Adopting A Labrador Retriever From The Animal Shelter (5): How To Handle The Ultra-Exuberant Lab
For those ultra-exuberant Labs who have
trouble controlling themselves from jumping on people, even after being taught
the “sit” and “off” commands, a harness and leash in the house can help
immensely.
Put the harness and leash on, then sit in a chair and put your foot on the leash so there's only enough slack for the dog to stand up or sit, but not to jump up. This way you aren't jerking the dog around or punishing it, and if the dog starts to jump up, it can't. Just make sure the leash is firmly under your feet with a wide enough base so you don't get pulled off the chair!
Although the harness is a way to manage
jumping behavior it must be coupled with teaching the sit command with lots of
positive reinforcement. This will keep your Lab from performing the behavior
you don't want, while teaching it the behavior you do want. You want to
physically prevent them from jumping up, then immediately train them to sit
with a big reward.
A headcollar, which fits over the muzzle
(similar to a horse halter), is another option for over-exuberant Labs,
especially those that pull on a leash. Many dog trainers are great fans of the
headcollar for over-excited dogs. It's a fabulous management tool.
Use it in the house or on walks while your
dog is learning how to walk on leash, so you aren't getting your arm yanked out
of its socket. Also, headcollars can help potential adopters to recognize that
they can handle that 75-pound, full-grown Labrador Retriever.
They Come In Yellow, Black, And Chocolate
Don't Give Up!
Most importantly, all new owners of adopted
Labs are urged not to give up on their rambunctious buddies. There is a light
at the end of the tunnel for these dogs. Work with them every day that you can.
Provide as much time needed to get them domesticated to your needs and the
needs of the family.
Seek out a qualified, positive trainer, and
get the help you need. Particularly good would be a trainer that has experience
with training adolescent and adult dogs.
Be patient, consistent and understanding,
and one day the Labrador fairy will raise her magic wand and sprinkle her magic
dust over your Lab. Suddenly, you'll realize that your hyperactive shelter Lab
has become a really great, respectable, and well-trained family pet, one that
your neighbors will be envious of.
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