I used this method for potty training my dog, it works great for small dogs.
If you live in an apartment, and have a small dog, a cat litter box may be your solution.
When you notice your dog looking like he needs to use the bathroom, just plop 'im in the litter box.
Or, put him in at regular time intervals, like for a puppy, every half hour to a hour. They like the way the litter feels, a good place to go potty. Now for some verbal training while you are at it. Whenever your dog starts to "go", give your command such as "go potty" or something like that. This will train your dog to go whenever you give the command! Want some more help? Check This Out!
Clumping litter is cool because well, it clumps, making it easier to clean out and makes less waste of good litter, plus you can scoop it out right after he/ she goes so that you can have a fresher-smelling litter box. The disadvantage, however, is that if you have a long-haired dog, it makes really bad mats; if your dog's paws or legs have the slightest bit of moister on them the litter will stick to the hair and will probably mat it. When the litter gets wet, it gets really sticky, that forms the clumping action. I found the mats impossible to comb out so you'll have to cut them.
Thursday
Pay Attention to What Your Dog Is Saying!
Many people find it difficult to train their puppies because they cannot comprehend dogs' behavior. Well, that should not be so difficult if only we'd stop being so busy training and start showing our pets a little respect. Respecting our dogs doesn't mean allowing them to do whatever they want, but understanding that they are pack animals that need authority in order to feel secure and understanding these creatures as intelligent, individual beings, able of emotional reactions very similar to human reactions.
Indeed, dogs can be stubborn, rude, nasty, charming and aggressive. They can be happy or sad. They can love or hate. They can "miss you". And hey, they can even talk! Let's see: was your dog ever barking back at you when you told him to do something? Well, that's his or her way of saying: no, I will not do it! Insist telling your dog the same thing and you've got an aggressive behavior building up. You wouldn't want that, would you? However, this is a disrespectful behavior and you should correct it: in time, not at once and certainly not through aggressive measures. You don't want to have a frustrated, fearful companion.
To help understand your dog better and to get more training advice, Check This Out!
Dogs also grumble. That's a way of warning you. It doesn't mean, "don't bother me". It means: "Watch it, pal! You're over the line!" Dogs usually grumble when you reach towards their food when they are eating or when you wake them up. That's also bad. They should not be allowed to grumble. They should not be allowed to do anything rude or disrespectful. Dogs are pack animals and it's in their nature to aspire for a higher hierarchy in the pack. However, the leading position should be yours. So pay attention to your dog, listen to him and understand him. Any improper behavior you allow brings your dog a step higher on this pack hierarchy. Too many and your dog will forget who's the master, or the "alpha dog". So yes, you are human, but your dog has no definition of "human". He will cease to obey you if you lack superiority. He will become the leader. It is a normal process. It doesn't mean your dog is disrespectful, it only means he is simply carrying out his role as a pack leader. After all, why not? If you don't understand your responsibilities, someone should!
Yes, you want your dog to be your friend and not to control him. Sadly, although a dog is often called "man's best friend" such a relationship is impossible. Friends are equals. Your dog just depends on you. He is, at most, your companion, but not your friend. You need to control his behavior and you need to control what he eats. He should always come when you call, sit when you say, roll over when you command. These are things you just don't do with your friends.
So understand your companion and also understand that taking the leading role will not make him love you less. On the contrary, dogs love authority.
Friday
Potty Training Your Dog
Puppies are cute and cuddly, but when it comes to bathroom breaks they can be more than a small challenge at times.
*A few things to note about smaller dogs before we delve deeper into this topic - small dogs are almost always harder to train than a bigger dog due to their bladder and bowel sizes. As well, owners of smaller dogs tend to let them get away with behaviour they would never tolerate in a bigger dog. When training your small dog in the colder months of the year, it's recommended to get them a coat to provide warmth. Owners have been known to have success with litter training or using pee pads during these times as well.*
Most puppies have to go out about every half hour to an hour. It is very important in the first week or two of bringing your puppy home that you have the time to do this.
Consistency is the most important part of potty training. You must take him or her out to the same spot every time and praise your dog when he/she does his business. A few good times to remember to take your dog out are:
- 15 to 45 minutes after your dog eats
- After a nap
- After play time
Do you want to have the perfectly potty trained dog? Then Click Here!
Puppies should never have the run of the house unsupervised until they are well trained at going out. They should have a set area where they are allowed to be and if they have an accident it is easy to clean up the mess(carpeted flooring - not so good an idea). If you are there to monitor your puppy, it is fine to let them run around the house of course, just make sure to watch their actions for any signs that they may need to go to the bathroom.
If you're going to work or going out for any set period of time, it is best to have a "den" for them to stay in till you arrive back home. This could be a sectioned off small part of the house, or a dog crate/pen made for this purpose. Dogs are actually den animals, and love to have their own place for sleeping, resting and eating.
Most dogs do not want to mess where they sleep or eat. Make the area only big enough for them to turn around and stand up comfortably. If you give them too much room they will just do their business in the room they don't need for sleeping. Realize this is not cruel, and you will be letting them out when you get home. This will teach them to respect their den and your home. Perhaps give them a few of their toys to play with and keep themselves occupied.
Need a good resorce for potty training your dog? Here It Is!
Remember, it is very important to let your puppy out as much as possible. When an accident happens, only scold by saying no if you catch them in the act and take him/her directly outside. Make sure you always clean accidents up right away and not in front of the puppy. For cleaning, use an enzyme cleaner which can be found at any pet store(vinegar and water on the area works as well). You want to remove the scent completely from that area so your puppy will not re-visit it and smell the accident.
Puppy may not go every time you take him/her out. This is not a problem, just remember to try again in a short period of time(20-45mins).
Always make sure you praise your dog for good behaviour, they love to be praised and will be more inclined to want to go outside to do their business.
When returning home, make sure you remember to take your pup out as soon as you possibly can.
Things To Never Do When Potty Training Your Puppy
- Never hit your dog. The only thing this accomplishes is to make him/her afraid of you and in some cases create aggressive behaviour
- Never rub their nose in their own poo. It does not work, and in fact some dogs actually eat their own business. Doing this can cause mixed signals
- Don't get discouraged. Remember your dog will learn how to do this right, it just takes time and patience.
Still need help? TRY HERE!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josh_Emsley
Wednesday
Crate Training Your Dog
All training starts with taking advantage of your dog’s natural inclinations to reinforce the behavior you want. The only place your dog will not, by nature, mess, is its sleeping place. Crate training works with your dog’s instinct - he never has the opportunity to be “bad.”
Crate training is fairly intense for you. The rule is: if you are not actively paying attention to your dog, your dog is in the crate. Period. Even if you’re in the same room. If you’re not watching your puppy, it’s in the crate. If you think “caging” your dog is cruel, get over it. It’s worse for your dog not to know the rules of the house.
Crate training is not an excuse to ignore your dog for hours at a time. A puppy cannot go more than a couple of hours during the day without a “bathroom break.” If your dog learns to mess in its crate the behavior is very difficult to correct. It’s one of the biggest challenges when adopting strays or rescues from shelters. It can be done, but requires patience and dedication.
If you want a 100% perfectly potty trained dog, CLICK HERE NOW!!!!
Dogs should be taken out at regular intervals; after meals, after naps and after play sessions. And “business” walks are not playtime. Put the collar and leash on, take the dog to a specific spot you want it to use for its toilet area, give your dog a command “go potty.” If it does, reward it with praise and cookies, say “good go potty.” Forget about public embarrassment. If you’re easily embarrassed, don’t get a dog. Of course you can use any words you want - a friend of ours used “hit it” with her dogs. She just had to be careful not to use the phrase under other circumstances.
Your puppy should also sleep in the crate, ideally in your bedroom. Dogs are social animals, they need to know their “pack” or family, is close by. If the dog wakes you in the night, take it out on leash. Give it 10 minutes to “do its business,” go back in, pop him in his crate, say goodnight and go back to bed. Don’t let the dog out by itself, even in a fenced yard. Again, this isn’t playtime.
As your dog learns what’s expected of him, the next phase is to keep the dog on leash, out of the cage. Tie the leash around a belt loop so that you can go about your daily routine with both hands free. Keep one eye on the dog. When you see his “gotta go” signals, drop what you’re doing and go. Some people are successful in hanging a bell on the doorknob. They ring the bell whenever they take the dog out. The dog learns, over time, to ring the bell when it has to go. Others teach their dogs to “speak” as a signal to go out.
Our dogs are always crated when we leave the house. At this point, they see us reaching for their crate toys (which we stuff with a little peanut butter or kibble) and run for their crates. We don’t necessarily even lock the crates, but they are available to the dogs at all times. It’s their “room,” a safe place they can always go to.
Just a note of caution and safety: never leave a collar or harness on your dog in the crate. It can get caught and cause problems.
Hope Saidel is the co-owner of GollyGear, a bricks-and-mortar and online small dog shop featuring fun, affordable and practical products for small dogs. She has trained and competed in Obedience with small dogs for over a decade and is on the Board of Directors of the North Shore Dog Training Club. Check out her blog: GollyLog.
CLICK HERE If You Want The Fully Housetrained Dog of Your Dreams!!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hope_Saidel
All training starts with taking advantage of your dog’s natural inclinations to reinforce the behavior you want. The only place your dog will not, by nature, mess, is its sleeping place. Crate training works with your dog’s instinct - he never has the opportunity to be “bad.”
Crate training is fairly intense for you. The rule is: if you are not actively paying attention to your dog, your dog is in the crate. Period. Even if you’re in the same room. If you’re not watching your puppy, it’s in the crate. If you think “caging” your dog is cruel, get over it. It’s worse for your dog not to know the rules of the house.
Crate training is not an excuse to ignore your dog for hours at a time. A puppy cannot go more than a couple of hours during the day without a “bathroom break.” If your dog learns to mess in its crate the behavior is very difficult to correct. It’s one of the biggest challenges when adopting strays or rescues from shelters. It can be done, but requires patience and dedication.
If you want a 100% perfectly potty trained dog, CLICK HERE NOW!!!!
Dogs should be taken out at regular intervals; after meals, after naps and after play sessions. And “business” walks are not playtime. Put the collar and leash on, take the dog to a specific spot you want it to use for its toilet area, give your dog a command “go potty.” If it does, reward it with praise and cookies, say “good go potty.” Forget about public embarrassment. If you’re easily embarrassed, don’t get a dog. Of course you can use any words you want - a friend of ours used “hit it” with her dogs. She just had to be careful not to use the phrase under other circumstances.
Your puppy should also sleep in the crate, ideally in your bedroom. Dogs are social animals, they need to know their “pack” or family, is close by. If the dog wakes you in the night, take it out on leash. Give it 10 minutes to “do its business,” go back in, pop him in his crate, say goodnight and go back to bed. Don’t let the dog out by itself, even in a fenced yard. Again, this isn’t playtime.
As your dog learns what’s expected of him, the next phase is to keep the dog on leash, out of the cage. Tie the leash around a belt loop so that you can go about your daily routine with both hands free. Keep one eye on the dog. When you see his “gotta go” signals, drop what you’re doing and go. Some people are successful in hanging a bell on the doorknob. They ring the bell whenever they take the dog out. The dog learns, over time, to ring the bell when it has to go. Others teach their dogs to “speak” as a signal to go out.
Our dogs are always crated when we leave the house. At this point, they see us reaching for their crate toys (which we stuff with a little peanut butter or kibble) and run for their crates. We don’t necessarily even lock the crates, but they are available to the dogs at all times. It’s their “room,” a safe place they can always go to.
Just a note of caution and safety: never leave a collar or harness on your dog in the crate. It can get caught and cause problems.
Hope Saidel is the co-owner of GollyGear, a bricks-and-mortar and online small dog shop featuring fun, affordable and practical products for small dogs. She has trained and competed in Obedience with small dogs for over a decade and is on the Board of Directors of the North Shore Dog Training Club. Check out her blog: GollyLog.
CLICK HERE If You Want The Fully Housetrained Dog of Your Dreams!!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hope_Saidel
Tuesday
Stop Jumping On Me!
When you bring home that adorable puppy her dog behavior is so cute. She puts her feet up on you to get your attention, jumps in your lap, jumps up and down on her hind legs begging to be picked up.
And what do you do? You reinforce all those dog behaviors. Give her attention, pick her up, make sure she’s comfortable on your lap. Then, lo and behold, she grows from 15 pounds to 75 pounds and is still jumping on you. That cute puppy behavior is now bad dog behavior. In fact, it’s downright maddening and you can’t get it to stop.
For a great training manual, CLICK HERE!!!
Humans often give dogs mixed signals -- telling them to do one thing, but reinforcing very different dog behavior. Or expecting dogs to read our minds -- is it ok to jump up sometimes but not others? Which is which? Dogs can’t figure that out.
You probably don’t even know you’re sending mixed signals.
Situations change throughout the day- you love that your dog jumps up on the bed to wake you with sloppy, wet kisses; it is endearing to have your dog greet your return with the big stretch to reach up so you will pick them up or love on them; it is helpful when the dog jumps up on a chair to help you put the leash on the collar.
It becomes a problem when guests come over and the dog jumps on them; when you are dressed up and now dirty feet have ruined your outfit; or when it is just simply not convenient.
So heres what to do:
STEPS TO STOP THE JUMPING
As humans, it’s our job to teach dogs how we want them to behave. Here are some easy tips to change that unwanted dog behavior.
1. BE CONSISTENT
Figure out what you want and then be consistent with what you desire. Do you want your dog to jump or not? Dogs don’t understand "sometimes".
If the answer to the question is, I want the jumping to stop, then take a look at your situation and ask yourself these questions:
When does it happen?
What are your various responses?
When are you consistent?
When are you not consistent?
How can you be gentle and clear with your responses?
2. DO NOT REINFORCE THE BEHAVIOR
This seems obvious. But oftentimes it’s not. You have to change your behavior before you can expect Fluffy to change hers.
3. GIVE AN INCOMPATIBLE BEHAVIOR COMMAND
The very easiest way to correct this behavior is to give an incompatible behavior. For example, Sit is a great choice. Most dogs know it and it is easy to put a dog into a sit if needed.
4. GO STIFF
When your dog begins jumping, stop your body movement and go stiff. Turn your back slightly. Give the new command "Rover, sit". Help Rover sit if needed.
Let this become your new response to Rover’s jumping. PRAISE the sit. If Rover pops up out of the sit and jumps up, start over. Go stiff, give the command (Rover, sit), help with the sit if needed. PRAISE (and treat if handy) the sit.
As you are consistent, your dog will comply with your new desires. PRAISE each time your dog sits. This is the new polite way of getting your attention. PRAISE whenever your dog comes and sits in front of you. This is the signal "please" for attention, outside, treat, etc.
Super-exciting times to a dog will probably result in the old jumping but be consistent and patient, and as you do this, you gain leadership respect from your dog.
If You Really Want To Fix That Jumping, CLICK HERE!!
CONCLUSION
Dog behavior modification can be done very quickly and your relationship will get better and better. Be patient, kind, loving and consistent. Your dog wants to make you happy. Use these few simple steps to STOP THE JUMPING!
O’Neal Hendrix is a premier professional dog trainer in Atlanta, GA. For many years, she has "worked miracles" with dogs and their owners. Check out her dog training blog for her advice about everything dog!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=ONeal_Hendrix
And what do you do? You reinforce all those dog behaviors. Give her attention, pick her up, make sure she’s comfortable on your lap. Then, lo and behold, she grows from 15 pounds to 75 pounds and is still jumping on you. That cute puppy behavior is now bad dog behavior. In fact, it’s downright maddening and you can’t get it to stop.
For a great training manual, CLICK HERE!!!
Humans often give dogs mixed signals -- telling them to do one thing, but reinforcing very different dog behavior. Or expecting dogs to read our minds -- is it ok to jump up sometimes but not others? Which is which? Dogs can’t figure that out.
You probably don’t even know you’re sending mixed signals.
Situations change throughout the day- you love that your dog jumps up on the bed to wake you with sloppy, wet kisses; it is endearing to have your dog greet your return with the big stretch to reach up so you will pick them up or love on them; it is helpful when the dog jumps up on a chair to help you put the leash on the collar.
It becomes a problem when guests come over and the dog jumps on them; when you are dressed up and now dirty feet have ruined your outfit; or when it is just simply not convenient.
So heres what to do:
STEPS TO STOP THE JUMPING
As humans, it’s our job to teach dogs how we want them to behave. Here are some easy tips to change that unwanted dog behavior.
1. BE CONSISTENT
Figure out what you want and then be consistent with what you desire. Do you want your dog to jump or not? Dogs don’t understand "sometimes".
If the answer to the question is, I want the jumping to stop, then take a look at your situation and ask yourself these questions:
When does it happen?
What are your various responses?
When are you consistent?
When are you not consistent?
How can you be gentle and clear with your responses?
2. DO NOT REINFORCE THE BEHAVIOR
This seems obvious. But oftentimes it’s not. You have to change your behavior before you can expect Fluffy to change hers.
3. GIVE AN INCOMPATIBLE BEHAVIOR COMMAND
The very easiest way to correct this behavior is to give an incompatible behavior. For example, Sit is a great choice. Most dogs know it and it is easy to put a dog into a sit if needed.
4. GO STIFF
When your dog begins jumping, stop your body movement and go stiff. Turn your back slightly. Give the new command "Rover, sit". Help Rover sit if needed.
Let this become your new response to Rover’s jumping. PRAISE the sit. If Rover pops up out of the sit and jumps up, start over. Go stiff, give the command (Rover, sit), help with the sit if needed. PRAISE (and treat if handy) the sit.
As you are consistent, your dog will comply with your new desires. PRAISE each time your dog sits. This is the new polite way of getting your attention. PRAISE whenever your dog comes and sits in front of you. This is the signal "please" for attention, outside, treat, etc.
Super-exciting times to a dog will probably result in the old jumping but be consistent and patient, and as you do this, you gain leadership respect from your dog.
If You Really Want To Fix That Jumping, CLICK HERE!!
CONCLUSION
Dog behavior modification can be done very quickly and your relationship will get better and better. Be patient, kind, loving and consistent. Your dog wants to make you happy. Use these few simple steps to STOP THE JUMPING!
O’Neal Hendrix is a premier professional dog trainer in Atlanta, GA. For many years, she has "worked miracles" with dogs and their owners. Check out her dog training blog for her advice about everything dog!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=ONeal_Hendrix
Monday
Solving Dog Behavior Problems: Ditch the Tantrums
By: Tim Lee
Dogs can sometimes be very unfriendly with the other dogs. They snap in the air, growl and bark a lot. These may sometimes indicate normal acts of defense to protect their owners and territory. Hence, one can surmise that they do not mean any harm.
However, there are times when such behavior becomes excessive and uncontrollable. At this point, your dogs can be very unruly and may even do more harm than good. What was once a pet may become a growling monster if not examined for any behavioural problems immediately.
Here is a list of some tips for solving your dog's behavior problems and make them live a normal, happy life.
1) Following the leader
Show the dog that you are the leader. Try not to confuse your dog. Teach him that you are the master and he has to obey.
When dog behavior problems take place, the dog becomes the master instead. The dog tends to project itself as the main boss of its environment. This has to stop, and your dog should know where he stands.
2) Go out and socialize
Expose your dogs and let them mingle with other dogs and people as this help them get rid of their insecurities, nervousness and make them learn how to socialize.
Like in humans, dog behavior problems indicate some psychological problems. There are some instances that dogs are just bored that is why they are behaving that way.
3) Too many puppy problems
As much as possible raise not more than 3 puppies at a time. They can be jealous. Imagine having a couple of siblings of same age, fighting over the same toy and getting the mother dog's and the owner's attention.
4) Abundant food equals healthy mind and body
This is common with stray dogs. Not having ample water and food in their environment affect their brains and way of thinking. They might also be eating dirty food and develop rabies. It is best to stay away from street dogs or better report it to the dog pound.
Want You Dog To Obey Your Every Command? THEN CLICK HERE!!
5) Training school
If your dogs are really stubborn and uncontrollable or you just want them professionally trained, you could enroll your dog in training schools.
6) Play and prepare
They should learn to play such as to run, jump, wrestle, chase, nip, be brave, use their mouth, and paw. A canine should learn all these because those are part of their normal behavior and in order to get them ready for the real world battle and hunting if ever they need to. Playing should also be done in moderation because too much of it could also add in the progress of aggression.
7) Fear me not
Dog's life experiences such as being attacked as a puppy or if they have seen two dogs fight also affects their behavior because dogs may develop anger, fear, and even imbalances in their hormones.
Their nerves could also be weak. A program called "slow desensitisation" or systematic reduction of their sensitivity is best performed with these dogs.
Since with this type of behavior the dog is not violent, it would help if they will be given reward and disregard the bad manners instead.
Dogs are always known as man best friend but sometimes, their behavior changes and become violent. In some ways, they are like humans too. They need love and care. Such bad behavior only becomes serious when they reach the age of more than 1 year up to 3 years. Therefore, before it starts to become serious, help them now
For a very helpful dog training book, click here!!
Article Source:
www.ezinearticals.com
Add Me! - Search Engine Optimization
Dogs can sometimes be very unfriendly with the other dogs. They snap in the air, growl and bark a lot. These may sometimes indicate normal acts of defense to protect their owners and territory. Hence, one can surmise that they do not mean any harm.
However, there are times when such behavior becomes excessive and uncontrollable. At this point, your dogs can be very unruly and may even do more harm than good. What was once a pet may become a growling monster if not examined for any behavioural problems immediately.
Here is a list of some tips for solving your dog's behavior problems and make them live a normal, happy life.
1) Following the leader
Show the dog that you are the leader. Try not to confuse your dog. Teach him that you are the master and he has to obey.
When dog behavior problems take place, the dog becomes the master instead. The dog tends to project itself as the main boss of its environment. This has to stop, and your dog should know where he stands.
2) Go out and socialize
Expose your dogs and let them mingle with other dogs and people as this help them get rid of their insecurities, nervousness and make them learn how to socialize.
Like in humans, dog behavior problems indicate some psychological problems. There are some instances that dogs are just bored that is why they are behaving that way.
3) Too many puppy problems
As much as possible raise not more than 3 puppies at a time. They can be jealous. Imagine having a couple of siblings of same age, fighting over the same toy and getting the mother dog's and the owner's attention.
4) Abundant food equals healthy mind and body
This is common with stray dogs. Not having ample water and food in their environment affect their brains and way of thinking. They might also be eating dirty food and develop rabies. It is best to stay away from street dogs or better report it to the dog pound.
Want You Dog To Obey Your Every Command? THEN CLICK HERE!!
5) Training school
If your dogs are really stubborn and uncontrollable or you just want them professionally trained, you could enroll your dog in training schools.
6) Play and prepare
They should learn to play such as to run, jump, wrestle, chase, nip, be brave, use their mouth, and paw. A canine should learn all these because those are part of their normal behavior and in order to get them ready for the real world battle and hunting if ever they need to. Playing should also be done in moderation because too much of it could also add in the progress of aggression.
7) Fear me not
Dog's life experiences such as being attacked as a puppy or if they have seen two dogs fight also affects their behavior because dogs may develop anger, fear, and even imbalances in their hormones.
Their nerves could also be weak. A program called "slow desensitisation" or systematic reduction of their sensitivity is best performed with these dogs.
Since with this type of behavior the dog is not violent, it would help if they will be given reward and disregard the bad manners instead.
Dogs are always known as man best friend but sometimes, their behavior changes and become violent. In some ways, they are like humans too. They need love and care. Such bad behavior only becomes serious when they reach the age of more than 1 year up to 3 years. Therefore, before it starts to become serious, help them now
For a very helpful dog training book, click here!!
Article Source:
www.ezinearticals.com
Add Me! - Search Engine Optimization
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