Problem Dog Training - Part 1
Author: Monks of New Skete Problem Dog Hit List
Some final tips before the hit list: Don't modify the program until the behavior problem stops. Obviously, act on the behavior problem itself using sensible and humane set-ups, but add the solutions if you are experienc ing any of the following:
House training problems
Destructive chewing
Digging
Chasing people
Chasing cars
Jumping up
Over barking
Aggression
Biting
Fighting with other dogs
Not coming when called
Predation
These are all major behavioral problems and they call for a radical approach. Apply the following program for the dog who is exhibiting any of the above problems and apply it for one solid month.
1. Give your dog two obedience sessions a day practicing whatever exercises the dog knows. These sessions should be ten to twenty minutes long. Do not praise physically during this session. Use only verbal praise and keep the session moving. Give commands quickly, dazzle the dog.
2. Have two formal eye-contact sessions with your dog each day. Problem dogs look at their owners only when they feel like it. Up the eye contact. Practice formally. Put a leash on. Sit the dog. Step around in front and animate the dog, saying, "Watch me. I want your attention right now," in a low growling tone of voice. Do not yell. You want three to five seconds (not minutes) of locked, sealed eye contact. Once you get this moment, end with light verbal praise. See "Bitch Basics" for more details on eye contact.
3. Have your dog hold one thirty-minute down each day. This is very important. These downs can be done during television shows, dinner, reading or any time that works for you. Enforce it! If your dog doesn't know the down, teach it immediately, as well as the stay command. For now, sit on the leash and measure out only as much as the dog needs to hit the dust. If the dog jumps upon you, whip the leash down hard with a "No!" If the dog stress-whines, give the dog a slap under the chin and say "No!" If the dog bites the leash, whip it diagonally out of its mouth. During this time no petting, no toys, no soothing, no nothing. Long downs make you look Alpha. Consult chapter 13 concerning teaching the "long down."
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