Hello :)

by Travis0309 Mon Oct 20, 2014 11:34 pm

First topic message reminder :

Hi my name is Michelle and I have a 2yeat old bullie called Travis! He is a lovely dog! Typically of the breed he is very stubborn and can be hard work. Sometimes he is aggressive towards me and I would like some help with controlling this. A typical scenario is if he is on the sofa and I want him off he has been known to go for me, it's like he doesn't want me to be telling him what to do. I just want to feel more in control and not to feel uneasy and sometimes scared. He is amazing with other dogs, the only aggression is in the home! Thanks for reading. Look forward to reply happy

by **Caryll** Fri Oct 24, 2014 11:38 pm

Eleanor wrote:
He actually seems very similar to Demps, right down to the sensitive tummy!

Yes, it does sound very similar!

Eleanor wrote:
Depending on how practical it is for you, it would probably be helpful to restrict access to the sofa unless he's invited up. If he has to wait to be invited, it helps to get the message across that it isn't his own personal lounging space and he doesn't decide who gets to sit there!

Definitely.

by Shisa Sat Oct 25, 2014 7:56 am

It is a lot to take in and when you have a set behaviour pattern, that the dog enjoys, it is hard to break it.

As for treating when he gets off the couch ... This is a difficult thing to figure out because in Travis's mind you could be treating the whole sequence of events - he gets on, acts aggressive and you treat him for that aggression.
I think show him his treat, make him get off and give him his treat in his food bowl or in another room. Make sure he sits or downs before he gets it.
Also make a point of making a big thing off it if he doesn't get on the couch. Give him loads of praise and a treat jackpot without him having to do anything for the treat.
You want the association off not getting on the couch being the easier more pleasant thing to do.

by **Caryll** Sat Oct 25, 2014 8:31 am

Good point Theresa.

But I'd also add - try to use the treat before you get any confrontation. Try to keep it all positive. Don't allow frustration/irritation to show in your voice.

Stay calm & consistent.

by Travis0309 Sat Oct 25, 2014 8:40 am

Ok thank you I will try the treat! Sounds good

by **Caryll** Sat Oct 25, 2014 9:03 am

Let us know how it goes.

Even if what's been suggested doesn't work, there are other things that you can try! It's a matter of working out what works best for your dog.

by Travis0309 Sat Oct 25, 2014 9:51 am

Yeah ok will do! I am instructing the family too! So they do the same

by **Caryll** Sat Oct 25, 2014 12:03 pm

It'll come.

And don't forget that he will start to calm down with maturity within the next few months so with training and a calmer mind he should improve.

by Shisa Sat Oct 25, 2014 12:14 pm

Good read for a bit more understanding.

http://www.canismajor.com/dog/drives.html

by **Caryll** Sat Oct 25, 2014 12:21 pm

Interesting!

by Dave Sat Oct 25, 2014 11:26 pm

Hi Michelle , just popped in to say hello , see you are in safe hands with our Bully experienced peeps , do let us know how things go happy

by Travis0309 Sat Oct 25, 2014 11:43 pm

Hello yeah I will keep you posted! Funny he has been so well behaved tonight! I think he has worn himself out! It's really nice to be getting advice and a bit of guidance

by **Caryll** Sun Oct 26, 2014 12:44 am

Maybe he's read these posts!

by **Eleanor** Sun Oct 26, 2014 8:06 am

And strangely, Dempsey behaved in the opposite way last night! He had a complete mad minute and attacked dad's shoes! They must be conspiring against us! laughing