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Post by deboosh on Jan 30, 2013 16:40:48 GMT -5
We adopted our Bonnie on Dec. 20/12. She had some house-breaking issues but has been accident-free now for over a week (touch wood). I would like to know whether I should be looking at some sort of training yet. Or am I wondering about it too soon? I spend a lot of time playing with her and we take a fairly long walk at least twice a day. It would be nice if she could walk well on leash though, as she's a real puller, and tends to walk all over the sidewalk. I'm sure my neighbours think I've had a few, as I weave my way down the street. She also gets overly excited when we come upon someone walking from the opposite direction and pulls to meet them. Sometimes these people are less than enthusiastic about meeting her, though. Our adoption co-ordinator highly recommends clicker training. What method do you like? Do you recommend classes or did you read a training manual and practice on your own? Thanks! ;D
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OwnedBySummer
Hound Nut
"Summer" (aka Coach Standifer)
Posts: 1,392
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Post by OwnedBySummer on Jan 30, 2013 21:37:04 GMT -5
I would be training already. Nothing too intensive but most certainly teaching her how you want her to walk on the leash. I never let my dogs get away with squat (well, around other greyhounds IS an exception, LOL). They walk at my side, loose leash or short leash. When they are allowed to sniff and wander, I have a command for that (mine is "be free", but you could use whatever you want). Bonnie will learn quickly. If you aren't using a front-clip harness, which I've never used and know nothing about... then when she pulls, go the other way. After a few strides, you can turn around and carry on in the right direction.
Personally, I wouldn't get into a bunch of trick training yet, though. Just what is needful.
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Post by Heather (& KC) on Jan 31, 2013 8:01:28 GMT -5
I'd absolutely start training. Learning to walk correctly will make your life so much easier and your walks more pleasant. She'll hopefully enjoy the socialization, attention and mental stimulation as well! Good luck.
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Post by GreyPoopon on Jan 31, 2013 8:25:03 GMT -5
No time like the present. I take mine to school. Helps with bonding. Also makes me do my homework. Just be sure to find somewhere that understands that greyhounds are different.
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Post by newtothis1 on Jan 31, 2013 20:49:32 GMT -5
As this is your very first dog, training would be helpful for all but i agree with GreyPoopon, get someone who knows greys. Funny but dogs seem to know when you don't know the tricks and will get away with everything they can. Be consistent and keep to a routine. With walks make the first 20 minutes be the way you want it and then give them time to sniff all over etc....Start with the leash short and keep her close. You have to do it all the time though. Use words as well like no, walk, slow etc, just make sure and use the same ones.
I heard a lady one day yell at her dog, who was dragging her up the road, "no, stop, cut it out stupid" I'm not surprised the dog just kept going. Contrary to us thinking they understand everything we say. they only actually get a few words down pat. Most of what they pick up is how we are feeling. If you start the walk dreading it because you know she is going to pull, she will know it and will pull. You need to relax. I know that is easier said than done,that is why there are trainers
Good luck and don't give up. The more things you try the better you will get
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Post by fastlane on Feb 2, 2013 13:03:59 GMT -5
Lots of good advice here!
My tips are similar. 1- Greyhound savvy trainer 2- Positive reinforcement based 3- A little bit every day
Most greys learn and train quickly. In no time, you will be reporting wonderful results.
Have fun!
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Post by deboosh on Feb 17, 2013 20:14:45 GMT -5
My goodness, this is going to sound so dumb, but I couldn't for the life of me find my own post! Thank you everyone, for all your help and advice. Keeping the lead short really makes a difference. I bought a harness called an "easy walk". It doesn't go over the nose like some I've seen and it seems to really help, especially the weaving from snowbank to snowbank. Thanks again.
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Post by JessKamp on Mar 14, 2013 19:01:21 GMT -5
I love the Bonnie banner! It's awsome, did you make it yourself? If so what program?
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Post by deboosh on Mar 15, 2013 19:53:43 GMT -5
JessKamp, I sent you a PM about who to contact about the banner. Love the name of your little girlie. Stella is not very common but was my mother's name, too.
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