spiritdogs
Posted : 9/25/2006 6:49:44 AM
Dogs that do this usually don't see you as a leader. If there is no physical reason for her to be in pain, then what this dog really needs is for you to enroll in a positive reinforcement obedience class. You can find one here:
www.clickertraining,com - scroll down on the left to find the trainer search.
The reason I advise clicker training for a dominant, or territorial dog is that you don't have to touch them, or physically force them for it to work. The object is to have them understand your requests ("off"), and comply. This is a dog that I would not allow on any furniture or beds - let her trail a leash so that you can gently tug her off (and reward her when she's on the floor), but you won't be near her mouth to risk a bite. Also, please hand feed her for a week, and the next week, make her sit and wait until the food bowl is on the floor - lower the bowl, but pick it up every time she comes forward, and say "sit" "wait" - if she refuses, just pick up the bowl completely, go away, and come back 20 minutes later. If she refuses, dinner time goes away till tomorrow! (Dogs seldom starve themselves to death LOL) She will quickly get the picture that you mean business.
Read "How to Be the Leader of the Pack and Have Your Dog Love You for It" by Patricia McConnell. (dogsbestfriendtraining.com or dogwise.com)