The Dog Behavior Answer Book - Arden Moore [5]
After collecting data on hundreds of similar situations involving dogs of various breeds and mixes, Dr. Sheldrake could find no link between “owner awareness” and level of intelligence, nor did he find any correlation to breed, age, or level of training. After five years of extensive research involving thousands of people who own and work with animals, however, Sheldrake conclusively proves what many pet owners already know — there is a strong connection between humans and animals that lies beyond present-day scientific understanding.
Whatever the explanation, Rocco clearly views you as his trusted ally and friend. Who needs a clock to tell time when his love for you appears timeless?
Ginny Conquers Her Fears
SEPARATED FROM HER MOTHER at three weeks of age, the Rottweiler puppy spent five weeks in a barn with her litter-mates. When adopted by Cindy and Grace, the young pup feared people, strange objects, unfamiliar sounds, and sudden movements. Her new owners, who had two older dogs at home, wanted to help Ginny develop social skills and confidence. They knew that they had to take their time introducing Ginny to new sights and sounds. Rushing her into new experiences could backfire and cause her to develop full-blown phobias.
They started by spending hours quietly sitting with Ginny on their front porch. Each time a car, person, or dog passed by, they would hand her wonderful treats. Eventually, she stopped cowering in the corner and began to nibble the treats. Once she appeared calm and relaxed on the porch, they took Ginny for walks with their older dogs flanking her sides.
With objects that frightened the puppy, the women played a canine version of Hansel and Gretel. For example, Ginny was afraid of garbage cans, so they repeatedly placed a trail of small treats leading up to one. At first, Ginny would only cautiously take the farthest treats but she eventually grew brave enough to eat the ones near the can. In time she realized that garbage cans would not harm her.
Ginny did beautifully with the other dogs in my puppy class, but was extremely fearful of people. To socialize the pups and teach them to trust people, we play “pass the puppy,” a game where each puppy is handed around the circle of owners to be petted and talked to. This game would have been too traumatic for Ginny, so we treated her differently. Whenever she mustered enough confidence to approach people on her own, they tossed a treat on the floor without making eye contact or trying to touch her. Soon she began coming closer to people in the class.
For the next stage, the class sat in chairs and extended their open hands containing treats to Ginny without making eye contact or bending toward her. We added the cue “say hi” when she touched her nose to their palm. Ginny gradually learned that even standing people, who look more threatening, are friendly.
We worked with Ginny through four levels of training. While still cautious in new situations, she now deals with the world with more confidence. When their older dogs died, Cindy and Grace adopted another puppy, and it was great to see Ginny take over the role of canine teacher with her new friend. This lovely dog serves as a great example of how careful, patient training can help a young pup conquer her fears.
Contributed by Pia Silvani, CPDT
True Puppy Love
Q I adore my dog and would do anything to keep her safe and happy. I love to spoil her with new toys and take her with me in the car. She wags her tail at me, gives me sloppy kisses, and rushes to greet me when I come home. I know that I truly love her, but are dogs capable