1 1/2 yr old, Viszla- Pulling on Leash

Q: I adopted my 1-1/2 yr old Viszla from a rescue 5 months ago, and have worked on socializing her. She exercises regularly and vigorously with a pack. But when I exercise her alone she strains to meet every dog and cat and goes berserk (vicious-sounding yet with a happy wagging tail) if I don't allow it. I have her on a pinch collar and a short leash to keep her focused and under control. Any suggestions on how to stop this behaviour?

A: Hi Sue,
I would suggest that you help to teach your overly-friendly pooch that in order to access things she likes, she must first demonstrate self-control. Use access to the other dogs as a reward for calm, composed behaviour. You may need to start training at a further distance (far enough away that she doesn't react) and increase distance slowly. If she becomes overexcited stop moving towards the other animal or for extra effect begin to move away. You needn't speak to her while training, your body movement will be enough. If you do speak, use a clam soft tone. The faster she moves the slower you move (physical movement, voice tone, etc.). It would also be a good idea to attend a basic training class or a class that teaches leash handling skills. Make sure that the school you attend uses reward-based teaching methods. Keep up the good work and congrats on the new member to the family. For more information on this topic or others contact me via email to schedule a telephone consultation. jessica.urika@gmail.com

Reactive to bikes- Cocker Spaniel

Q: I have a cocker spaniel that is terrified of bikes. He will run away if he is off leash and sees a bike and then he becomes paranoid and nervous for the rest of the walk with his tail down and constantly looking over his shoulder. How do I help him with his nervous behaviour?

A: Hi Dori,
You need to start small, and set her up for success. First visually expose your cocker to a bike that is not moving, at a distance she can handle (she doesn't react to). Reward her for appropriate behaviour. You then slowly increase distance (example: 10 feet, 8 feet, 6 feet etc.) and intensity (example: spin the wheel, move the handlebars, with a rider etc.). This process is called Systematic Desensitization and Counter Conditioning. Always pair the bike with something pleasant such as food (freeze dried liver is a good choice). If she begins to react inappropriately, you have moved too quickly, go back a step. As for your walks, where the environment is uncontrolled, you should keep you dog leashed. When your dog begins to react, DISTRACT, REDIRECT, & REWARD RECOVERY.For more information on this topic or others contact me via email to schedule a telephone consultation. jessica.urika@gmail.com

Aggression on Leash

Q: Why do dogs on a leash seem to be more nervous or aggressive when meeting other dogs in public than dogs not on a leash?

A: This is a very clever observation. You are right, you can intensify a dogs reaction up to 40% higher when on leash then when off leash. The reaction is exaggerated because the dog is confined to the boundary on there leash length, therefore their ability to exercise their fight or flight response is inhibited, and there options are limited. Despite their motive, to increase or decrease the distance between them and other dog, they must exhibit alternate behaviours in order to achieve their desired results. For more information on this topic or others contact me via email to schedule a telephone consultation.

5 month, Male, ShiPoo: Jumping-Up

Q: I have a 5 month old male ShiPoo. He behaves basically well, is house trained, however jumps up on people when they come to the door or we meet them on the street. How do I break this habit?

A: Hi Susan,
Sorry about the delay in getting back to you. This is a typical behaviour issue that arises from our (the human's) behaviour. Dog are very visually specific, and learn from past experience. It is very common for strangers and owners alike to acknowledge this pesky behaviour unintentionally, therefore reinforcing it. I assume that every time or perhaps every so often, when your beautiful puppy jumps up to greet you or a stranger, he is immediately encountered with eye contact at the very least. Most often he will get a rub on the head, and a "Hey there is little guy". Eventually we as owner get annoyed and start scolding our dogs, first we give them eye contact, then "Get off!". The pattern is still the same. You have still said "Hey, I noticed you, hello". The only way to break this habit of yours and your dogs is to go cold turkey!
Jumping-up= No more interaction at all, that means no talking, no looking, and no touching.
Use your body to block you dog, lean in, or turn away. For dogs who are extremely persistent: have him drag a leash around, and ground the leash with your foot when approach by people. Wait until he offers you a calm body posture (sit, stand or lie down) then say "Say hello" calmly. If the jumping begins again, start over. Leave your emotions out of it. Don't over talk to him. Basic training classes at the right school will help as well.
Keep in your mind: Your dog will not access things he likes until he can demonstrate that he is calm or at least controlled.
Hope this helps, for more information please email me or contact me by phone to set up a consultation. Congratulations on your new family member, and good luck!

Cheers.

Jessica O'Neill