HELP---- MY DOG IS..

We often get calls regarding a dog's behavior.  We are by no means dog trainers, but through the years we have seen a lot of the same issues arise.  We wanted to create a place for our cocker parents to go if their dog is having any issues.  There are many ways to solve behavior issues in dogs, and these are a few suggestions that we have compiled.   We always advocate positive reinforcement for our dogs when dealing with behavior problems, and if you think there is any medical issue please take your dog to the veterinarian.   There is also a link to Cesar Millan's website, where he can give you excellent expert advice and help you to become a pack leader (click on the above link).

Problem One:  My dog is not getting along with my other animals.

Response One:   When you bring a new rescue dog home do not take him/her directly in to meet your other dogs.  Let them meet on neutral territory, and take them both on a long walk before entering the house.  Bringing a new member into your house causes your original animals to want to protect their territory.  Allowing them to meet on neutral ground provides a safe environment for them to be introduced.

Problem Two:  My new dog is having accidents in the house, and I thought she/he was housebroken.

Response Two:  We highly recommend using a crate for the first few weeks after getting a rescue dog.  A crate allows your new dog a place to feel safe, and it allows you the opportunity to show your dog the routine.   A dog coming into a new environment does not automatically know where you want him to go to be let out.  If you take the dog out of his/her crate and show them the door and let them out, the dog will begin to learn what to do.  Always give them praise when they do what you asked. 

Problem Three:  My dog is marking his territory in my house.

Response Three:  Many of our fosters use a squirt bottle and a stern no when this happens.   After a dog is neutered, our vet said it may take a little while for hormones to level off/adjust.   If your dog has recently been neutered, that may be part of the issue.  Give them some time, and the territory marking should stop. 

Problem Four:  My dog is chewing.

Response Four:  Chewing can be a sign of boredom.  There are a few ways our fosters deal with this.  First, is your dog getting the daily exercise he/she needs?  If you are not taking your dog on a daily walk, doing so will help tremendously.  Second, have you tried giving your dog a kong with a treat inside?  This will not take the place of a walk, but it will preoccupy them.  If your dog is chewing on your furniture, there is a spray called bitter apple you can use.  If you spray it on your furniture, the dog will not like the taste.  If chewing persists, you may have to crate the dog when you are not home.

Problem Five:  My dog is quite the barker.

 Response Five:  Again, many of us use a quick squirt of water with a stern no.