Golden Retriever Training: Building Good Relationship With Other Dogs
The golden retriever is one of the breeds described as kind, friendly and confident but despite that, there are still a lot of things they have to learn and that can be attained through golden retriever training. While some people forego training considering this breed’s amazing personality, it’s of utmost importance to conduct it so that the four-legged ones to become reliably well-behaved pets.
Since pets are expected to act well in all places at all times, one of the things they have to develop at the earliest possible time is their relationship towards other dogs and other pets in general. As a puppy, they have to interact with the mother and other puppies from the litter. It’s during this time that they learn how to communicate with one another using body gestures like barking, snapping, howling and many others. This also explains why puppies under eight weeks of age need not be taken from the litter for when it happens, they won’t be able to develop their social relationship thus may possibly lead to behavior problems when taken to their new owners.
When they’re already exposed to their litter mates and other common scenario, it won’t be too hard for them to adapt to the new environment you brought them into. However, being pack animals, it is very important to show your dog who the leader of the pack is especially if you have other dogs in the house. Therefore it helps to introduce them to each other appropriately to prevent territorial issues and other associated issues.
Bring the two dogs in neutral territory, in a fenced area if you can. With assistance from a friend or family member, make certain that the dogs are far away from each other and both have their leash affixed. If no one shows any sign of aggression or stress at first sight, reward them with praise or sweet-talk. Slowly bring them closer to each other and diligently shower them with rewards, be it treat or praise for each good behavior exhibited. When one starts showing any improper behavior, ignore and wait until the dog calmed down. Give reward only if they’re showing desirable behavior. Ultimately, both will realize that the only way to get your attention, and treats if they are lucky, is to interact with each other without being too rough and aggressive. At home, provide the new pet with his own comfort zone so as not to make the other feel that his territory is vulnerable thus prevents issues from developing.
When introducing the two pets, be cautious and alert for whatever problem that may appear in the process. It also helps to be patient when dealing with this scenario because adjusting to and accepting each others presence is not as easy as clicking the clicker that is helpful in other areas of golden retriever training.