I see many owners and dogs who have problems that just cannot be sorted in a class situation.
Some owners feel very upset that they are unable to solve the problems, but In almost all cases it is not the owners fault.
It is regrettable that we have a history of dog trainers who blame the owner for the problems, when many are rescue dogs, or have a dog who is very difficult to manage for the average pet owner.
When approaching problems with dogs it is helpful to know about treatment for people with problems, for example fears and phobias can be helped with a program of systematic desensitisation, the same as people, the only difference is that we are unable to explain to the dog what is happening and why.
Sadly many owners start to shout at their dogs when they display fear which makes the problem much worse, I ask all owners to try and put themselves in the dogs place, being afraid of some thing, and how frightened they would feel if their owner turned on them in their time of need.
If your dog shows aggression to dogs or people say nothing, turn and walk away from the fear, as quickly as possible and then seek help.
Common Problems
- Fear of dogs and people.
- Fear of being left alone.
- Destructive behaviour in the house.
- Guarding territory, which if controlled can be advantages.
- I want my dogs to bark when the doorbell rings, or if someone is trying to break in, I do not want them to attack and harm visitors or threaten post man.
- Chase motivation. Chasing cats or bikes or joggers.
- Fear of loud noises such as fireworks.
- Barking and biting for attention.
Molly was a rescue dog from a puppy farm, she was dirty frightened and totally unsocialised. Her owners worked hard following a desensitising program, now she is beautiful, comes to classes and enjoys meeting the dogs and people.
For all behaviour problems I ask the owners to come along and see me with their dog, it is preferable for all the family to come, except young children. We spend an hour or so going through all the problems together, so that I can give them a program of control to follow through at home.
It is so important that owners commit to follow the program, I can help guide and support but I need the owners to be aware of the importance of keeping up the program.
For this I charge £60 and offer a free aftercare service, I also offer three class lessons where appropriate.
There are problems that can be impossible to control and if this is the case I will try to help by giving you an honest opinion.
For example bitch to bitch aggression, although it can be stopped in some cases, it may be impossible to change.
Obsessive compulsive disorder, may be improved often can’t be stopped, this behaviour in people can be difficult to control
This disorder displays itself as. Shadow chaseing, chasing tail or biting tail etc.
I am happy to give free advice before you buy a puppy or look for a rescue dog.
Call me or email me at.
01159397028
Sheila.hocken@outlook.com