I've really gotten into Cesar Millan who is also known as the Dog Whisperer. His show is on the
National Geographic . He has been working with dogs for over 20 years and has an intimate understanding of their psychology. His show has people who have problems with their dogs. Aggression, barking, biting, food aversion, etc. His motto is, "I rehabilitate dogs. I retrain people."
He focuses on the dogs place in our home. The owner is the Pack Leader, or Alpha Dog. As owners it is our responsibility to exercise, discipline and then be affectionate with our dogs. Not to treat them as another human. Many times when this order is out of whack, the dog is the alpha, we have problems.
I have taken his advice and have retrained Kona and Logan how to walk on a leash. I always go out the door first to enforce me being the pack leader, I have their collars up high on their neck, I hold their leashes so that they walk behind me. Today we went for a walk and I held both leashes with one hand. Logan is 80 lbs and Kona is 56 lbs. I was very happy and proud of all of us.
I am going to work on Logan barking at other dogs and running after other dogs. Kona too. But Logan does it more. Also teaching them to leave bunnies/squirrels/cats alone.
I thought that when a dog greeted you by jumping on you they were saying hello and being friendly. Not so says Cesar. They are disrespecting you and telling you that they are the alpha dog.
Dogs are natural pack animals. There is a hierarchy and everyone has a place in that order. If you do not take the lead and become Pack Leader. Your dog will do so and act out.
I highly recommend him to anyone. He has a dog psychology center where he rehabilitates dogs and where dog owners can be educated.
He is roller blading with the puppies!!
Disclaimer:
Of course you should seek professional help if you are having problems with your dog. I believe that you should use whatever training that works best for you and your dog. These opinions are mine and should not be taken as fact. I am not held responsible if you should try these techniques on your dog.
