Solving Behavior Problems in Your English Mastiff Dog

Mastiff dogs are not mean dogs; however, they are huge and imposing. If they are not properly trained at an early age they will quickly figure out that their size gives them control. This can lead to some behavior problems in your English Mastiff dog. The following are suggestions to solving some behavioral problems in Mastiffs.

Aggression

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Aggression can be a problem with Mastiffs. Since they often outweigh their owners they can be found pushing ahead of people, shoving people out of their way, refusing to get off furniture, or guarding food and toys.

To prevent aggressive behavior you must take control and not allow it. For instance, if your Mastiff pushes ahead of you through doorways, teach him to sit at the doorway until you give the signal to come. Instead of retreating when your dog shoves you, push him back, invading his space. Your actions will teach your dog that you are in control. Never be cruel to your pet. You can use a distraction such as a toy or treat to lure him when he is misbehaving- such as refusing to get off the sofa. Always reward good behavior. Spaying or neutering can also reduce aggressive behavior.

Excessive Barking

If your English Mastiff dog has a problem with excessive barking you need to determine why because this is not a common problem in Mastiff dogs. It could be that your dog is bored or lonely. Be sure that you spend plenty of time with your with your dog and that he has toys and play time.

To deter your dog from barking you can wrap you hand around his muzzle and say "Quiet" or "No Barking." Be sure to praise him when he quiets down. You can use what is called a "shake can" to discourage barking. When your dog barks, take a soda can with a few pennies or pebbles in it (taped shut), and throw it in the direction of your pet. Don't hit him with it. The idea is that the noise with startle your dog and so he stops barking. Then, again, praise him for being quiet.

Chewing

Like many other breeds, Mastiffs love to chew on anything and everything. This habit needs to be controlled from the beginning. Providing appropriate chew toys while he young is very helpful. Keep valuable items out of reach of your Mastiff and be sure to rotate the chew toys so your dog won't get bored.

If you see your English Mastiff chewing on something he shouldn't, take the object away and replace it with an acceptable toy to chew on. Praise him for chewing on the appropriate item. Be diligent and observant.

Jumping Up

Most people view their pet jumping up as a welcome. However, this thinking is incorrect. Jumping up is a sign of dominant behavior and should be discouraged, especially in giant breeds such as Mastiffs. Teach your puppy that sitting will be rewarded with attention, but jumping up will be ignored. If your Mastiff tries to jump up on you, step back or turn aside so that no contact is made. Then tell him to sit and praise him when he obeys the command.

Shyness

A common problem among Mastiffs is shyness. Shyness can be an inborn condition or it can develop due to lack of socialization. Socialization is one of the most critical aspects of owning a Mastiff. It can be quite difficult to take your dog to the vet, or go on a trip with him if prefers to stay at home and only wants to interact with the family. Take your puppy out as often as possible. Allow your dog to meet people in different places. You can help him get used to other dogs and pets by regularly walking him at a dog park.

These are a few solutions to some of the behavioral problems you can encounter with your English Mastiff dog. Training should start at an early age and this will help to eliminate future problems. If you have severe behavior problems with your dog you might want to get the advice of his veterinarian or see a specialist.

Solving Behavior Problems in Your English Mastiff Dog

Sam Daniels is a dog trainer and enthusiast. Learn more through his extensive Mastiff Care Secrets course free of charge. It is jam-packed full of must-have information for Mastiff owners and those looking for English Mastiffs - http://www.yourmastiffandyou.com/the-english-mastiff-breed.html

Sam Daniels is a dog trainer and enthusiast with an extensive Mastiff Care Secrets course jam-packed full of must-have information for Mastiff owners and those looking for English Mastiff.

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Should I Buy An English Bulldog?

Buying an English Bulldog is not just buying a puppy. While all puppies require an investment of time and money, the bulldog can require more of both. Many of the traits we love in bulldogs contribute to medical problems. The bulldog's independent and somewhat stubborn nature will likely make training more difficult. If you just want a dog, then an English Bulldog is not for you.

Rescuing a dog from the pound might cost a couple of hundred dollars for spaying or neutering and necessary shots. There is little doubt you will love your puppy regardless of ancestry; which will probably be unknown. In this circumstance you have a dog with only a small investment.

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But if your heart is set on an English Bulldog then prepare for a longer and much more expensive process. It is important to research breeders in order to make certain your future bulldog doesn't come from a puppy mill. After locating a reputable breeder, hopefully relatively close to home, it is a good idea to take a trip to their location.

A close inspection of the breeder's facilities and a look at both the female and male bulldogs is essential. It won't hurt to review the medical records of both dogs that either are, or are to be, the parents of your bulldog. You will want to know how often the females are bred; every other year may be best. Of course checking with other customers who have purchased bulldogs from the breeder is also a very good idea.

Instead of a couple of hundred dollars, an English Bulldog will likely cost a couple of thousand dollars. Prices for a purebred English Bulldog can range from a thousand dollars to well over three thousand. Of course the price is merely a down payment. That is true because of veterinary costs you could incur.

Let me provide you with the story of my current English Bulldog. He first had surgery to remove lashes which were growing into his eyes. At the same time he had soft palate surgery to make it easier for him to breath. All English Bulldogs are subject to breathing problems due to their physical structure.

Later he had knee surgery and emergency eye surgery for an ulcer. These medical costs ran into the thousands. We paid one thousand five hundred dollars for the dog and have close to five thousand dollars in his medical expenses.

Bulldogs often require special diets which means you can't buy just any food for them. They also frequently have skin and allergy problems. Even the healthiest bulldog will require more attention than the average dog. For example, their wrinkles have to be cleaned on a regular basis since they are subject to yeast infections.

An English Bulldog is a loyal companion good with both children and adults. They quickly become family members and you will truly love your bulldog. Bulldogs don't generally require a great deal of exercise. Playing with them for a few minutes several times a day is enough. Walks are never too long and definitely not in hot weather. Bulldogs make you, and everyone who sees them, smile.

If you can provide the care and time needed, than an English Bulldog is definitely for you. However, if there are doubts about your ability to properly care for one, please consider another pet.

Should I Buy An English Bulldog?

Jack Kean is the proud owner of an English Bulldog, his second. For more information on the care and training of your dog Click Here. Jack's web site, Dog Supplies and Training, also has great savings on dog related products and a page devoted to English Bulldogs. See pictures of Jack's bulldog. Does a flushable doggie poop bag sound like a good idea? Check out Dog Supplies and Training for all of this and more.

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