I list some common problems and some possible solutions for a number of reasons.

First off, there are many training choices out there, and you should pick a training program that fits your own logical viewpoints.  I know many methods I am not willing to apply or would choose other methods which simply are more efficient.

These items are not going to solve your problems but they can help you see the direction we travel in seeking solutions to them.

I list many of my Northern NJ dog training competitors here for your convenience.  Their placement does not mean I highly recommend them, and some would not recommend me.  :)

Still, dogs need training and these are reputable trainers with a wide range of methods...  Northern NJ Dog Trainers and Pet Professionals

But remember, free advice is worth about what it costs! 

In the spirit of more clearly sting my opinions which lead to the solutions I choose, please read this article.  I agree with it 95% and have long taught this as my opinion.

For me, recognition came during the 90s that dogs that were considered aggressive and or labeled as dominant / pack leaders often demonstrated stress / fear reactions in new settings. This conflicted with their "label" as dominant. 

My conclusion remains that dogs who show significant stress and fear in some or many situations can not be properly trained until their baseline stress is reduced.  Being nice and using treats is a decent start, add quality management tricks of the trade and more intensive training for your pet's best chances at a happy, healthy life.

Efforts to assert oneself in areas where problems occurred have a net increase in general stress.  Calm, trust-deserving responses - even in emotion charged moments - result in a calmer baseline in the long run.

It is not my opinion that all dog problems can be solved via kindness, for example, my dog fence work causes stress intentionally, which we work to aim at the fence flag line initially.  Dogs that enjoy their yards but do not trust the yard edge can enjoy far better lives for this early "unpleasant" experience.

Puppy Housetraining

Aggression

Jumping up

Separation Anxiety

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About Rich:

Rich combines his degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with over 25 years in the animal behavior field.

Rich has been an Associate member of the Morris County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for over 10 years and was awarded a lifetime membership to the Animal Protection Society (APS) in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Says Rich

"Dog training or behavior modification is a very personal thing.

I offer an eclectic range of choices for training and behavior modification with a personal preference for clicker training.  This reward based training tool offers a knowledge base most adults were not taught about animal behavior, a way to challenge pets intellectually.

Building successes upon successes (by incrementally challenging your pet to higher expectations) we build confidence and trust.  Pets love it, of course.

But again, more than just the pets, most adults have not been taught how to mark "right" behavior choices and accelerate them through patterns which turn into habits."

When reward based training does not yield the desired results, Rich is still versed in the more traditional obedience training and can provide a mixed program to lay a great gentle foundation, but still create safe, off-leash trained outcomes.

"Since training is such a personal choice, I always acknowledge that we are surrounded by some excellent training programs, and recommend a review before you choose a trainer.  A great method which is not accepted by the household will not help that family. Find a good fit first."

Current training price is $400 for a four lesson set at our training center on RT 10 in Randolph. In home rates are significantly higher, and based on time and distance.

Rich also offers (on a limited basis) a friendly version of the 'ol boot camp training, where your dog stays with us and lives + plays with other dogs and cats each day while undergoing intensive basic training.

One fun goal for pet owners is to pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen test.  The purpose of the Canine Good Citizen Test is to ensure that our pets can be respectful and respected members of our community. This test of your dog's manners and training is not a competition and does not require that you and your dog perform with precision.

The American Kennel Club urges all dog owners to participate in this program, thereby assuring that our beloved dogs will always be welcome and respected members of the community.

These are foundation basics for the test:

DEMONSTRATING CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL, THE DOG MUST COMPLETE THESE 10 STEPS:

TEST 1: ACCEPTING A FRIENDLY STRANGER
TEST 2: SITTING POLITELY FOR PETTING
TEST 3: APPEARANCE AND GROOMING
TEST 4: OUT FOR A WALK ON A LOOSE LEASH
TEST 5: WALKING THROUGH A CROWD
TEST 6: SIT AND DOWN ON COMMAND - STAYING IN PLACE
TEST 7: COMING WHEN CALLED
TEST 8: REACTION TO ANOTHER DOG
TEST 9: REACTION TO DISTRACTIONS
TEST 10: SUPERVISED SEPARATION FROM THE OWNER