This book is by the "dog whisperer" and was given to me by my brother once I got Daisy. He had already read the thing start to finish. At first, I was pretty skeptical because all his puppy examples really showed just positive outcomes but what I wanted to learn was how to deal with the ones that don't respond to the lessons.
A couple of 5am reading sessions while up with Daisy and I learned quite a bit about the way we handle dogs. The most important lesson is that dogs are not toddlers. Cesar basically explains that if you treat your dog like a 2 year old, you will get one that acts like a two year old. You have to treat your puppy like a dog. It's an animal and its learning instincts are based on animal behaviors.
As a loving mommy of a uber uber uber cute puppy, it's difficult, but I have to stop myself from being the adoring mom and act like the pack leader. My discipline and training usually involves mimicking what would be her mother through repetition, silent stares, and assertive dominance.
So far it works but there are times I slip up and want to just reason with her like a four year old. It really sucks that she's so cute sometimes.
How to Raise the Perfect Dog
2 comments:
having got one 4 year old ...well almost 5 and a 2 year old....
you can't reason with them most of the time, they work on instinct, theres no rhyme or reason
you just have to get used to the fact they're pushing the boundaries to see whats ok and whats not
I still have trouble washing my eldests hair some time, and we've been at it at least 3 times a week for almost 5 years....wish she'd learn lol
having seen your vid of her sitting, i'm most impressed how far you've come with your raw recruit in such a short time
well done....that actually impresses me more than the cuteness
alachia scores 9.5 in the doggy training category
;)
Judging by how quickly you've taught her some basic commands, I'd say you're doing a really good job.
I remember when I was training Buzz. One day, he must have been about Daisy's age, I was teaching him to get groomed, and he was CONSTANTLY writhing around to bite the brush. After a few "no's", I did the old, "hold the muzzle" trick. Till he whimpered. Told him firmly 'no' and continued brushing.
Then, I got up, left him on his bed, and went into the bathroom and cried. OMG, I felt so awful for making him cry.
But since that day, he has done everything I ask, no hesitations. It was our defining moment. Part of that is because he is a Golden Retriever, but I also think it was the moment he understood.
It's tough - tough love, Alachia! But you're good at this :)
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