tripping puppy

Question
I have a 15 weeks old lab puppy and she is horrible about walking
between my feet. When she was younger she would do it and would be nipping
at my feet. She has for the most part completely stopped nipping, but
still walks/runs around under me, most of the time staring at my feet. I
have stepped on her a few times and even though she yelps, she still
does it. I can't even walk around the yard! It is getting more dagerous
as she is getting bigger and I'm worried she will trip and hurt me one
of these days. If you have any information about how I can get her to
focus on walking with me, not under me I would greatly appreciate it!!!


Answer
The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts.  Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog.  Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones.  You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/  

All but the most recalcitrant young puppies can be controlled before they are 4 months old with the flat collar and patience.  If you must have something more with a younger puppy, use a fabric restricted slip collar.  These are sort of a cross between the conventional flat collar and the slip collar.  Some of them are adjustable, Good for a growing puppy.  They have a fabric loop at one end with a metal ring holding the other end in the loop, allowing it to slid back a forth.  find one, or adjust one to where it will go on over the puppies head, but will not tighten up past a snug fit around the neck.

Once you have her walking well on lead, she may do better off lead.