Aggression
Guarding, Protecting – or Both?
Charlie’s is another clear case of a dog much more likely to be guarding – or protecting – when he’s already stirred up. This is evident by how his behaviour is variable.
Aggression
Does Dog’s Person Need to Be “the Boss”?
“I deserve a chance with a loving family after I have had 4 homes that didn’t want me”.
Aggression
Showing the Dog Who’s Boss – Does It Stop Growling?
Hugo is a great little dog who is trying to adapt to big changes in his life. They moved house just three weeks ago and, added to this, the lady is looking after her toddler grandchild for a couple of weeks.
Aggression
Dominance Training Fallout Causing Aggression and Fear in Dogs
Can trying to be the “alpha” actually cause aggression, fear and conflict in your dog?
I’m starting Johnny’s story with a little rant on dominance from my soap box.
As a force-free, modern trainer/behaviourist I don’t need to dominate a dog to get compliance.
I won’t say that dominance – being very firm and overpowering – doesn’t work. It can and it does. Sometimes.
In the old days I’m ashamed to say I didn’t know better and that is what I did until I learnt how inefficient it was. I have been there. I know what I’m talking about. Being kind and allowing the dog choices does not mean being permissive. I apply rules also. I don’t use force.
Many people still believe that being what they erroneously think is ‘being the Alpha’ is the right way to train and control their dog. It’s not helped by certain TV trainers who make a lot of money using old-fashioned techniques that look like quick fixes.
Unsuitable for ‘Alphadom’
Few dog owners psychologically would make effective ‘Alphas’ anyway. (more…)
Behaviour and Training
Control – Carrot or Stick?
But it’s a tricky case of finding a compromise between two approaches – what the gentleman himself calls ‘carrot and stick’. The man is the stick and the lady the carrot
Aggression
Cockerpoo Scared of Men After Being Alpha Rolled
What happens when a frightened dog is punished for being scared? Not a very good photo I’m afraid – black dogs are difficult and I wish you could see his lovely face. Eighteen-month-old Cockerpoo Algie is becoming increasingly wary of men he doesn’t know – and some that he does. Read more