papillon puppy

Question
My papillon puppy is about 10 weeks old. When i first got him he was very sweet and listen pretty well, especially when going outside. Now hes being aggresive when picked up if hes not getting his way, and even going out side has become an issue. He runs away from me and takes as much time as possible to go. Ive been trying to get him used to a leash and harness and thats proving to be harder thwn expecfted. Im wondering if playing with my cat is bringing out this agressive behavior. Thanks Tanya

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/ For more on being top dog, see http://www.dogbreedinfo.com./topdogrules.htm

While many people wouldn't start obedience training with a 10 month old Papillion, they should.  He is too young to go out to classes.  Get a book and work with him at home.  Keep sessions very short to match his attention span, only a few repetitions of a command.  

If coaxing won't get him moving on leash, drop back behind him and run by in baby steps calling ''Go. go, go! in a happy excited voice.  Heeling is an essential first step on obedience.