About Cindi Bass Expertise I can answer questions regarding food and nutrition, behavior , training, health, as well as breed specific questions such as what type of dog is best for different lifestyles and families.
Experience I have been a trainer since 1975..I've trained in obedience, as well as tracking, agility,protection and general behavior. I have worked as a vet tech from 1978-2005.Have bred, shown and done rescue. I am well versed in breed specific issues. I am very familiar with dog nutrition, behavior and health issues. I've also been a groomer and have worked with a wide variety of different breeds.
Education/Credentials I have no formal education however can provide vet references etc. My father is a retired AKC/UKC judge and field rep.
Past/Present Clients I would be happy to give references privately but will not post people's names and information on a site.
I have a 15 week old St. Bernard puppy and he is usually a very good dog with other dogs, adults and children. But he tries to push it with me play biting and more.
There was a particular incident when he went one further. I brought him to my mother's house for the first time and she has a Maltese terrier who is nervous and afraid of him so we had him in another room(we tried but just couldnt put the two of them together).
We gave my St Bernard a pig's ear in the kitchen and when the Maltese was finally looking like he wanted to go to the Kitchen I let him in, the St Bernard began growling(I imagine he thought the Maltese was trying to take his treat).
We took the Maltese from the room but when I tried to stop him growling he wouldnt when anyone went near him so I eventually rang my partner who said to just go and take it from him. He wouldnt let go and eventually when I got it he bit down on my finger and drew blood.
I am very loving toward him, feed him, give affection, treats and bring on walks. I still find it hard to dominate him which comes naturally to my fiance.I want to nip this in the bud, I dont want to have to give him away but I certainly will not allow biting. Perhaps you can see some reason he did it in this case? He was the smallest of the litter but lively and perhaps he had to fight for his food?
I have already taken him away from food to try to show I'm boss but with the pig's ear's he is so possessive over them I am afraid to ever give him them again. Please help.
ANSWER: HI,
Your pup is very alpha and at this young age doesn't believe you to be his pack leader. To a dog, affection and over loving are signs of submission, from you to him. Try to ease off on the attention and only give it to him when he earns it. Have him sit for food, to go outside, etc. Go to alpha boot camp on the web and learn how to establish and maitain pack order in your home.. Many people confuse a St's funny, soft, playful appearance with submissive dogs and they are not. They require a firm hand, strict rules and a lot of training. Get your puppy involved in an obedience class. Memorize the website and implement immediately. When your pup behaves inappropriately, such as growling etc Respond IMMEDIATELY with a sharp loud CHHH noise (like the beginning of chair) cup your hand fingers stiffly extended and give him a sharp push in his collar area, not hard but firm enough to move him back a bit. Step toward him and take whatever he has away from him. Don't give it back for a while and then only when he sits, accepts it politely and gives it back when asks. You should give and take away treats several times a day until this improves. And btw, pigs ears are very bad for dogs, :).
If you haven't already done this, have him neutered asap.
Good luck
Cindi
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Hi Cindi,
Thank you very much for your advice on my saint pup. I will make sure I implement all of your suggestions.
I just want to ask, how are pigs ear's very bad for dogs? How often should I give them to him(or never)? He really loves them.
Our vet did not say not to give them, just that they wouldnt give them everyday.
Can you suggest alternative treats that will keep him happy for a while(as you know saints get through small treats like markies very quickly)?
Thank You.
Answer I would pass on the pigs ears.
Try getting him Kongs that you can stuff with treats and other toys along the same lines, different shapes , textures and sizes. There are hundreds available. :)
Having him work for the treats inside keeps both his mind and his mouth occupied. Change them out often as he will get bored with the same ones every day
Good luck
Cindi
