Great Dane/Black Lab!

Question
Hey Labman,

I am writing to you on behalf of my mother Yvonne, she has two dogs one is a veimerana who we have had for about 8 years and is an angel. The other dog we have is a young GreatDane/Black Labrador.
Since we have rescued Chester ( the great dane/black lab )he has been very protective of my mum, barks at other dogs and people (especially men)... The main problem is that when we go out in the car he is constantly crying and barking until we get to the place where we walk him...
If you had any training tips that could help this , they would be much appreciated.

Thanks James  

Answer
The older he is, the more persistent you will need to be.  The solution to a stubborn dog, is a stubborn owner.  It would be best if you could train him to ride on the floor, if he fits.  Maybe he would still be big enough to see distractions.  I had one Lab that could sit on the floor and nose print the top of the windshield of my little truck.  

Above all, you, or your mother must take over as top dog.  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/

When he barks, hold your had in front of his mouth, and say ''Chester, quiet!'' in a stern, but not loud voice.  It may be best with 2 in the car, one to drive, and one to discipline the dog.  As he learns his obedience and begins to accept your mother as top dog, the command ''quiet'' should become more effective.  

A sterner technique that may be possible without distracting the driver too much may be the spray bottle.  Fill it with water and a little vinegar or lemon juice.  Give it a squirt in the face as soon as it misbehaves.  Dogs hate that. I do too and only recommend it where nothing else will work.