Network Links:


Owner Guides:


Behavior Articles:

- All About Cats and Dogs

- AnimalBehaviorOnline.com

- Canine Behavior Q&A

- Pack Dynamics

- Understanding & Modifying

Chinese Shar-pei History:

- AKC Standard

- Shar-pei Club Hong Kong

- Molosser Breeds

- Tang Dogs

Pet Listings:

- Adopt a Pet

- PetFinder

- PetHarbor

Shar-pei Vet Experts:

- Dr. Jeff Vidt

- Dr. Linda Tintle

- Other Vets

Training Experts:

- Cesar Millan Inc.

- Karen Pryor

- Victoria Stillwell



TRAINING A SHAR-PEI:

As standard policy, we only endorse positive behavior modification for training purposes of all animals, but most essentially with any rescued Shar-pei, especially those that were not given proper socializing and/or care prior to their surrender. For best results, dogs with pending health problems must be treated prior to beginning training. PLEASE NOTE: owners of dominant dogs will also need to first establish alpha leadership before they can successfully achieve common training goals where the dog has to relinquish leadership (i.e. stop pulling on leash and/or any of the submissive commands). We often use water squirt bottles to deter unwanted behaviors, both indoor and on walks.

In general, Shar-pei will need both mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis for the rest of their lives. Whether it be daily walks or organized sports, they can be best described as sensitive canines that benefit from both a disciplined and challenging lifestyle. Owners must learn to accept the limitations and expectations of their canine breed, as there are no 100% guarantees or perfect solutions for every scenario or lifestyle. Dogs are not like humans and cannot be expected to rationalize or think in any way other than what their species has genetically developed them to do.

Luckily, most behavior problems can be overcome with the proper motivation and insight, as long as the human owner is also willing to accept responsibility and learn from their mistakes as well. Best of all, your dog still loves you and is always willing to try again!!! Once you learn how your canine communicates and learns; what their signs and body language mean, most owners find that training actually will become quite simple in comparison to what you may be dealing with now.

Training Tips for you and your Pet

  1. Bonding with your pet results in a quicker, more responsive training reaction. Despite some dog trainers' disrespect for more independent personalities, it's not a matter of intelligence that makes certain breeds harder to train, but the avenue in which you choose to communicate with your pet. In other words, you must speak with a voice and body language they understand, or you won't ever accomplish training.

  2. Every adult dog has been genetically given temperament traits of dominance, submission, and independence, which may be modified by training but never completely removed. You must learn to respect your dog's given genetics and use the suggested behavior modification techniques to overcome undesirable traits or behaviors.

  3. The most important aspects to successful training are focused on getting the dog's full attention and consistently responding to its unwanted behavior. Therefore, we consider it essential for beginners to work in controlled environments in order reach these goals. We highly suggest novice trainers attend organized obedience classes, which are usually provided by local dog training clubs or businesses. Most dog breeds also benefit from the added socializing, with people and other animals, plus the support that builds self-confidence for you and your pet.

  4. Don't forget to have fun!!! I can't tell you the number of times I've come across unhappy, frustrated owners training equally unhappy pets. We all want to see timely results when working with our pets, but if your pets can't find enjoyment and positive social interaction from the training process, they will not respond to the training method. Keep your voice and attitude positive, making a point to praise correct behavior.
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