Understanding My Westie

Question
Beth,

I just got a Westie from my local rescue and I don't think he is very happy. My first impression was that he was very low key and laid back. Lately he has been showing passive aggressive dominance. He won't walk outside the door under his own power. He doesn't want to walk at all making it impossible for me to make sure he is getting enough exercise. I have tried to treat train around his behavior to let him know he gets a reward for complying with my command. I am getting worried and concerned by his lack of enthusiasm for anything, unwillingness to obey or play with toys. Any help or advice on how to counteract this behavior would be appreciated. My goal is to have a happy healthy companion overtime but I am not sure what I need to do.

Thanks,

Morley

Answer
Morley -

The issue is likely that the honeymoon is over and now that he's been observing you for a while he's starting to pull out his tricks to see if he can be in charge of the household.

Please remember that terriers are, most generally, opinionated and willful.  These are both the good things about them, and the bad.

You're on the right track with treat training, but please be sure to use very **high value** treats such as cheese or hot dogs or pieces of the rolled dog food.  I also recommend pieces that are very small - 1/2 the size of a pencil eraser.  That way, when you get a really good behavior you can "throw a party" but sounding happy and then giving 5-8 treats one right after another - Remember repeated treats count for more than one bigger treat.

I would also cut back on his food so that he is amply hungry when you try to train, and focus the most training right before meals are due. When I have a dog who is attending classes and getting lots of treats, they often don't get an evening meal (depending on the dog and level of classes)

He may also need, at the same time, a good dose of "Nothing in Life is Free."  I have enclosed a link explaining it in more detail, but it is a structured approach by which you reinforce that you are the one in control of life without having to be forceful... It's all about being really really persistent.

http://www.cairnrescue.com/docs/NILIF.pdf

I would not worry overmuch about his sour attitude. I suspect that once you make him get into the swing of things he will be happier and more content.  Who knows about toys - Many dogs have never had a positive experience with toys before and it can take some time for them to loosen up enough to play at all.

I really think that with some time and structure your little man will gain confidence and let his inner self shine through.

Let me know how you make out.

-Beth