The car chasing is a different matter. This needs to be stopped. You can try a few sessions with a self correction, just before the dog chases, give PHOOIE command or a NO! If this does not eliminate the behavior, then you need to give the PHOOIE command and enough of a jerk to make the pup yelp but not cower for 2 blocks. This is a life and death learning experience for our dogs, they must learn that cars are to be left alone. If it involves humane corrections, then so be it. The key is to correct to the point of a yelp and not to the point of a screaming cowering dog. Always remember to praise the pup right after a correction. This shows the dog that you do not hold and grudge and that you have forgiven him for screwing up.

Question:

Ed,

Our great puppy, Xanda vom Leerburg (born January 16, 2000; call name "Rebound"), is progressing beautifully. She is almost five months old and has settled in as a full-fledged member of the family (which includes my wife, three children, our male yellow lab and me).

I would like your thoughts on a particularly disturbing and dangerous habit that she has exhibited. During our walks in the neighborhood, she literally lunges at moving cars. In response, I shorten way up on the leash and tell her "no." (Often, I walk her with our lab, which does not give the cars a second glance, and has never chased them.) Needless to say, the puppy's attitude toward cars turns otherwise very enjoyable walks into quite a job. Any suggestions?

Thanks for your time.
Bob

Answer:

There is no question that this is a serious situation.

The solution is hard compulsion. This means that you need to get a puppy prong collar and when the dog does this she needs to get a very hard sharp POP on the leash. The pup needs to learn that this is 100% unacceptable behavior. The minute after the sharp hard correction the dog needs to be praised and told that you still love her.

If this is done properly it will not take long for the dog to learn to ignore cars. If it does not you have not corrected hard enough.