How can we train our cockatiel?

[Malccolm]

Our family has always owned pets, and has trained them well. Currently, we have 2 dogs, and four birds--the youngest of which is a pain. Each bird has their own separate play area (with a lot of toys), and are out of their cages at least 6 hours a day. We give them treats, etc. The three oldest birds we have trained to speak, do basic tricks, potty train, etc. They sometimes act up (go where they aren't supposed to, bite, etc), but will always listen to correction. Our youngest cockatiel does not listen. If we give any of the other birds attention, she bites. She has to be on a human at all times, or she throws herself into the wall. She upsets the other birds' food and water, and harasses them. If you ignore her, she feather pulls (we took her to a vet for this, no dietary problems, health etc.) She uses it almost as a revenge tactic. She loves me, and I don't mind handling her, but she tries to bite other people in the eye. If you leave the room for an instant, she will follow you, and gets herself into all sort of situations. I really think she is just emotionally needy, but how can we train her out of this? If we put her back in her cage for doing something wrong, she throws herself and often gets injured. Our other birds are all very well-adjusted, and listen.

[hunterisgreat]

Thats a **** of a place to get bit by a large hookbilled bird

If you find a way to train her out of being emotionally needy, please let me know. I've been trying to figure that out with women forever.

p.s., why is your first post on a GSD forum about training a cockatiel? Thats weird

[jressler]

I think you are at the wrong forum

[hunterisgreat]

Originally Posted by jressler

I think you are at the wrong forum

Maybe he wants to put a SchH on her? They can get good bites, thats for sure.

[krystyne73]

There is a parrot behavior book I had when I owned a few macaws and cockatiels. Might be Guide to a Well Behaved Bird or parrot
Does she pin point with her eyes? do you allow her to sit above you?

Try getting a mid size free standing perch, away from her cage and away from the other birds. She is trying to bid for your attention and you have to put her in check. Don't let her perch on your shoulder until she behaves. Stick train her to sit on a perch instead of your shoulder. perch should not be above your eyes.

Also use calm music in the back ground and use a soft voice with her.

Is she jealous of the bird or the dogs as well?

[Castlemaid]

Funny that you are asking for advice on a GSD forum, but you seem to be on the right path, you are getting some good help.

Why don't you try PM'ing Onyx'girl? I know she used to do Parrot rescue, should be a great source of help and experience. Here is a link to her public profile.

http://www.germanshepherds.com/forum...onyx-girl.html

[Kris10]

Originally Posted by hunterisgreat

Maybe he wants to put a SchH on her? They can get good bites, thats for sure.

[hunterisgreat]

I got bit on the lower lip my a blue-front amazon... that crap hurt like ****

[ShenzisMom]

I'd LOVE to have a blue and gold macaw, but should probably have more than love bird experience before I do! LOL

[onyx'girl]

Practice NILIF with that cockatiel, and clip her wings if she is acting dominant. Cages should be lower than eye level so the bird doesn't feel superior. Many birds just have aggressive personality's and the breeding season will ramp that up. I have a lovebird that will attack my hand if I put it in her cage. Once she is out of the cage, she is fine.
I don't think birds do anything for "revenge" they are smart though cockatiels rank pretty low on the intelligence level compared to other exotic birds.