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Willow/Atlas update

Willowsmommy

Well-Known Member
So Willow has expressed her jealousy, she takes Atlas's toys b right from his mouth, pushes him out of the way when he comes to say hi and she has now decided that listening is an option. On the opposite side of the coin, she gets along with Atlas, plays with him very well and if he ever wimpers she's right there to make sure he's OK.

Atlas is no longer biting as hard as he was durning play with Willow. We bought him a special bowl that forces him to eat his food slower. He also has realized that I will not set his food down until he stops jumping and then sits. He's learned sit and “no no. †He's working really hard with house training though still makes a mistake on occasion. We've also crate trained him, which I find is good when Willow wants to play and Atlas needs a nap. Keeping him on a leash while in the house and putting him on the run to go potty has also been very helpful training wise.

My concern, Willow is becoming more and more stubborn, not listening to simple commands, recently sticking her head in the trash after she figured out how to step on the pedal to open the lid, really? Lol. She didn't eat anything out of it, just put her head in. Weirdo lol. Because of this stubbornness, I've been much more strict with her. She still gets the same amount of attention, she also gets one on one time with me, like she's always had. I sit on the floor with her, brush her, put the mushers secret on her paws (which she loves). I do all this when Atlas is down for one of many naps. In not treating her differently. So whats the deal with sudden behavior change? I've never had the ability to have 2 dogs but with Mikes new job as an insurance rep we can financially handle having this second pup. I just didn't know what to expect behavior wise with Willow. It's definitely thrown me for a loop.
 

NeSaxena

Well-Known Member
Can't be much help, sorry... I know others will chime in soon with suggestions... I hope it gets better soon :)

Mods: Can we move this thread to behavior?
 

musicdeb

Well-Known Member
How old is Willow? I would return back to basics with her, meaning OB training. Adopt NILF, nothing in life is free.
 

musicdeb

Well-Known Member
Willow appears to be in the teenage stage which will probably last another month or so. Return to basics and adopt NILF. When you become frustrated, walk away and take deep breaths. Return with shoulders back to show confidence and continue the training. Teach Willow what you want her to do and reward with motivational treats.

One of the mods will move the thread.
 

DennasMom

Well-Known Member
I'm not going to be much help, either...

But, even though you're treating her the same, her life is not the same. The pack order has been interrupted, and it will take time to settle in to the "new normal" of doing things. Her behavior could also be how she's dealing with the stress of these new changes and unknowns. A NILF program should help her get back on track. Be sure you're generous with praise and treats when she's doing something good, too.
 

cinnamon roll

Super Moderator
Super Moderator
I agree with this. But I would add going back to using a house leash until she remembers her manners and her ears begin working again

How old is Willow? I would return back to basics with her, meaning OB training. Adopt NILF, nothing in life is free.
 

musicdeb

Well-Known Member
Probably cause you are out of the horrible teenage stage!! lol The house leash is my BFF again
Sure, we'll go with that. I think it's because I have like a "duh" moment about the leash. That's right, you're in the middle of the teenage stage. How many bottles have you gone through?
 

Mooshi's Mummy

Well-Known Member
Imo willow is feeling a little bit unsure about where she stands in the order of things and needs to be reminded that you lead the way. You make the rules for everyone and she too is expected to follow them. This will reassure her and make her feel secure and know that she doesn't have anything to worry about with the latest changes. Yes you still love her but like a child with a new baby there has to be boundaries and rules. The first child or dog in this case can't be allowed to have temper tantrums or unruly behaviour. Dogs need security and rules. Spending time with just willow is really important but she can't be allowed to be naughty either. It's a fine line between making her feel secure and not put out and making sure she remembers her manners. She is also at the age of being a teenager and needing extra time and reminders of the rules of the house. Lots of hard work ahead of you I'm afraid. And next it will be the puppies turn to become a stroppy teenager. Lucky you. Lol
 

Willowsmommy

Well-Known Member
Thank you Mooshis mom. That all makes sense. I appreciate your feed back and the feed back from everyone else as well. Thank you all. Should I prong collar Willow? I haven't tried them ever. Just the looks of them make me nervous. I've been making her work for her food and treats and mommy time. Seems to be helping so far. She gets upset when things she expects aren't given right away.

Now to curb Atlas' new bad habit of eating his own poop, yuck. Unseasoned meat tenderizer here I come lol.
 
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