Dog Training Tips - Rules for Dog Trainers and Dog Owners

By Rena Murray
Similar to other human endeavors, the success of dog training and dog behavior modification efforts involving both a dog trainer and a dog owner is dependent upon acceptance of responsibility and good communication. Here are some dog training tips and rules of the road for such situations.

To start, Dog Trainer, you must always remember to ask as many thoughtful and pointed questions of the owner as possible. This is an absolute necessity if the dog trainer is to have a good understanding of the animal before beginning the first dog training session, to start on the right foot. You never have a second chance to make a first impression in the dog world.

Dog Owner, you have a responsibility to be detailed on both the good and the bad in your pet. Only then can the dog trainer - dog behaviorist diagnose the problem fully and take the best remedial steps. You must also speak out your full expectations so they can be accomplished.

Some areas you should cover and amplify include:

1- Historical information about your dog -- Age, how old he was when adopted, where you got him, etc.

2- The dog behavior problem -- Full description, how it manifests, under what circumstances, and how often.

3- What happened the first time? -- What did the dog do first, how did you handle it at that moment and right afterward, how did the dog respond, how old was the dog, other factors, and how much has the behavior increased since then?

4- What have you done about it since then? -- Also, what have other family members done about it, what are you doing now, how has the dog reacted each time, etc.?

5- Information about your dog's environment and exposures - e.g., your home, yard, doggie door and yard freedom or always out on a leash, neighborhood, parks, other pets, other family members and ages, kennel trained, etc.

6- You dog's daily exercise -- e.g., how often, when, how far, is it "free time" or focused and disciplined (mental challenge), etc.?

7- Any other things you do not like about your dog?

Expose everything pertinent to the pet and circumstances that you can think of. Don't forget allergies and health issues that might have an effect.

Dog Trainer, point out issues right away, explaining dog behavior problems to the Owner. For example, if the dog displays dog dominance behavior such as claiming something, the Owner needs to be made aware of what is really going on. This is not just some cute little annoyance, but the seed of a major dog behavior problem!

Dog Trainer, do not in any way intimidate the Dog Owner or make him feel foolish. Be understanding. Recognize that he called on you because he realizes and acknowledges the need for your experience. Commend him, for that takes courage.

Dog Owner, never lie to a dog trainer if your dog has certain tendencies. Especially if your dog is aggressive or fearful, the trainer needs to know the tendency of his reactions. Otherwise, there may be a nasty dog bite, and the results you seek may be impeded.

Dog Owner, listen to the dog trainer. Do not become surly or sarcastic with one who is trying to help. Do not waste the trainer's time if you are not going to follow her directions and be consistent. Do not try to blame the trainer if you are not consistent.

Dog Trainer, do not tell the Dog Owner: "People need training, not dogs." It is called DOG TRAINING for a reason!

Dog Trainer, realize that people need to be instructed in how to read dog body language, to become the leader of the pack, and how to follow through with your instructions … How to train a dog! People need encouragement, not criticism. Sometimes, the problem is the DOG!

Dog Trainer, hear the Dog Owner out and listen to all he says about the dog. Eat every word, and draw out every piece of information you may need. Remember, you need to feed the Dog Owner if he is stuck. You need to be a skilled interviewer, to draw out all you need to know about the dog and the circumstances.

Keeping these thoughts in mind makes it easier for both the Dog Trainer and the Dog Owner. It is no more fun for a Dog Trainer than a Dog Owner to deal with someone who is full of himself … That is counterproductive. Keep you eye on your goal -- dog behavior modification and dog training.

About the author:
Dog Obedience Trainer - Dog Behaviorist, Rena Murray, dares to tell it like it is! Growing up with the Horse Whisper, avid wolf pack studies, Pit Bull and other dog training, Rena solves "impossible" situations, e.g., teaching an old dog new tricks, solving dog dominance and dog destructive behavior, even stopping a Doberman attack in mid-launch! Available for Consultations, Rena blends the best of the Dog Whisper and other techniques to each specific situation and will bring fresh insight to yours. See Rena's Expert Articles and subscribe to her FREE Ezine at http://www.PawPersuasion.com and comment on Rena's BLOG - http://www.pawpersuasion.com/blog/

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Wild Dog Behavior - Tips to Terminate Rover's Rolling

By Rena Murray
How revolting! There are some truly bizarre, slimy or smelly wild dog behaviors that are frequently displayed by our domestic dogs. Yet just because your Pooch's actions are instinctive behavior for dogs, that does NOT mean that you have to accept it if you do not like it! So let us explore some unwanted dog instinctive behaviors and what you can do about them. In this article we will focus on one of the most disgusting wild dog behaviors of all: "My dog eats feces and rolls in them!"

Rolling in dung can mean three different things. One: The dog is rolling in feces to disguise himself, to feel safer, or to boost his confidence. Perhaps he is insecure of a neighbor's dog, or maybe he even senses a predator you cannot.

Solution? Put the dog on a leash and correct him firmly when he begins the behavior. Give him something else to do. Exercise or a game is a good idea, but move away from the problem until you have brought him to a point where he is listening better to you.

Sometimes young bitch dogs roll in their own mess because they are near their heat and want to strut their stuff to the whole neighborhood! Please be aware that letting her get away with this behavior may allow her to become overconfident and even aggressive.

The third reason is the dog has come into contact with an unfamiliar odor. Dogs do not like too many changes and are creatures of habit and routine. This is why your dog wants to roll when you have just washed him with that wonderfully scented lavender soap. Boy, wouldn't we all love it if dogs and humans loved the same scents?

Solution? Simply dry your dog off well and be sure he is calm BEFORE his leash is removed. If rolling is a pattern, you have to break it by first getting him into a calmer state in which he is able to listen to you.

Then if he rolls, give him a firm NO, taking the scruff of his neck firmly in your grasp. This lets him know that you do not agree with the behavior he is doing. Since Pooch's dog instinctive behavior is to submit to you, his leader, he will ultimately yield and cease such unwanted (smelly and messy) wild dog behavior.

Bottom Line: You do NOT have to settle for a domestic dog that acts like Rolling Rover, in his own feces or cat dung or any other smelly thing. With a little training, these animal instinctive behaviors can be vanquished and peace and sweet smells restored in your home. Still having problems? Just ask for help from an expert who understands wild dog behaviors, and turn Rolling Rover into Sweet-Smelling Sam!


About the author:
Rena Murray is a Dog Obedience Trainer - Dog Behaviorist who dares to tell it like it is! Growing up with the Horse Whisper, avid wolf pack studies, Pit Bull and other dog training, Rena solves many "impossible" situations, e.g., teaching an old dog new tricks, solving dog dominance and wild dog behavior issues, and stopping a Doberman attack in mid-launch in her hands-on Florida dog training. Available for email Consultations, Rena blends the best of the Dog Whisper and other techniques to each specific situation and will bring fresh insight to yours. See her Expert Articles, free Ezine, BLOG - http://www.pawpersuasion.com/blog , and more at http://www.PawPersuasion.com

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Labrador Training: Stop That Chewing Habit

By Richard Cussons
While it is normal for a Labrador to chew, it is not normal when what he is chewing is your highly priced living room carpet or your new pair of designer shoes. Chewing problem is not unusual to a Labrador or to other breeds as well. It is a common problem concerning dogs and must be corrected as soon as possible.

Dogs chew for various reasons. Of course, it is natural for dogs to chew. But that is not the sole reason for chewing. Other reason why dogs chew is because of physical problems, feeling of pain in their teeth or because of the simple reason that they are bored. Chewing, when their teeth are causing them pain, helps ease the pain, thus your dog will just chew and chew on anything that he can find. When your dog is chewing himself, he might be affected with some health issues such as skin allergy thus causing him to itch.

I can very well remember years ago when we had just brought home a new puppy. My brother got mad when he discovered that our dog was feasting on his favorite rubber shoes. He scolded the pitiful puppy and gave him a spank in the rear. Later, we realize that maybe the puppy was bored because we were too busy with our own activities and failed to provide him with toys or something to play on.

We should always bear in mind that dogs think differently as humans do. They do things such as chewing not in the purpose of making us angry or annoyed. They just do what they think is best for them. And besides, dogs don't want their owners to get angry with them so why would they chew your furniture when they know that it will make you mad?

Whatever the reason for your dog's chewing, the problem must be addressed sooner or else it may cause other problems. When your dog is teething, the best way to stop this is to give him cold rawhide chew because this helps in easing the pain. In order for your dog not to get bored with the chew, try putting a number of chews into the freezer. Give him one on the first day and at the end of the day, put it back in the freezer. Give the other half of the chew the next day. Your dog will soon notice that you are giving him varying food chews thus he will always keep his attention on it.

It will also help if you'll provide your dog with toys. Giving something to play will keep his attention away from the furniture and other household items. So if you are leaving your Labrador behind, don't forget to provide him with many toys for him to play. That is if you don't want to spend so much for the repair of your living room couch, or worst, for buying a new one.

About the author:
Richard Cussons is not just a writer but also a great lover of dogs. Discover more about Labradors at this site dedicated to Labrador dogs.

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Things to Know About Golden Retrievers

By John Philips philips
There is no doubt that the Golden Retriever is a wonderful breed of dog, friendly, loyal, devoted, and trusting. A versatile breed, with affection, talent and intelligence, it is no surprise that the Golden Retriever is so popular. A Golden Retriever is an ideal sportsman's companion, family pet and gundog, guide or service dog. The Golden Retriever is a receptive, confident, committed and obedient dog.

The Golden Retriever is one of the easiest breeds to train. If you begin to apply rules when your golden retriever is young, he will easily fit into the routine and the rules that you’d like him to follow. Of course when training your dog it doesn't all have to be all work and no play. Golden Retrievers enjoy pleasing their masters, so obedience training can be fun. This breed is known for its obedience and eagerness, again making them ideal for training and for family pets. Training them to fetch is almost automatic, but they can also be taught easily to sit, stay, roll over and more. You must remember their sensitivity when training your Golden; you should never be overly harsh with this loving creature.

The Golden is one of the world's premier family companion dogs. They are the world's foremost family pet and playmate. They enjoy play sessions with their family, retrieving balls and other toys and the ideal environment for this dog is a family home with plenty of company and plenty of space. The Golden Retriever is not well suited for a two-career family, as they require an inordinate amount of human interaction and companionship and need plenty of attention from its owners and family. Goldens love to be loved, love to learn, are eager to please, and want to be a part of the family.

All dog breeds require a certain amount of grooming and care necessary to keep dogs and puppies looking at their best. Because the Golden Retriever sheds a fair amount he requires thorough brushing with a firm bristle brush daily. Goldens trust you to take good care of them and require regular training, daily exercise, grooming, a balanced diet and veterinary care. The Golden Retriever can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

Every breed of dog has their share of health problems, and although for the most part they are healthy, sound, beautiful dogs the Golden Retriever is no exception. In short the Golden Retriever whilst usually a healthy and long-lived breed is not a cheap option where vet's bills are concerned and keeping your golden healthy is as important as keeping yourself healthy. Like most dogs, there are shots, annual check-ups, flea protection and heartworm protection required.

The Golden Retriever is quite possibly one of the friendliest animals on the planet when it comes to dog breeds. The beautiful Golden Retriever is a great family pet; they are friendly for children and very obedient. The Golden Retriever is, to sum it up, a robust but elegant dog, which combines very well the characteristics of both a hunter and a show dog. A perfect family dog the Golden Retriever is a playful, fun loving dog that is full of energy.

About the author:
More information can be gathered about Golden Retrievers by visiting Golden-Retriever-Facts.com a popular website with tips and advice on how to care for your family pet.

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Different Types of Collar For Your Labrador Training

By Richard Cussons
Collar is one of the most indispensable tools for your Labrador training. A collar is a piece of material, could be made of nylon, metal, cotton or leather, and placed around the neck of a dog. It is often used for control, identification, fashion and other purposes. Imagine taking your dog for a walk without a collar and a leash. Your curious little one may end up running everywhere without thinking of his safety. What if a speeding car is coming towards him? Poor little dog... Identification is another purpose of your dog's collar. Information such as dog's name, owner's name and address are placed on dog collars so that in case of loss, there is a greater chance of seeing your dog again. No more poor owners worriedly looking for there lost dogs in every corner of the street.

There are different types of collars. There are basic collars as well as training collars. The different training collars are as follows:

Slip collars
Slip collars are also termed choke chains, slip chains or choke collars. They are often made of braided nylon, cotton or leather and form a loop around the top of the dog's neck, just behind the ears. The leash is attached to the ring that goes over the back of the dog's neck. The ring could either be dead or live ring. When the leash is attached to the dead ring, the collar does not constrict on the dog's neck. However, attach it to the live ring and the chain will slip tighter when pulled and slips looser when the tension is released. It is important that you know the proper use of this collar because improper may lead to injury and even death of your beloved companion.

Prong collar
Prong collars are also termed pinch collars. This is used to control or correct the dog by yanking on its neck if he does not comply. Prong collars are series of chain links with blunted open ends turned towards the dog's neck. When the collar is tightened, it pinches the loose skin around the dog's neck. Prong collars can also be turned inside out with the prongs facing away from the dog's skin. Some trainers place rubber tips on the end of the prongs to protect your dog's skin from scratching or puncturing.

Martingale collars
Martingale collar has two loops; the smaller one is the control loop which tightens gently when pulled to prevent dogs from slipping out of the collar. Martingale collar has limited constriction on the dog's neck and applies even pressure.

Electronic collars
Electronic collars are sometimes called remote and shock collars. To correct the dog, electronic collars deliver an electrical stimulus to the dog. The level of stimulus varies depending on the dog. If the dog continues to disobey, the intensity is increased.

Whatever the type of collar you are going to use on your Labrador training, it is always important to consider the proper use and fit of the collar. The collar should not be too loose or too tight for your dog. And do not forget to ask an expert on the proper use of these collars.

About the author:
Richard Cussons trains different breeds of dogs. Learn more about Labrador training and other information pertaining to Labradors.

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