karin
Posted : 12/16/2006 3:08:59 PM
Congrats! She looks like a cutie. [

] Don't worry those "OMG what did I get myself into" feelings are normal the first few days/ weeks as you adjust to the new addition in your life.
Clicker training should work great for a new name. You can also do the "name game" with her. Say her name, when she looks at you give a treat. Repeat several times throughout the day.
Walking a big dog can be a challenge for us vertically-challenged gals! Ours did not care for the halti, so I never tried a GL. We did use a sporn harness for awhile, and it really helped. We just walk them on regular flat collars now. If you do decide to try a sporn harness really make sure the pads fit correctly under the arms, so the straps don't rub. There are so many collars, halters and training aides to try for walking, I'm sure you will find something that works well for you!
Watch out for counter surfing! Until you trust her in the house, don't leave anything yummy on the counter (thawing meat) or on top of the fridge. Danes are tall enough to grab what they want off the top of the fridge when they are on their hind legs. Just make use of cupboards until you trust her not to get grabby with yummy on the counter treats.
Sitting takes some practice for the giants. When you say "sit" it seems to take the signal awhile to move from brain to butt. It will never be a snappy sit. It takes Shaq forever to get his legs in position, and slooooowly lower himself into a sit. He knows what I want, and he wants to comply, it just takes longer for the big guys to sit then a lab or a border collie.
There are several dane owners, and lots of giant dog owners on the board. We all love to talk about our BIG babies, and give advice to new giant dog owners.[

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