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Emma with Ben the Border Collie at four months of age. Build a solid relationship from the start - teach your pup that you are the boss, and also the most fun he'll find anywhere. He should bound over to you when called, eager to find out what you want.
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Ben - Border Collie pup at 7 weeks.
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Dog Behaviour Questions
Not all questions will be submitted on this page- many of our site visitors request that we do not post their online consultation questions and subsequent advice.

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The following answers are to be used as a guide- and are only given after reading the often limited information provided.
Take from them what makes sense to you.
If you complete our in depth form we can give you more accurate answers- but not as accurate as if we were to meet you and your dog, and see you interacting.

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Question
I have a four year old dog who is brilliant in every way and of course I love him to bits. There is only one problem I have and that is if another dog comes over to him whilst out in our fields he will attack it savagely. He never ever leaves me to go up to other dogs - he completely ignores them. He is alright with other dogs in any other situation but its almost as if he is telling them that he wants to be left alone, if they really pester him that makes him savage. I know the other owner should control their dogs but lots dont and it is starting to put me off going out in the fields on my own with him as I am terrified of dog fights. So sad though because we both love it.

Our Answer

Hi there- well done for trying to work out how to solve the problem rather than ignoring it and hoping itll go away - or worse still stopping going out.
Where are you? You need a canine behaviour consultant - one session should be all you need.
You cant stop other dogs coming over to him - dogs are sociable and so they should be! - so you need to firstly make sure you arent subconsciously worrying when a dog comes up to him as he'll sense that and think there is something to worry about- and react. Dont think that these people should be stopping their dogs- most people enjoy their dogs meeting sone another and socialising - its your dog at the moment that isnt being sociable and without sounding harsh if he is the one being agressive then really hes the one who should be on a lead. However you can change his behaviour- and unless there is blood and he really goes for other dogs then I would worry too much -most dogs will sort themselves out.
If I were you I would take the focus away from the other dogs. Make sure that when you call his name he bounds over to play - and isnt interested in anything but that. If you do that then you wont have the problem - as soon as you see another dog going over to him youll call him over excitedly and play- and the other dog wont bother as hes not interesting - hes focussed on you. Have eyes in the back of your head and call him over to you before the dog gets near him, before he is focussed on the other dog- get him to start asscociating a dog coming towards him with something nice happening around you. For example my pup used to love to chase bikes. Instead of stopping him doing that I would see a bike approaching and call him over to play- until the bike had gone by. Now when he sees a bike he rushes over to me to play without being called. Ive changed the behaviour pattern. The focus is on being near me and playing rather than chasing the bike. I cant stop bikes rushing past us.
Im not sure how well socialised he was as a young pup or what else is going on - I would suspect that he may have a different idea of who is pack leader and that roles are not clearly defined. Also, as with people, some are more bad tempered and impatient than others. Generally speaking they sort themselves out - just leave them to it.
But without seeing you and doing a full analysis I cant give you specific advice.
Call a good dog trainer in your area that specialised in dog behaviour and has some qualification or lots of experience.
They need to spend at least one session watching you and going through a whole set of questions.
Hope that gives you a start.

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com
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Question

Our black lab puppy 10 weeks old is impossible to pet or brush as she grabs our hands, pantlegs, sleeves, ankles, etc. Is there anything we can do? I heard that when they bite on your hand to gently shove your hand toward the back of their mouth. We've done this with some success and it does make her stop, for the time being. Is this a good idea? What about biting on ankles, sleeves, etc? Thank you, Pepper's Owner

Our Answer

Hi - she's playing with you, and also trying to see how far she can go. This is what puppies do to see who is 'top dog' in any situation. At 10 weeks she just wants to play- and prob doesnt want to be just petted too often- and shes teething so make sure she has something to chew ie a rawhide chew or plastic chew. Have just ONE thing that is her chew and one thing that is her toy or she wont learn what she can and cant chew. Have you read the puppy article- go to the behaviour page and click on the link for puppy behaviour. Youll find it useful. It also covers how important it is that you dont centre your life and attention around your new puppy and covers various behaviour issues.
When she bites you shes playing and you need to say no firmly but quietly and at the same time take away your hand. I would then give her the chew (hold on to it with your hand) and play a game with it, with a quiet but excited voice, at the same time as playing you are saying 'tug' or 'chew' with some good girls thrown in. Youre telling her this is acceptable. Its also on your terms. After a few seconds- (not minutes, and have little tiny tit bits available all the time) stop tugging the toy - dont let go- and with your free hand put one tit bit near her nose and as she drops the chew/ toy say 'leave' and as you give her it say 'good girl' The timing on this is really really important. Move the toy away from her. The a few seconds later say 'name, tug' and play again. Never let her get it and win. Keep teaching her tug and leave. You can then also later on - when she understands 'leave' say this if she is biting on something else. It is also important that you start and end the game and not her.
Teach her to play with other things- fetch a ball etc. Make the fun part with you being not centred around chewing your hands or other parts of you. Dont focus on the negative- make everything esle more exciting. At the moment when she does its instinctive- if you havent any other dogs she s not sure what to do- thats how puppies and dogs play. She wont undertand if you shout or hurt her. Keep calm and make the play focus something else. Dont hurt her in any way- DO NOT push your hand to the back of the throat (whoever said that has no idea about dog behavour) When she pulls on your ankles etc have a tit bit ready, waft if around so she smells it and as she leaves your ankles etc and stops the unwanted behaviour say 'leave' (the command must be while she is leaving and not before ie not while she is tugging) and then give her the tit bit and praise. Dogs associate behaviour with what you say at that exact time- not even a second later- so you are not rewarding her for tugging, you are rewarding her for stopping tugging/ pulling. After a while and if you are consistent and use the same command in the same voice it will sink it and you will be able to say 'leave' if she does something like that and then she will stop, and you can reward her. But that does take time.
Always have tit bits around and esp as she is a lab.
All is done very calmly and quietly with kindness.

Where are you based? If you can get to Nottingham you should book a visit to see me and all you need to know would be covered then. We'd work with her. Its £18 But read the article first.

Book her into a puppy socialisation class, with someone who is a behaviour expert, not just someone who advertises puppy classes. Sheila Hocken in Nottingham is very good and is on the Derby/ Notts border.You can also call her for advice on tel Nottingham 0115 939 7028 Shes the President of something to do with labs.

Hope that helps

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com

Thanks for the good advice. I live in the US.
To clarify about the advice I got about stopping her from biting my hand. It was not to shove my hand to the back of her throat (I would never do that!) it was "as she is biting the hand, gently shove it to the back part of puppy's open mouth, while saying NO, then take hand away". I thought she needed lots of petting (which wasn't working so well) so will be patient and take your advice, which I've printed off. She has two chew toys which she loves and a rawhide bone. The advice about the "tugging game" was very helpful. Thank you again.

Hi- glad the advice was helpful. Re the mouth advice, dont put your hand to the back of her mouth, in any way whatsoever. The advice is just plain wrong in my opinion. An adult dog wouldnt do that. She'll relate to actions that mimic another dog- eg the mother. A mother would actually take her by the scruff of the neck and shake her when she crosses the line. I do that with mine- but I do believe know what Im doing. I believe I know when its an appropriate canine response. I dont advise anyone to do it online as they would likely do it at the wrong time, and in the wrong way. I also growl at my dogs at the appropriate times - highly amusing for anyone who doesnt understand dogs!!!
As youre trying to find out the correct way, Im sure you wouldnt have done the hand in mouth thing anyway.
Did you find the article useful?
Find a good dog behaviour advisor in your area- itll be worth it in the long run.
Youll also have read about making sure you are pack leader. Pack leader doesnt spend a lot of time petting - and only does it on her terms.
The advice re the tugging game is to stop her from chewing your hands and ankles as youre changing the game focus, and also teaching her that any game is on your terms ie pack leader decides how and when to play.
When you meet with a canine behaviour consulant she/ he will tell you all this anyway.
All the best with your new addition!

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com
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Question

I have a 12 week old golden retriever puppy. I am not a novice dog
> owner, she is our 7th, 5 of which have been puppies. However the last
> puppy was about 18 years ago so we may have forgotten things. 90% of
> the time she is adorable and no problem. She is clever but seems to
> have a wild mad change of character about twice a day. For a short
> while in the morning and then longer in the evening. She wants to bite
> nothing but out hands and clothes and when we try to restrain or stop
> her (because we do not want to smack her at all), she gets wilder and is
> just about out of control. Is this normal, and if not, should we worry
> and what if anything can we do.
>
> Many thanks as I am really quite worried as I love so much already.
>
> Yours truly,
> Ann Thomas

Our Answer

Hi Ann- where are you based?

If she tries to bite your hands and chew your clothes etc - then yes, its
normal for a pup! Well done for not smacking- doesnt do any good at all
infact will make it worse- try not to get agitated or cross. Again it will
get her more excited.
Its natural - this is how she would play with other puppies- biting each
other and play fighting.
Simply ignore her, or say 'no biting' (I tend to teach commands early on -
and teaching a dog not to do something is simply another command - like 'no
barking') in a quiet calm voice, remove your hands (stand up if sitting) and
then you could say 'where's your chew' Then get up and go find her chew.
Have a bit of a play with it- tug it (dont let her win and get it) throw it-
be really excited, and at the same time say ' wheres your chew' If she wants
to play then let her - but after a few minutes say 'no more, thatll do' and
stop the game. Then ignore her efforts to carry on. 'no more, thatll do' is
a command I teach my pups very early on. Its a command I use all the time.
For making noise, for chewing things, for digging etc- it applies to them
all. Then lots of praise when they do.My dogs look like they have switched
off when I say that. When out walking for example if I am playing with a
ball they wouldnt notice if world war 3 broke out- they just want that ball.
Howeve attentive they are, I say ' no more, thatll do' and they switch off.
They know there is nothinig they can do to make me play again untiil I
decide to .
If she keeps trying to bite you, and you cant ignore it, then pick her up
and put her in another room. Ignore her cries or attempts to get out. When
she calms down let her back in - dont say anything, just let her in.
If she doesnt calm down then you can make a loud noise - slap hands together
or crash saucepans together!- and when she is quiet say ' now quiet, good
girl' and then open the door. Broken down, what has happened is that she
made a fuss and cried, scratched the door etc and there was a horrid noise -
then when she was quiet Mummy appeared. Thats how she sees it - its how dogs
think.
Put toys away, and get them out for little and often plays- and do leave her
a 'chew' out all the time. Thats the one thing that she can chew. And only
that. (makes life a lot simpler for her)
If she settles to chew her designated chew toy (or chew) then praise her,
and at the same time say 'chew your toy, good girl' or whatever words you
want to use each time (as you practice this you will be able to say ' chew
your toy' and she will go get it and start to chew it.) I do this when I
want my pups to go and settle down- its an early way to teach this.
When she bites she wants to play- and she wants something in her mouth.
Giving her something to chew (rawhide bone etc- not a real bone as bad for
tummies) will do the trick, or play with her.
I often have to teach my dogs to play - and I have toys that come out when
Iwant to play, and then go away when Ive finished. This is also great as you
can bring out a toy when you see she is likely to do something she
shouldnt - eg run after another dog in the distance- quick as you can you
bring it out and start sounding excited. Think about it- if she had toys
whenever she wanted, why would she care- shed be off after that dog!
So if she bites your hands - or any part of you!- then remove her with a
firm but softly spoken 'no' and then distract- thats why the excited voice
'wheres your toy' or 'wheres your chew' works. She already wants to play-
and youre going to. (But youre going to play your game.) Alternatively, if
you dont want to play, you can simply remove whatever she is trying to chew,
and ignore her- walk away. So when she tries to do that she gets ignored. I
mix it up. The main thing though is that she never gets rewarded for biting
your hands. If she gets your sleeve, to have a tug or war then simply remove
it without saying anything. Dont give her the attention.

I ask where you are based as this is better explained in person!

Hope it helps anyway.

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com

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Hello,

I have a query regarding my dog i would appreciate some expert advice on.

Holly is my Basset Hound and is 10 months old. She all round a very well behaved dog who is good with people, children and other dogs. We have also been encouraging her since we had her in January to go to the toilet in the garden. I am certain she knows this and 99% of the time excluding the odd accident she either walks out into the garden or barks at the back door if it is shut. We always reward and praise her.

The problem we have is when we leave the house, she has the kitchen and dining area to spend time while we are out but within 30 seconds of us leaving her if you returned to the kitchen there would be a wee right by the door. This even occurs if she has had a wee straight before in the garden.

I expect she is doing this out of protest at being left alone.

I'd appreciate it if you could give me your opinion on why she is doing this and how we can prevent it.

Many Thanks

Name witheld
Tamworth

Hi there- dogs dont do anything out of protest. Dogs dont think like that- everything is 'in the moment'. Dogs absolutely do not do anything out of spite or protest.
You are doing well by praising her for weeing outside, and your goal is to make sure that when you are there she never toilets goes in the house as you anticipate her need and take her out. Then praise as she is actually weeing (not after or she doesnt think the praise is for the wee- dogs associate what you say with exactly what they are doing at the time. So if you praise her AS she is doing it she will soon learn that is expected. I actually give it a name as as shes weeing I would say 'do your business, good girl;' As she gets to understand that command she will do it when you want her to. You can then say 'do your business' and she will do it for you (if she needs to)
She's 'going' in the house as she needs to. She hasnt understood you are going out and needs to empty her bladder beforehand- we cant explain that to dogs as you can with children. Even if she has wee'd before you left more often than not its just a small wee to leave her scent- not necessarily to empty her bladder. So if she needs to go again and you arent there to let her out what choice does she have. Its brilliant that she is doing it by the door as she understands that she should be doing out- but cant. Well done you for great house training. I put a dog flap into my doors so they can let themselves out when Im not there.
As she gets older her bladder is more easily controlled - and as she really understands where she must do it she will stop doing it inside as she can hold it. Until then just have newspaper by the door so she can go on it if she needs to. You need to think of that paper as the place she is allowed to go until she is old enough to be able to wait. You cannot ever punish a dog for weeing inside- see it as you werent quick enough to get her outside. If you punish it only make the process take longer. You also cannot punish her for doing it when you are out as she wont know what on earth shes being punished for ( its not in the moment so she doesnt understand why she being punished) So be patient and put the paper down until she has grown out of it. Shes still very young. Youre doing well so now just be patient! (or put in a dog flap)

Emma
Dog Behaviour Advice

More here soon!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Dog-Behaviour-Advice.com

Learn to understand your dog and start relating to him in dog language!

How can your dog be calm and happy if you are giving mixed signals and using human emotions (rather than an understand of pack behaviour) to rule how you communicate with him?

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Emma Hartnell-Baker- dog behaviour advisor- offers help and advice to dog owners with the following behavioural issues.....

Emma Hartnell-Baker- dog behaviour advisor on the Gold Coast, Queensland Australia- offers help and advice to dog owners with the following behavioural issues.....

separation anxiety
anxiety- anxious dogs
excessive barking
nervous dog behaviour
aggression in dogs
nipping or biting inappropriately
possessiveness
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dog shyness
boisterousness- over-excited dogs!

...and more!!

 

Message from web site owner
and dog behaviour expert
Emma Hartnell-Baker

Hi! - welcome to the site.
I have always owned Border Collies and especially welcome the opportunity to offer help and advice relating to
Border Collie behaviour.
My hourly rate is $95





Emma:-)

Dog Behaviour Consultant
Gold Coast Queensland Australia
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com

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A few answers to previous online consultations (with permission from
dog owner)

Question
Please Help

we have a 18week old Jack Russel Puppy and everytime our children enter the room he barks and snarls at them (they are 11 and 14) but as soon as they tell him off he cowers down and is all sorry and wants up to be cuddled. This is very upsetting for the 11 year because she thinks the puppy dosent like her and she (both) adores him. He is brilliant with my husband and myself and with other adults its just the children. I have read all sorts of web sites for advice and they say that we need a dog behaviour trainer but unfortunatly we are not in the position financially to pay for such a service. We love the dog and give him attention and praise when he is good and treats for when he is tiolet training. He is a lovely little thing and very affectionate towards us all but this problem when the kids come in the room is the only problem we have with him. Please help as my husband thinks the next step is for him to snap or worse still bite one of the kids and t! hen the dog will have to go. We really do not want this to happen so I would really appreciate any advice you could give us. He really is very friendly towards the kids when I wake them up for school in the morning because he is all over them and wagging his tail and licking them even when they come in from school. It's just when they walk in the livingroom if either my husband or myself is there.

Thankyou for your attention in this matter

Helen

Answer
Hi- let me know where you are as I may be able to find you someone that will give you free behaviour advice locally.
In the meantime try the following.

Whenever you have been separated from your dog- even when youve just been in another room - have a five minute ignoring rule. You dont talk to him, look at him, if he tries to get your attention you ingore it. Walk away. The time five minutes from when is stops fussing and you call him (preferalby the kids call him) and give him a pet for a few seconds then say 'OK now off you go' and stop. Ignore him.
Do not fuss him when he comes to you. You call him to be fussed. For a few minutes.
Let him have a chew and thats it. Toys come out when you take them out- and then go away again when you stop playing.

Dont let him sleep on your bed (not at this stage) or on your couch.

Basically you have taught him- through doggie language- that he is extremely important in the pack. He is simply telling your kids to get in line- that they are below him. Youre going to let him know he is the bottom of the pack. The kids are higher. everyone is higher.

From now on when you open a door open it a very small distance and you all go through before he does.
If he attempts to go through a door etc before you then shut the door in his face. Keep opening it a little bit, and as he rushes forward close it. Dont say anything. He doesnt think its you. You need him to think that if he goes ahead of you he gets s shock (your not trying to hurt him, just shock him) However, if he stands back and lets you go first then he can come through in safety. Top dog always goes first - bottom last. If he gets through before you then you go back as if you didnt want to go through.

If you are eating he doesnt get ANY of it unless youve finished ie he gets the left overs. Begging is not cute- its disrespectful in dog terms. They wouldnt dream of doing it to a higher ranking dog in the pack. I actually growl at my dogs if they dare to come anywhere near me when eating. (but they dont- Im top dog) If a pup dared to try and get something from my hand eg food I would actually grab him by the scruff of his neck and shake him as the mum would as I see it as so disrespectful. (Im not recommending you do this though)
When you feed him (kids only at the moment ) pretend you are eating out of it first. Dont look at him while you do this. Pretend it is your food, then when youve finished you let him have the left overs. Dont stay near the food- leave the room and let him get on with it. Make sure he is never fed before you. ie before breakfast, lunch dinner. Prepare it, leave it where he cant get it, you eat and then he gets fed last of all.

Dont let him be with you in the house all the time. Shut him in the kitchen at various times in the day. If he cries or barks ignore him. When he is quiet go to him. Ignore him for 5 minutes! After he has stopped fussing, leave it five minutes and then call him to you and pet. For about 5 seconds. Then get on with what youre doing.
Read the Pup article - www.dog-behaviour-advice.com/pups.htm

Your husband is right. If you dont stop this now he will bite the kids. Its his right- if they pick up something that he considers to be his, or if they step out of line in dog language- which at the moment you dont understand - he will snap at them. Without knowing it - thats what youve taught him. You need to 'unteach' him!

Get him out of it now.

Love your dog, but treat him as a dog. Hes not an equal. Youll end up having a wonderful dog who does not rule the house, but who worships you all. Quite simply because he knows his rightful place. No more need to protect your house by barking madly at anyone who goes by etc No more fussy, mad dog who charges around when someone enters the house. There is no shouting- dogs dont shout at each other. There is no physical punishment. Youre just changing the way you live with him. Acting more like a pack. Teaching him his role in it.

Teach him to play- when you decide to play. Play with him alot. Keep him stimulated. But dont pamper him. Dont let him decide when he gets fussed, plays etc.

You need to change the pecking order. Stop giving him so much attention. The rest will fall into place. To start with youll feel like youre being very hard on him. But it will work. Then you can ease up a bit.

Read Jan Fennels The Dog Listener.

Hope that helps. Get back to me and let me know how things develop.

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com

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Question

To whom it may concern

I have visited your website and hope that you may be able to help. I am
presently living in South Korea with my cocker spaniel who we rescued
here from a pet shop......even the pet shops here are squalid places for
a dog to live!!

Dougal has some behavioural problems which we thought would get better
as he gets older but are indeed getting worse.

He hates to be anywhere near a Korean person (does not matter age)
He hates children of any nationality
He likes westerners (it takes him a few minutes to settle with them)

When he meets a Korean/western child he goes into a screaming/barking/growling and snarling fit. It sounds as though he is
in great stress. Even walking down the street is a harrowing event for him if he meets someone. He begins to bark and growl at them.

I believe that he has been very badly treated by these people and when
he sees them now, in his mind, his only defence is to protect us (his
owners) and himself. We will be leaving Korea at some point with him
but I wondered if there was any advice that we could follow to make him
become more trusting.

Would be grateful for any help.

Ghillian

Our Answer

Hi there- if he has been badly treated then it will take alot of work on your part to change his reaction. I once had a rescue collie cross with the same problem in Barbados- initially reacted very badly to any locals we came into contact with. I did the following.

You need to change the attention from anyone he reacts badly to and turn it to you. Do you play with him etc? Find something he loves and when he is on the lead and reacts like this (best to get in there before-hand ie intercept it) then instead of concentrating on that, start to play- show him the ball etc and talk excitedly to him ignoring the person or thing he is reacting to. Start to tug on something if he likes to play tug. (this is something you can play while on the lead) Or waft a tit bit he loves around his nose. As he stops reacting saying 'leave it, good boy' or whatever you feel comfortable with. I emphasise - as he is doing it, not before or after. Dogs associate commands with what they are doing at exactly that time until they really understand the command.
So bascially he reacts, you distract him and at the same time say 'leave it'
If you can get in there before hand then you dont need to say leave it because he didnt react- and doesnt need to leave it!

I tend to prevent rather than deal with.

Also remember than how you react make a big difference. For example if you shout at him when he acts agressively then he thinks you are acting agressively towards them also. He doesnt think you are trying to stop him - he thinks you are joining in.

If he senses you becoming tense- subconsciously - he will think that there is definitely a reason to react. It can make a small problem get bigger and bigger.

When he reacts you need to turn his head to look at you and talk to him in a quiet normal voice. Stop him looking at the person.
If he reacts when not on a lead then you turn in the opposite direction. move away from him. If his 'human' walks away he will forget the Korean or whoever and follow you. He is losing his 'pack'.

You could also tie him to a tree or post and get the types of people he reacts to to walk by. You stand by him and while he is behaving you stay there and talk, pet him etc He notices someone and reacts and you move quickly away from him. I mean quickly- he has to associate you moving with his reaction. As he stops you move back towards him. Do that for ten minutes a day at least.

He needs to associate behaving like this with your attention and presence in most situations being removed. On the other hand when he doesnt react like that then he gets to play, treats, your attention etc.

My biggest advice at the moment is ignore him and move him away from the person (ie turn him head or you turn so he cant see them and make eye contact with them) - dont say anything. When he stops then give him a quick pat and a 'leave it, good boy'

Also ensure that you are pack leader - if he thinks he is then its his role to protect you. Change that so you are (in his eyes) the pack leader and therefore the protector and he wont feel the need to react in the same way. If he thinks he is pack leader then its quite a frightening world out there. Let him think its your job to protect.

Read the other answers on this page as I think that is covered (ie how to be the pack leader in your home) Ill be writing an article on it for the Behavour pages soon so keep looking out.

 

Hope that helps!

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com

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Question - taken from online consultation from

Problem Barking at strangers when out for a walk is our biggest problem with her. I react by telling her to stop and saying no. I think I'm probaly doing it all wrong. HELP!

Additional information: She is a lovely playful puppy. Once she knows another dog she will play and play and has a brilliant time. Weary and shy initially, lots of barking from her which sounds really aggressive and quite worrying. At home with us she is great, likes being with us and we love being with her. She gets lots of attention from the four of us and is fine with the childrens friends.

Answer

Hello Menna and thanks for writing. You sounds like you love that little dog and its good you are asking for advice now.

Its really important at this stage that you establish that you are pack leader. She is already showing signs that she feels that this is her role, or that shes nervous because there is no real leader. Its the leader of the packs role to warn people off, decide who is friend or foe etc. If you read the puppy page www.dog-behaviour-advice.com/pups.htm I think theres some info on that- and also Id recommend buying the book the Dog Listener.
You may be telling her she is more important than she is in several ways. Perhaps you allow her near you when you eat, or give her tit bits, or let her have free access to the house- including being wherever you are. You may not notice that she goes through a small space first eg when you open a door, or may not realise that when she goes up and down the stairs before you its because she thinks shes more important. Perhaps she has her own bed, which you never move or lie on yourself, and gets to be with you all the time when you are home. There are many diferent ways and if you read around the subject youll understand what I mean. Without realising it you are giving her signals that she is really important - and not mkaing it clear that you are the boss (and protector) And at this age she really needs to know.
Firstly, please ignore her when you have come back in from being separated. Totally ignore,. She mustnt fuss. Then when she has stopped wait a few minutes (after shes stopped) and then call her over and pet her. Do not pet her when she comes to you. Pet her for a couple of seconds and then 'off you go' - and ignore her again. I imagine at the moment she has you pretty well trained- and gets to play, be petted etc whenever she wants. This has to change now. Call her to site on your lap if you want her to, but she mustnt be alloweed to choose to. May sound harsh but at the moment you need to make sure she knows whos the boss- and thats how dogs work. You also need to give her her independence.
If she is nervous and behaving like this because of it then simply do as I said, and make sure you dont put her in confined spaces or situations she cant flee. And make sure you keep calm and relaxed.
Without actually seeing you both I cant be too specific, but at the moment she doesnt feel safe- ie she doesnt believe you will protect her - because youre telling her that shes up there with you as leaders.
If she barks at people etc do not confort her- youre telling her the behaviour is OK. Its not. Its rude! Would you let your kids shout and yell at people?
When she acts like this walk away from her - quickly- and ignore her.
I try to get in there first- and bring out a tit bit or treat and distract- at the same time teaching the command - 'look' which means look at me (and not other people as they walk by!) Waft something under her nose so she looks, and as she does give her the tit bit and praise.
Another good exercise is to tie her to a tree and stand by her. Get someone she doesnt know to walk by, closely. As she fusses you walk away. The second she stops you walks back.
She needs to learn that if she fusses then her 'person' leaves.
If you shout she thinks youre joining in - and barking at them also. Dont shout. It only makes everything more hyped up.
When she meets other dogs dont stop if she acts up, just keep walking, and dont tense up anticipating something.
When someone comes in tell them to ignore her. You ignore her also. If you are sitting in the living room and she acts agressively then you walk out. Dont let her sit on your lap when you have company. Dont stand near her when she acts like this- she must know that when she does you move away from her straight away and will not be involved.

Hope that helps

Are you going to a puppy class- that will really help her social skills- check the group is led by someone who knows about behaviour and is trained.

Let me know how you get on.

All the best

Emma
www.dog-behaviour-advice.com

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Hi- thought it would be best to give pointers within your email. See below! Emma:-) Dog Behaviour Advice

Nell is a 13 months old Westie. We got her from a reputable breeder, we were hoping to be able to pick our own puppy and we had timed her arrival perfectly but there was an error, which meant unfortunately she was the last one of her litter.

As yet she has not been doctored.

We’ve had her since she was 8 weeks old

She is our only pet

At home there is myself, my wife and our two children aged 11 and 8

Routine.

My wife works part time, which means the dog is on her own for two days a week for approx 5-6 hours each, when she lives in our largish kitchen. At any other time she goes to our parents, they dote on her and she is perfectly happy to be there.

She is fed every morning and late afternoon. On the days she is alone, she is walked in the morning and sometimes evening as well. At weekends or when at our parents, she gets plenty of long walks.

Great!

After separation or every morning her reaction is wonderful. She gives us a lovely welcome with her tail wagging and she usually brings a toy (not for us, she just likes things in her mouth). She usually rolls over to allow us to tickle her tummy.

We give her a fuss and tickle her tum.

You need to stop giving her attention when you have been separated. When the pack leader comes back in after a separation he is left alone. It is up to him to go to the others. If your dog believes that he is higher in the ranks than you he will come over to fuss- and to get you to fuss him. He is re-establishing his role with you. When you fuss him you do that- you tell him he is more important than you are. And that basically is the problem at the moment- he sees himself as pack leader.

As such he behaves as the leader- including guarding the house - and deciding when he does everything, when he comes back to you etc.

From now you need to start ingnoring him every time you have been separated- even coming back into the room from another. You may call him over to give him a pat when he has not fussed you for five minutes. So if he fusses do not talk to him, look him in the eye etc- and then wait five minutes of no fussing to call him. Pet him for a few seconds and then tell him thats enough- off you go. You are pack leader- and in dog terms are telling him that. He doesnt decide what happens.

We feed her twice a day, morning and late afternoon.

Usually I make her sit and lie down while I prepare it and she waits for me to tell her to eat. She isn’t possessive over food and doesn’t growl if we walk by. When she was small she would wolf it down in one go but she’s now more relaxed with her food. The only time she may growl is if we approach her bed and she happens to have a treat hidden in there.

Although you think you are getting her to wait- shes only doing it because shes going to get fed. To see if she thinks she is pack leader- or you- go slowly to her while eating. If she thinks you are top dog she will back away- to let you eat the food. If not she thinks you are no threat- that she is top dog.

When she was small she wasnt sure- she thought she had to wolf it down or top dog would get it. In the same way a pack works. You have taught her she doesnt have to worry, which is not good in dog terms.

Basically she should think that is she doesnt eat quickly and top dog comes by thats it- they dont get any more. Unless he leaves some. The fact that she thinks she has the right to grwol at you because she has a treat indicates he ropinion of you in the pack. Lower than her! Shes warning you to stay away. If my dogs have food and I walk by they walk away. Its my food! Its my house. They are my toys. I decide when they have things- I am boss! Infact if the dogs dont eat their food within five minutes then Ill take it.

She has lots of toys in the house, usually things she likes to chew. She often brings her toys to us to play, either to throw something or to play tugging with.

She shouldnt have access to any toys. Toys come out when you choose to play- and go away when you decide youve had enough (before she does) Can you see the message she is giving you when she bring you toys to play with- or if she brings them and then choose not to let you have them? Shes calling the shots. Whos boss here? (in dog terms)

Also imagine the control you will have over her when you decide when shes plays- and for how long. If I am out walking and see another dog- or something in the distance that I know my dogs will want to go after or chase I simply say 'lets play' - or just get the ball out- and they are over to me in a shot! Playing with me is so exciting- and only happens when I decide. They make the most of it. Infact they dont wander too far from me- constantly watching for me to put my hand into my pocket and bring out a ball. Imagine however if they got to play whenever they wanted? Which would then be more interesting? The dog etc in the distance or me? I actually look out for situations- and avoid them by bringing out the ball at that moment.

Access.
Apart from nights or when we are out, she has full access to the downstairs area, (we live in a 3 bed semi), she is never allowed upstairs.

At night she sleeps in her bed in the kitchen with all of her toys, it’s open plan with no doors, just a wire gate so she has a full view of the hallway and front entrance. More often than not, she’ll put herself to bed.

She has full view of all exit and entry points. As a top dog should have! (but she shouldnt be top dog)

Again, she is deciding when she goes to bed. Change that. You close her in when you decide to do so.

I often go and almost sit on the dog - to say I want to sit there (they move pretty quickly) Ill sit on his bed. Basically its not his bed. Its mine. Im re-establishing with the dogs that everything is mine. Its what the top dog does. He moves somewhere else to rest and Ill go to rest there too. If I have a dominant dog and Im teaching him that I am in charge I do not allow him to sleep somewhere he can guard all entry points. Thats not his job. - its mine.

During the day when we are home she’ll basically seek out our company and usually sleeps at our feet, or nearby. If we move she’ll usually follow.

She is actually guarding you- looking after 'her' pack. That shouldnt be her job! But you are teaching her (in dog terms) that she is. Dont always let her decide where she rests.

Having said all that, at the moment she’s sat on her own in the conservatory on ‘Cat-watch’

Knock on the door?

All hell breaks loose.

She will go absolutely bananas, barking and barking, and getting more and more worked up. She finds it very difficult to calm down. However, this is only a prelude to….

…When someone enters the house.

If she doesn’t know them she gets more and more frantic and will not shut up.

Well of course- shes guarding the house! She thinks its her job. Until you change the dog rules and become pack leaders (all of you - including the children should be above her in the pecking order) thats her job Youve told her that her job- so dont be surprised when she has to warn people not to enter her house.

After the initial knock when she starts barking, we put her in the kitchen with the gate up, but obviously she can still see, so carries on barking. She gets herself into such a state that it’s very difficult to calm her down.

If any friends come into the house without knocking and she is more unfamiliar with them, then they would get a bite.

If she does know them (our parents etc) she’ll bark and jump at first, but soon calms down into her usual loving playful self, with a few nips thrown in for good measure.

If we are expecting visitors she doesn’t know (or tradesmen etc) then we have to put her at the back of the house in the conservatory, or even take her to our parents house for a couple of hours.

Most worrying is that on a few occasions when friends of our children have called round she’s nipped them. I’m convinced that she’s not being aggressive (she’s not an angry dog) I just think she gets over excited, a bit nervous, and she forgets herself.

No shes not. She is guarding her domain. And warning children in particualar who is boss.

If the door is open, does she try to get out?

Yes if there’s a knock at the door.

Pack leader always goes first. Its their right. Then the next most important dog goes out and so on. Open a door slightly and if she tries to get through you know how she thinks is most important. I would put money on it not being you.

Off the lead, open a door slightly and as she goes to go through close it on her nose. Keep doing it. Dont say anything. Then after about three or four goes (depends how bright she is) she will stand back. You go though and then she goes after. She needs to think that the environment (the door) was not very nice- until the pack leader and protector went through first and made it safe. Do this every day. Ensure that there are NEVER any times when she goes through a small space first. If she does then pretend you didnt want to do through- go through later.

Also do this. Get a small bit of cheese and go to place it on the floor. As she goes towards it growl at her (dont say anything- just growl and hope no one is watching!) and quickly pull it up and away from her. Do it again. After about four goes she will stand back and watch- puzzled. Put it on the floor and back away, with her still waiting, saying 'Ok' Basically you have not let her have your food- and then told her when she can have it. Tip- dont get the timing wrong. Dont let her go to eat it before you have given her the OK. Also note- you are not telling her to leave it. You arent saying anything to her. You are merely putting the food on the floor- and then praising her (and letting her eat it) when you choose to stand back and let her. You are not rewading her for waiting - you are teaching her that it is not her right to eat unless you have finished.

Same for her food. Prepare it and then look as though you are eating from it. If she comes anywhere near you then growl at her and act very agressively. Then, when she is standing back, put it down and walk away. You have finished eating YOUR food and she is getting the left overs.

Every time you feed her.

Yes if she’s on a lead and desperate to get out.

No if we’re just pottering in and out of the front garden, she will do as she is told.

The only other time she is desperate to get out is if a cat walks past the back windows, she goes bananas and unless we let her out she’ll still be whining half an hour later – long after the cat has gone. Incidentally if she does get the chance, all she will do is chase it.

Shes a dog - can't mess with instinct! What she shouldnt be doing though is whining aftwer you have told her to be quiet. Doesnt show a lot of respect. Also, in dog terms, if anyone chases the cat away its you- the pack leader.

At family mealtimes she is made to stay in the kitchen.

Doesnt actually teach her you are all above her though. I let my dogs in the kitchen when we eat (we eat in the dining kitchen) however if a dog dared to come near us they would be growled at! Its very similar to watching a pack of dogs - with top dogs in the centre eating while lower dogs wait in the background for the scraps. My dogs do get the scraps. It reinforces that they are lower than me in the ranking.

In the evening when the family are gathered in the living room (or the kids are in bed) she will, more often than not, lie down just outside the room on her own in the hallway at the bottom of the stairs near to the front door. Eventually she will put herself to bed.

Positions herself so she can check who goes where in the house- ie can guard everyone properly?

She doesn’t strike me as a jealous or possessive dog.

Dogs arent. People assume that the behaviour is because of these emotions- but they arent. Dogs are black and white. Its all about the pack and how they see themsevles. Its all about who is above who- and therefore who has the right to what. An owner who has total respect from his dogs can often be seen as harsh and dont seem to praise them alot- and people cant understand why the dog is devoted to him. What they dont realise is that dogs want to know that the owner is boss- they want to have to earn the right to play, and be fussed. Unless they are an alpha dog they dont want the responsibility that goes with being the pack leader. Even alpha (dominant) dogs will accept second place if you talk dog language though.

On a lead she can be a pain, she is so desperate to get out she just pulls and pulls.

She thinks she should be in front. Its her role. Its her role to tell you where she wants to go. Short term get a lead called a halti- that will stop her pulling as it gets tighter the more she pulls. However thats dealing with the problem and not the cause of the problem. That is that she thinks she is more important than you. So change it. When she pulls stand still. The second the lead loosens you start to move. Dont say anything. Its simple - she wants to move she has to has to walk with you without pulling. She pulls and you stop. If you do this consistently for about a week she will stop. You wont get very far Im afraid for the first few times! But if you persevere it will work.

When putting it on I try to make her sit or lie down but she is so excited it’s difficult, when I connect the lead to her collar she playfully nips and if I shout NO, she thinks it’s part of a great game and bites more. I do have to say again that she’s not an angry dog, in fact just the opposite; she’s happy and full of fun. It’s just that when she plays it always involves jumping and nipping.

Shes not playfully nipping- shes telling you what she wants - and she shouldnt have the right to do that. If my dogs were to nip me Id grab them by the scruff of the neck and shake them- then push them to the floor and tower over them, growling agressively. In exactly the same way the mother would- or the pack leader would. How dare he try that with me! Im top dog- I decide what happens- not her !! Im not telling you to do that- I know what Im doing and have the confidence that Im pack leader. If you did it to her at the moment she would probably bite you

Other dogs?

Oh dear.

We use an extendable lead but it never seems to extend far enough for her, so we let her off and she runs for England.

She has so much energy she just runs and runs. Recently she has improved, and does come when called – except when she sees another dog.

She will shoot at lightning speed across fields or the beach near where we live to get to the other dog. Wild horses could not drag her back, so us shouting her have no chance. When she gets there all she wants to do is play and of course this always involves chasing, jumping and nipping, regardless of what the other dog wants. On occasion it gets a bit embarrassing because she will not come back when called, only returning if we carry on walking away and she can’t see us, usually long after the other dog and it’s owner have lost interest.

If you cannot call her back and know that she will get back then you do not let her off the lead. All it takes it for her to 'playfully nip' a child and shes put down.

In the home practice calling her and getting her to come to you every time. Give her a treat when she comes and then fuss her. Sometimes when you call her you play (and the toys only come out then) Do not play tug or war with her. Shes establishing her position when she does that- and if you lose even once then it re-establishes her position.

Make sure that when you call her its exciting and rewarding for her. At the moment you call her when shes having fun- why would she come to you? Im top dog- so whatever is exciting doesnt matter- they wouldnt dream of not coming straight away. Boss call- dogs come running! (they also know they will get rewarded some of the time- and keep coming back to check if thats the time!) I suggest you get a whistle. Blow the whistle and then show her a piece of cheese (tiny piece) When she comes to you give it to her and priase her. Get her to learn that when you blow the whistle she should come to you as she will get something nice! When you go out she is on a short lead until you get to open space and then the long piece of rope comes out. Use the whistle every now and again- rewarding and praising. When you feel that she is coming back in the home and interested in the whistle then take her somewhere she can run off lead - without people. Use the whistle. If she goes away from you then hide. Let her think that if she leaves you, you will disappear. Bascially be part of her fun experience- and also teach her that she needs to stay with the pack. If you are also doing the door and food exerciese at home - and you become in control of toys etc- and also start the no fussing after separation then she will become less confident in her role- and will want to stay closer to you for safety. You will be the pack leaders.

Other people?

No she’s not keen on them either.

(Obviously this only applies to people she doesn’t know)

Out walking, she doesn’t really go for them, she’s just nervous of them.

Shes not- shes letting them know to beware of her- and also keeps her distance as she may not be sure if they are more dominant- in the same way dogs have to check out all other dogs to see who is more important.

When people come into the house then tell them to ingore her. Especially people she knows. (Only you give her attention, and not when someone else is in the house visiting) If she comes to you to be fussed - ignore her. Stand up and walk away from her if necessary. Continue the conversation with the person who has come in and no-one look at her at all. If she carries on fussing then put her in another room- without saying anything to her.

Initially I would open the door to someone with saucepans in my hands. As she fusses I would clash them together at exactly that time. She stops fussing and you stop clashing.She doesnt actually think its you. She just knows that when she tries to assert herself a horrid noise happens! She stops and so does the noise. What do you think she will work out? You carry on talking to the other person as if nothing has happened. Go into the lounge and sit down. No one look at her or talk to her! If she acts agressively then you walk away from her - the other person stays there. She will position herself between you. Clash the pans if necessary, if she gets really agressive. Or remove her. However if you all ignore her, and dont threaten her by looking at her or towering over her then she should eventually go and settle down.

From today no one plays with her or gives her any attention except the four of you- and only on your terms. She needs to get her security etc from you. Tell everyone before they come in. Even if she is being really sweet do not let anyone pet her for a month.

We live in Lancashire on the coast, so all of her walks are either on the beach or wide-open parks where she can run. On the very rare occasion we would take her to the shops where it’s busy with people, then she gets very nervous and over excited; straining to get near, and barking at other dogs, picking up and chewing everything in site, and if a nice little old lady approaches to give her a stroke, she’ll probably get growled at.

Shes pack leader- thats how shes acting. Dont let anyone pay her any attention- actually tell them you are following a behaviour programme so please dont look at or talk to your dog! If she is looking at someone agressively then move so she cant see them.

Also try this- tie her to a tree and get people to walk by. You stand by her. When she acts agressively then move away from her. Do not move back until she stops. (Get the people to walk clsoe by, but not within reach of her on the lead, and not look or talk to her.) Get people you know with dogs to do this also. Its simple- she acts agressively and you move away. She stops- and you come back! Dont say anything to her at all.

Also for some peculiar reason she’s not keen on people wearing hats, helmets or hoods.

(In fact recently on the park a teenager walked past us with his hood up, she watched him go by, slowly trotted up to him, jumped and bit him on his leg. I did shout at her and she instantly knew she was in trouble).

Actually if you shout she thinks youre joining in. Dont shout. Also, how confusing for her- you tell her every day that its her role to guard you and the house- and then when she sees off someone that looks threatening you tell her off?
Im not telling you to do this- but if a dog I had just brought into the home did this (they wouldnt after a day or so as Id have established who was in charge of protecting the pack by then) I would have grabbed him by the scruff of his neck, pinned him to the grond and snarled at him- looking him straight in the eye. Who does he think he is - its my role to guard the pack!

Also, if you arent sure of her behaviour then how could she have been able to go up to someone and bit them! Keep her on the lead. Youll get in to big trouble if she bites the wrong person.

To discipline her we shout NO, or DOWN etc. She has had the odd smack, (this absolutely doesnt work- and just breaks trust. Dogs dont smack each other) and more recently we’ve tried squirting water at her (that can work if you know what you are doing and get the timing right- it has to happen at exactly the time she is doing something wrong- not even a fraction fo a second afterwards)- and shouting QUIET when the door goes, (hasn’t really worked yet). So when she goes to shout at people coming to the door you join in bascially - thats how she sees it. Best way to wind her up still further really.

These methods wont work. Ever. You just need to change the roles.

She barks to go to the toilet in the garden; barks to come in…fine no problem.

As above, the only other time is when she goes mad when someone either knocks or comes in. We just shout QUIET, and she may do eventually. hmmm

Personality.

We love Nell to bits, the whole family. She’s funny, loveable, and loyal and always gives us a great welcome. Her home life is safe, comfortable and well disciplined. (I agree- she has you very well trained!) She’s not nasty or angry or moody. Dogs arent. Perhaps she’s over protective of us (yep its what youre telling her to be) , hence her sleeping habit. On occasions when we go for long walks and the kids wander off in front, she will run from them to us and back, almost as if she’s keeping us all in check. BINGO!!!

When we decided to get a dog we really thought long and hard about it. We wanted it to be as right as possible, even checking with our parents if they were happy to dog-sit for us, and they all love her (even when she’s chewed their glasses, pinched their meals, or just frightened their visitors). We got her insured and we’re thinking of getting her neutered.

We got a dog to be a great companion to us all; to play with the kids, give us an excuse to go for walks, go away with us and even to give us a bit of extra security (a dog that barks, but stops when told)

I have to say that it sometimes makes me sad when we can’t do some of these things with her. We’re thinking of going camping for a weekend, the type of holiday where dogs are welcome. But there is no way on earth we could take her with us when there will be other dogs around or children running, playing, screaming or walking past with food or an ice-cream.

She can’t come when we go to friends or relatives for the weekend. I can’t take her to the corner shop for fear that she’ll start to snaffle away the stuff of the bottom shelf, or that someone may bend down to pat her on the head. If someone comes to the house to fit a carpet she has to be removed. She can’t be around when we vacuum, mow the lawn, do general DIY.

We didn’t really get a dog to be locked up so much.

We love her to bits, and at the end of the day we can put up with all of these things, (I do appreciate that you have to make allowances for a dogs character) but I am worried about her biting, particularly friends of our children. As I have said, I don’t believe it’s aggression, if I did think she was an angry dog and she was deliberately attacking or biting my kids, then she’d be gone and it wouldn’t even be up for discussion, and I wouldn’t be spending another evening sat at my computer.

Sorry it’s been a bit long winded but I guessed the more information you had the better for understanding her character.

Thanks for the details- it does help. You can tackle this really easily and get to do the things you want to do with her as soon as you change the pecking order. In dog terms you need to teach her whos in charge. So follow the methods Ive described, and also go out and buy the Dog Listener which is quite good (Jan Fennel) Being top dog/s isnt about being mean- its just talking her language. For the next month she gets attention only when you give it, and only from you- you pet her when you have called her over- and not when she has come over to you- you dictate where she sleeps, when she eats, when she plays- you dont let her off the lead until you are sure she will come back when you call- and also you teach her that when she comes to you (when called) she gets the time of her life. You will not only change the way she views her role- and she can stop having to look after you all- she will be so much happier. She will want to be with you - you will develop a closer relationship. But one that you dictate.

Please let me know if there is anything that doesnt make sense, and let me know how you get on!

Also, thanks for contacting me- and shes a lucky dog to have such devoted owners - owners who have taken the time to try and change what is obviously not working at moment for any of you. In only a few weeks you will see a massive difference. Involve all the family in this- everyone follows the rules.

Once again, thank you for your time

Name witheld

No worries!

Emma

Hello again Emma and thanks very much for coming back so soon.

I'm absolutely amazed at what you've sent, firstly the detail and how much you've written, but mainly at how logical it sounds and how much it makes sense. I'm currently re-typing it into bullet points to stick on the fridge for the kids to follow too, and they can't wait to see me growling at her!!

Thank you once again Emma, looking forward to seeing the changes in.

No problem! A dogs world is very straight forward and defined by the pack- and pecking order. Once that is in place everyone just acts accordingly. Remember also that dogs continually re-define who is top, second etc- so try to keep up things like going through doors first, eating before her, making her think you are eating her dinner and letting her have whats left, ignoring her when youve been separated - until you decide to call her over to have a pet - playing with her when you decide, and for how long- and basically acting as if everything is yours. After a few weeks of her not ruling the house you will see a big difference. She will become more subdued- and look to you more for leadership etc. And become far better behaved.
Let me know if anything happens you arent sure about! By the way, remember at this stage that she thinks things are hers- and if you were to forcibly try to take her toy, food etc (especially the kids) she will bite you. This will change as you redefine things- but some owners get over keen to change things quickly and all of a sudden will try to move her physically from her resting place, take her bones etc - and then they wonder why she tells them off- by nipping. Until she begins to see that she is no longer boss she will continue to act like it. Tell the kids to ignore her also- when she comes for a fuss. Then when she isn't fussing them they can call her over to pet her. If she doesn't let up - and paws you, trying to get your attention then stand up and turn your back on her. Don't say anything and no eye contact. If necessary remove her into another room and close the door. As long as she doesn't fuss then go back and let her in a couple of minutes later. Start again. Until she isn't fussing you she doesn't get any attention.
In the long run you will all be happier and after initially feeling quite mean towards her- as though you are starving her of love and attention- things will change and you can relax a bit more (and perhaps even take her away on that trip!)
As well as not giving her ANY attention when she wants it also teach her to play with you when you decide. While she thinks she's top dog she may run off with the toy and not bring it back. Simply have another toy ready that you get out and begin to play excitedly. Start to move away from her, as if you have won the lottery. She will come to check out the new toy and should drop the other one- so you swap toys. Don't get into a chasing game, where you chase her to get the toy. If she brings a toy to you can call her over with a piece of cheese that you swap the toy for) then praise madly. Once you teach a dog to retrieve a toy or ball you're made. It means that when you are out walking you can get out the ball and she wont be interested in anything else. She will want to come bounding over to you when you call as she knows its going to be fun! Most people call their dogs when its to stop them having fun- and wonder why they don't come over. Or they shout at the dog when he finally does come. Basically telling him off for coming really! Dogs associate your command with the exact moment you say it. Dog chews carpet - owner comes in and so dog stops- owner shouts- dog thinks owner is telling him off for stopping!
So play for a few minutes and then say the same thing every time. 'No more- that'll do" As with children you mean it, you will not play again no matter how much they whine or look cute. Then a few minutes later take it out again if you want. You are deciding the rules. When I say this to my dogs they switch off immediately - they know I mean it and will just stroll off. I don't need to say it twice. Walks should be fun- so call her over and give her little pieces of cheese and praise or play. (each piece of cheese is about the size of a small pea)

Emma
ps the growling works! Growl quietly at first and then it gets more fierce if she doesn't back away. Look her straight in the eye. If she doesn't move away then snap at her- a really ferocious snarl to make her jump. If you mean it she will know you mean it. I have had dogs that push me - and if they dont move away I do grab them by the scriff of the neck, shake them and push them to the ground- standing over them and snarling. Not a pretty sight!! But its what they understand. Lying on the floor with another dog towering over them, pinning them to the floor, means submission. But be very careful about doing it yourself.

 

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