Member Questions 9-14-24

Joshua

Hi Robert. I have never personally owned a dog and still don’t. But for years now, I have been researching dogs, dog theory, behavior, and training. I have a strong understanding in the theory. In the future I plan on getting a puppy.  I’m looking at working line German Shepherds. I know what I’m getting into. Understandably, many working line breeders will not sell puppies to first time owners. How do I know if I’m ready for a working breed and if I am, how can I convince the breeders that I’m capable of handling a dog even if I don’t have direct experience? Many thanks.

Tommy A

Halo cabralians.

My malinois Mills and myself ar working at a sleddog kennel and ones or sometimes twice a year we take on a new group of dogs. What we do is try to give them the best start in the life as sleddogs. This week I am picking up a 10 weeks old malinois puppy, not technically my dog but she is going to liv with us. At the same time I have 4 huskys 13 weeks old. This dogs ar going to have som together time but also be trained to do very different things. I hav a plan on how to do this. This is all I do all day everyday so time is not limit. I curious on your thoughts around this.

Alfred S

we have a cane toad problem, and my dog if left to his own devices, will attack them.  i want to use a e collar to teach that these toads are not to be touched.  is this a proper use?

Bill W

I love your training methods and have followed you a long time. I have always been confused with the idea of using “Yes” as release and a reward marker.  I finally found this article from a 2013 blog, that at least clarified the nuances in my mind. I would love if you would comment on it. Here is the link:

https://www.thrivingcanine.com/blog/rewarding_before_vs_after_release/#:~:text=Continuation%20Marker%3A%20(aka%20Praise),when%20rewarding%20BEFORE%20the%20Release.

Mike C

I have a 13-week Malinois and I am looking forward in training techniques. Can I get some input as to when I should start implementing prong collars and e-collars into my training?. Obviously I know my pup is too young but I’m trying to be proactive as far as acquiring training instruments. Thank you

Lori 

I have been using the “knock it off” command when he gets too mouthy but the for the last week I have his collar and a short drag leash to start correcting the biting behaviour. When I do correct him which is in no way harsh his biting increases during the correction and starts to really rebel the leash pops.  Just would like your thoughts.

David 

Hi Robert, About six weeks ago we adopted a 10 month old boxer/pittbull mix.  She is shy but she is doing great.  In the last week, my wife fell and broke her leg; she can’t put weight on it for six weeks.  Without my wife’s help with the dog, compromises will be made.  If I have to choose between taking the dog for a walk, play, and training what should I prioritize?  I am looking into having someone come to walk her a couple times a week.  Also, we lost our 15 year old dog earlier this year.  I wish we had your website when we first got him as a puppy.  We would have enjoyed him even more.

Ashlee B

Hi Robert! I have a client with a one year old intact male Westie. He is very stubborn and will not engage much with his owners unless they have treats. He does pretty well with walking on a leash, place command, and is getting better with recall. We have tried fading out the treats and praising physically for eye contact. It did not go very well. He shuts down to the smallest correction from the slip leash. I’m thinking of introducing an ecollar to him, as he is very manipulative to his owners. Is this a good idea? Should I require eye contact, or continue his training without it?

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