admin June 19th, 2008
We are having some issues with our French Bull pup we got last month.
We admit we didn’t do the best research in buying her from a pet store but
as soon as we saw her little face in the window we were smitten. I just
couldn’t leave her sitting there.
Leticia has had some issues since we adopted her. She is very, very hyper
active. We walk her in the morning, then our pet sitter comes in mid morning
and mid afternoon. We walk her twice more in the evening. You would think
this would be enough but no! She runs around the house like a mad dog
all evening between walks. She rarely sits still. As well she has chewed up
several items including a carpet, a chair and some shoes. She is very clean
in the house however, which is a surprise as we were told Frenchies can be
dirty. We did not expect the chewing but I guess its better than peeing on
everything.
We have been told that Leticia’s problems are likely being caused by her
food, in much the same way that some children become hyperactive from
diet. We switched her from soft canned food to a very good organic kibble.
This didn’t change anything. We have now put her on a grain free diet.
Would putting her on raw help, do you think? I think raw meaty bones
would give her something safe to chew on. My partner says the idea of
her carrying raw bones all over the place is repulsive. I think better
repulsive than chewed up furniture. Help!
Also we think that she had some trauma before she arrived at the pet
store. How do we find that out for sure?
Hope writes:
Congratulations on the new puppy! It sounds like you have a dynamic bundle of fun in your life - one that needs a little focus for her energy! Although it may be a food issue, it sounds more like a very normal, active puppy!
Puppies are very time-intensive, as you’ve discovered. They are selfish creatures, wanting all of your time and attention. Most puppy training involves teaching them appropriate behavior, the rules of the house, and emotional control.
In addition to walks, Leticia needs playtime! Walking is excellent for socialization and exercise, but she needs to interact directly with both of you. Set a timer for about 10 minutes, pull out a “special” toy she sees only during this time, and play tug, play fetch, wrestle with her - have fun! When the timer goes off, say “that’s all” happily, put the toy back up on a shelf. Let her get a drink of water and take her for a “potty” break.
When you come back inside, it’s time to “chill.” The exercise is called “Sit and Accept Praise” and describes it exactly. Tell Leticia it’s time to “relax” or “chill” - use any word you want. Sit with her on the couch (or on the floor if she’s not allowed on the furniture). She should be at your side, sitting or lying down. If she doesn’t want to stay, tuck her between your arm and your body and keep her in place. Talk to her calmly, pet her, and give her an occasional treat when she’s quiet. Do this for at least a couple of minutes and build up the time. She has to learn to sit quietly with her family and relax.
At first she may fuss - trying to escape or chew on your fingers. Just say “eh” and keep her in place. She gets lots of praise for even a momentary lull in the activity.
A couple of “chilling” sessions a day aren’t too much to ask of her. Letitia needs to learn how to control herself - this will help.
As for chewing - it’s the number one lesson people have to learn. If you’re not actively watching your puppy, she should be in the crate. She should have no opportunity for inappropriate chewing because you are there watching her. When she reaches for something you don’t want her to chew on - trade her for a dog-appropriate chewie.
The key to puppy training is to be in control. Dogs don’t get into trouble when they’re being watched, or safe in their crates.
-Hope
Tags: behavioral issues, food, French Bulldog, French Bulldog Training, Frenchie, hyperactive, pup, puppy, trainer
