Dogs

Question: How can i improve my skills as a dog owner?

(Posted by: chipped finger nails on 2010-03-09 12:14:02)

I own a 8mnth old border colle x lurcher, her nature overall is very timid, she can get fearful when other dogs try to sniff her bum (tail between the legs, running away) This behaviour is improving though, she now walks up to meet dogs and other men (this is a HUGE improvement) I can leave her home alone during the day and she wont destroy my house or make a mess, she normally just chews her toys, but occassionaly a book if it is left lying on the floor. She has an exercise and feeding routine established, but due to work sometimes I have to walk her at different times in the morning. When I take her running with me behind the bike, she is great, doesnt pull stays in and is not to easily distracted. However when I take her for a walk she often pulls on the lead, this is NEW behaviour, it has happend since we moved to the city (more distractions?) Also, her recall is going down- hill! At home, fine, I can get her to sit, stay, come, her stay is not so great, but getting better. However lately she when I have taken her off leash, she has run offto chase birds etc, and her recall has not been instnat, I dont smack her when she comes back, I give her praise etc. I need some tips on how to deal with these distractions, and on her timid- ness around other dogs and children who she is very gentle with but much prefers to be away from (she will just go and lie down behind a chair when the kids are runnig amuck)

Posted by: YODEL on 2010-03-09, 12:35:17

She is an adolescent puppy; her behavior is very normal. A lot of puppies learn a whole string of commands and follow them perfectly....until they hit 8-12 months of age. They start growing up a bit. Getting more independent. Realizing they can get away with things. Testing their limits. Sometimes, they'll even seem to forget everything you've ever taught them. It's normal, and it will pass once she nears maturity (18-24 months). You just have to be patient, keep working with her and don't expect too much, too fast. Work with her daily- you'll find she has good days and bad days. If she's having a bad day, practice simple commands and play with her. If she's having a good day, challenge her or teach her something new. But don't give up- this is the most crucial time to follow through with your training....once she matures, it'll all come together. Keep her on a long leash and work with her recall that way. Keep her on the leash whenever you're around distractions- just keep reinforcing that recall ON the leash, with lots of praise. Don't let her off-leash in public for at least several months....wait until she is consistent & focused ON the leash, and then do a few short off-leash sessions in a QUIET area with minimal distractions. Slowly work up to more & more distractions, and longer periods off the leash. Off-leash recall is one of those things you want to take real slow, to ensure the training really sinks in. Otherwise, she'll always have it in the back of her mind that she doesn't "have " to listen when the leash is off, and you may not be able to trust her. As for her being timid- it could be her age, or it could be her temperament. The only thing you can do is socialize her. Don't force her into situations- but give her the chance to make her own progress in non-threatening social situations. Teach her to focus on you for a reward....and work on getting her to focus on you in situations that make her nervous. Eventually she should learn that she doesn't have to worry about things, that she can focus on you and you'll handle any situation that arises. Hope this helps, good luck :)

Posted by: snoppy on 2010-03-09, 12:23:11

May be get a whistle and get her to come to that she be able to hear it better then your voice when it windy mine come to this as soon as i do 1 long blow of it with her timidness do the things she dont like more offen and treat when she does ok she soon get use to all of this good luck

Posted by: Bobbie L on 2010-03-09, 12:25:59

Since your dog is a Border Collie cross, I would find a reputable sheepdog trainer and get the dog on livestock.

Posted by: Natalie on 2010-03-09, 13:39:28

Ok.... fixing timidness in dogs isnt all that hard. if your puppy has had all of her shots, i suggest taking her to a "puppy party " or to a "dog park. " if you start socializing your puppy at a young age, she will be used to meeting other dogs and animals as she grows. do not praise your dog for chasing birds and squirrels, but good idea for praising her when she comes to you. when your dog does anything you dont want her to do like pull on the leash, say something like "Ackkk! " in the voice you use when you say ouch. say it loud so your dog can hear. then, if shes on the leash, pull her next to you and repeat the exercise. i hope this helps!