disciplining a dog

Question
How do you discipline a shih-poo

Answer

Hi Niyah,

First, never hit your dog. That can lead to other behavioral problems.

Dogs (of all breeds!) come with many personalities, just like people. Some are very strong willed and dominate (they think they are the ones in charge), others are fine being submissive and taking orders. If your dog is dominate, you need to be a strong leader, or your dog won't see you as the one who's in charge. Also, dogs need to be "caught in the act" for a correction to be meaningful to them. If you punish a dog for doing something it did 10 minutes after the fact, that's too long a period of time for your dog to associate whatever it did, with the reason why you're upset. Scolding after the act is virtually useless, but we sometimes slip up and do it anyway, because it makes US feel better. The dog, however, rarely makes the connection between the punishment now, and whatever was great fun for him in the recent past.

The best solution to MANY dog problems is something you might not expect: exercise! Physical and mental exercise can help to release tons of energy, extra energy that causes a dog to get into trouble as it looks for things to do. Bored dogs who have not been exercised can store up lots of energy, the cure is to make sure your dog has plenty of exercise every day.

In addition to exercise, you can often use prevention. Preventive steps can make all the difference dog discipline. For instance, take him outside for a potty many more times than you think he could possibly need until he develops some control. Never tempt him with a steak left within his reach. Don't leave your closet door open, or objects he might want to chew in places he can reach.

Read more about how to discipline a dog here:

http://articles.nydailynews.com/2012-04-03/news/31282969_1_precious-pooches-alph

http://www.professorshouse.com/Pets/Dogs/Training/Articles/How-to-Discipline-a-D

http://www.bountifulfarm.com/Dog%20Discipline.html

http://puppy576.hubpages.com/hub/How-to-Discipline-Your-Dog-3-Effective-Tips


If nothing you do seems to help your dog, then it's time to consult with a professional dog trainer, or enroll in a dog obedience class. You will learn how to control your dog, and your dog will learn how to obey. Ask your veterinarian's office or a local boarding kennel for a referral to either a trainer or a class.

Best of luck,

Patti