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  1. M

    Building Confidence

    Basically there are two schools when it comes to why some dogs are shy: natural vs. nurtured. The former believes that some dogs are shy due to genetic reasons and the latter the ways and the environment in which dogs are raised. Orthodoxy typically falls in between the two extremes, so I would...
  2. M

    Fear aggression

    The first thing that you must consider is consult a professional trainer. Second, while the dog is displaying aggression toward other dogs, you must avoid these circumstances even if it mean inconvenience. Third, consider using a muzzle when walking the dog. These tips are intended to...
  3. M

    Need help with a tricky question - dog scared of back yard

    I agree with Poodlesmom. Get your dog to relax in the backyard by putting some of his favorite treats or toys. The purpose is not just tricking him to go to the backyard but helping him to learn that the backyard is a pleasant place to be. Be patient with him as no one knows how quickly he will...
  4. M

    digging/escaping under fence- HELP, please!

    There are different reasons why dogs dig underneath the fences to get out. Maybe it's due to sexual urges; is your dog neutered? Maybe it's due to the joy of digging; I read somewhere that making a sand pit in the yard can be very helpful. Maybe the dog should not be left unattended in...
  5. M

    Huh. Training works!

    Great post! #1 - It demonstrates the bonding between the dog and the owner and how one bad experience with the owner can affect the dog. This is why dos is such a wonderful pet! I also have cats at home; sometimes (most of the time) they couldn't care less what happens to me. Don't get me...
  6. M

    My dog tried to eat my kitten

    Since the well-being of the kittens is at stake, you may want to consult a professional trainer about your dog specifically. My suggestion is whenever they are together, give the dog his favorite treats or play his favorite activities. This can potential accomplishes two things: 1) distract the...
  7. M

    Bamm turning off the lights...

    I wish my dog could do that - my kids would love that (they're too lazy to get out of the bed to do that themselves).
  8. M

    Any tips on how to curb toy possession aggression towards other dogs?

    One thing you can try is when other dogs are near, give treats to your dog, as Milos Mummy has already pointed out - assuming the treats are more attractive than the toy. The reason is that it helps your dog to associate the presence of other dogs as a pleasant experience. Eventually your dog...
  9. M

    Puppy is afraid of me! Help!

    I definitely agree that you should work with a professional even though the "symptoms" are okay and not serious especially since she does okay in the crate. Since she has not been at your home for a long time, you really want to bond with her rather than making her feel uneasy. Trying to grab...
  10. M

    House Breaking a Dog w/o being mean??

    I absolutely agree. We should train dogs by positive reinforcement. It's much better for dogs to relate to doing things because of rewards than not doing things because of pain. There are just so many things wrong with negative reinforcement. Cruelty is definitely on top of the list. Also...
  11. M

    I am new here

    I just registered for this site today. I am excited to start "hanging out" with you all and talking about dogs all day. I have had dogs before I could remember. My family immigrated to the US when I was ten and we had to leave my dog behind. My heart still aches to this day. :( Fortunately...
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