My new dog lives with its old owner. How do I train it to listen?

Hi there. If you have access to a good puppy kindergarten class in your area, I would definitely recommend signing up - the instructor can show you how to start working with your pup to help her understand what you want and develop a good relationship with her. This normally involves using treats or other rewards your pup enjoys, and teaching her that good things happen for her when she pays attention to you. I also highly recommend the book "Perfect Puppy in 7 Days," by Dr. Sophia Yin. It's a great resource for more detailed information on raising a puppy.

I like to train with my dog and start in a group obedience class. That way Kobe learns to listen to you with other dogs around. Obedience training is fun and you'll both enjoy it. I took my dog to several different classes with different trainers as he grew up. Training can be needed for the first year or two to have a well behaved dog. If you are having problems then I'd get one on one training. Personally I only send hunting dogs away for specialized training. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Kobe.

Hi there. It sounds like Bea is having some trouble with her focus. While much of that is just being young and full of energy, I feel you would benefit from clicker training (a treat and reward system) as well as a well organized puppy class. Puppy classes are often offered at your local pet smart as well as through several trainers as help puppies to develop a sense of ability to socialize without being distracted enough by their surrounds that they ignore their owner. To many puppies-they see this as an exciting time to meet new friends and play with their owners. For us it is a wonderful area to help the puppies feel safe and bond with us over respect and learn boundaries. She is likely just reacting to stimuli (things she doesn't often get to see) and doesn't realize she's being "bad" as well as being full of energy. This will take a lot of patience and treats on your part when she performs or listens to you. She will get there, it is just a learning process.

I would recommend using treats to show Blessy what you want, and to reward her when she does what you ask. If there are specific behaviors that you aren't sure how to teach, feel free to post another question and ask - we would be happy to try and help :) For more general training information, I highly recommend the book "How To Behave So Your Dog Behaves" by Dr. Sophia Yin. It has lots of details on training dogs in general, as well as instructions for training specific commands like sit, down, come, etc.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! These types of behavior can improve though this does require in person training with the help of a qualified dog trainer. I would encourage you to contact a dog trainer that can work with you and her in person to really take care of this behavior. The sooner these behaviors are dealt with, the more likely it is that you can improve and resolve them. Good luck and have a good night!

Consistent exercise (walking on a leash is great) and some basic behavior training could make a big difference. Spaying her could also help keep her from wanting to roam quite so much. As she gets older her activity level will probably decrease some as well.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Usually these behaviors can be corrected but this usually requires in person training by a qualified dog trainer. I recommend you consider hiring a qualified dog trainer to work with you in person. Good luck and have a good night!