CoBuHe
Posted : 8/3/2009 8:43:09 AM
You should see my two at play. My female is extremely vocal with her growls. But, it is just play...I can tell the difference between their play and when someone is ticked off.
How old is your dog? And, what breed (sorry if I missed that)?
I think it would be a good idea for you to work on focus. Although, believe me..I get it...when they are knee deep in play; it is very difficult to get them to stop.
But, teach him or her a word that means "stop what you are doing, right now." I have a couple of words that I use depending on whats going on: "Enough" means alrightly we are going to end this play and move on to something else. This is used typically to end a game of fetch or something.
"Stop" used in a firm loud voice (my I mean business voice) means just that. Stop what you are doing. I have to use this when I feel they are getting too rambunctious.
Work towards getting a perfect "Look at me" or whatever word you use "Watch" perhaps. When my two get overly excited during play and I feel they need to "Stop", I place them in a sit and have them look at me. While they are doing this, I'll praise them as they are calming down.
Are you familiar with teaching "Look at Me?" You need to make sure you can get and keep his/her attention.
I know others will offer sound advice....good luck, and keep us posted.