Re: swimming & off-lead ?'s

[Linda Shipman <Linda.Shipman@chezor.alaska.com>]

Hi Lyn and all:

One word :-)  He's no longer a puppy.  He's a *teenager*!

I think why vets recommend six months for spay/neuters is to
tone down this hormonal surge before the young dog acquires
behaviors that most families might not want in their companion
dog.

Treat your teenage dog like you would a human teenager.  Be
consistent, firm, and expect responsible behavior.  And forgive
occasional lapses....it's their hormones talking :-)  Most of it's
over by the time they're one year old.  Any why puppies are
many times turned over to animal shelters in their first year.

Think of it on Monza's terms <s>  He's getting lots of attention
by doing what you don't want him to do.  If he's swimming, simply
disappear (but where you can still watch him).  If he's tugging on
the leash, say the walk's over and go back to the house.  He'll
get the message soon enough that he has to follow the rules
if he wants the privilege of swimming and walking together outside.

It may sound cruel, but dogs are pack animals, used to establishing
a hierarchy based on dominance.  As our mentor used to say to me
when Iris would do this as a teenager.....who's Head Bitch at your
house?   You or Iris?  I used to be offended <s>  Now I understand
the wisdom of those words, especially with two dominant golden
girls.

Good luck and lots of patience for the next six months...you'll need
it :-)

Linda
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Linda Shipman
Juneau, Alaska
Linda.Shipman@chezor.alaska.com
http://www.chezor.alaska.com
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