Top dog----------------

by vitty 5 Replies latest jw friends

• 

  vitty

  Im not sure where to put this ,so if you want to move I dont mind...............

  Anyway, My dog is 10 and is a cute little male. But as he is also spoilt he thinks hes the alpha male in the house. Since we moved house hes become a real pain, barking at anything that passes, forcing me to take him for a walk when he wants to and wont wait (following me, whinning, staring at the door) in the end I do take him even if its inconvient, just to make him stop.

  Hes even starting to be reluctant when I want him to go in the utility room, where he sleeps, and I though he was going to bite me, hes never done that before

  The thing is, ive heard its very stressful for a dog to be "top dog" and they are much more happy when the owners are in control.

  So how do I do it, how do I show im boss, I know a lot of you here a dog lovers, have any of you some advice on practical things I can do!

  By the way hes never been a active JW, do you think this makes a difference

  Thanks in advance
• 

  IronClaw

  Watch the "Dog Whisperer" on National Geographic channel. Fridays at 8:00 est. He deals with this kind of behavior all the time. Its a great show to watch. He handles many a canine problem.
• 

  vitty

  Thanks ironclaw, but I dont live in the US !!!!!
• 

  Sad emo

  vitty - you need to let him know you're 'top dog'. To do this, he needs to feel safe with you in charge so you need to display that confidence to him.

  First, as he's quite old, it may be worth getting him checked up at the vets for kidney/bladder problems (wanting to go out all the time) hearing and eyesight (barking at everything - he might be seeing/hearing in a distorted manner)

  Next, if he displays unacceptable behaviour, such as the following around and constant whining, ignore him - DON'T GIVE IN TO HIM!!! Try to give him a routine, feeding and walking at set times each day.

  Barking at everything and everyone is his way of protecting his 'pack' territory - this sounds as if it may be because you've just moved so he might settle down once he's sure his new territory is safe. If it doesn't, buy a high pitch hunting whistle to call him back to attention (from a hunting/fishing shop and much cheaper than those sonic dog collars you can get!)

  Make sure your commands are loud, clear and firm but not aggressive - don't make requests, tell him!

  And if you're worried about him biting you, remember he'll be picking up that anxiety from you which will make him more insecure and more likely that he might snap. If you're reall worried about that, it might be worth muzzling him as a temporary measure.

  I'm sure there's loads more that others can suggest but maybe this will do for starters

  Good luck!!
• 

  slugga

  Get him neutered
• 

  2112

  When you eat, make sure you eat before you feed the dog. Assert your authority, and do not give in. Also as was mentioned get him a check up, soon.