Information on Leicestershire
How to Stop Dog Food Aggression
How to Stop Dog Food Aggression
By Rena Murray
I am sure that most pet lovers are aware that dogs with food aggression rarely stand a chance of adoption. Some experts truly believe that a dog who is food aggressive, or aggressive in any way for that matter, will eventually turn on the family who owns it. While there is some truth to this no doubt, there is honestly more panic in the situation than anything.
Let me be clear before I proceed. I understand the reasons for which a shelter will not adopt out an animal with this issue. Liability is the biggest one in this crazy, extremely litigious world we live in. And, few people out there understand or have what it takes to handle and rehab an animal with this dog behavior problem.
Dogs, in truth, are predators, and they need to be respected as such. Early symptoms of food aggression include fixation or a locked, steel like, unblinking stare on the food bowl or on a dropped piece of food. Other symptoms are body blocking and or stiffening when you come close to the dog's food, growling or snapping. There is also inhaling the food, or just fixating on it and not eating at all.
Okay, so your dog has some of these signs. What should you do about it?
Obviously, you need a professional to walk you through this until you have it down pat. Being bitten by a dog is not fun, and it is not worth it. Trust me, I'm speaking from experience. Humans hold grudges. (Dogs don't.) You don't need a breach of the trust between you and your best friend, and he will readily sense your insecurity. It's simple: You don't trust them, they don't trust you.
Here's what to do. At first, put the dog on a leash with a lead that gives you maximum control of him. Have your dog walking on a heel to the food and watching YOU, not the food. If you allow your dog to be ahead of you, look at the food, or approach the food without release, you are telling your dog that he does not need your permission to eat -which means HE is in control.
Watch the dog body language very closely. If your dog becomes tense, stiff, or fixated in the least, remove him right away. Bring him back only when he is calm. It is common for dogs to dig their heels in or whine. These are only temper fits and must not be tolerated.
Don't' forget, from beginning to end of this exercise: Your attitude and demeanor must be calm and firm. If you become angry or fearful when dealing with an animal in a dominant or territorial state of mind, you will get yourself bitten. The predator in them sees that as weakness.
This may take up to an hour the first time you do it, or your pet my refuse to eat for a few days. But if you stick with it, the problem will soon go away. Again, if you have a food aggression problem with your dog, do not hesitate to get help, and do not try to fix it on your own.
GET HELP from Rena Murray at the Dog Obedience Training | Dog Whisper website. Proven Dog Behavior Modification Expert-Dog Obedience Trainer-Platinum Expert Author, Rena debunks Dog Training Myths in hands-on Articles, free "Best Ezines" newsletter - PAW PERSUASION POINTERS, and blatant Blog to help you better understand, communicate with, control and enjoy your dogs. Dog Whispering Rena boldly addresses all your Dog Training and Dog Rehabilitation needs - whether puppy house training, destructive dog behavior, obsessive dog behavior, dog instinctive behavior, or cool dog tricks. Get your FREE Newsletter Subscription at http://www.PawPersuasion.com, where you also find Dog Products, Dog Houses and Crates, Dog Lover Gifts, and all things dog-related. Need more help? Contact Rena for Coaching
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rena_Murray
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Stop-Dog-Food-Aggression&id=2391401
Looking For Aggressive Dog Behavior Training Programs
Looking For Aggressive Dog Behavior Training Programs
By Aleesha London
Your dog may need aggressive dog behavior training classes. This is especially if your dog is already a threat to other animals and to humans. There are however, numerous modules and training programs vying for your attention. How do you know which programs you should trust?
Real Expertise
You may opt for either an instruction manual or a real trainer. In any case, the person behind a training program for dogs should be a real expert. He should have enough experience under his belt to make him a credible trainer or source of information about dog training. You don't want to trust your dog to someone who has a fake trainer's certification. You can try to find out how good an expert really is by asking about his credentials. You can also ask fellow dog owners if they know anything about the trainer you are considering.
Owner Involvement
Keep in mind that you are the one living with your dog, not your trainer. It is therefore quite crucial that a training program or module that you are considering has provisions for owner participation. This means a dog expert should also be willing to help you understand the reasons behind your dog's behavior and the rationale behind the techniques you will be using to control your dog. After all, you don't want to be a mindless automaton with no idea why you need to do or say certain things to make your dog obey.
Affordability
Your dog may need aggressive dog behavior training programs to tame him or her. Even so, you don't want to go bankrupt paying for them. Whenever possible you would want to pay for an expertly made training program that will not cost you a fortune. Unfortunately, many training classes do cost a lot. You would have to be more patient and resourceful if you want to find one that will fit your budget perfectly. Consider looking through newspaper ads, yellow pages and online directories.
Effectiveness
Keep in mind that dog trainers and experts don't always agree. One expert might tell you one thing while another might tell you otherwise. Which one should you consider following? The most effective technique always has an edge. The question is: how do you know which techniques are effective? This is where you might have to do a little more research. There are bound to be some dog owners out there who will swear by a good program or module for dog training. Search in online forums and review sites for owner recommendations.
Humane Techniques
As the dog owner of course, you don't need to be a dog expert to know when a technique isn't good. Before you consider a training program or module, try to find out first the general guiding principle behind it. Believe it or not, some experts still incorporate physical harm in their training modules. You should know though that the use of too much hitting and electric shock might make your dog even more aggressive or emotionally scarred. Always opt for humane modules.
Aggressive dog behavior training classes can be a big help. With the right training program or module, you will be able to finally have the loving dog of your dreams.
Get rid of aggressive dog behavior while you still can. Learn the most easy-to-follow step-by-step aggressive dog behavior training programs online.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aleesha_London
http://EzineArticles.com/?Looking-For-Aggressive-Dog-Behavior-Training-Programs&id=2339740
Training Your Rescue Dog - Making the Timid Dog Sociable
Training Your Rescue Dog - Making the Timid Dog Sociable
By Bob Hunsicker
So you opened your heart and home to a shy, timid rescue dog.What can you do to help your newpet adjust and become an involved member of the family?I will assume you already had your dog checked out by a veterinarian to make sure the behavior isn't due to an illness or injury.
First, be thankful you don't have an aggressive dog.While both behaviors are reparable, at least correcting timidity doesn't have the same urgency as correcting an aggressive dog that may exhibit biting at any time. Also remember that dogs by nature are social animals that thrive in a pack.So something occurred in your dog's life to make him distrustful, even fearful.You have his natural instincts working in your favor.
The first thing you'll need is a large dose of patience.And, you need to equip yourself with the proper training techniques to correct the behavior. Do your best to make sure family members don't make fast motions towards or loud noise near your dog.Approach quietly, slowly and with your hand held out below his nose so he can sniff you.Dogs rely on the sense of smell to decide if a threat is approaching.As he sniffs you, face to one side since eye-to-eye contact is often perceived as aggression by dogs.
Timid dogs invariably lack confidence.Your job is to instill confidence and reassurance back into your dog.It may seem incongruous, but even though your dog shies away and may even avoid you, he also will not like being alone.As pack animals, they instinctively want to follow where you go.So, being left alone may trigger anxiety.Since this is inevitable (being left alone), you would do well to ease him into the inevitable.Before your long day away happens, try leaving him alone for several moments.Return and praise him and reward him with a treat.Do this as often as your schedule permits.Every time you return, heap praise upon your dog (quietly of course) and slip him a treat.This will help your dog build confidence that you will return eventually whenever you leave and soon he will associate your return with a reward.Dogs have infinite patience; once they are certain an anticipated outcome will happen.
Food is a great motivator that can work for you.Dogs do not normally eat or even approach food when they are fearful or anxious.You can use this attribute to build trust and create a bond with your dog.Try tossing a tidbit a foot or so in front of your dog (slowly).Then walk away until he conjures up the courage to approach the food and eat it.Next time approach the dog a little closer and toss the food again at a distance that causes him to get up to reach it.Your goal is to ultimately get close enough that he will feel comfortable enough to eat a morsel out of your hand.Be sure to praise him each time he eats the food.Always try to have your dog associate you with praise, not punishment.
This may seem counter intuitive, but do not pity your dog.Dogs are very adept at sensing moods by observing body language.The last thing an anxious follower needs is an anxiety ridden leader.You need to exhibit confidence if you are to help your dog overcome his fear.
Another technique for curing timidity in a dog that seems counter intuitive is crate training.Boundaries help a dog to feel secure and safe.Make sure it is placed away from commotion or places of congregating.In the beginning, associate the crate with treats and toys and praise.Leave the door open during the day and he will soon use it as a place to relax.When you leave for an extended period, close the door.Crating a dog is not cruel.It will come to represent a safe haven for your dog.
Don't reinforce the fearful behavior whenever it manifests by coddling him and babying him.This will only instill in the dog the impression that his behavior is acceptable and can evoke attention from his leader.Always ignore the behavior and eventually he will learn he doesn't get what he wants from youwhen he cowers.
When he does start to venture outside of his comfort zone, offer some praise and a treat.Don't overdo it, but make sure he knows you approve when he exhibits courage.Positive reinforcement goes a long way to help your dog overcome fear.
When he has made some progress facing his demons, take steps to help him socialize with other creatures - dogs and people.But, be sure to allow him to approach them on his terms and time frame.Don't rush the process.Keep him leashed and approach only other leashed dogs so you have some control.Do what you can to create a pleasant, non-threatening experience for him.Eventually he will learn that he can interact with other dogs and people without being harmed.
Routines are a dog's second best friend.Knowing what can be expected significantly reduces anxiety in a dog.Make exercise part of your routine.It relieves tension and wears the dog out so he doesn't have the energy it takes to be fearful.These are times when you can also strengthen your bond with your dog, which leads to trust.
These are some very useful techniques that will help you to transform your fearful rescue dog into a true family member who interacts, socializes, pleases, and provides you and your family with years of love and devotion.Which is what dogs do better than any other creature.
Make sure you are a knowledgeable dog owner who has at his disposal excellent instruction that will help you correct any negative behavior your dog may exhibit during his long, happy life.Visit my site referenced below to review the two resources I found to be most useful.
I use two excellent resources to make sure I am an informed dog owner - The D.I.Y. Dog Training Manual and the Dog Lover's Membership Site. Learn more by visiting my site referenced below.
Bob Hunsicker is simply a dog lover, who strongly encourages all interested in bringing a dog into their home, to consider a rescue dog. They are truly creatures who deserve a second chance to become a loving, devoted member of a home. Visit his blog at DogsRpeople2 and send him an email so you can get permission to submit posts (you'll need a gmail email account from Google).
After evaluating dozens of resources for training older dogs, particularly rescue dogs, I recommend two that have provided me the knowledge to transform my third rescue dog into a wonderful family member. Visit my site to learn more about these two extremely effective training resources... http://www.squidoo.com/dogsRpeople2
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Hunsicker
http://EzineArticles.com/?Training-Your-Rescue-Dog---Making-the-Timid-Dog-Sociable&id=2349118
Latest Articles
 | How to Train Your Mastiff | Are you fed up with your mastiff but you're not sure where to turn? I have the solution to all you're problems, and can get you're mastiff listening to you within days! |
 | How to Train Your Dog Tricks Quickly and Easily | It's fun to teach your tricks. When you are able to teach your dog to amuse family and friends by performing these tricks, you'll find the dog enjoys it as much as you do. Here are three simple tricks I taught my dogs to do that never failed to impress. You can adapt the same training principles to teach your dog to perform dozens of other tricks. |
 | How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Dirt - Everything You Need to Know | When you notice that your dog is eating dirt a lot you will quickly want to learn how to stop your dog from eating dirt as this could turn into a major problem if you don't. Usually this is a sign that they are having a physical or mental problem even though it seems like a minor problem. |
 | How to Stop Your Barking Dog | Dogs bark for various reasons such as fear or to scare away threats, to communicate, through boredom, and sometimes just because they are happy. But sometimes there is nothing more annoying than a barking dog, and there are times when we need to reduce our dog's barking. To really have a chance of stopping your dog from barking you need to do two things. Find out what they are here. |
 | How to Stop My Dog From Barking at People on My Street | If your dog is like most he will bark at anyone that he sees walking down the street. However, for some people they will start shouting back at your dog and egging him on until your neighbors complain to you or other people. Here is how I have managed to help calm my dog down from barking at people as they walk down the street. |
Related Articles
 | Aggressive Behavior in Lab Puppies - What Are Some Signs of Aggression? | There is nothing worse than an aggressive puppy. You try to speak sweet and he/she gets aggressive. You try to raise your voice to let the puppy know who is in charge. And, still, no adjustment in behavior. Aggression in Lab puppies is something that has to be taken care of right away. Left untreated, aggression in a Lab puppy can snowball into a situation where you are no longer in control. |
 | Discovering the Truth About Aggressive Behavior in Pet Dogs | Everyone knows it is not easy to live with aggressive behavior in dogs. This is definitely one trait that every owner would want to weed out from their pets. This is why dog owners who have aggressive dogs want to find ways to eliminate the behavior. |
 | Dog Aggression Control - Learn How to Manage Your Dog | There are many ways to control your dog aggression. The easiest and the fastest way is to learn how to use the psychological method of dog aggression control. Psychology works with dogs more than any other animals. You can only use psychology for animals that has passion and love for things around them. |
 | Aggressive Dog Behaviors | Aggressive behavior is a major problem among dog owners. While you may have the best intentions, you probably shouldn't attempt to deal with this on your own without consulting a professional. Genetic and hereditary factors can play a major role in the aggression in your dog. |
 | 3 Common Mistakes That Lead to Aggressive Dog Behavior | Dogs are, hands down, the best companions you'll ever meet. They are loving, they are always trying to get their owner's approval, and they are always there for you! However, some dogs may seem aggressive. Usually this is because of a few simple mistakes made by their owners. |
Most Read
 | 4 Ways to Strip a Dog | Hand stripping should be done prior to bathing the dog. There are various breeds that require stripping instead of clipping or scissoring. The majority of these dogs are the Terrier breeds, although some Setter breeds require hand stripping as well. |
| All About Rottweilers - A Powerful Dog | If you want a dog that is a true companion then you should think about choosing a Rottweiler puppy. This large dog is indeed powerful and robust but also sweet and eager to please. The Rottweiler originated from Germany although it has also been linked to Roman Empire days as well. |
 | House Training Dogs Effectively | When you are house training dogs, the first thing that definitely needs disciplining and controlling would be... your temper! Short-tempered owners and trainers are in danger of not achieving the training goals for the dog. You need to keep in mind that prior to the training, midway to it and when it ends, the pet has a reasonable need to take his time learning. If you think you are the determined and patient type, then you certainly can give training a shot. |
| 3 Common Mistakes That Lead to Aggressive Dog Behavior | Dogs are, hands down, the best companions you'll ever meet. They are loving, they are always trying to get their owner's approval, and they are always there for you! However, some dogs may seem aggressive. Usually this is because of a few simple mistakes made by their owners. |
| How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Dirt - Everything You Need to Know | When you notice that your dog is eating dirt a lot you will quickly want to learn how to stop your dog from eating dirt as this could turn into a major problem if you don't. Usually this is a sign that they are having a physical or mental problem even though it seems like a minor problem. |
Least Read
 | 2 Shocking Secrets to Stopping a Dog's Barking | If your dog barks with a constant fury and you can't figure out a way to stop it, there are a few tricks that you can use that will virtually guarantee you'll end your mutt's barking in a very short period of time. Here's how you can do it. |
 | 3 Easy Ways to Stop Your Dog's Jumping Up Habits | There is perhaps nothing more intolerable than jumping up on people when dealing with dogs. This behavior is not only embarrassing when dealing with strangers or company, but it can also prove to be dangerous to both the person being jumped on and the dog's health. For some dogs, the sheer excitement of its owner coming home or the experience of meeting someone new is too much for them to contain, leading them to "jump for joy." "Here are a few simple tips to help stop that bad habit, and save the sanity of the owner. |
 | 3 Practical Ways to Help With Dog's Immunity | If you're searching for help with dog's immunity, then you are realizing that one way to treat disease is to build up the immune system, so the body can defend itself. If your dog is sick or has cancer, there is the traditional approach and the natural approach. Doing both, creates a two-pronged strategy that can help your dog recover more quickly and fully from illness or disease. |
 | 8 Tips to Stop Your Dog's Disobedience | Disobedience occurs when your dog just decides not to listen to something you tell him to do. This is something different than incomprehension. If the dog doesn't know what you want, it's not really his fault. But, if he does know and just doesn't do it, you need to take strides to teach him who is boss. |
| Aggressive Behavior in Lab Puppies - What Are Some Signs of Aggression? | There is nothing worse than an aggressive puppy. You try to speak sweet and he/she gets aggressive. You try to raise your voice to let the puppy know who is in charge. And, still, no adjustment in behavior. Aggression in Lab puppies is something that has to be taken care of right away. Left untreated, aggression in a Lab puppy can snowball into a situation where you are no longer in control. |