Other family members and training

[Liesje]

My husband has almost no involvement with my dogs. He doesn't do any of their training and only uses basic commands if I need his help. He sometimes takes my dogs jogging since I don't run but I always put them on a prong collar and another collar as backup. I have to leave him written instructions if I have to leave for a few days.

[Jag]

There is a downside. My wife couldn't get Grim to come to her to come in the other night. She ended up coming to get me to 'get my dog'. He came the first time I told him to.

[Kyleigh]

OH yes, the downside can be very problematic - if there are 4 people in the family, and the dog only listens to one person ... not ideal.

Can you have a family meeting to stress the importance of EVERYONE being involved? Have a list ready for the dangers that could happen to the dog if they don't have control (getting outside, not coming when called, etc.)

Sometimes non-dog people think we over react ... but if you have some facts to back up your rationalizations, it MIGHT help!

OR ... you could just put a really nice roast beef in the middle of the dining room table, leave the room, have everyone sit down at the table, and watch the dog eat their meal!!! that might help!

[Jag]

Originally Posted by Kyleigh

OH yes, the downside can be very problematic - if there are 4 people in the family, and the dog only listens to one person ... not ideal.

Can you have a family meeting to stress the importance of EVERYONE being involved? Have a list ready for the dangers that could happen to the dog if they don't have control (getting outside, not coming when called, etc.)

Sometimes non-dog people think we over react ... but if you have some facts to back up your rationalizations, it MIGHT help!

OR ... you could just put a really nice roast beef in the middle of the dining room table, leave the room, have everyone sit down at the table, and watch the dog eat their meal!!! that might help!

LOL!! The problem so far is that my wife hasn't bonded with him. Her interactions are little. I'm hoping after the move things will change. I think she's overwhelmed right now with everything going on at home. My shepherds have never listened to her, though. I also think part of the problem is she's lacking the 'leadership' mentality. We're going to be working on this for sure, though!