My doberman is alomst 5 mo old, we have had her since she was 7 weeks, and she is gettin really bad with nipping, snarling, and just in the past 3 days, she has started growling when I go to take something away from her that she isnt supposed to have. She has only bit me once when i went to get a paper towel from her, but she always bites me, and snarles. Me and my boyfriend have considered taking her to obedience classes, we have looked into bark busters, but is there any other really good classes? We live in NC. Any other info is greatly appreciated.
Thanks
♥A♥
2007-02-08 14:42:48 · 8 answers · asked by daddyzgrl4u05 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Can you tell me where to find the local Doberman Club in NC
2007-02-08 14:58:03 · update #1
Obedience class is a wonderful idea. Usually you can start the classes anytime after nine weeks. I would definitely check it out soon before the aggression gets any worse. Where I live, the public schools offer communtiy ed programs that are fairly inexpensive and they have dog obedience. Another good place to check for classes is the local humane society. They may also have an animal behavioralist that can give you some good tips on how to manage the aggression.
2007-02-08 14:46:35 · answer #1 · answered by Jill R 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Actually, your girl should have been in training at about 14 weeks of age. I'm on my 5th Doberman and all of them have been in obedience training while their ears were still stacked. The earlier the better -- thereby avoiding some of the bad habits she now has and that you will need to break. She thinks she's the pack boss -- and it should be the other way arround!
I would strongly recommend contacting the Doberman Rescue of North Carolina. They will work with you to find a good trainer. I've placed their "Trainer" link from their web site below as reference.
FYI -- Based on your private message to me indicating that your dog -- at 5 months of age -- won't even walk on a lead, you really need the help of a professional trainer -- and one that understands Dobermans. I again encourage you to investigate the trainers from the link I've provided. I would also encourage you to investigate a trainer who will board your dog and lay the training foundation down WITHOUT you being present initially. A good trainer will do this and then train you once your dog knows what to do.
You've given this pup way too much freedom without setting ANY rules.
2007-02-09 01:47:00 · answer #2 · answered by Surfer_Girl_59 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is never a bad time for classes! They help to enforce the human as the alpha, and they are great socialization for the dog. :) I really support the idea of you signing up.
What your dog is doing is normal for her age, so don't feel too bad. It's very important to take care of this behavior quickly though. Let the trainer you work with know that she is having these issues so they can give you special attention if needed.
I also suggest the "Nothing In Life Is Free" program. Establishing yourself as alpha has to be a full time ordeal, not just something you do in the training classes. NILIF shows you how to communicate this to your dog through your every day actions. My roommate used it on her dog who was having the same issues. He is a very well behaved now that he knows who is in charge, and it is a completely positive-reinforcement method! It's also something you can start doing right now in your home instead of waiting for your first class to start working this issue. http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm
2007-02-08 14:47:40 · answer #3 · answered by Charade 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is defineately time for class. You should have considered it when this behavior first started. They have puppy kindergarden. Most dog classes start at 6mo. Before you sign up for a class sit in on one and talk to the instructor after class to see if its right for you. Many people start a class then stop when they find its not what they want.
2007-02-08 14:51:27 · answer #4 · answered by gary b 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to find a good trainer to help you with these behavioral issues and help you learn how to properly establish yourself as alpha in your home. Obviously, your dog does not see you as alpha considering this behavior.
Contact a local Obedience Club, Training Club, or Doberman Club in your area to ask for trainer suggestions for you to persue. It might be a good idea to let them know you have behavioral issues to deal with. These clubs will refer you to trainers they know and trust, as they take their training very seriously.
2007-02-08 14:52:06 · answer #5 · answered by Shadow's Melon 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well training for the dog is a good idea but dont forget you also need to train yourself how to be a good trainer, leader of the pack and caretaker.
Your dog has assumed the role of leadership in your household.. you need to learn how YOU are supposed to fulfil that role so your dog doesnt feel the need to.. trust me dogs dont live in a world where everyone is treated equally, they are domesticated wolves and like wolves they are adapted to living in large social groups. In order for these social groups to function there has to be a clear set of rules as to how individuals within the pack behave towards eachother to avoid strife and confrontation.... wolves and dogs do this by creating what is called a social dominance hierarchy, with leaders and followers all the way through the spectrum from the Alpha (most respected individual)to omega(least respected individual). Your dog obviously doesnt respect you... what you have to do is demand that respect from her and give her only the respect her social position entitles her too. Dont listen to the crap about "go through the door first or eat before her, or roll her over on her back" its not about that, its about your will being stronger than hers, and your authority being absolutely unquestionable. You can learn how to do that by taking "A Lesson in becoming Alpha" http://www.pets.ca/articles/article-alphadog.htm
And by practicing a way of life with your dog that reasserts your position as "leader of the pack" in everyday life.. It is called "Nothing in Life is Free"(NILF) it is simple, effective and easy to do... http://www.pets.ca/articles/article-dog_nilf.htm
2007-02-08 16:54:09 · answer #6 · answered by Kelly + Eternal Universal Energy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get her to classes as soon as possible. She's developing some very bad habits and you need some training to help her get rid of them.
Good luck. She should never growl or nip at you when you take stuff away from her.
2007-02-08 14:49:00 · answer #7 · answered by Lucy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
class would be very good. our dobie is in classes rightnow. she doesnt do any of these things.. she is 4 months old.. look into a local place petsmart is good if the trainer is experianced,
good luck
2007-02-08 17:59:15 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋