Ace Dog Academy Answers for May 22nd, 2024.
Question 1: When anyone sits on the couch and tries to relax, my dog starts barking incessantly, even after a one-hour walk. Despite several daily walks, she still has lots of energy.
Answer: This is a very common issue. It sounds like your dog might be exhibiting demand barking, which often happens when they need something or are trying to get your attention. This behavior is considered rude and typically occurs when you try to calm down. Your dog is likely not okay with you being in a relaxed state.
One important point to note is that exercising your dog alone will not stop bad behavior. Exercise can tire them out temporarily, but once they rest, they may return to their old habits. This applies to various behaviors, such as anxiety, aggression, or destructive actions like digging or chewing. Exercise alone is not a solution to behavioral issues. You should apply a correction, an e collar would be best. Then you teach your dog how to be calm by teaching and using a "Place" command.
Question 2: My almost two-year-old dog is untrained, and I can't afford professional training. My mom has given me two weeks to improve her behavior, or she will re home her.
Answer: That's a tough situation, but here are some steps you can take. For jumping on people or furniture, playing too rough, and non-aggressive biting, apply corrections like a leash pop or an E-collar correction. For excessive whining, focus on the state of mind by creating a calm environment and maintaining strict structure. Teach commands like "place" and "out" to help manage behaviors like interrupting meals and avoiding the crate. Use a leash to guide them into the crate or outside, ensuring consistent enforcement.
Question 3: My dog saw a trainer for over a year but hasn't had a session in eight months. Now, he ignores me about 70% of the time, especially on walks.
Answer: Your dog's behavior suggests a lack of training consistency. Dogs often behave differently with different handlers. Ensure you use a balanced training approach, incorporating corrections for bad behavior and positive reinforcement for good behavior. If you're only using treats and clickers, your dog may not be responding well in more distracting environments. Reevaluate your training techniques and consider incorporating corrections to address the behaviors effectively.
Question 4: Our seven-month-old German Shepherd refuses to potty if anyone is watching and only goes on towels near the front door when no one is around.
Answer: First, get rid of the towels near the door to remove the alternative potty spot. Ensure your dog is always supervised, and establish a consistent potty schedule. Crate training can help manage this behavior by creating structure. Use an E-collar to enforce calm behavior in the crate, ensuring your dog understands that the crate is a place to relax.
Question 5: We have a high-anxiety Shepherd who barks at noises no one else can hear and chases objects like chairs or blankets. Is it cruel to crate her in every room to manage her anxiety?
Answer: Crating your dog in every room is not cruel if it helps manage her anxiety and prevents dangerous behaviors. However, it's essential to address the root cause of the anxiety. Use corrections to stop unwanted behaviors and apply positive reinforcement for calm behavior. Crate training can be effective, but ensure it is part of a broader training plan that includes structure and consistency in managing your dog's anxiety.
If you need further help, consider reaching out for answers at www.getdogtraininghelp.com
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