Zug Zug

Check out Wuthering Heights, just out of Clare. Great place - and dogs are welcome inside.

She's gorgeous - great progress!

The instructions for the vet (posted in this forum) said that eye inflammation was something the vet should be looking for. The Clumber's left eye (also in the video posted on this forum) did look red and inflamed - the owner/breeder said as much but just gave a reason why she thought it was ok for the dog to have an inflamed eye (i.e. it was too hot). But to me that sounds like the vet did what they were asked to do. Plenty of other dogs were running around the ring that day and passed examination. I don't think it is fair to ask a vet to get up there and enforce an agreed set of requirements, and then criticise them for doing exactly that. Hard to argue that an inflamed eye is not a significant health issue. I don't know much about ectropian or 'haw', but again surely saggy eyelids are unhealthy for a gundog. This is exactly the kind of issue all the fuss has been about. A breed standard apparently allows for an unhealthy 'defect' to be allowed in breed winners. Which raises a moral question about whether that standard should be updated to reflect a healthy set of requirements for the breed. If that wasn't sorted out clearly enough before this year's Crufts, then you can bet your bottom dollar it will be ultra-clear before the next Crufts.

That's cool I didn't mean to be abrupt. I guess I was reading it in the context of my own older dog, who has been known to get jealous and protective. A tug would be the kind of thing that would make her anxious, and likely to react. I sought some advice recently from a behaviourist after this ended badly for her with a rescue dog we tried to bring home a few months ago - she needed 2 surgeries to recovery from injuries she sustained from him. He had to go back to the shelter, and we have very carefully introduced her to a puppy since then (they get along well thank goodness). We have learnt a lot about the triggers to avoid - luckily she is past the touchy stage with him now. If in this case it's just fun play time that's a bit too boisterous, then that's a different thing and yes in that situation a tug might be an ok game to play. Depends on the 2 dogs really. The OP will need to judge what is safe and what is not. If either of the dogs has a tendency to get grumpy then I would suggest no tugging with either of them in front of the other.

Obviously try everything else first. I did - but in the end with my older girl did end up using a good quality collar which I bought online. It worked very well and very quickly. She was quiet within a week - I would never have thought this possible. But unfortunately in the years before I was willing to give it a try her barking had done some fairly serious damage to our relationship with one of our neighbours. Looking back, we should have done it sooner. Most of her barking was while we were at work during the day. We were able to manage her barking when home, and she slept inside so no barking at night. I didn't realise how bad it really was until I was home for a month recovering from some surgery. She was barking every time someone walked past the house, even though she was in the back yard and about 20metres from the front of the house. That was when the penny dropped for me but even then I was reluctant to use a collar for a while. Now - new house, new neighbours and our lovely old dog still hasn't resumed her barking which is wonderful. She wore the collar for a few weeks initially, then once or twice as a reminder for a day or so since then - in total she's worn it for less than 2 weeks. It spends its time locked in a cupboard and will come out again if needed. We also have a young puppy and I will not let things go that far again. Luckily, so far no barking issues with this one. Goes without saying (I hope) that we also do lots of training and exercise and the dogs get bones and things to do. So hopefully we are addressing any underlying issues that would make it hard for them to control the urge to bark.

Then he shouldn't have been in the ring in the first place. What were they thinking? I think this is a good move by the KC. Exhibitors will think hard about health issues in future years - and check their dogs before entry to avoid embarassment. Judges will also be looking hard before awarding BOB. Two things - I would have thought the RUBOB could have been put up for a vet exam if the BOB failed. That seems a shame, and perhaps something that can be fixed. The whole breed should not suffer because of one dog. But in terms of the accusations that the vet made a political decision - come on be serious. Of course he/she has been accused of that! Anyone disqualified is likely to start throwing stones. That does not mean there is any legitimacy to it, it just means some people are upset and trying to blame others. I also don't think there would be any legitimate grounds to sue so long as the vet examined for the issues consistent with what was flagged with the exhibitors prior to showing. They knew the rules, they chose to enter, the rules were followed. They would be happy to take the big boost to reputation if their dog won. They need to also be willing to accept any reputation issues if the vet check identifies a problem. They have given their permission for this to be done, when they entered their dogs.

http://www.youtube.com/crufts then click 'feed'

I would not suggest playing tug with the pup in front of the older dog, given the behaviour you are describing. It could trigger a less-than-desirable response from your older dog. I would stick with calm interaction under supervision, and separate the rest of the time when you can't be supervising closely.

Here: http://www.youtube.com/crufts

Just to compound the problem - having had a breed you really like - how on earth could you never have another one once they've gone? So the list never shrinks - it just goes on and on :)

love it!

OK a little baby brag - nothing on the scale you are all working at. My new little boy Pasha passed Class 1 at obedience this morning. He is working so happily and is making my job so easy at present. He is only 16 weeks old. Just past the puppy biting phase but not yet in the adolescent phase - so for the moment at least he is my little angel. :) Except when he's trying to pinch sheets from the clothes line. I am finding it so much easier teaching the basics to him after teaching Zamba for all those years. At least this time I'm teaching him the right things (I hope). With Zamba I spent years teaching her the wrong things and then years trying to un-teach them.

English Springer Welsh Springer English Setter All will need plenty of exercise, but it sounds like they are up to that

Good plan! And good luck

Sorry it's just that all the breeds I can think of as being great with young kids are either small, or need lots of exercise. For example an English Springer Spaniel. I think these dogs are great for families, and such a nice size. And they look great and suit people who like the look of 'real dog' type dogs. But they do need a fair bit of exercise, so considering one of these dogs would mean making a decision to change their expectations re how much time they will spend with the dog. I can understand why they would currently be thinking the dog would only come inside while the little girl is napping. I would hope, though, that over time and with the right dog they would come around to allowing some (supervised) interaction. The other dog that is coming to my mind is a Boston Terrier - but I don't see them as a breed that would sleep alone outside. I hope they are able to sort something out, and reach a compromise re the inside/outside thing and finding some time to dedicate to training the dog. I have to say that with a toddler and a new baby coming sometime soon, this will take a real commitment on their part because they will be tired. So I really do think they need to think hard before making a decision re whether now is the right time. It certainly can work if they're keen and willing to make adjustments, but if they are not wanting to make those compromises then perhaps deep down they are not ready for this step just yet.

Difficult to make a suggestion, particularly given the age of their daughter. I would also suggest they consider a smaller dog. It may also be a good idea for them to consider waiting a little longer (e.g. until she is 3 or so?) I also think it might be worth them thinking through the idea of allowing the dog inside, and using a crate to provide a safe way to manage things. Beyond all that - what kinds of dogs do they like? Are there a few breeds they currently like the look of? That might give us a bit more to go on. No point suggesting a bichon frise to a family that likes brachy breeds, etc ETA: I didn't interpret the original post as meaning that if the weather wasn't fine, there would be no contact with the dog. Obviously that would not be a realistic expectation for them to go in with.

Sorry just saw this. Some fencing but not completely fenced in. But a huge oval so loads of room. Your dog would train on leash until you have really good off-leash control. There are several instructors who offer a range of approaches and methods. I would suggest if interested go along and look and see what you think.

Border Terrier? But perhaps a bit more drive than you are seeking (but very cool, fun dogs) I've had a bichon and he would be great but it depends how much grooming you're comfortable with. Perhaps a bit on the small side for an active family? My boy didn't really appreciate small children - preferred to keep his distance. Never snapped, but preferred the company of adults.

Haha what an ultra-athletic Pharaoh Hound you have there! :) Kenya is gorgeous, the bag is brilliant (love that photo) and yep the cat definitely looks miffed ETA: - ah now there is a pic of him running so he does get off the bed sometimes :)

Yes - definitely get a crate! Many reasons why I will always have one for my dogs from now on (I introduced it to my 2 dogs when they were approx 8 years old - 1 died last year at age 13, the other still happily using hers and our new puppy has his own crate and loves it) - makes toilet training sooooo much easier - keeps them safe at night and for short spells during the day - encourages some quiet time when you choose it to be so - keeps them safe when your friends bring their little kiddies over - keeps them safe when you have a party or BBQ in the backyard (and people are coming and going via the side gate all day) - gives them somewhere safe to sleep after surgery etc. when the vet says to keep them quiet while stitches heal etc. - allows you to separate your pets easily if needed (e.g. when one is sick or injured) - makes it less distressing for your dog if/when they eventually need to spend some time at the vet (which will def. be in a crate) - gives you the option of a camping crate/travel crate etc. so makes it much easier and safer to travel with your dog

Don't get a poodle if you don't intend doing much grooming (and that includes plucking hair from their ears) Don't get a poodle if you can't stand a dog that barks and jumps up (trainable - but nevertheless an issue for many) Don't get a poodle if you don't enjoy walking Don't get a poodle if you don't like playing games with your dog Don't get a poodle if you're a push-over (they're very smart and will be running your life before you know it) Don't get a poodle if you're the kind of person who needs a lot of time alone Don't get a poodle if you really want a baby, not a dog (none of this itsy bitsy poochy woochy stuff - they are smart dogs that thrive on work) But do get a poodle if: you like a dog that comes when called - and with gusto! you like a dog that trains well (is both easy and fun to train) you like a dog that doesn't shed you like small dogs, or medium sized dogs, or big dogs (there's a poodle size to suit everyone) you like a dog that enjoys being physically close to you you like a dog that really, really likes you And don't worry too much about that funny curly haired look. It grows on you. Permanently. :)

What kind of training would you like to do? Dover Gardens Dog Club is out that way, and quite good for obedience. It is located not far from the intersection of Marion Road and Daws Road (I think that's right) Agility Dog Club of SA is at West Beach, and great for agility training.

Nope. Can't stand it. Sorry everyone! My husband calls me their Mum when he is trying to get on my nerves though. :)

Not sure if the OP is still watching this thread, but just in case you are, my experience as follows: I have been attacked by a big dog once. He was a boxer (not big in your estimation I suspect, but he was at least 40-45 kg so a big boxer). His owners (my aunt and uncle) had wanted a strong dog who could defend their property. Unfortunately they did not have the knowledge/experience necessary to raise a dog that would do that but still be responsive to their commands. When he attacked me (inside their house - with no warning at all) they were unable to get him off me for some time. Eventually someone got some chains from the shed to drag him off. He spent years watching me whenever I had to come over, and made very clear to all of us he would like to finish the job if given a chance. They had encouraged him in his anti-social and aggressive responses from a very young puppy. No one was supposed to pat him. If they tried, they would tell them off. If he growled, he was told good boy. They didn't realise where it was heading (although it sounds obvious now). I was not the first person he attacked. The first person was my uncle's mother, who was swiftly taken off to hospital with some awful lacerations to her arms. I was the second that I know of, a few months later - also off to hospital with multiple punctures on my arms and a badly torn hand from where I had tried to fend him off. Lots of other small attacks that I know of. My cousin was the last of them. The dog had grown up with him - by this stage my cousin was a grown man. Off to hospital again - more stitches. This dog spent most of his 10 years tied securely by a chain to stop him from killing someone. My aunt (who had the responsibility of caring for him after my uncle walked out) had to be constantly on alert. But he was a lovely dog around the house with her, and as far as I am aware never hurt her. He eventually died of cancer. With that in my mind, I would say a few things: 1. From your earlier posts, I think it is likely that you have encouraged strong, dominant and aggressive behaviour in your dog/s, because you admire strong types of dogs. I suspect you enjoy a bit of rough play etc., and you have been willing to accept food aggression (no doubt in the hope it would go away). I understand how easy it is to overlook these early signs (I have a dog aggressive dog at home - I am also guilty of this). But it's risky, and can lead to situations that are hard to control. Dogs that are trained to guard by experts are very, very carefully trained to STOP attacking on cue by the handler. In that sense it is not true aggression that is being taught. I don't think a novice can do this, as you have discovered. Don't kid yourself - if you keep the NEO you need to be training it to be a placid reliable dog and forget all about having it guard you and your home. Too dangerous - for him and for you. You would need to be completely consistent. Only Mark will know if this is possible at this late stage. 2. Both dogs are young and are likely to become more pushy with age - the Neo in particular by the sounds of things. Big commitment on your part to decide to keep both dogs and always keep them separate. Not something I would do actually - I think it will be stressful for you and risky for both dogs. Think long and hard before making this decision. It compromises the daily lives of all of you. Perhaps you can make that work, but it certainly won't be easy. In some cases, it can be more humane to put an aggressive dog to sleep in my view. Depends entirely on the situation of course. 3. As you now know, dog fights are incredibly stressful and it can be hard to know how you will react when confronted with a situation like that. I am personally nursing my own 13yo dog back to health currently after she was badly injured by a pound dog we tried to rehome. He had to go back to the pound - it was too dangerous for her. Don't rush your decision now. Just because you love the look and style of a Neo doesn't mean this is the right Neo for you. You may be better off in the long run getting a puppy you can raise from scratch to be a good dog. Hoping you have some quieter days ahead.

This has been an interesting thread. I've only read bits of it but am just starting to teach my new puppy to tug. He enjoys it. At 13 weeks his tugging is not overly strong, but he is enthusiastic which is a start. Food is top of his motivational wish-list though - and he is very happy at this stage to give his toy up for even the most unexciting of tidbits (dry dog food in this case). He's growing very fast at the moment, and seems to place food above all things. Which is fine, because I'm happy to train with food as well. I just need to keep the nicer, juicier food out of the way when I want him to tug. He also likes to 'help' me get clothes off the line, but I am discouraging this. I had a dog once who ate hundreds and hundreds of dollars of clothes off the line. Hoping not to repeat that experience.