biting & stuff.

[Gina Heitz <brier@oregonsbest.com>]

Hi Guys,

On biting: As IIene says picking them up is a good way to curtail this.  I 
will add a bit though:  I pick them up and hold them tight and at the same 
time I put my head over their back.  This is a dominate move on your part 
and should get the message across.  They will squirm and might even squeal 
but don't give in.  You know your not hurting them and this is just a 
battle of wits.  If you can't pick them up at least gently lift their two 
front feet off the ground by the scruff on the neck and growl NO at 
them.  Drop kicking really is not very effective IIene, I taught them to 
ignore this behavior at a young age. <snicker>  Also taught them to bite 
hard.

Is any one starting to make their puppies sit for their meals yet?  If so 
as well start putting your hands in their dish as well as taking it away a 
couple of times to teach them they are not in control.  When you take food 
from a dog always make sure you are face to face with them.  Never take 
food away from behind them.  This is considered an attack and can lead to 
food aggression.

Ok onto counter surfing.  I really need to get this into the go home 
instructions.  I just remembered it today as Scout and Trix tried to 
counter surf as I was fixing their food.  Do as I say not as I do...  These 
two can make the second drawer on hind legs and third if they jump.  Before 
too long they All will be to counter top level.  To detour interest in the 
counters never leave food on them.  Never leave any thing on them.  Right 
now everyone of you go out to your kitchens and make sure your counter tops 
are completely clear and clean, not even a cracker crumb.  If this is not 
possible just have the counters removed.  Soon you won't miss them...  Ok 
back to reality... When fixing the dogs food don't let them 
watch.  Seriously put them in their crate and take the meal to them if your 
feeding in the crate.  If not and you feed in the kitchen don't let them 
see where the food comes from.  The less they associate the counter tops 
and the sink with food the better of you will be.

Ok, I am off for the night,

Gina