My Dogs

Question
Hi, I have two Staffies, Max and Tilly, They get on great and have been together since they were 8 weeks and they are now 4 years old. They love walks out normally especially Tilly the girl, but some days my Boy, Max Will stand still and pull at the door to get back into the house, he will pull so hard he will get off his collar. When I mention the word 'Walkies' They both get very excited and run to the door, as if they cant wait to get out, and once they are out they seem to love every minute, When my boy dog does this it makes my bitch hesitate and not want to go either, although she is more easily persuaded. Please help as i hate leaving one dog at home alone, he is doing it with all family members and picking and choosing when he wants to go, and is too big to pick up.

Thank you

Jodie

Answer
It basically sounds as the dogs have not had basic obedience training and are deciding on their own what to do and not do. Walking a brace of dogs should not be any more effort than a single dog. Dogs need to be trained while puppies so that when they mature. Otherwise, they assume control of their environment as your dog is doing.

regards,
Henry Ruhwiedel
www.dogkennel.org