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Post Info TOPIC: yet more dog problems


Hermes

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yet more dog problems
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We were travelling yesterday (really long day) and had a friend come over to walk/feed Fala. Now, this is a guy who's been over a million times and has never had a problem with the dog. But I guess yeterday Fala went ballistic on him, wouldn't let him come near him/ tried to bit him/ etc. I'm going to guess it was because the guy was here and we weren't. Is there any way to fix this? I dont' want to have to bring him to the kennel if we take a long day trip or spend a night somewhere, but I don't want him biting my friends either!

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Hermes

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It was probably because it just wasn't was she was expecting to happen, because it's never happened before!  Dogs are very specific learners, so even though he knows this guy is okay when you're around he wasn't sure if he was okay when you weren't around.

Next time he comes over (with you there), have him give Fala some treats and some attention.  If he seems fine with him you and hubby can try stepping outside (or going upstairs or whatever) and leaving them alone for a few minutes (lots of treats while you're gone!).  Come back for a few minutes, leave for a few minutes, come back.  If he's handling it well (no aggression toward your friend) make a bigger production of leaving, out the front door like you're really going somewhere.  Stay out for a few minutes and come back.  Then have your friend go outside, you guys give some treats and love, and then you leave.  A few minutes later, have your friend go back in by himself, armed with lots of treats.  If he's good, when you guys come back a few minutes later make sure to give lots of praise.

The idea is to teach Fala that this guy is always okay - if he's here when you are, if he comes and then you leave, if he comes when you're already away, etc.  It can be spread over time and done in smaller chunks, depending on how quickly he picks it up.  Once you've built the trust up a bit I doubt Fala will take such issue with him coming over while you're away.  Good luck!

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