Question:
I am a first-time dog owner and have discovered your column in our local newspaper. I've been to your Web site and am taking it all in. We want what's right for our 11-month-old Lab/husky mix. Ella is sweet, friendly and very active. She gets lots of exercise on our ranch, running alongside my horse and me as we ride. She's great about sitting, staying and coming. Our big problem is that she's 50 pounds and jumps up on everyone. I've tried turning my back on her, putting a knee in her face as she jumps, shouting "no" and trying to keep her in a "stay" position. I refuse to use a shock collar (as some have suggested), but she leaves dirty paw prints and almost knocks people over. How can I get rid of this rude behavior?
E.F., Houston, TX Apr 19, 2009
Answer:
Welcome to dogdom -- there's no better enrichment for most of us sedentary folks than to share our lives with one or more dogs. Ella is still an adolescent craving attention, approval and fun and games. She needs to learn her boundaries in terms of what behavior is acceptable and when and where. She's at the right age to start a school where you will learn how to better communicate your wishes and intentions. Alternatively, ask her veterinarian for a dog trainer or behavioral-therapist referral. Some first-time dog owners overindulge, are inconsistent in rewarding desired behaviors, and may not even know how to play with their dogs. Ella needs to learn self-control, and acquiring such internal inhibition is best accomplished with the help of an experienced dog trainer or behavioral therapist.
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