Hello,

I was hoping to get some opinions on something that I've been thinking about. Could it be possible that no no's such as letting a dog into your bed actually help build bonds, trust, confidence, etc. in an anxious dog? I had an incident during training where my dog charged another dog, I took it as a pack order issue because she didn't listen to me, so , among other things, no more coming into bed with us (we originally only allowed her on the bed for about 1/2 hour, in the morning, when we're stirring and waking up). After "booting" her from the bed I noticed a profound regression in her obedience, ie. not coming when called, refusing the sit command, and an overall state of insecurity at home and a very unconfident dog outdoors. So... we let her back into bed with us. Since that very morning our obedient dog has returned, and I am in the process of "reviewing" all her obedience work with her.

Could the time she spends with us in bed be positive?
Well thought out opinions and criticisms only please.

Thanks,
Matt

Well, I imagine with some dogs (like with some people) changing the rules/routines will initially provoke unwanted behavior until they adjust. An anxious dog would probably have a harder time adjusting to any changes.

Even though lots of people allow their dogs on the bed, if you're experiencing obedience issues and apparently you are (she didn't listen to you when she charged) then your inital idea of keeping her off the bed sounds like the right idea and the right step in establishing pack leadership. She's probably going to feel uncomfortable and act more disobedient for the short term while she's learning the new routine.

I may be wrong so I hope other, more experienced people chime in.

FWIW, I don't ever recall reading anything on this forum that says bed visits promote bonding and trust between owner and dog. Consistant, fair leadership and proper groundwork and good training does.

I agree with Sarah.

I think that the more anxious a dog is, the more the dog needs 100% solid pack structure, and leadership from the human.

I'd suggest the Leerburg article (or eBook or podcast) about groundwork to becoming your dog's pack leader.

http://www.leerburg.com/dogtrainingpodcasts.htm

Matt, I have to fully agree w/the other members. Don't think we are bashing or criticizing your lifestyle. It is completely your decision and none of us have to live w/your dog, but I think if you feel you would rather not have your dog on the bed for being disobedient, you must keep him off the bed until he is obedient.

I would rather keep him off the bed totally, but that is my opinion and how my dog lives with me. At any rate, it seems you changed the rules on your dog too soon and that is not being fair and consistent which is crucial to a good relationship.

Thanks for the insightfull feedback. Honestly, allowing her on our bed I would describe as our dirty little secret. We strictly follow a NILF (Nothing In Life is Free) mantra in our home, ie. requiring a sit before receiving food, treats, toys, etc. She shows ZERO guarding issues regarding any of the previously mentioned items, and coming into bed was under our "terms". But, everything I'm reading makes sense to me, looks like she's getting the boot

Thanks everyone!
Matt

I have to agree with the others in this case. I'm not totally against dogs on beds or furniture, depending on the individual dog. But it has to be with your express permission only, after obeying a command such as sit. And only if the dog will get off immediately with no "back talk" if told to do so.