stong pups

[Gina Heitz <brier@oregonsbest.com>]

Hi All,

Got a note on how to control lunging at the end of the leash....  So 
thought I would share my answer with the group.

What your dealing with is an out of control excited puppy with a zest for 
life who fortunately also loves food. :-)   Get a harness, the kind that 
doesn't apply pressure on the neck (Petco Pet Smart).  Get adjustable as 
you know how fast they are growing...  I hate them but they will keep the 
pup form choking and possibly injuring the esophagus.  Now to fix the 
excitement issue:  Maturity will of course help <LOL> but also 
food:  Practice proper healing with your pup on leash by starting with pup 
at your side ( don't worry about a sit) but say watch me and as soon as pup 
looks at you give a morsel of food. Do this till pup is calm and 
understands the words then:  Start to walk soon as pup lunges forward say 
watch me and reward.  They will get it...  We took TRiX tot he mall 
yesterday and in 15 minutes we cured her lunging with this method.  Food is 
your answer to most all undesirable behaviors!  <snicker>

I have had the opportunity to visit with a few of the Moon pup's lately and 
don't forget we have TRiX too...  These pup's are strong, very physical and 
need lots of free exercise, I hope everyone is getting that.  These guys 
are all of an age now that it's time to start really leaning on them and 
getting their full attention. We are coming up on 20 weeks of age and while 
formal obedience is not usually started until 6 months these guys are 
mentally very mature from my observations and it's my recommendation that 
each of you now start looking for public classes to get into if you have 
not.

I hope this finds everyone well and puppies enjoying the last days of 
summer...  Hard to believe but yes summer is almost over.

All else is well here and Rocky is having a good day. :-))

Gina