I own a two-year old male beagle. Since he was a puppy, my family and I have a difficult time raising him. When it comes to taking an item that he shouldn't have or attempting to give him a bath, he throws a fit and attempts to snap and bite at us. We've tried modifying his behavior by giving him a firm no, scolding him in attempt to correct his behavior, but It doesn't work. Does anyone have advice?
You 're at the point where you probably need a pro. Often bad behavior starts when they're young, but people either find it' cute 'or assume they'll grow out of it so it doesn't get addressed and gets worse.
Many dogs hate baths, and will generally not enjoy being around or doused in water if never properly introduced to it. Mine hates it and is miserable the whole time. However after I rub her down well with a towl and take her for a walk to air dry we're generally working with a blank slate. Any ill feelings are forgotten within 5-10 minutes.
When it comes to possessiveness, that and territoriality within the house generally become problems when the dog isn't made to submit and obey in exchange for having their basic needs met. They quickly learn that THINGS such as food and toys are theirs to defend and fight over, rather than gifts from you. If not properly corrected, they develop a mentality that they can pick out spaces within the house and 'claim' them, and display intimidating behavior to 'ward off' other animals or family members. It's pretty much the same as kids. If they learn early in life that all good things must be earned, they tend to develop a certain humbleness and appreciation for everything they have. If they get it all for free and don't appreciate what it takes to earn it, they develop a sense of entitlement and can become spoiled and demanding.
pets question and answers,www.5d2d.com The problem gets worse when we play tug of war and otherwise try to take things using force and strength rather than instilling a reflex to release the jaw when the owner wants to take something. It can quickly teach a dog who hasn't learned a ' drop-it 'or' leave-it 'command that whenever you try to take something out of their mouth it's a challenge and the proper response is to pull back and battle for it.
Two things that will help.
First, this a very high energy spirited dog so give him plenty of exercise. Things such as running, walking, hiking if at all possible. I am talking miles and hours when you can. Then train on behaviour, a tired dog is a calm dog. If you can't do that play with him in the yard or park. Not as good though as he can get bored which is impossible on the longer jaunts.
Second, have him play with other dogs as they tend to learn from each other. I am not big on rewarding with treats as it makes them focused on eating, positive reinforcement works.
I had almost the same problem with my dog. he would whine, scratch and do anything he could to get out of the tub. so i took my other 3 dogs into the bathroom with my dog. i washed the 3 dogs first and they were all very well behaved. when it was my dogs turn i but him in the tub and he was completely silent and still. it worked for me so it might work for you.
Your dog apparently thinks he runs things.
pets question and answers,www.5d2d.com
He needs to be demoted.
Start with NILIF ..... make him earn everything you give him:
http://k9deb.com/nilif.htm Then put a leash on him and give him a leash correction when he gives you a hard time.
Get a professional trainer to help you
