AboutAnne Springer, BSc.,CPCT, IPDTA, APDT Expertise I'm happy to answer questions on behavior and training. I prefer a training philosophy much like your physician might adopt when treating patients - first, do no harm. Dogs are generally best trained using humane methods that make sense to them and put you in control, not necessarily by physical means, but by controlling the dog's access to resources, such as food, toys, access to the outdoors, etc. I want your dog to behave, but also to trust you and rely on you for guidance.
Experience Professional trainer, owner of Paws for Praise, LLC in Danvers, MA. Educated, bonded and insured, all breed experience. We use positive training and behavior modification techniques, and are committed to having the dogs that come through our center be both as well trained and behaviorally healthy as we can help their humans make them.
Organizations International Positive Dog Training Association (Regional Director for Massachusetts)
APDT
Therapy Dogs, Inc.
Truly Dog Friendly
Publications Gloucester Times, Ipswich Chronicle, and more
Education/Credentials B.S., Cum Laude, Salem State College
Diploma, Dog Obedience Training/Instruction (Apprenticed also)
Graduate, New York School of Dog Grooming
Pet CPR/First Aid Certified
Certified Pet Care Technician
AKC CGC Evaluator
Therapy Dogs Inc. Tester/Observer
Question I volunteer at a wolf sanctuary. They have about 11 wolf/wolf-dogs. Most of them get to go out on leads at least once a week. We have one wolf that has not been walked because know one knows what steps to take to get a lead on her. Do you have any suggestions on how to approach this situation? This wolf wants to go out with her pin mate, but we are just stumped on how to start.
Answer Hi Kelly,
First, let me say that I am not a wolf expert - dogs and wolves are very similar in a lot of ways, but not in others, and I would not want to misinform you.
With under- or un-socialized dogs, I might begin by simply allowing the dog to make the first move to sniff me, rather than offering my outstretched hand. I would turn my body to the side as a way of saying "I'm not a threat - look, I'm exposing my flank so you'll know." I might also use food as an offering, but again, I would allow the dog to come to the food, and not thrust a hand out. Gradually, the dog usually comes toward me, and I simply keep allowing that to happen until the dog is satisfied that I mean no harm. It can be painfully slow to build enough trust that you can actually begin to move toward the dog or touch it.
My advice, since you are dealing with wolves or hybrids, would be to get some advice from a really good wolf center, such as International Wolf Center in Ely, Minnesota. You can call them at (218) 365-4695.
