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Rescued dog advice..

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
9 weeks ago

I have just rescued an olde tyme English bulldogg. He's only 10 months old so still a pup. He's house trained and for a rescue he has an incredible nature. Basically a 25kg teddy bear. However he constantly pulls when out walking especially towards other dogs and young children.

I know he's not aggressive but others don't. Please does anyone know how to train this out of him.

I have YouTubed the life out of how to correct this and a shock collar is the most common answer.

This is something I do not want to do.

So any advice on how to stop this behaviour would be smashing.

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By *electableicecreamMan
9 weeks ago

The West

Any dog training group's or schools around you can join?

There's a great community one near me. The dogs get socialised really well there too

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By *IXEN200Woman
9 weeks ago

newcastle upon tyne

I saw something similar to this on dogs behaving very badly he would keep him on a very short lead trying seeing if you can find episodes on catch up TV

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By *reyToTheFairiesWoman
9 weeks ago

Carlisle usually

Still young enough for puppy training classes. The socialising with other dogs will help him a lot too.

Mine has a halti for when she's pulling and it really does help. Though the German shepherd nose is a bit easier for nose based head control than a bulldog one 💜

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By *aizyWoman
9 weeks ago

west midlands

I think The Dog's Trust does dog behavioural classes.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
9 weeks ago


"I think The Dog's Trust does dog behavioural classes."

Dogs trust classes close to me are Monday evening only. Which are unfortunately not suitable for me.

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By *ssexPolyGentMan
9 weeks ago

southend

Firstly good on you for rescuing a fur baby in need.

As others have suggested the best thing you can do is look for a good puppy training class in your area that meets the needs of both you and the pupper.

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By *ou only live onceMan
9 weeks ago

London

I'm no expert, but it's about making sure he wants to focus on you - do you walk him with treats? Reward the behavior you want. Takes time but he'll learn.

Please don't get a shock collar (know you said you don't want to) - can't imagine anyone who says they like dogs saying they are the answer!

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By *ou only live onceMan
9 weeks ago

London


"I'm no expert, but it's about making sure he wants to focus on you - do you walk him with treats? Reward the behavior you want. Takes time but he'll learn.

Please don't get a shock collar (know you said you don't want to) - can't imagine anyone who says they like dogs saying they are the answer!"

But as others have said, get to classes if you can!

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By *ig1gaz1Man
9 weeks ago

bradford

take some treats with you for this

when the dog starts to pull towards something stop and turn away making the dog sit down and wait.

if they do so treat them for doing so.

then try again and repeat until the dog starts to pick up that by pulling your going to stop and turn away.

after a while of doing so the dog will learn not to pull.

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By *issilia AmoriWoman
9 weeks ago

St Albans/ North Welsh Borders

Please take some advice from a good behaviourist who practised reward based positive reinforcement

Please don't use a shock collar....it might stop the unwanted behaviour but it won't teach your dog what you want him to learn. To teach lead walking doesn't require such an extreme measure....Check the guidance, I know the use of shock collars was banned in England last year and for good reason.

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By *exyScientistsCouple
9 weeks ago

Castlebar

I've a big dog, she's 45kg and would approach people when she was a puppy, people would get nervous of her so when we went for a walk every time someone walked near I would get her a treat out and as they passed I'd give it to her. After a while everytime a person came towards us she'd be looking at me for treats.

Only works if they are food focused. I don't think all dogs are but maybe tiny bits of sausage or cheese... Now even off the lead she stays beside me when someone passes.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
9 weeks ago


"I'm no expert, but it's about making sure he wants to focus on you - do you walk him with treats? Reward the behavior you want. Takes time but he'll learn.

Please don't get a shock collar (know you said you don't want to) - can't imagine anyone who says they like dogs saying they are the answer!

But as others have said, get to classes if you can! "

Shock collar is not an option for me at all. I did buy a "clicker" which he is responding to well for sit, stay and heel commands.

Classes are certainly an option that I am considering. My only concern is that he DOES NOT respond to commands while being distracted ie other dogs around. He just wants to play. I'm concerned other people won't like his behaviour around other dogs.

Is this an issue in these classes?

Sorry if i seem nieve. I have grew up with dogs all my life but this is my first dog as an adult. Since I and better half work full time I thought a house trained rescue instead of a new pup would be best option. Gees I'm probably over thinking this. But just want what's best for him. He's an absolute cracker.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
9 weeks ago


"Please take some advice from a good behaviourist who practised reward based positive reinforcement

Please don't use a shock collar....it might stop the unwanted behaviour but it won't teach your dog what you want him to learn. To teach lead walking doesn't require such an extreme measure....Check the guidance, I know the use of shock collars was banned in England last year and for good reason."

I promise everyone here. A shock collar is not an option 100%.

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By *ucka39Man
9 weeks ago

Newcastle

Best place to train the dog is within the home using treats

So it gets used to the tone of your voice and understanding when giving him/her a command

Little things like sit and paw

Giving a soft approach and gentle pat on the head

Remember it needs to be a direct request so the dog knows how to respond

Even talking with it is able to respond long as the question is direct

Keep eye contact as dogs need to understand the human and is able to read you like a book and build up trust

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By *ou only live onceMan
9 weeks ago

London


"I'm no expert, but it's about making sure he wants to focus on you - do you walk him with treats? Reward the behavior you want. Takes time but he'll learn.

Please don't get a shock collar (know you said you don't want to) - can't imagine anyone who says they like dogs saying they are the answer!

But as others have said, get to classes if you can!

Shock collar is not an option for me at all. I did buy a "clicker" which he is responding to well for sit, stay and heel commands.

Classes are certainly an option that I am considering. My only concern is that he DOES NOT respond to commands while being distracted ie other dogs around. He just wants to play. I'm concerned other people won't like his behaviour around other dogs.

Is this an issue in these classes?

Sorry if i seem nieve. I have grew up with dogs all my life but this is my first dog as an adult. Since I and better half work full time I thought a house trained rescue instead of a new pup would be best option. Gees I'm probably over thinking this. But just want what's best for him. He's an absolute cracker."

You don't sound naive at all, mate. And anyone trying to do right by a dog is a good egg in my eyes! I'm sure they'll be used to over excited dogs in puppy classes - this isn't unusual at all!

Absolutely get that when they are so focused on something else - mine is the same if he sees a cat!!

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By *issilia AmoriWoman
9 weeks ago

St Albans/ North Welsh Borders


"I'm no expert, but it's about making sure he wants to focus on you - do you walk him with treats? Reward the behavior you want. Takes time but he'll learn.

Please don't get a shock collar (know you said you don't want to) - can't imagine anyone who says they like dogs saying they are the answer!

But as others have said, get to classes if you can!

Shock collar is not an option for me at all. I did buy a "clicker" which he is responding to well for sit, stay and heel commands.

Classes are certainly an option that I am considering. My only concern is that he DOES NOT respond to commands while being distracted ie other dogs around. He just wants to play. I'm concerned other people won't like his behaviour around other dogs.

Is this an issue in these classes?

Sorry if i seem nieve. I have grew up with dogs all my life but this is my first dog as an adult. Since I and better half work full time I thought a house trained rescue instead of a new pup would be best option. Gees I'm probably over thinking this. But just want what's best for him. He's an absolute cracker."

A good behaviorist will advise. My Daughter in law is a behaviourist, she does a meet and greet initially to meet the family, meet the dog talk to them about what they require, then they pre agree a plan if action.

She won't recommend classes if the dog is easily distracted, she'll arrange one to one training, building up to socialising, using her own dog as a stooge or a small group

If she feels she dog will get overwhelmed in class or is easily distracted she won't push the dog into a situation if she feels he won't cope

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By *ssexPolyGentMan
9 weeks ago

southend


"A good behaviorist will advise. My Daughter in law is a behaviourist, she does a meet and greet initially to meet the family, meet the dog talk to them about what they require, then they pre agree a plan if action.

She won't recommend classes if the dog is easily distracted, she'll arrange one to one training, building up to socialising, using her own dog as a stooge or a small group

If she feels she dog will get overwhelmed in class or is easily distracted she won't push the dog into a situation if she feels he won't cope

"

^ This is good advice

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By *inchestersBitchWoman
9 weeks ago

mid glam

One thing I can tell you is (we had a German shepherd from a bub, and was trained) to hold the lead in both hands across me. The end in one hand, the middle in the other to keep control of the lead.

It makes a difference

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By *hampersDarlingWoman
9 weeks ago

Norwich

Not particularly helpful advice but I swapped my collar and lead for a harness and lead and that definitely helped. I'm not sure what you're using though.

I suggest like others have that you employ a dog behaviourist or go to training classes but I'm sure you know that already.

It's a joy having a dog you won't regret it! 😊

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By *abs Big BangersWoman
9 weeks ago

Cotswolds

As a bulldog owner myself the best starting place for training is within your own home/garden. Build this up first to a high level and it's much easier in the "outside world". Socialise them with a variety of people in your own home too if you can, this is easier than random people outdoors.

The outside world is often too much for bulldog breeds to pay attention as they are naturally very stubborn. The older they get the more attitude and stubborness you'll see, put that together with the kg weights they end up being and it's a loosing battle.

Never force them to socialise or be touched by random people if they don't want too. Everything needs to be as and when they want to do it.

Treats work well - but need to be limited due to their size.

Harnesses don't work well after too long as they can end up with sore patches due to the way they waddle rather than walk so be aware of that.

Also be careful with holding them or trying to move them elsewhere using their collar to direct them. You can end up with a dog that becomes collar reactive/aggressive as they believe their in trouble for something anytime you grab onto them to remove them from a situation when they don't want to be told or moved.

They are amazing dogs with great personalities, but you will be in for the ride of your life owning one for years to come. And will be tested in all manner of ways 🤣🤣🤣

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By *issilia AmoriWoman
9 weeks ago

St Albans/ North Welsh Borders


"One thing I can tell you is (we had a German shepherd from a bub, and was trained) to hold the lead in both hands across me. The end in one hand, the middle in the other to keep control of the lead.

It makes a difference "

Yep, I used to do this with my Shepherd, it stabilises the and you have greater control.

I also use a Julius harness on my German Shepherd as the force of his weight is distributed evenly on his body rather than cause damage to his neck when he pulled.

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By *ichaelsmyMan
9 weeks ago

doiglas

reward the good behaviour with treats and try to ignore the bad behaviour.

dogs need to be socialised to behave properly

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
9 weeks ago


"I'm no expert, but it's about making sure he wants to focus on you - do you walk him with treats? Reward the behavior you want. Takes time but he'll learn.

Please don't get a shock collar (know you said you don't want to) - can't imagine anyone who says they like dogs saying they are the answer!

But as others have said, get to classes if you can!

Shock collar is not an option for me at all. I did buy a "clicker" which he is responding to well for sit, stay and heel commands.

Classes are certainly an option that I am considering. My only concern is that he DOES NOT respond to commands while being distracted ie other dogs around. He just wants to play. I'm concerned other people won't like his behaviour around other dogs.

Is this an issue in these classes?

Sorry if i seem nieve. I have grew up with dogs all my life but this is my first dog as an adult. Since I and better half work full time I thought a house trained rescue instead of a new pup would be best option. Gees I'm probably over thinking this. But just want what's best for him. He's an absolute cracker.

You don't sound naive at all, mate. And anyone trying to do right by a dog is a good egg in my eyes! I'm sure they'll be used to over excited dogs in puppy classes - this isn't unusual at all!

Absolutely get that when they are so focused on something else - mine is the same if he sees a cat!! "

Thanks mate kinda needed that.

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By *cottish guy 555Man
9 weeks ago

London

Never ever use a shock collar. Wtf.

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By (user no longer on site) OP   
9 weeks ago


"As a bulldog owner myself the best starting place for training is within your own home/garden. Build this up first to a high level and it's much easier in the "outside world". Socialise them with a variety of people in your own home too if you can, this is easier than random people outdoors.

The outside world is often too much for bulldog breeds to pay attention as they are naturally very stubborn. The older they get the more attitude and stubborness you'll see, put that together with the kg weights they end up being and it's a loosing battle.

Never force them to socialise or be touched by random people if they don't want too. Everything needs to be as and when they want to do it.

Treats work well - but need to be limited due to their size.

Harnesses don't work well after too long as they can end up with sore patches due to the way they waddle rather than walk so be aware of that.

Also be careful with holding them or trying to move them elsewhere using their collar to direct them. You can end up with a dog that becomes collar reactive/aggressive as they believe their in trouble for something anytime you grab onto them to remove them from a situation when they don't want to be told or moved.

They are amazing dogs with great personalities, but you will be in for the ride of your life owning one for years to come. And will be tested in all manner of ways 🤣🤣🤣"

Thank you. This makes a lot of sense. As I said I bought a "clicker" and spent a lot of time with this in my garden. He is very responsive and doing well with this. He will sit, stay and come no problem. To the point at home I can have him sit and stay as I put his food out. He will not touch it untill I tell him too. But as soon as he has a distraction especially of other dogs I struggle to get him to come back on command.

I do get classes are probably the best option but location timing and availability seem to be the hurdle at the moment unfortunately. 😞😞

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By *ucka39Man
9 weeks ago

Newcastle

Using shock collar just adds to the animals insecurities and is inhumane as the animal will always be in fear which could leave long term effect trauma

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By *oneyBee200Woman
9 weeks ago

Kent

Zac George on YouTube is really good.

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By *aybeLadyWoman
9 weeks ago

West Dublin

The Bad Dog Academy on tv

Southend Dog training on Insta

Both deal with lead pulling & reactivity.

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By *hat.coupleCouple
9 weeks ago

Dartford

I have a few suggestions if you want to private message me from this thread, I've trained my dig using a really good trainer.

Sian x

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By (user no longer on site)
9 weeks ago

I have had a few rescues and terriers as well

I was always told they pull because they want to get somewhere. So I have always turned and walked in the opposite direction with them for about 10 metres then turned back and carried on walking

They soon learn that pulling doesn’t get them what they want

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By *ust RachelTV/TS
9 weeks ago

Horsham

I found distracting the dog worked best, with a treat, or something.

Don't use a shock collar, it is cruel and nasty.

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By *issilia AmoriWoman
9 weeks ago

St Albans/ North Welsh Borders


"Using shock collar just adds to the animals insecurities and is inhumane as the animal will always be in fear which could leave long term effect trauma

"

Exactly, the dog goes into shutdown mode, which is dangerous because then the dog inhibits the warning signals it gives out before it reacts to people and situations. You end up with a dog who's behaviour you can't predict and a dog who is constantly in flight or fight mode.

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By (user no longer on site)
9 weeks ago


"I have had a few rescues and terriers as well

I was always told they pull because they want to get somewhere. So I have always turned and walked in the opposite direction with them for about 10 metres then turned back and carried on walking

They soon learn that pulling doesn’t get them what they want "

This is good, I do this with mine just turn them around when they pull. Or stop and make them sit so their attention is on you. You can get those collars that go round their nose to stop them pulling aswell.

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By *ucka39Man
9 weeks ago

Newcastle


"Using shock collar just adds to the animals insecurities and is inhumane as the animal will always be in fear which could leave long term effect trauma

Exactly, the dog goes into shutdown mode, which is dangerous because then the dog inhibits the warning signals it gives out before it reacts to people and situations. You end up with a dog who's behaviour you can't predict and a dog who is constantly in flight or fight mode. "

It can in fact turn a dog aggressive or constantly shaking. Dogs just need bonded with and talking with them is very educational I used to play games with mine hiding the object under the cups and move them around and she would point out or go to the one she thought it was under using treats. It's funny when you hide it in your hand and the expression

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