedient, except around children and other dogs. She was being released to a rescue because she was growling at the two-year-old sons of the owner and being aggressive to other dogs. Because I have no children or animals, I decided to try and adopt Sadie.
read the rest of this column
Pharaoh Hound is Always Hungry
By Elaine Allison (12/29/05)
We have a 5 month old Pharaoh Hound named Anubis. He's the youngest of 4 house dogs we have (all different breeds). All of the dogs are very well-behaved except for one problem with Anubis. He is constantly
read the rest of this column
Sibling Rivalry
By Simon Goodall (12/27/05)
I have 2, 5 month old Wire Haired Fox Terriers who are brother and sister. They play beautifully together, sleep in the same crate and really do love each other....except....the girl is alpha and is always bossing around the boy. This can lead to some big fights!
read the rest of this column
Female Dobes Fighting in the Home
By Elaine Allison (12/16/05)
I have 3 Dobermans; one male and two females. They are all from the same litter. They will be a year old in December. My two females keep fighting. They have no aggression towards anyone or anything - besides each other. It is not a daily thing but it does happen often. And when it happens they go out for blood. I love them dearly and don't want to get ride of one of them.
read the rest of this column
Will His Dog Remember Him When He Returns From Duty?
By Fran Williams (12/1/05)
I have a friend who is in the military. This friend has orders to Korea for one year. He has two dogs and has to leave the babies behind with a family member. The dogs are full grown. He has owned them for five years. He is worried that the dogs might not recognize him when he gets back, or go through some sort of break down.
read the rest of this column
Come When I Call You
By Lynne Gifford (11/29/05)
What should I do with my year old Jack Russell Terrier who doesn't listen when he is called? The last time he got loose and ran away I chased after him and called his name but he turned around to look at me and just kept running, he almost got ran over.
read the rest of this column
Housetraining All Over Again
By Norman Taylor (11/28/05)
I have 2 dogs. Teddy is 2 and Tucker is 1-1/2 (Schipperkes). I am having some problems potty training them and retraining them not to pee in the house. I use to use pee pads and feel it is time for them to start going potty outside. We are having retraining issues as they still want to pee where the pee pads use to be located.
read the rest of this column
A Picky Akita Mix
By TD Yandt (11/23/05)
My dog is a mixed breed, he is Akita/chow 3yrs.old. He was neutered a wk. ago and today he hasn’t eaten or drank water, all he does is sleep. We had a houseful of kids here yesterday, could that be a factor in his behavior today?
read the rest of this column
Accidents In The Crate
By Fran Williams (11/16/05)
I rescued a pitt bull mix when she was 6 months old. We have had her for six months and have some nasty problems with her. Her problem is going to the bathroom in her cage. I have put her on good food, she is in a small cage, she has a regular feeding time and we bring her out on a regular schedule. I have brought her to the vet and I did not get much help there. She’ll be good for a while and then accidents again.
read the rest of this column
Puppy Housetraining
By Evelyne Bliss (11/15/05)
We recently bought an Airedale Terrier pup, he is now 13 weeks old (we got him a week ago). We are trying to housetrain him, and we need some help. We take him out and will sit with him for 15-20 minutes, and he does nothing...as soon as we bring him in he goes on the carpet. We take him for walks daily, but he doesn't go then either.
read the rest of this column
Stopping On Walks
By Lynne Gifford (11/14/05)
My 2 yr old lab has begun stopping and sitting during walks on the leash. If you turn around and go the other way he usually get up and goes with. When off the leash he follows and obeys commands perfectly.
read the rest of this column
Are You On The List? Firing The Fuzzy Doorman (Territorial Aggression)
By Elaine Allison (11/11/05)
Territorial aggression (TA) is a primarily innate behavior in many breeds of dogs. It can be a learned behavior as well. Modifying this very natural trait can be extremely challenging. To some dogs, it would be like telling an orange to be an apple!
read the rest of this column
A Very Energetic Fox Terrier
By Simon Goodall (11/10/05)
I've had my dog Bingo for a little over a month. I am not sure what he is mixed with. I got him from the humane society who said Fox terrier/Beagle mix and they said he was 8-9 months old. He’s very energetic. He eats everything he SEES and when I take him out of his crate (we are crate training because he’s not 100 percent house broke yet) he jumps all over me and all over everything.
read the rest of this column
My Dog Only Wants To Walk With My Husband
By Jennifer Shryock (11/7/05)
We have a four-year-old male Border Collie/Aussie mix. Up until a few months ago, my husband and I had a daily routine for walking our dog. My husband walked the dog in the morning and late afternoon, and I would walk him at lunch and evenings. It didn't seem to matter to our dog which of us took him out. However, over the last few months, our dog won't go out on walks with me unless my husband accompanies us.
read the rest of this column
Scared To Eat
By TD Yandt (11/3/05)
My 11 week old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is scared to eat out of bowls and plates. He will eat from my hand or a spoon, but would rather starve than eat from his bowl. I have never heard of anything like this. It gets tiring having to spoon feed him every time it's time for him to eat.
read the rest of this column
Sneaky PomChiPoos and a New Shy Rescue
By Fran Williams (11/2/05)
The problem is that the 2 pups, a male and female, are determined to do things their way. They refuse to completely housebreak, they are on a schedule and use the outside designated spot during the day, but in the mornings, I wake up to a cesspool.
read the rest of this column
Ok To Adopt 2 Puppies From The Same Litter?
By Evelyne Bliss (11/1/05)
We have just adopted two mixed puppies from a shelter. They are 9 weeks old, both male and neutered. My question is, is it a poor choice to adopt two brothers from the same litter? Will they have problems as adult dogs?
read the rest of this column
Aggressive Yellow Lab
By Lynne Gifford (10/31/05)
I have a 1.5 year old female spayed yellow lab. She seems to be asserting aggressive behavior. She growls violently if touched while she's eating, or if you try to take something away from her. She has bit a couple of people, but the bites were on the hand and were not serious. However, 2 days ago she bit my husband when he tried to take a candy wrapper away from her. I realize this behaviour is dangerous, but I'd like to know if there is any way to correct this situation. 90% of the time she is the sweetest dog you could ever imagine, but she has this mean streak and I don't know how to make it stop.
read the rest of this column
My Aussie Hates the Water
By Simon Goodall (10/28/05)
Our rescue 2 year old Aussie came to us at age 7 months. I know very little about his past, BUT he has had an almost pathological fear of water (streams, pools, the Bay, etc,) since being with us.
read the rest of this column
Out of Control Husky Mix
By Elaine Allison (10/27/05)
My boyfriend's family got his sister a female husky/retriever/chow mix (she is half husky) 2 years ago from a litter. The dog spends around 7 hours a day in her cage indoors or roaming around the house (this is new) on weekdays. The family is usually home on weekends. When they get home, they put the dog outside for a half an hour or so a few times. The dog rarely ever goes for walks, maybe once every 2 days or less. This dog tears everything up during the day when she is alone, or when they are sleeping.
read the rest of this column
8 Year Old Netuered Male Is Ruining The New Carpet
By Jennifer Shryock (10/26/05)
I have an 8 year old neutered 'rescue' male mini-schnauzer who is just a sweetie BUT he sometimes potties in our living room. What is the best way to keep this from happening (I just had new carpeting installed)?
read the rest of this column
Our Lab Doesn't Like To Go Out In The Rain
By Fran Williams (10/24/05)
We have a 7 year old Lab mix, we've had since she was 11months old; and a 8 year old Golden Retriever girl who we recently adopted about 6 months ago. Our Lab mix has always been reluctant to potty outside if it was rainy, but if she reallllly needs to go, she will brave the rain. Our new girl, the GR, just refuses to go outside if it's wet out.
read the rest of this column
Deciphering Dog Food Labels
By TD Yandt (10/21/05)
What we choose to feed our dogs is just as important as what we choose to teach them. Diet can impact their quality of life to a huge degree... from their coat texture, to their energy level, to their eye and joint health. It’s up to us to do our research to ensure the very best for them.
read the rest of this column
Puppy Kindergraten
By TD Yandt (10/17/05)
One of the best things you can do for your new puppy is to take him to a puppy kindergarten class. It is all too easy to allow a new puppy to remain within his comfort zone, but by doing so you may be setting yourself up for problems later on.
read the rest of this column
Counter Stealing
By Evelyne Bliss (10/13/05)
I have a GS/Husky pup 6 months old that is about 60 lbs and he is constantly getting on the table and counter and getting what ever he can get off of it and take it and run. I have tried correcting him and he seems to know it is wrong but does it anyway. I know this may sound simple but he is a very strong willed dog.
read the rest of this column
Getting Our Dog Ready for Our New Grandkids
By Jennifer Shryock (10/11/05)
We have a 6 year old German shepherd mix we rescued 5 years ago. He is smart and obedient. However, he has always been somewhat distrustful of strange men and most children. We have recently become grandparents. What can we do to socialize him with the baby to make sure he's safe?
read the rest of this column
Older Puppy Housebreaking
By Lynne Gifford (10/5/05)
My puppy is almost 6-months old and not house trained. My husband and I are expecting a baby in March so we have until then to try to get our little guy trained; otherwise we won't be able to keep him. During the day we both work full-time jobs so he is confined to the kitchen. We have a litter box for him; he will use it maybe once then he will eliminate on the floor or even on his puppy bed!
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking and Crate Training an 8 week Old Puppy
By Simon Goodall (10/3/05)
My boyfriend and I just got a baby Pitbull. Her name is Novia. We got her 2 weeks ago, when she was 6 weeks old. She is so cute and we love her to death but we are really confused and stressed now. We bought a crate for her, however for some reason she pees and poops in the crate now.
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking a Four Month Old Bassett Hound
By Elaine Allison (9/30/05)
have a 4 months basset hound, this is the most beautiful and lovely dog I ever had, but he makes poo inside the house and pee. I've tried several methods to make him do it in the backyard but he doesn't learn, what should I do?
read the rest of this column
Off Command
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (9/26/05)
The commands necessary to teach a puppy or older dog NOT to mouth are easy and fun. They will tell the puppy in a language ‘he’ understands. Remember, we are trying to view life through his eyes, and look at what he already started to learn when he was with his littermates.
read the rest of this column
Rottie/Shepherd Mix is Getting Progressively More Agressive
By Fran Williams (9/23/05)
I have had Dakota since she was 6 weeks old, she is now 4 years old, she is a rottweiler/shephard mix. Originally Dakota was a very sweet, submissive dog that wasn't bothered by anything, even if another dog tried to fight with her she would lie down & wouldn't fight back. Several years ago a german shephard/husky foster dog visciously attacked her unprovoked. Since that time I have noticed that she is more dog aggressive (which I can understand) to the point that I now am afraid to bring any other dog around her.
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking a Six Month Old Cairn Terrier
By TD Yandt (9/14/05)
We have a wonderful 6 month old male cairn terrier that we bought when he was about 2 1/2 months old. We are having difficulty in house breaking him. We tried crate/kennel training him for the first couple of months, he seemed to be doing well.
read the rest of this column
Poodle is Digging Up the Carpet
By Evelyne Bliss (9/13/05)
I have a tiny toy poodle 7 months old. He seems to be training well in most areas. I am having one major problem - he keeps digging at the carpet until he has the nap gone. It is getting so bad; I am ready to have him declawed. Any advice?
read the rest of this column
Teething Puppy is Mouthing Everything
By Lynne Gifford (9/12/05)
I have a three month old Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier that loves to bite. I realize she is just a puppy, but I don't want her to continue to do this -- her little sharp teeth hurt.
read the rest of this column
Afraid to Swim
By Jennifer Shryock (9/8/05)
Our male Portuguese Water Dog is 4 1/2 mos. old. We have tried introducing him to the swimming pool 3 times, and while he can swim, he is unbelievably afraid of the water.
read the rest of this column
A Clean Doggie Mouth
By Fran Williams (9/7/05)
Hi Friends, one of the many questions I always get is about how white the teeth on my dogs are. I of course many times have told you use raw bones, big ole fresh raw bones....My dog is 7 weeks old. I don't know what got in to him, every time I sit down he bites my toes!
read the rest of this column
Several Questions About a Beagle Puppy
By Simon Goodall (9/2/05)
I have a 4-month old Beagle puppy. He always has is nose on the ground which I understand being he is a beagle, but he would leave the yard no matter what! I was wondering how I could train him to stay in the yard being we live on the farm and I hate always having him tied up.
read the rest of this column
Puppy Is Anxious at Work
By Elaine Allison (8/30/05)
I am currently working and I bring my puppy to work. She stays in an office upstairs from me. I have been doing this for about 2 months now. Before, my puppy Abby, would only cry a couple times and then be fine but now she literally cries, barks, howls, all day long.
read the rest of this column
Leash Agressive Dobe
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (8/29/05)
I have a 1.5 yr old rescued female Doberman. She is a sweet dog, but gets a little aggressive when on a leash and we meet up with another dog. She lunges and barks wildly. I have her in a basic obedience class right now, but would like some advise on what to do to control her behavior when walking past yards that have dogs in them.
read the rest of this column
Temperament Testing
By Jean Crooke (8/26/05)
Today’s column is a little different from our normal columns. This question on temperament testing came in, and I thought it would be interesting to get the opinions of several of our columnists. There are a wide variety of ways to test for temperament, and these tests have been the subject of some heated debates among dog trainers, breeders and rescue volunteers. Here are the answers of our fabulous columnists.
read the rest of this column
Aussie Stay!
By Fran Williams (8/24/05)
I have a 2 year old Aussie. He learns very quickly, but I need to improve his "stay" command.
read the rest of this column
Portuguese Water Dog Puppy Is Afraid of the Water
By TD Yandt (8/23/05)
I have a Portuguese water dog that is 9 weeks old. She fell in the water on her first trip to try swimming a week ago and is just terrified of even just shallow water now. How can I get her swimming?
read the rest of this column
Teaching your dog not to destroy your house
By Simon Goodall (8/22/05)
Sometimes there are some dogs that just love to chew particular items. Most dogs will have something specific that they like to chew. It is difficult to solve these as the dog has to be seen doing it. These notes are in response to your dogs specific chewing of wood in the house.
read the rest of this column
Getting ready for bi-peds Pre Baby Preparation
By Elaine Allison (8/17/05)
Acclimating your dog-who may well perceive themselves to be the “baby” in your house, to an actual human baby is easiest done with some advance planning. Often, addressing baby/dog relations occurs just before to the big event when that natural nesting urge takes over mere days prior to birth!
read the rest of this column
The Shih Tzu Who Forgot He Was Housebroken
By Jennifer Shryock (8/16/05)
We have had our Shih Tzu for about 7 months now. He is just over a year old, and is our only dog. After a shaky start at housebreaking, he hadn't had an accident in about 4 months. Recently, he spent 3 weeks at my mother's with another shih tzu and a German shepherd. He's been back for about 2 weeks, and he's had 3 accidents inside.
read the rest of this column
Doggy Park Etiquette
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (8/15/05)
Dog Parks are becoming popular as more space is designated for dogs, now we need protocol to ensure safety and health for all those that attend the off leash parks, and those that live around them. The frequency of dog bites, dogfights, and the smell of feces clinging to our shoes will continue ultimately giving Dog Parks a bad rap. Good manners, common sense = Dog Park
read the rest of this column
Dealing With Loose Dogs in the Neighborhood
By Fran Williams (8/11/05)
we have a new problem and I am sure it's one almost every dog owner has encountered - unleashed dogs running on the street attacking leashed dogs.
read the rest of this column
Helping Dogs Make other Canine Friends (Part One of Two)
By Lynne Gifford (8/10/05)
Are you interested in letting your dog play with other dogs? On a daily basis I work with people that are always searching for other dogs to introduce their dogs too. The problem they run in to is that they don’t always understand how to do this in a way that keeps everyone safe. The other problem is that many times, they are trying to force their dog to do something the dog doesn’t really want to do.
read the rest of this column
Bringing the Outdoor Dogs Inside
By Fran Williams (8/9/05)
I have 2 dogs which currently live outside. I have recently bought a house that is brand new and I really want to bring the dogs inside. How am I going to be able to housetrain the dogs after living outdoors for so long?
read the rest of this column
How to Introduce Little Dogs
By Evelyne Bliss (8/8/05)
We want to get another little dog & want to know the best way to introduce our dog to one at a shelter that we are going to visit.
read the rest of this column
The Right Age to Start Training?
By TD Yandt (8/5/05)
I have an (approx.) 13 week old female American Pit Bull Terrier puppy that I have had since she was (approx) 8 weeks old. I went ahead and made the mistake of listening to what a couple trainers said on some websites (and a training video I borrowed) that she was too young to start obedience training. Well I finally decided that was simply too long to wait to start training her, especially since she's growing so fast, and began training again yesterday.
read the rest of this column
One Timid Chow
By Jennifer Shryock (8/3/05)
Hi I just rescued a 9 mo. female Chow Chow. She was abused and is very timid. She will play with me but I cannot get her to come. She will have nothing to do with anyone including my husband. How do I make her more social? She is not aggressive at all but will hide for hours.
read the rest of this column
Fox Hound Chasing the Cat
By Simon Goodall (8/2/05)
I tried to adopt a young English fox hound to be a play mate for my lab. Things seemed fine with the dogs, but as soon as the fox hound spotted my cat it was total mayhem!
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking a Poodle and Teaching a Pug to Speak
By Elaine Allison (8/1/05)
I have a mini toy poodle, she is almost 2 yrs old. The problem is she very very rarely barks, not even when she needs to go out. I have to let her out every so often, but she sometimes still poops in the house. I don't know how else to train her....How do you get a pug that is 7yrs. old to speak on command?
read the rest of this column
A Jealous Dobe
By Fran Williams (7/29/05)
I have a rescued Doberman pinscher. He is wonderful with adults (though not so good with small kids, even quiet ones). He is sweet, affectionate, good natured to a fault. So good in fact that we have adopted another, this time a female red dobie who also was in desperate need. Trouble is, the first dog is sulking. We are talking sibling rivalry with an attitude.
read the rest of this column
Cocker Spaniel Chasing Chickens
By Evelyne Bliss (7/28/05)
My 1 year old cocker spaniel, who is a bird dog, is constantly chasing my chickens; one new chicken in particular. I have tried verbal commands, electric collars and have tried slapping her on the rump and nose but she wont stop.
read the rest of this column
Five Month Old Puppy Doesn't Want To Listen
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (7/27/05)
She is a mixed breed - English Fox Hound/Pointer mix-we adopted her at three months and she is now five months. The housebreaking was very easy and she responds very well to commands in the house and when on park and neighborhood walks. However, when she is out in front of the house she just won't listen.
read the rest of this column
Clicking to Success: Clicker Training for Beginners
By TD Yandt (7/26/05)
Clicker training is a form of operant conditioning. It’s a way to train your pets without punishments or harsh corrections. It’s building a path of clear communication between yourself and your pet. It builds trust, increases confidence, and results in a happy, eager-to-please pet who loves being with their person.
read the rest of this column
Dealing with On Leash Dog Aggression
By Lynne Gifford (7/25/05)
She is very gentle and sweet to people but with dogs she becomes vicious. If she sees another dog on the street she will start tugging and pulling at the leash trying to get at the other dog. It's embarrassing and she gets hard to control. She has already bitten two dogs on our street and we had to pay thousands of dollars in vet bills.
read the rest of this column
Baby update number 2
By Simon Goodall (7/22/05)
This is the second column on our new baby. If you have not read the first one ensure you do so before reading this one so that it makes a little bit more sense. These are not to give you an insight into my life but to give you some ideas if you are planning to bring a baby into an environment with established dogs.
read the rest of this column
Power Struggle Between Two Females
By Fran Williams (7/21/05)
We have a 1 year German Shepherd and a 1 year Siberian Husky - both spayed females. Just recently the dogs started brawling when they ate.
read the rest of this column
Spooked
By Elaine Allison (7/19/05)
The problem is that after all this time, he is still afraid and easily spooked. When we're on our walks, if we approach a large truck parked on the side of the road it's all I can do to get him to walk past the thing; and when he does it's as though he's waiting for it to jump him or something.
read the rest of this column
Two Rescued Dobes Want To Stay In Bed All Day
By Evelyne Bliss (7/15/05)
I have adopted two rescued Doberman pinschers, a male about 2 years ago and a female about a week ago...My question though is: How do I get them "off the couch" so to speak to play.
read the rest of this column
Paper's Here!
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (7/13/05)
I have a two year old Australian Shepherd rescue dog. He brings in the paper in the morning, but for the last couple of weeks he will go to the end of the driveway and stare at a neighbor's tree.
read the rest of this column
Dog-Dog Agression At Home
By Jennifer Shryock (7/12/05)
Recently, about 6 months now, he has become aggressive with the male Whippet. Originally it was over food, which I now have removed. I feed them separately. But, recently he attacks the male whippet for just passing him in the hall.
read the rest of this column
Dog Gone It!
By Fran Williams (7/8/05)
Hello Readers, here is a subject near and dear to my heart. I got an email today about a Pit Bull that was dumped way back in one of our little local towns. This is a beautiful dog that loves people and kids but has worn-torn scars across his body showing the many fights he has been in.
read the rest of this column
Accidents After Spaying
By Simon Goodall (7/6/05)
I have a six month old Portuguese Water Dog... she had seemed to be house trained, barking at the door, or coming to get us when she needed outside. She was recently spayed, and since then, has had numerous 'accidents' in the house.
read the rest of this column
It's Just So Wrong
By Fran Williams (7/1/05)
Recently I was passed an email with an attached picture of a beautiful female dog that was missing. I, with all my heart, hope they get her back, BUT - it said she is afraid of people and that means someone, trying to catch her, could run her right out into traffic. We all know how that might end. It's hard enough on a dog that is lost, but you add “people fear” and you have just made that dog's chances 100% worse for making it back home to the people who love her. What makes dogs afraid of people, sounds, other dogs, horses, cars, etc.? It's lack of knowledge on the owner’s part to teach that dog about the world they live in - how unfair is that!
read the rest of this column
The Loneliness of Loyalty
By Fran Williams (6/30/05)
As a puppy, Tucker was brought into a loving home where he felt wanted and loved. Then after 5 years he was cast out to the back yard - the reason? His loving parents were about to have a Blessed Event, a baby.
read the rest of this column
Feces Eating Puli
By Evelyne Bliss (6/29/05)
I have a 6 month old male Puli. He began eating his own feces 2 months ago. I have tried the Deter in his food, I have tried an vitamin & mineral supplement called "Seameal" that was recommended, it's supposed to make sure he is getting all nutrients from food, however nothing is working.
read the rest of this column
Meeting and Greeting
By Elaine Allison (6/28/05)
We love dogs! All dogs!! Without meaning to, we humans sometimes interact in ways that may send mixed messages to dogs about our intentions.
read the rest of this column
Breaking Out of the Crate
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (6/27/05)
We have a crate for him and we've been trying to crate train him but we're having problems getting him to like it.
read the rest of this column
Nipping Samoyed
By Jennifer Shryock (6/24/05)
I have a 9 month old Samoyed, he has recently taken to nipping and biting in the evenings when you are sitting down, he won't let up even trying to play with a toy to distract him
read the rest of this column
Tips for a good experience at Group Class
By Lynne Gifford (6/23/05)
Several times a day I refer people to my group classes. Many times people are happy to practice with their dog in public and help their pet gain more sophisticated social skills. But there is the occasional owner that seems to grow very concerned about bringing their dog to a group class. “But he’ll EMBARRASS me!” is a common concern among many of these owners. Today I want to take a minute to address this concern, and help dog owners to have a more enjoyable experience in group class.
read the rest of this column
Looking For a Good Diet and a Little Housebreaking Trouble
By Fran Williams (6/22/05)
I am looking for a proper diet for my English bull...She's taken to peeing on this one spot in our bedroom; and taken to pooping on one place on our patio.
read the rest of this column
What To Do With a New Baby
By Simon Goodall (6/21/05)
This is the first of a series of columns on getting ready for a new baby into the family of the human kind. At the stage of writing this I have got two golden retrievers, one cat and a pregnant wife. This first column is on what we have done before the baby in order to get the dogs adjusted to the new arrival. You can join with me on this journey and see what is working and what just did not work.
read the rest of this column
Chewing Min Pin
By Elaine Allison (6/20/05)
I have a MinPin (Daisiey) who is 15 months old. Now the past couple of months, if I leave her for even a couple of minutes, she will chew on any type of paper or cardboard...and what ever else suits her fancy...
read the rest of this column
Dog Safety with Baby Equipment
By Jennifer Shryock (6/17/05)
Safety with the family dog while using mechanical baby swings in the home. The article discussed several attacks that involved an infant in a mechanical swing. It suggested that the motion of the swing may trigger the instinct of chasing prey. Is this really true? My experiences strongly support this finding. I have seen some dogs become desperate to chase and catch the moving swing while others seem to find it soothing.
read the rest of this column
Feisty Labradoodle
By Evelyne Bliss (6/16/05)
We have a Labradoodle. . . He has always been difficult but smart. He is obedience trained, but only behaves when he wants to.
read the rest of this column
Canine Water Safety
By Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz (6/14/05)
Dogs ‘noted’ in breed descriptions as “good swimmers” create a misconception that any canine will naturally take to water. Many breeds are physically built to swim more efficiently than others but that doesn’t mean every dog CAN swim.
read the rest of this column
Very Smart Lab Won't Come
By Elaine Allison (6/13/05)
I have a 100 ft. rope and he can be way on the other end and I ask him to "come" he runs up to me and sits (always getting a reward whether it be a treat, toy, or verbal) but he is to SMART, he knows when the leash comes off and he will do anything to try to get away and just run.
read the rest of this column
An Aussie Who Doesn't Know How to Play
By Lynne Gifford (6/12/05)
I have a beautiful Australian Shepard adult female I rescued from a puppyfarm situation. She is affectionate, but has no idea how to play.
read the rest of this column
Greeting People at the Door
By Fran Williams (6/11/05)
I have a one year old Goldendoodle named Curly. Friendly to a fault, but she has a bad habit of wanting to jump on everyone that comes near!...Hi, i have a pom/chihuahua she is 8 months old. Whenever anyone comes to visit, she is happy to see them and starts to urinate, more like little splashes.
read the rest of this column
Why is my dog barking?
By Simon Goodall (6/10/05)
Many people have problems when their dog is barking at people when they come into the house. Some of the dogs bark when people are entering and exiting the house and other dogs bark the entire time that you are inside the house and until you leave.
read the rest of this column
YOU WANNA DO WHAT!!?? - How to take the scary out of the vet visit! (Part 3 of 3)
By Elaine Allison (6/9/05)
Successful vet visits mean happy healthy pets! You dog may need to go to the vet if....
read the rest of this column
Introducing a Dog to Fun and Establishing Leadership
By Fran Williams (5/31/05)
Have all the years in kennel, breeding--erased her personality or is it too soon to know? What can we do, to transition our new girl?....The dog’s attitude toward the cat seems to be getting worse, I'd say within the last year or so.
read the rest of this column
Introducing Agility to a Border Collie
By Evelyne Bliss (5/29/05)
My aunt has a border collie Lexus that I am teaching agility to. I was wondering if you could tell me how to train the basics (jump etc.)?
read the rest of this column
Pulling on the Leash
By Fran Williams (5/28/05)
How do we stop him from pulling and tugging at the leash?
read the rest of this column
YOU WANNA DO WHAT!!?? - How to take the scary out of the vet visit! (Part 2 of 3)
By Elaine Allison (5/26/05)
Oh No you Don’t!! If you have a dog that has already decided it’s not good some desensitization may help.
read the rest of this column
Keeping Playdates Bite free!
By Jennifer Shryock (5/25/05)
Family dogs are wonderful and fun. They provide incredible learning opportunities that nothing can replace. They listen to our stories and put up with our crazy human ways. What we need to keep in mind is that they are still animals.
read the rest of this column
Prey Overdrive
By Fran Williams (5/22/05)
The unthinkable happened today. She ran down to the creek today and killed a small fawn. I feel awful!!
read the rest of this column
YOU WANNA DO WHAT!!?? - How to take the scary out of the vet visit! (Part 1 of 3)
By Elaine Allison (5/19/05)
Let Elaine Allison CPDT show you (and your dog) how to turn what can be a very stressful experience to your pet into a reasonably calm endeavor *Your mileage may vary
read the rest of this column
What Now?
By Fran Williams (5/18/05)
A dear friend of the Tehachapi Human Society had emailed me with a concern about her animals. What happens if they out live her?
read the rest of this column
Who's Leading Whom?
By Lynne Gifford (5/16/05)
Who is leading the canine/human pack at your house?
read the rest of this column
Growling at Other Dogs....but Only on Walks
By Jean Crooke (5/13/05)
I have a 3 year old lab who is really well behaved but for some reason started to growl at other dogs she never met when we go for walks.
read the rest of this column
Getting your dog to come
By Simon Goodall (5/13/05)
One of the most common problems people come to me for is that their dog just refuses to come to them.
read the rest of this column
Barking Bull Terrier
By Evelyne Bliss (5/12/05)
She has ALWAYS barked at people walking past our gate, I have never discouraged it, nor reinforced it. I ignored it. Now recently she has been tormented by some children on bikes, hitting the fence, yelling at her and I suspect also throwing things.
read the rest of this column
My Shar-pei is Scared!
By Evelyne Bliss (5/11/05)
I have a 1 1/2 year old male Shar-pei. He is afraid of everything.Sometimes, he even runs from us, mostly my husband. We really don't know what's wrong or what to do.
read the rest of this column
Raising Them Right
By Fran Williams (5/4/05)
Well I am proud to announce I am the mother of a beautiful baby boy, he is black and tan and a real charmer.
read the rest of this column
He is Afraid of Everything.
By Evelyne Bliss (5/4/05)
Hello, I have a 1 1/2 year old male Shar-pei. He is afraid of everything.
read the rest of this column
Coming When Called
By Fran Williams (4/26/05)
How can i get my 9-month old boxer to come when she is called?
read the rest of this column
Ring the Bell and Win a Prize
By Fran Williams (4/18/05)
Is there anyway I can train her to bark or speak or anything to get my attention when she needs to relieve herself instead of just standing by the backdoor?
read the rest of this column
Housetraining is All About Habits
By Joy Parker (4/18/05)
Successful housetraining is really a management issue. Until your puppy is trained it is your responsibility to make sure that he is never left unattended
read the rest of this column
Odd Behavior
By Evelyne Bliss (4/10/05)
Ev answers member questions concerning odd dog behavior
read the rest of this column
How to Get Your Dog's Attention
By Fran Williams (4/6/05)
The problem that I am having is with my Shepherd. A few months ago,
on our daily walks she started wanting to chase cars, bikes, strollers, joggers, dogs, etc.
read the rest of this column
Just Can't Contain Himself
By Evelyne Bliss (4/3/05)
We found it helpful to take him out frequently and the accidents are less when we do so. However, he doesn't tell us when he needs to go. We just assume when it's time to go. Are we doing this wrong?
read the rest of this column
Prey Drive Part II
By Fran Williams (4/3/05)
I am currently crating him when he eats and I won't let him have his chews if he lunges for the others after I have corrected him once. What more can I do?
read the rest of this column
Everything will be OK!
By Joy Parker (4/3/05)
How many folks have stated, "I can get my dog to sit, down, or stand, but he won't stay.".
read the rest of this column
Cujo II?
By Evelyne Bliss (3/29/05)
It started with nipping and growling, but now she pulls against the leash with all her might, snarles and bares her teeth.
read the rest of this column
Chicken Bulldog
By Evelyne Bliss (3/20/05)
I have a three year old Bulldog. She is extremely timid and seems to be afraid of everything that is new in a room. She has gotten a little better in the two years I have had her, but is still afraid all the time.
read the rest of this column
Prey Drive?
By Fran Williams (3/18/05)
I need to know what is the best way to discourage him from being too rough with them as he grows and to discourage his prey drive toward them. The chis are females and the new puppy is a male.
read the rest of this column
Fearing the Leash
By Evelyne Bliss (3/9/05)
I have a very anxious foster dog in my home. She has severe issues with being leashed and shows fear aggression. I am looking for suggestions on more behavior training using other methods of positive reinforcement.
read the rest of this column
Stay Means Stay
By Fran Williams (3/8/05)
I have an 18 month old rescue Aussie. He learns very fast, but one thing I don't seem to be able to teach him is to "stay" until released.
read the rest of this column
When Dogs Meet
By Jean Crooke (3/7/05)
When dogs meet each other for the first time, they naturally do several things that humans sometimes find upsetting. Humans tend to react to dogs meeting in ways that the dogs find upsetting. This is a real recipe for disaster if you ask me.
read the rest of this column
Cat chasing Malamute and a Papillon Who Hates Grooming
By Jean Crooke (3/4/05)
Now if a mal at this age does not have a good temperment towards cats is it possilbe to break that habit this late in the dogs development process?
read the rest of this column
Jumping, Barking, Digging, Chewing, Chasing
By Jean Crooke (2/27/05)
Every dog has energy they need to burn off one way or another. It is surprising how many people underestimate their dog’s exercise needs. If you don’t provide an energy outlet, your dog will find one.
read the rest of this column
Love Story
By Fran Williams (2/26/05)
One rainy, cloudy day, I drudged up to the kennel to find a very strange sight. Here in Gaby's kennel, very happy and full of fun was Rio! My mind was in shock! I searched his kennel and found he had moved an 8-foot sheet of horse rubber padding and two 2x4's and then dug his way in to be with his new girlfriend, Gaby.
read the rest of this column
Help Me Help Her Help Her Dog!
By Evelyne Bliss (2/26/05)
She is very stubborn (my mother, not the dog) about taking any advice but I really want to find a way to get her to realize that there are far better ways than using painful corrections like the prong and shock collars to get her dog to behave the way she wants.
read the rest of this column
Barking 101
By Fran Williams (2/20/05)
She barks when it's windy, she barks when she hears a noise in the hallway, she barks when someone is coming up the stairs
read the rest of this column
In the Back of the Truck
By Evelyne Bliss (2/15/05)
He will bark non stop then once at the destination will jump out and nip at the other dog and any other dogs around...
read the rest of this column
How to Pick Your Next Dog (part II)
By Evelyne Bliss (2/9/05)
So, you have already decided on what type of dog you want. But now you want to make sure you get the right pup for you. Where do you start?????
read the rest of this column
Dinner Minus the Begging
By Fran Williams (2/9/05)
Dear Fran, I have two wonderful great dogs. They are both 3 years old
lab mixes; one fixed male, one fixed female. My problem is they beg so
bad when we eat that they actually drool as they watch us eat.
Its just disgusting!
read the rest of this column
How to Pick Your Next Dog (part I)
By Evelyne Bliss (2/5/05)
Dogs are not items in a supermarket where you wander down an aisle, pick up what ever is on sale and pay for it at the checkout and perhaps return it later if it is not what you expected. Dogs are living, breathing creatures with intelligence, feelings, and a need to feel love and compassion.
read the rest of this column
Are There Dogs in Heaven?
By Fran Williams (2/5/05)
Dogs have given us so much. I have dogs come to me with their hearts just broken. I go into their eyes and tell them, “God will help me mend you and find you another person to love and trust.”
read the rest of this column
Rescues and Chewing
By Fran Williams (2/1/05)
She had a few issues with crating and has done well but she has
torn up her comfort in her crate but loves to sleep in our other
dogs crate...
read the rest of this column
Prong Collars and a Fearful Papillion
By Jean Crooke (1/24/05)
Have you ever tried on the prong collar? I can tell you it doesn't tickle.
read the rest of this column
Free Spirit
By Fran Williams (1/23/05)
I’ve often been asked about safe places to let dogs have free run. It’s always wonderful to hear somebody understand what their animal really not only wants but truly needs.
read the rest of this column
Paper Chewer
By Evelyne Bliss (1/23/05)
How to teach your dog to bring the paper, not eat it.
read the rest of this column
Barky Dogs
By Evelyne Bliss (1/12/05)
Collies can be barkers at the best of times and I'd bet that was the main reason for her ending up at the shelter which means she has probably never had the time spent on her to 'curb' the barking.
read the rest of this column
Crating Your New Dog
By Fran Williams (1/4/05)
Hiding under the bed is really not helpful and seems to only reinforce his fear
read the rest of this column
Shadow Chasers
By Evelyne Bliss (12/27/04)
Behavioral quirks can be conditioned but habits are much harder to break
read the rest of this column
Winter Care for Canines
By Evelyne Bliss (12/24/04)
Winter’s cold air brings lots of concerns for responsible dog owners
read the rest of this column
Struggling to be the alpha
By Jean Crooke (12/21/04)
I have a question in regards to what I think are two females wanting to be alpha dogs in the same home.
read the rest of this column
Dogs and Cats
By Fran Williams (12/20/04)
I have 3 cats that are not used to having a dog around and are standing their ground. Although Freedom is a good dog, she believes that cats want to play when they really don't.
read the rest of this column
Teaching Right and Wrong
By Evelyne Bliss (12/15/04)
Treat her like a dog, she'll learn in the same manner although your methods will vary from that used on a Bedlington or a Mountain Dog.
read the rest of this column
How do dogs learn?
By Jean Crooke (12/3/04)
I am interested in information about how dogs learn. Is it true it takes on average 6 weeks for a dog to permanently learn a new cue/command?
read the rest of this column
Dog and Strange Dogs
By Fran Williams (12/3/04)
She is okay with dogs she knows but with strange dogs she barks like mad!
read the rest of this column
Is My Puppy Dog-Aggressive?
By Fran Williams (11/25/04)
At first, she will display aggression. But, when a dog comes towards her, she runs, and usually behind me.
read the rest of this column
Resource Guarders
By Evelyne Bliss (11/20/04)
...but a few...have an inborn 'nature' to be aware of their size and do not trust anything of their species that is bigger than they are.
read the rest of this column
Service Dogs
By Fran Williams (11/16/04)
There are very few things that cannot be taught to a dog when you take the time and have the right attitude.
read the rest of this column
Separation Shepard
By Evelyne Bliss (11/11/04)
...it is possible she has found 'heaven on earth' with you which would make the bonding stronger and therefore the seperation that much more difficult for her to handle.
read the rest of this column
We Love Retractable Leashes
By Jean Crooke (11/7/04)
Everybody loves a good retractable leash. You’ve seen them. They’re those leashes with the big plastic handle and a sixteen foot retractable cord that attaches to your dog. What a great invention right? I say ugh.
read the rest of this column
Dealing with a Timid Pup
By Evelyne Bliss (11/5/04)
I have been looking at a 11 months old German Shepherd which has all the requirement I need bar one. He is very timid, even scared, of male adults.
read the rest of this column
Mini Monsters
By Fran Williams (11/4/04)
I received a call on a young Jack Russell Terrier female and first thing the man tells me is his wife thinks this dog is stupid. Hmmm… a stupid Jack Russell? That alone would be worth the drive since I do not believe such a creature exists!
read the rest of this column
Seperation Anxiety
By Evelyne Bliss (11/1/04)
What is 'Separation Anxiety' ?
Why does it haunt so many Dog Owners everywhere?
read the rest of this column
Two little Yorkies
By Jean Crooke (10/31/04)
Two questions from Yorkie rescues. One has a small housebreaking problem, the other fears people.
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking Part 2
By Evelyne Bliss (10/29/04)
Part one focused on training puppies. In Part 2 Ev helps a member whose older dog is still not housetrained.
read the rest of this column
Regaining Control of Your Home
By Fran Williams (10/26/04)
How to take back control of your house when the dogs have been running the show.
read the rest of this column
Early Morning Barking
By Evelyne Bliss (10/23/04)
Ev offers suggestions for early morning barking.
read the rest of this column
Nipping
By Jean Crooke (10/22/04)
Jean, co-founder of pupforum.com, and certified dog trainer answers questions submitted by pupforum members.
read the rest of this column
Old Dog / Puppy Rivalry
By Evelyne Bliss (10/20/04)
How to help an older dog adjust to the new addition
read the rest of this column
Scared to go Outside
By Evelyne Bliss (10/17/04)
Ev helps deal with a scared dog.
read the rest of this column
Counter Conditioning
By Tressa Everts (10/15/04)
There have been several questions about dogs behaving badly when they see people or dogs.
Rather than answer each individually I'm going to address them as a whole.
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking
By Evelyne Bliss (10/15/04)
Follow these simple rules and within a week, your pup should be housebroken.
(if your pup is crate trained, then you are already half way there)
read the rest of this column
Forms of Abuse
By Fran Williams (10/14/04)
I receive many comments from people saying, “Oh, my poor dog is so afraid of every thing. I believe he or she has been badly beaten.”
read the rest of this column
Jean Answers your Questions
By Jean Crooke (10/1/04)
Jean, co-founder of pupforum.com, and certified dog trainer answers questions submitted by pupforum members.
read the rest of this column
Separation Anxiety
By Tressa Everts (9/1/04)
How do you know if your dog suffers from separation anxiety? Here's a quick simple test.
read the rest of this column
Housebreaking
By Tressa Everts (8/15/04)
While I'm sure the new dog would be loved and cared for by
you - being banished from the pack every night would be torturous for him or her.
read the rest of this column
Really Reliable Recall
By Tressa Everts (7/15/04)
One of the most common complaints I hear from owners is that their pet won't come
when called. Most of the time, I find that without being aware of it, people are
punishing their dogs for coming to them.
read the rest of this column
Need Exercise!
By Tressa Everts (7/1/04)
My 1 year old Labradoodle doesn't get enough exercise. Im too old at this point to
take her for the walks that she needs. Can you tell me a few easier ways to get her the
exercise she needs?
read the rest of this column
Puppy Play Nice
By Tressa Everts (6/15/04)
The important thing to know with kids and dogs is that it is as important to protect the dog from the kid as it is to protect the kid from the dog.
read the rest of this column
Adolescent Dog
By Tressa Everts (6/1/04)
Welcome to the first Pupforum Ask a Trainer Column! Your questions are answered by Tressa Everts. Tressa is the behavior and training coordinator for the Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League (MAGDRL), and has been teaching positive motivation based dog training classes for 13 years.
read the rest of this column
|
Login 
