Post by hipster36 on Dec 28, 2003 22:19:59 GMT -5
Can someone explain to me what to expect at the "teen stage" of my dog's life? I think we may be going through some teen problems right now or else my pup no longer wants to listen to me!
For instance at the park yesterday (where we go daily for fun and play) - my pup (who will be 8 mos in a week or so) went totally "wild" on me! She charged, pounced and knocked me over! She did not listen to my commands and totally ignored me while she ran free! She definitely wanted to play and even though I was telling her to stop - she kept rushing me and jumping on me. Thankfully - we were alone and there was nothing to distract her. I tried doing some of her "obedience training" and she was refusing to do any of it (and she knows what to do!)...grrr....I usually let her run "free" at this park (a very large field) and now wonder if I should stop for a while? Is letting her "run free" provoking her to be out of hand?? Should we back it up a little and go back to being on a leash at all times at the park??
I've also noticed that she's being more independant now outside in our own backyard (spending more time alone) where as she never wanted to be out there for long without me. She's playing in the snow - digging holes and making a game out of finding her frozen "cigars' and throwing them around! *sigh*...
Otherwise, she is a well behaved dog and listens well inside the house. How long does this bratty stage last? I remember my trainer telling me a few weeks but then again I've read somewhere that it could last until up to 2 years??
For instance at the park yesterday (where we go daily for fun and play) - my pup (who will be 8 mos in a week or so) went totally "wild" on me! She charged, pounced and knocked me over! She did not listen to my commands and totally ignored me while she ran free! She definitely wanted to play and even though I was telling her to stop - she kept rushing me and jumping on me. Thankfully - we were alone and there was nothing to distract her. I tried doing some of her "obedience training" and she was refusing to do any of it (and she knows what to do!)...grrr....I usually let her run "free" at this park (a very large field) and now wonder if I should stop for a while? Is letting her "run free" provoking her to be out of hand?? Should we back it up a little and go back to being on a leash at all times at the park??
I've also noticed that she's being more independant now outside in our own backyard (spending more time alone) where as she never wanted to be out there for long without me. She's playing in the snow - digging holes and making a game out of finding her frozen "cigars' and throwing them around! *sigh*...
Otherwise, she is a well behaved dog and listens well inside the house. How long does this bratty stage last? I remember my trainer telling me a few weeks but then again I've read somewhere that it could last until up to 2 years??
Also, bitches get this way when they come into season. You SHOULD back things up. I wouldn't let her off lead too much. And don't give her any commands while off lead. This allows her to disobey you. You should try working her in an obedience routine once a day for about 15 minutes. The 15 min. should be a fun time but not too long to get bored or fustrated. This will also establish your role as leader, do not let her jump and pounce on you unless YOU give her the OK. As for her playing, it sounds like she's making a game with herself cause, for some reason, she's not playing with you. Try playing fetch by attaching a long rope to a kong and teaching her to bring it back. Once she does this give her a treat. Do this over and over till she gets the idea. BUT, MAKE IT FUN!!!!