Your Questions About Dog Training Collars
Charles asks…
How do you ease use of a training collar but still keep the dog quiet?
My in-laws have a loud dog problem and want to use a training collar, but my concern is that the dog will know not to bark only when it has the collar on, and it would be pretty ridiculous to keep the collar on forever.
Is there a way to do it so that eventually they won’t have to use the collar at all?
admin answers:
Have the dog wear the collar for a week with the collar turned off. Make sure that you remove it at night when the dog is in the house. These collars are not meant to be left on 24/7. Doing so can cause severe skin issues. Be very neutral when putting on and taking off the collar. You want this to become as normal as clipping a leash on and off. After about a week just calmly reach down and turn the collar on while petting the dog. Again you don’t ant to make a big deal over the dog wearing the collar. Then start weaning the dog off of the collar by turning the collar off certain days but not removing the collar totally. Done correctly, many dogs can be weaned off of the collar. The important thing is not to wean off too soon or too quickly. You also need to understand that some dogs have to wear the collar forever too.
Ken asks…
How to quickly train my dog to listen to me?
Not something that will take months, if I don’t get him under control my whitetrash neighbors will call the police or something.
I’ve been told things about this Don Sullivan guy and his dog training DVD/command collar. Anyone know of this? It’s supposed to work faster than most methods but I’m not sure what it is. I don’t want to hurt my dog, just want him to listen.
admin answers:
Yes, that is an excellent program! I’ve used many other training programs, and as hard as I tried, they weren’t complying. I’ve got 3 mini-dachshunds, very hard-headed. But when I saw the infomercial, I thought it was too good to be true, but I’d try it. My dogs literally changed in minutes. I wasn’t able to get through the entire program before I had to stop due to health problems in the family, but it’s been a year without training and they still do what they learned and know that I rule the house, not them. It turned my little terrors into little angels. And, believe it or not, they loved training and were so excited. I really need to start back up and finish the program. I very highly recommend the program!
Mary asks…
Are there any bark or training collars available for dogs under six pounds?
I have a five pound pom-a-poo that is very aggressive towards other animals (but is the sweetest little thing to people), and barks continuously. All the bark and training collars I can find say eight pounds and over. Does anyone know of one that can be used for him? Please help, I’m desperate. Thank you so much.
I also have two other dogs, and he is very aggressive towards them too.
admin answers:
Using pain for this issue is very likely to make it worse.
Save your money and teach your dog to be calm in the presence of other dogs.
Leslie McDevitt’s book, Control Unleashed, has some wonderful exercises for self-control – I recommend getting it.
One of the exercises in it is “Look at That.” It gets the dog in the habit of glancing at whatever distracts or upsets him, then automatically looking back at the handler. It works better than “watch me” or “leave it” for a lot of dogs, since it allows looking at the distraction, and includes an automatic, trained habit of looking right back at the handler after doing that.
The first step, before even playing the LAT game, is to get the dog in the habit of re-orienting to the human often. So standing beside a crate (rather than in front of it) when opening it, stopping after going through a door together, stopping while your dog is walking with you in the house or yard, and rewarding with lots of attention (and perhaps a treat) if and when the dog turns toward you, comes first.
Once that is habit, LAT works better. I usually teach the game starting with a neutral stimulus, like a boring object held in my hand, but waved in the dog’s peripheral vision (works well with two people, one to be the distraction, the other to be the person to whom the dog refocuses).
You can then escalate to other movements, objects, noises, etc. Temptations, rather than mere distractions, can be part of it.
A description of the exercise can be found here, and a video of a dog being trained with it is below that:
http://www.akinfdt.net/look_at_that.html
With your own dogs, you can also try this:
Always make the presence of other pets a pleasant experience – tensing up, scolding, shooing and grabbing teach that another animal is to be disliked.
Learn the signs of peacemaking and stress in dogs.
Praise any appropriate interaction that you see – polite dogs can help one another learn.
Serial feeding is a handy way to support several goals:
– helping an animal learn its name
– getting an animal to enjoy the company of another animal or person
– encouraging animals to remain calm around one another
– strengthening the idea that food should not be taken without permission
Have all of the animals within reach, and equidistant from you. If any know “sit” or “down,” and are comfortable doing so in one another’s presence, ask for it. Say an animal’s name, your cue for giving permission to eat something, and feed that animal a treat. Then do the same with the next, etc., until each has had a treat.
Any animal that gets pushy, bothers another animal, or does anything else that you don’t want, doesn’t get a treat when their turn comes around again. Keep moving yourself, if need be, to keep the distance equal between you and every animal.
Periodically repeat this ritual, to remind all that the presence of the others brings good things, but only if they are all calm and polite.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
Boulder Dog Food Company Bison Party Mix 12 Oz
 | Our Party Mix combines three of our most popular bison treats - Bison Chews, Bison Wafers and Bison Pipes. The Chews and Pipes offer hours of chewing pleasure while the Wafers are commonly used as training treats. Each of these treats is 100% bison - bison pizzle, bison lung and bison trachea - with no added fillers or grains. Our grass-fed bison are humanely raised in the Western United States, without hormones or antibiotics. INFORMATION ABOUT FOOD ALLERGIES: Dogs can develop allergies to food | |
| Read more |  | |
Evangers 100% Organic Cooked Chicken Canned Dog Food, 13-oz, case of 12
 | Evangers 100% Organic Cooked Chicken Canned Dog Food, 13-oz, case of 12; A whole dressed organic chicken simmered in natural well water is a wonderful healthy supplement. Evanger's 100% Organic Cooked Chicken is Grain-Free and Gluten-Free, and makes a great complement to the Super Premium and Grain Free dry foods. It can also be mixed with Evanger's canned Vegetarian Dinner to make a complete, balanced, and very nutritious diet. Key Benefits Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth Hormone and Antibi | |
| Read more | | |
Your Questions About Organic Dog Food Petsmart
William asks…
Labrador Retriever has a sensitive stomach and keeps vomiting?
Our Chocolate Lab is 5 years old and seems to get bouts of vomiting/sickness constantly. This has been going on since he has been about 2 years old. We have tried organic dog foods and foods for, “Sensitive Stomach’s.” He does good for 6-12 months than gets this continual vomiting. He refuses to eat and mopes around the house. Our vet has checked him out and says there is nothing wrong with him. We also do not allow him to eat any table foods and his treats are home-made organic from scratch. Any ideas on how we can help him?
admin answers:
If the vet says there’s nothing wrong with him, I’d think it would be because of the food he’s eating. You can get food that says it’s organic, or whatever, but that doesn’t mean that it’s a good-quality food. Nor does it mean that it is a food that’s made for a dog with food allergies. These foods, what the bag says, what the commercials say, can be so misleading, and I think it should be illegal, but that’s a whole nother thing.. Lol! It could also be the bowl he’s eating out of. Try using a glass or plastic food bowl, if you don’t already. But back to the food, I don’t know what you feed your dog, but I would strongly suggest you try something like Canidae Grain Free All Life Stages Dry Dog Food.. Http://www.canidae.com/dogs/grain-free-als/dry.html
It is a very good-quality food, and it’s still affordable. Also, because it’s grain free (or just has a lot less grains than other foods), it is better for dogs with food allergies. My husband and I own 3 APBTs, all of which have very bad food allergies and are prone to skin infections too! We feed them the Canidae that I post above and they do great! You want to stay away from anything that has any type of by-product or animal digest in it. Those foods are going to be low-quality foods. You also want to stay away from foods that are packed with grains, and foods that have fillers like corn in them because dogs can’t even digest corn. Now, Canidae can’t be found at larger pet stores like Petsmart and PetCo, as far as I know anyway. I don’t know about Petsmart because I will not spend a penny at a store that is against my breed of choice, but I do know that up until recently, the only good-quality food that PetCo sold was Natural Balance. Natural Balance is a good-quality food as well, and they also have the grain free formulas for dogs with food allergies. Here is the Natural Balance website..
Http://www.naturalbalanceinc.com/dogformulas/dry.html
All that being said, I normally shop at smaller pet stores because in my experience, they sell more good-quality foods than larger pet stores. But, my mom owns 2 Mini Schnauzers that both have food allergies and insanely sensitive stomachs, and she feeds her dogs the Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Fish (she does sometimes switch them to a different allergy food from NB though). And, she gets he food from PetCo. The other day, I went with my mom to PetCo to get her dog food, and I saw a big display of Solid Gold dog foods! That is another great food, so I was shocked to see it there. My mom is actually trying a Solid Gold food for her dogs now. And when I got home, I went on the PetCo website to see if they had other good-quality foods now, and they do! Here is their website.. Http://www.petco.com/Dog-Food.aspx?CoreCat=LN_Shopping_DogFood Go down to where it says “Featured Brands”. Now, the big commercial brands on there, like Science Diet, Pro Plan, etc, are crap! But, the Natural Balance, Wellness Core, Halo, Organix, Solid Gold and Blue Buffalo are all good, but especially, Natural Balance, Wellness Core and Solid Gold.
Check all of those out and see what you think, but this is what I personally think you should do. I think you should try your dog on something like the Canidae Grain Free, or if you shop at PetCo, try your dog on one of the Natural Balance Allergy Formulas, one of the Wellness Cores like maybe the Wellness Super5Mix Large Breed Adult Health Dog Food, or one of the Solid Golds like maybe the Solid Gold Hund-n-Flocken Adult Maintenance Dog Food. I’d probably try the Solid Gold first, if I were you, and if you haven’t already. But yeah, just definitely check out the NB, SG, Wellness, and Canidae, if you haven’t already, they are all great! Oh, and a big tip, stay away from beef, a lot of dogs have allergies to beef, just like with all the grains.
Another great thing that my husband and I do for our dogs, and my mom does for her dogs, is get some of this.. Http://www.petco.com/product/15189/In-Clover-Fresh-Digest-Daily-Intestinal-Aid-for-Dogs.aspx?CoreCat=OnSiteSearch My husband and I, my mom, and my best friend who also owns APBTs with allergies issues, all use this for all of our dogs and it’s great!
So, that’s all I can think of to do, but hopefully this helps. Keep in mind that when you switch your dogs food, if you are going to try that, even if you switch them over gradually, it may still take some time for him to adjust. So, just don’t rush it and hopefully you will be able to figure it out. Good luck to you and your dog! : )
Carol asks…
What is the best food to feed your dog?
What healthy,dry or other dog food is the best. I’ve heard you should buy it from the vet.
admin answers:
If you can afford a raw diet, that is definately the best way to go. It’s the healthiest and has been proven to eliminate all kinds of health issues such as allergies, ear infections, and skin conditions that we often need to treat with medications. There are some available prepared already and sold at many pet stores, both Prairie & Primal are excellent. If those are above your budget, look for a high quality dog food such as Orijens, Innova Evo, Wellness Core, Organix, Evanger’s, or Timberwolf Organics.
There are many good dogfoods, but make sure to always read the label. Ingredients are listed by weight, so meat should be the 1st ingredient (even better if there is more than one meat source listed first). Avoid food that has meat by products since that indicates low quality, or a food listing corn high on the ingredients. Corn has no nutritional value for dogs & is just filler.
Don’t by food at the grocery store or at any Target/Walmart type of store, they don’t carry good quality foods. Go to your local pet store, or to PetCo or Petsmart, and read the ingredients. It so worth it after all the deaths that happened with the pet food contamination to do a little extra work.
Lisa asks…
What are some good stores or online merchants to buy healthy dog treats that won’t break my wallet?
I’ve become a little more conscientious about feeding my dog healthier foods (natural, organic, low fat). Seems to me Petco/Petsmart/Pet Supplies offers some options, but they are so expensive.
admin answers:
You can make your own dog treats. I bought the Three Dog Bakery cook book and use it often to make my own treats. They are easy and cheap to make, plus my dogs love them!
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
Newman’s Own Organics Beef and Barley New Zealand Ranch Style Dog Treats, 10-Ounce (Pack of 6)
 | For the past 20 years, Newman's Own Organics has been offering Great Tasting Products That Happen to Be Organic. You can feel good about feeding our New Zealand Ranch Style Dog Treats to your beloved dog as they are made without artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. Our New Zealand Ranch Style treats use organic beef, grains, fruits and vegetables. Our formulas are 95% organic and do not contain wheat or corn. | |
| Read more | | |
Newman’s Own Organics Dog Snack Sticks, Chicken and Sweet Potato, 4 Ounce (Pack of 6)
 | For the past 20 years, Newman’s Own Organics has been offering Great Tasting Products That Happen to Be Organic. You can feel good about feeding our premium dog treats to your beloved dog as they are made without artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. In fact, our Premium Turkey and Sweet Potato Dog Treats use organic grains, turkey and sweet potatoes. Our formulas are 70% organic and do not contain wheat or corn. Through the sale of it's products, Newman's Own Organics generates money f | |
| Read more | | |
Nina Ottosson Wooden Dog, Treat Fighter
 | This popular puzzle is sure to make your dog think. Treats are placed under the wooden blocks, which your dog must slide through the channel to be able to remove. This puzzle can be made more difficult with the addition of the two larger pegs which can be used to block the channels. Your dog must lift the peg, retrieve a treat and then slide the block to the end of the channel to retrieve the additional reward. | |
| Read more | | |
Your Questions About Dog Training Classes Denver
Nancy asks…
Does anyone recommend a dog/puppy trainer in or around Denver, CO?
admin answers:
You might find a good one through your vet, if you ask them for a recommendation.
I wouldn’t advise going with Petsmart… For the money you spend, you should be able to find an *experienced* trainer in your area. There is a *huge* difference, and IMO the kids at Petsmart just don’t know what they’re doing.
Check your yellow pages for training facilities/trainers. Then start making calls, ask about methods, prices, timing, etc. Ask if you can sit in on one of their classes. Most trainers will be more than happy to let you do this, so that you can get a feel for the methods and whether or not you think that they are right for *your* dog. Its also a good opportunity to get a feel for the trainer themselves….. If they don’t seem helpful, consistent, or experienced, then move on. When you find the right one (after watching their class), you’ll know.
Good luck!
Lisa asks…
Has anyone used “Sit Means Sit” dog trainging in Denver, CO?
We’re planning on enrolling our puppy. The trainer seems great..and yes, they use a training collar………..NOT A SHOCK COLLAR. It feels like static electricity…so nothing harsh at all. Any feedback on if people like this?
Thanks!
Heather
admin answers:
Having been a competition obedience dog trainer for over 40+years, I’ve come in contact with the sit means sit training method and the collar the franchise uses in its’ training classes.
I do not believe in the type training done by this franchise even though it produces results. There is no excuse for using any type of “shock” collar if you truly want a good relationship with your dog.
Any fool can hurt a dog and make it mind, but it takes a knowledgeable dog owner to train a dog with patience and positive training methods, which will turn out a much more reliably trained pet, whether for ring work or simply living in a home as a well-behaved and much loved pet.
This collar is not referred to as a shock collar because of the bad name associated with the original shock collar, however it’s purpose is to make the dog uncomfortable enough to do what is asked to relieve the discomfort. In my mind, any discomfort is “pain” and only necessary when the dogs owner doesn’t want to spend the time training positively.
Mary asks…
good dog agility class.?
I am looking for a good dog agility class in the south denver area. Not too serious, just for fun. Thanks for your help.
Can you be more specific. I don’t understand.
What is the thumbs down for? Sorry I am new
admin answers:
HI the thumbs down means she gave you a really bad answer.
I dont live anywhere near you but I’ve found that most fun agitity class’s are located with in a good training facility. A good place to look and ask would be at your vets office. Most trainers will post a notice or leave their cards for their clients to see. Just pop into your vets office or just give them a call.
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
Wellness Canned Cat Food, Turkey and Salmon Recipe, 24-Pack of 3-Ounce Cans
 | Wet Cat FoodHydration is extremely important to a cat's overall health. Since cats do not have a strong thirst drive, it is important for a cat to ingest water with his or her food. Wellness wet cat recipes are a delicious and healthy way to increase your cat's moisture intake. Wellness Canned Cat RecipesWellness Canned Recipes provide sources of protein and essential fatty acids. They’re made with high quality proteins and are free of added growth hormones and steroids. Recipes also include i | |
| Read more | | |
Organic Pet Superfood DIGESTION Premium Supplement For Dogs and Cats
 | Packed with thousands of natural enzymes, antioxidants and immune-modulating compounds, Organic Pet Superfood DIGESTION gives your pet essentials like soluble fiber for improved digestion and enhanced wellness. Our unique blend of powerful organic mushrooms contains naturally occurring B-vitamins to help convert food to energy for everyday activity and fighting disease. And DIGESTION improves digestive efficiency while combating gas, loose stools and bad breath. Give your pet's diet the support | |
| Read more | | |
Wysong Optimal Performance Dog Food Case, 32-Pound
 | Wysong Optimal Performance is an unparalleled and truly unique natural dog food. Optimal Performance is the fusion of our TNT technology with an enhanced dried kibble. This is the first natural pet diet to offer the benefits of raw feeding and superior kibble in one package. Optimal Performance has minimum 40-percent protein, 18-percent fat and contains fresh, free-range, organic, dried and raw meats. and, as is the case with all Wysong base diets and TNT processed raw dog foods, Optimal Perform | |
| Read more | | |
Your Questions About Collie Breeders Colorado
Maria asks…
does anyone in CO have a pregnant border collie?
I would really love to have a border collie, Do you know anyone that lives in colorado springs and has a pregnant border collie or BC mix please?
let me know, also how might I contact someone who has one?
I have tried shelters but they keep being adopted before I can get it.
admin answers:
Keep trying shelter, they get border collie just about daily. They may also have foster dogs that are pregnant that maybe needing extra TLC.
No border collies in CO? How come i found a heap?
Http://www.petfinder.com/pet-search?animal_type=Dog&pet_breed=Border+Collie&location=CO&startsearch=Search
Border Collie breeder
http://www.bordercolliesociety.com/index_breedrefer.htm
Robert asks…
i want to breed my border collies but i don’t know of any males in the colorado area?
I have a 2yr old female pure breed border collie and i would love to have puppies with her just one time, but i do not know of any males(stud) to breed her with. i am reall responsible and i already have people interested who love border collies as much as me.
admin answers:
NO REPUTABLE breeder will TOUCH your POS *PET*!!
If you don’t even know that there’s NO SUCH THING as “pure breed”…then YOU have JUNK!
DON’T pimp your bitc-h !
***DON’T*** make MORE CRAP!!!
SPAY TOMORROW!!!
James asks…
are there any non mill breeders that breed border collie’s in colorado springs?
Hey i want to buy a border collie from a good breeder who dosent use mills or anything in colorado springs know anybody
admin answers:
Depends what you want your Border Collie for /.or from
There is a club for herding dogs, The Mountain & Plains Border Collie Association, but find conformation breeder contacts via the AKC website.
Ö
Powered by Yahoo! Answers
Wellness Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, CORE Original, 26-Pound Bag
 | Wellness CORE Original Formula Dry Dog Food 26lbw | |
| Read more | | |
Wellness Super5Mix Dry Dog Food, Complete Health Lamb/ Barley/Salmon Recipe, 15-Pound
 | Wellness Natural Dry Dog RecipesWhether you are looking for a food for your new puppy or for your long time companion, it is important to understand the benefits of feeding your dog the best recipe to meet his/her needs. Wellness Natural Food for Pets offers a wide variety of foods for different life stages and special dietary needs. Wellness Dry Dog Recipes are made with carefully chosen, authentic ingredients such as Deboned Chicken, Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids, Fruits and Vegetables an | |
| Read more | | |
Recent Comments