Hector
Well-Known Member
Cane was never food motivated.
ice cream
Cane was never food motivated.
ice cream
That's interesting, Leia is the least food motivated dog I've ever owned. I've tried a whole bunch of high value treats and while the best ones will get her to eat in the street (kibble, dog treats will be ignored even when placed in her mouth) they don't generate much excitement.
Basically looking for experience from others on how they taught their pup to distinguish threats from non threats. To take cues from you. I want to make sure that I can take Leia out on walks and that she will recognize when she needs to intimidate or defend and when she doesn't.
So far she is ok with being petted by strangers as long as I'm holding her or petting her myself. If I'm not actually touching her she'll try to avoid them and retreat to sit next to my leg.
Yes, sort of, she reacts positively but there isn't much excitement. More of calm con tentmentIf she doesn't seem interested in food, is she interested in praise?
I agree with about focusing on obedience.I think some dogs are naturally good at distinguishing threats. Some will react to everything because they are a bag of nerves. Some dogs have a temperament suited for protection work so you can actually train them to turn on or off. Some dogs can be trained through basic obedience and will learn from day to day such as told when to react (encouraged and praised by the owner), when to stop, etc, but it's all too young. I think the focus should be building a solid foundation of obedience and good listening skills.
The thing is she's gone from seeking affection from strangers (first month or so) to that avoiding and now (in about 3 days) to actually taking a few steps forward , turning her body 45 degrees or so and baring her teeth. So far a simple come or name call snaps her out of it.Retreating from strangers and sitting by your leg is the dog's way of saying she is uncomfortable with the situation and is asking for your help,
Liz, they are wonderful dogs, as long as you understand them. I envy you, more than likely you saw what a real Fila is. Most Fila these days are nothing close to what we romanticize about. No matter what "club" you buy it from. Obedience training is the key, not getting them to let people pet them. That just creates a neurotic dog. Goes against their genetics. Would love to her more about your adventure.