Frequently Asked Questions
Is my dog aggressive? If your dog growls, snaps, or lunges at people or other dogs, or if you think your dog is being protective, you have an aggression problem.  Your dog is probably "really sweet" most of the time.  Aggression is not a dirty word!  It just means your dog is troubled and needs help. If you are thinking about seeking help, don't delay.  This type of problem usually won't go away on its own.  Each time your dog displays inappropriate behavior, he is practicing it.  And the more you punish or scold your dog, the worse it will get. I highly recommend a thorough veterinary exam to rule out any health problems that may contribute to your dog's aggression, including hypothyroidism. Why do I have to bribe my dog with food? You don't, and you shouldn't.  A dog's behavior is driven by its consequences.  If a behavior is immediately followed by something valuable to the dog, he will likely repeat that behavior (positive reinforcement).  If you show him the biscuit to entice him to come to you, that's bribing. Positive reinforcement is a powerful and humane method for teaching dogs (and spouses!) to eagerly do what is asked.  Food is often used as a reward because it is motivating to hungry dogs and easy to dispense.  Dogs learn new things quickly when rewarded with great-tasting treats.  The secret is to offer the treat after a behavior is performed, not before, and to systematically fade it out so your dog does not become treat-dependent. Actually, effective rewards can take on many forms.  Use whatever your dog enjoys.  Examples include a game of fetch or tug with a favorite toy, a walk, a belly rub, or even a chance to chase a squirrel.  Using non-food rewards is highly encouraged, especially when you are fading out treats.  Your dog deserves to be paid for "working", just like you. I punish my dog when he does something bad, but he keeps doing it.  What am I doing wrong? There are many problems inherent with poorly applied punishment.  The timing must be perfect so the dog correctly associates the punishment with his misdeed and not something else, including you.  This is more difficult to accomplish than it sounds.  The dog can learn that it is safe to misbehave when you are not around, and that sometimes you act scary.  Dogs vary in temperament.  A dog that is sensitive might become reluctant or hand shy if punishment is too harsh.  A more confident dog may decide that being naughty is worth the risk of being punished.  We need to teach our dogs the correct thing to do as well as what is not allowed.  And good behavior needs to be rewarded.  It is human nature to pay attention to bad behavior and ignore the dog when he is being good.  We need to change if we want our dogs to change! Can I send my dog away to your place for training? If your dog lives with you and the problems occur at home, then the best place to train is with you in your home.  Board-and-train can be effective (and costly), but you the owner must still learn the skills necessary to manage and control your dog.  Trusting Paws Dog Training does not provide board-and-train services at this time. Why don't you offer any guarantees? I realize that there are training businesses that offer impressive guarantees, but my personal view is that a dog is a living being, not an appliance.  Even Olympic athletes and obedience champions are not perfect.  What I offer is free email support to address any questions you may have during and after your sessions with me are over.  My goal is for you and your dog to succeed.  To schedule a consultation, please fill out the form below or call 717-395-6478 Contact Naomi Heck, behavior consultant: First name:  * required Last name:  * required Email address:  * required Phone:  * required Town of Residence:  * required Dog's Name:  * required Age:  * required Sex (spayed/neutered/intact?):  * required Breed:  * required     Reason for contact: Description of Problem: Best time to call you: Morning (9am-noon) Early afternoon (before 3pm) Late afternoon (after 3 pm) Evening (6 - 8pm) Anytime (9am - 8pm)
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