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Let's dive into our first question of the day:
Question 1:
I have a two-year-old Doberman mix that I got two months ago, and she has a terrible jumping problem. Her previous owner didn't mind, but she's way too big to be jumping, and it often results in someone getting hurt. I've tried telling her "no" when she jumps, physically putting her paws on the ground, and some people suggest grabbing her scruff. I've also tried using treats, waiting until she approaches me calmly before giving a treat. But maybe I'm doing it wrong. I genuinely don't know what to do. I get very impatient when she doesn't listen and often hurts me. Can someone please help?
Answer:
You're dealing with a common issue, especially with a large dog like a Doberman. Here's a structured plan to address this behavior:
Understanding "No":Â Ensure that when you say "no," it is associated with a correction. This can be a verbal reprimand followed by a consistent action so she understands that "no" means to stop the behavior immediately.
Avoid Physical Handling:Â Physically putting her paws on the ground or grabbing her scruff can often escalate the behavior or be misinterpreted by the dog. It's better to use more structured training techniques.
Using a Leash and Collar:Â Consider using a prong collar for corrections as it doesn't choke the dog like a slip lead or regular collar might. When she jumps, give a firm "no" and a leash pop backwards. This action pulls her away from the person, reinforcing that jumping is not acceptable.
Reinforcement and Consistency:Â Consistency is key. Each time she jumps, the same correction should be applied. If done correctly, this behavior usually reduces significantly after a few corrections.
Question 2:
My grandma broke her arm, so I'm caring for her dog. The dog is used to sleeping in my grandma's bed, but I don't want that. At night, the dog starts on the floor but tries to get in my bed every two hours, clawing and barking until I get up and put her back in her bed. This continues all night. How can I stop this behavior without putting the dog in another room, which would make her go crazy? Any advice?
Answer:
This situation requires establishing new boundaries for the dog:
Crate Training:Â Crate training can provide a safe and secure place for the dog to sleep. Initially, this might require some adjustment, but it's a long-term solution that will benefit both you and the dog.
Using an E-Collar:Â An e-collar can help calm the dog when she's in the crate, teaching her that crate time is quiet time.
Gradual Adjustment:Â Start by having the crate in your room to ease the transition. Gradually, you can move it further away once the dog is comfortable.
Correction for Barking:Â Use the e-collar to correct excessive barking. A calm, quiet environment will help the dog adjust to the new sleeping arrangement.
Question 3:
My year and a half old German Shepherd mix gets upset and tries to separate us whenever my boyfriend and I show affection. Why does she do this and how can we help her stop?\
Answer:
Your dog is likely exhibiting resource guarding behavior, where she views you as a resource to protect:
Understanding Resource Guarding:Â Dogs may guard their owners just like they would their food or toys. This needs to be addressed to prevent escalation.
E-Collar Training:Â Use an e-collar to teach the command "out," which means to move away from you. This helps in redirecting her behavior when she tries to separate you and your boyfriend.
Structured Training:Â Implement structured training sessions where your dog learns to respect boundaries. Commands like "place" can help keep her in a designated area during these interactions.
Consistency and Leadership:Â Reinforce your role as the leader. Your dog should not feel the need to guard you. Correct the behavior consistently to establish clear boundaries.
Question 4:
How should I handle my dog's sudden aggression towards me while playing with water in a kiddie pool? She's usually sweet but sometimes nips when excited.
Answer:
Excitement can lead to nipping, and it's important to manage this arousal level:
Teach Calm Behavior:Â Use an e-collar to teach that over-arousal is not acceptable. Calm the dog down when she starts to get too excited.
Down-Stay Command:Â Train your dog in the down-stay command. This helps her learn to calm down and stay in one position, reducing excitement levels.
Consistent Correction:Â Correct nipping behavior immediately with a firm "no" and a correction using the e-collar. Reinforce calm behavior with treats and praise.
Gradual Exposure:Â Gradually expose your dog to the kiddie pool while practicing calm behavior. Over time, she will learn to associate the pool with calmness rather than excitement.
Question 5:
We're worried about our new beagle and how he's getting along with our cats. He's mostly okay, except for when they are in certain spots like on top of the fridge. He goes wild, and trying to calm him down with a slip lead doesn't work. Any tips?
Answer:
Addressing your beagle's over-arousal around the cats requires consistent training:
Immediate Correction:Â Use an e-collar to correct the barking and over-excitement. A firm "no" followed by a correction will help him understand that this behavior is unacceptable.
Place Command:Â Train your beagle to stay in a designated spot (place) when the cats are around. This reduces free roaming and unwanted interactions.
Reduce Excitement:Â Gradually desensitize your beagle to the cats' movements. Reward calm behavior and correct over-arousal immediately.
Consistency:Â Maintain a consistent routine and enforce boundaries. Over time, your beagle will learn to stay calm around the cats.
Thank you for your questions!
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