Dog Training

Question: Have i been to strict with my dog, training wise?

(Posted by: Screwed the Pooch on 2010-03-05 19:18:35)

I feel I should start out by letting everyone know that I've never used a heavy hand with my dog, never even had a reason too. She is a 5 year old Pitbull/ Lhasa Apso/ Westhighland Terrier mix. I've trained her well since I've had her and she is very obedient to me, and only me. The family can't get her to do much, so they call me over and I handle it. But I think since I'm the only one who really handles her behavior she's afraid of me? She's always flipping on her back whenever I walk by, and I know it's natural, but I feel sort of bad she thinks she has to do that All. The. Time. She's never relaxed around me. Should I lighten up on the training? Or am I just thinking in human terms to much and she doesn't really mind this, since she's a dog? This might sound silly, I'm not sure.

Posted by: moof on 2010-03-05, 19:33:59

No, I think you're on to something. While offering deferential behaviors is to be expected from her, she shouldn't be living in a constant state of "I mean no harm, I'm a good dog, please don't hurt me " (which is basically the message she sends out every time she shows you her stomach like that or something). Assuming that you want to have a positive relationship based on mutual trust and love, she should be able to relax and be comfortable around you, not constantly on edge. What do you do to make her behave this way? You might not be physically hitting her (which is, obviously, a good thing!), but you can certainly throw your weight around in other ways. Do you always use a sharp, firm voice? Do you yell or sound aggressive? Do you stare her down or use threatening body postures? If you're doing these things, yeah, I'd say ease up because it's obviously a bit much for her. You don't need to assert yourself as leader or whatever you're doing by seeming intimidating; as long as you control the resources, you're the boss. So try saying commands calmly, happily and more softly (still firmly, but not like a drill sargent!), rewarding her to build up positive associations, and regularly making a point of just hanging out with her (giving her a tummy rub while you watch TV, playing a light-hearted game, what have you). To help soothe her nerves, try utilizing calming signals: canis.no/ rugaas/ onearticle.php?artid= 1

Posted by: Cassie H on 2010-03-05, 21:42:57

Well i do believe in spanking but not for a older dog. Only when you train a puppy and only a few taps on the but. Enough to let him know he did wrong but not enough to make him feel afraid or abused. Anywho i think dogs are smarter than most dog trainers give them credit for. This dog may be showing deferential behavior but the dog also may be showing that she trusts you. Most animals won't show thier stomachs (which is a weak or exposed part of the body) unless they trust you. Dogs may be domesticated but they still have some instincts. It could be her way of saying " I love you and trust you!! Rub my tummy please!! " I love dogs and i do think they are really smart. They know when they have done a bad thing, they know who to trust and who to distrust, they know who is thier ultimate master, etc.... Don't ever underestimate your dog. I don't think a lot of trainers understand this fact.