Search:

Lots of ideas. Some things I've tried with my own dog, some things I've done with a number of dogs. (and to get it over with, yes I'm a beginner, no we haven't competed yet)

My dogs learn to...

Is this a new behavior?

If so...talk to your vet. It may not be a training issue. There could be a physical health component. Or it could be cognitive decline due to age. There are things that...

I would strongly consider an appointment with a board certified veterinary behaviorist. If you go this route, there is often a waiting list. Ask to be moved up if there is a cancellation.

Do you...

I'd recommend finding the nearest rehab place, setting up and appt and finding out what you can/should be doing at home to maximize recovery. My understanding is that there are many at-home things...

Rehab vet specialist?
Ideally: http://www.rehabvets.org/Referrals.lasso
Next option, a vet who has extra continued education in rehab: http://www.utcaninerehab.com/practitioners.asp

My dog had...

As a beginner has intended to join a somewhat local club for months (if not years)... I already feel guilty about not being able to give back enough as I'm such a beginner. I know I likely...

Some of the dehydrated dog food products, while much more expensive than dried food, are actually cheaper than (non grocery-store-brand) canned food. It keeps forever and you only have to mix up...

For the activities I do with my dog... I used a default sit for her type of platform work.

For you, it sounds like a stand could be a better option. A sit accidently becomes a default for so...

It helps that you know your specific trouble area ("when things dont go well").

One thing we do for people with similar challenges is to sit down and make a flow chart. We describe the...

If you present the quiet, safe, noise prior to putting the bowl down you will make a greater impact on your dog's learning. Over time, gradually introduce the amount of noise. The key is...noise...

I have very limited experience but think this is one of the things my dog is half-decent at. I took video a few weeks ago but can't find it now!I would first ask what you mean by "quicker whistle...

I knew a dog who was very similar.... ended up being diagnosed with some sort of stomach problem. Once treated, the dog was a much better eater and worked better. It was likely that there was...

Talk to a board certified veterinary behaviorist ASAP. If there is not one in your area that your vet can refer you to, have your vet call and talk to whoever is closest. It's not safe (or humane)...

My dogs are in cow pastures and ponds almost every day. There is some risk of parasite, but make your judgement and talk to your vet.

If you are unfamiliar with cattle, I'd recommend avoiding...

In what situations is she not coming? When let out in the backyard?

If she's not coming because she knows it's boring in the house, compared to the adventures in the backyard (especially common...

Mostly anyone can say they're a behaviorist. The term is used by a lot of people working with problem pet dogs. Because the trainers deal with behavior, they call themselves a behaviorist.

There...

Like said above.... management.

But also recommend they consult a vet who specializes in behavior and can understand the (potential) medical-related aspects of the behavior. ...

I believe the danger is about the gases produced during the fermentation....
http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/211103.htm

Thanks for all the responses.... I'm enjoying them!

1) Take a black light to be sure everything is cleaned up from him/the other animals (...the black light shows what is still there!) Use a pet-enzyme product type cleaner.
2) Do a bit of...

I was unclear, and I apologize for that.

Your examples are about getting the behavior in the moment. We utilize all sorts of strategies to get the behavior in the moment.

(positive/negative)...

There's a new-ish book: K9 Behavior Basics that may be of use. The authors are experienced with working dogs in several fields. You can read very short author bios on here: ...

It's not always easy to understand and it's not necessary to understand to be good at training (though for some of us, it definitely can help!). For those are interested:

You've almost got it! ...

I've heard that Purdue has a really stellar puppy class.... the website doesn't do the class justice.

http://www.vet.purdue.edu/animalbehavior/pages/abc/orientation.htm

Fabulous questions and responses! I love this sort of thing.

My understanding:
Repetition is important for developing a history of reinforcement. The stronger the reinforcement ("positive" or...