...transiting planets in ARIES (my 6th house)?My little dog and I are taking 'Obedience Training' (aka "Rehabilitation for Aggression") lessons. I say BOTH of us, because while he is learning how to sit, stay, and obey commands, I am having to restructure my day-to-day life to accomodate for the new rules. Believe me when I say that this is probably 10 times harder on me than it is on him.
The new rules:
- My dog has to be on leash ALL THE TIME. Even indoors!!! (except when he's in his crate). He isn't allowed to free-roam. He is only allowed to be in three places when indoors: on leash, on his cushion, in his crate.
- He isn't allowed on furniture except when invited.
- He isn't allowed to mark trees on our walks (marking = dominance)
- He isn't allowed to pee or poop wherever he wants. I designate the spot.
- He has to SIT when I stop during the walk. eg, traffic lights, etc.
- He isn't allowed to interact with other dogs and people while in training (safety reasons) <-- this one is really hard, everyone wants to pet him.
- He isn't allowed to sleep in my bed at night. He has to sleep in his crate. <-- He now loves his crate but as for me - I am still experiencing separation anxiety!
- He stays in his crate whenever I leave the house.
- He gets corrected for every command that he doesn't obey.
But you know what?
- I no longer worry about him going through the trash or chewing cushions (I have lost about 10) when I am out. No worries about him eating something he shouldn't. And I can redecorate my couch!
- I no longer worry about him jumping up and down high furniture and spraining his paw (which HAS happened = $$$ vet bill )
- I no longer worry about him being anxious or clingy, following me from room to room. He now stays in his place and relaxes. I can now (sort of comfortably) clean the apartment, move furniture around, step out, do anything I want.
- I no longer worry about him pulling on the leash and lunging at dogs and people on the street. He knows how to walk nicely next to me.
I paid a very high price for the damage caused by my little troublemaker. But I love him like crazy and I know this is good for him and good for me, as difficult as it may be to stay strong, consistent, be
calm and assertive....
Comments (2)
Oh wow, I am doing everything wrong with my puppy and I am having all the issues you mention, especially the one about the couch.
Mine is about two months old...I didn't see the age of your baby, I'll have to go look again.
Hey Loonsounds, mine is a 5 year old rescue. He is a really sweet boy generally, but last month his territorial behavior got out of control - he bit someone, which almost got me evicted and led to $$$ in medical bills... hence the training.
Do you watch the Dog Whisperer? Highly recommend it! http://www.hulu.com/videos/search?query=dog+whisperer
(the books are great too)