By Mary Jane Anderson

 

Problem: Herbie, a six-month-old puppy, is already a terrible beggar and makes eating dinner very difficult. What can be done?

Solution: Herbie must learn he cannot come to the table and beg while the family is eating. He must be taught to obey commands of down and stay, the most practical exercise a dog can be taught. When a dog masters the commands many problems can be avoided. Teaching this exercise to Herbie will eventually allow the dog to rest quietly across the room and not be banned at dinnertime. Remember – begging is owner-induced behavior.

Problem: Buddy, a 12-month-old Dachshund, pesters visitors or demands attention. What can be done?

Solution: Buddy must be taught to lie down with his leash on and then stay while visitors come into the room. Buddy must also learn to wait for 10 to 20 minutes before being allowed to get up. The problem may be that Buddy needs more exercise or more contact with people and other dogs.

Problem: Tootsie gets carsick.

Solution: Tootsie must first get acclimated to the car and the first thing to do is take short rides whenever possible – ideally before she is fed. Tootsie must then be taught traveling manners, such as lying down quietly on the backseat of the car (crate training could be helpful in this situation). Another solution would be to ask a vet for medication.