Tag: dog training

  • My Best Gal

    I have never experienced anything quite like Tootsie. Saying she wants to play all the time, while true, misses the point. It’s not about playing so much as having my attention. Adjusting has been a challenge. She tap-dances on my last nerve–a lot. A failure to communicate is often the problem. Working with the trainer…

  • No More “No”

    When the dog training company mentioned in the previous post visited, I was surprised to learn they employed shock collars. I don’t know much about the devices, but the idea horrifies me–especially for a sweet little dog like Tootsie. The trainers reassured me. I finally agreed. Doubts plagued me. Feedback from friends was mixed, but…

  • Troubles with Tootsie

    No doubt, many of you saw it coming. My 10-month-old, eleven pound chi-weenie pup and I have some relationship issues. She’s crossed more than one red line. Something has to give. We’ve been together pretty much 24/7 since I brought her home last August. She believes my sole purpose is to play with her. Everything…

  • Me and My Gal

    We got puppies twice when I was growing up. Poochy came from the pound, known today as an animal shelter. Amelia came to us after a neighbor’s dog got knocked up. Neither dog lasted more than six months. No, they didn’t die. Things just didn’t work out. When I moved out on my own, I…

  • A Puppy Primer

    A high school friend of mine just got her very first puppy. Judging from her Facebook posts, she’s already head over heels in love with the pup and perhaps a tad bit overwhelmed. I can so relate. Especially if you’ve never raised a child (the ultimate commitment), taking on a puppy is a big responsibility.…