DOG WHISPERER CESAR MILLAN’S
TIPS FOR THE 5 MOST COMMON CANINE MISBEHAVIORS
Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan tackles the five most common issues faced by dog owners in the fifth edition of his Mastering Leadership DVD series, Common Canine Misbehaviors. Here are a few tips for each of these problems:
5.) Aggression towards other dogs – Watch your temper! If you are tense, frustrated, or angry, your dog will mirror that energy right back at you, so it’s especially important to remain calm when dealing with an aggressive dog. But remember, always put your safety first! Seek the help of a professional to deal with this potentially dangerous issue.
4.) Overexcitement or hyperactivity – Overexcited or hyperactive dogs are not being challenged enough. Most often, they just require more exercise! Find a new activity to try with your dog – hiking, swimming, agility courses – or step up your current walk routine. Dogs require at least 30 minutes of a structured walk every day. Talk to your vet about how much exercise your dog can safely handle.
3.) Barking while the owner is away – This is most often a symptom of separation anxiety. You can help your dog to relax by communicating that being apart is no big deal. Instead of showering your dog with affection, practice no touch, no talk, and no eye contact for at least five minutes when entering or leaving your home.
2.) Barking at a specific stimulus – Take time to simulate the cause of the barking, and practice correcting your dog. If it’s the doorbell that sets your dog off, ring it when no one is coming over, so you can stay focused on the task at hand: helping your dog overcome this unwanted behavior.
1.) Problems on the walk – A canine pack leader leads, and so should you! Your dog should always be next to you or behind you, never out in front. Make sure you are the first one out the door and the first one to come back in.
Watch Cesar demonstrate these tips and more in his new DVD Common Canine Misbehaviors available at CesarsWay.com.
I have a 5 month old Pekeapoo. I have had dogs all my life. This one has started to snarl when I try to get something she should have. Usually it is a leaf, a piece of mulch when we walk or a piece of paper, cardboard, or a little piece of plastic like comes off new clothes. I try to keep everything up but she does get something every so often. She snarls and tries to bite me when it is in her mouth. I have started using gloves but want to know what is the correct way to correct her. I would never smack or hit her. She has lots of toys and we play alot. I do not play tug of war with her. She hasn’t learned to drop a toy but she knows I won’t pull on it. I wait for her to let me have it. The snarling has just started this week and I have never had a dog do that to me. I love her dearly and want to know how to handl this. Thank you for any help you can give me. I am 66 years old and never been with out a dog for more than a few months. I am retired from the Columbus Zoo and traveled With Jack Hanna doing shows with animal and taking them to nursing homes. I would never hurt any animal and want to help her learn.Thank you, Bev Longanbach
Hi Bev,It is easier to teach the dog to give you the forbidden item willingly, rather than “correct” the behavior. I suggest using a high-level treat, something she just can’t resist. Hold that in one hand, and say “Give” in a firm, but kind tone of voice. When she lets go of the forbidden item, “claim” that item with your free hand, and give her the treat as a reward. Hope this helps!K2