Question:How can I get him to stop? ( Maybe he doesn't like me)
Answers:
First of all, eliminate all chances for the lab to run off - there should be no open doors or fences that the lab can jump. Each time the dog gets to run, it gets positive reinforcement for running - excitement, running, new smells, etc - you have to cut off the cycle of positive reinforcement by eliminating the opportunity.
Second, work on *all* forms of positive obedience training with your dog. The more your new pet regards you as the go-to person for treats, petting, hugs, etc. for good behavior, the more the dog will want to find new ways to please you. Most importantly, teach the dog "no," "wait," "come" and "leave it" and "stay." It will take practice, but teaching your dog these skills, along with tons of positive reinforcement (i.e. treats and praise) will create a strong, strong bond and the dog will start regarding you as its superior.
Third, consider, if you have the money, enlisting the help of a behavioral trainer or training classes for your dog. More than anything, these programs teach the owners how to handle their dogs - you will learn lessons that will help you to teach your dog anything that comes up down the road. I went to a place called "Purely Positive" dog training at a YWCA in south carolina; over four years with my dog, we have used what we learned during that 8 week course almost every day.
Finally, remember to NEVER yell or reprimand your dog when it RETURNS from running away. You can yell at it to stop or wait while it's running if it knows that command, but once it comes back to you, it should be ALL PRAISE for coming back. If your dog learns to associate coming back with getting yelled at, it will not look forward to coming back and will keep on running. So, remember, above all, the minute the dog turns around, looks at you, and begins to return, praise, praise, praise. Soon it will be bounding back to you after just taking a few steps away.
use the long leash method of training him to come when you call
Every black lab I have ever encountered is stupid. Sorry but its the truth. The only nice ones are when they get old. Black labs are a working breed dog. People dont realize this with Labs thinking they are good family dogs (which they are) But they often have problems with getting bored and being destructive like chewing on things and barking etc etc. Working dogs need a job, Try agility classes or something to make him happier.
Maybe he doesn't like you!
But dogs roam. We have to train and contain to keep them safe.
Here's a couple video links fro training your dog to come when called and stay with you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s224wnlt2...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qynmbrid-...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhs3mvnyc...
Dogs aren't very smart, some breeds are smarter than others, but compared to humans, not very smart. I had a dog who did this also, it is really irritating. She doesn't do it too much anymore. She actually got hit by a car when she ran across the street, she broke her leg. That did teach her not to run away, it's sad though I know.
It doesn't mean he doesn't like you, he may not understand that running away means that he could get lost. He may just be a little wild and want to be free.
Some positive reinforcement of giving him treats for listening and not running away could help him. Always keep him on a leash when not in the house and just love on him, he will love you.
He may also have been traumatized by something...but maybe not. Labs do love to run!
Plenty of exercise and play should help. Walk him every day for at least 30 minutes, more if you can. Throw a tennis ball for him to retrieve. He might be running out of boredom and lack of exercise. It really has nothing to do with liking you. Make sure you are training him to sit, stay, etc. Dog's like to be engaged in activities.
You need to get a tall fence up. Our miniture dachshunds did the same thing and we put up a fence and now they can't get out unless somebody lets them. If you have a fence he'll be fine. He is probably just curious as a young dog and wants to explore, because we have 4 dogs and our oldest puppy is the one who never goes anywhere. It is not that he doesn't like you. Don't worry!
It could be several things...missing the old owner, boredom, or a nearby dog. Try an invisible fence. I have heard the work great!
might just take some time for him/her to adapt. You said you just got it from another owner 1 month ago. Maybe it's still attached to its pervious owner and just not use to being in a new home. Give it some time.
Keep him behind a fence he can't jump or dig under.
It is always advisable to keep the dog at home, in your yard for at least 2 weeks so he/she gets acclamated to his/her new home.
You need to keep him on your property & not allow him to roam. It is the law.
dogs might seem dumb but at any age they can learn most of what you teach them ----- My dog would do the same thing -- so I had to put him on a leash and tell him NO NO NO NO NO when he would try to leave the boundaries of my property -- It can take up to six weeks but 21 days is how long it takes normally -- Take the time to walk outside with him or he will eventually run off for good ---- or he could get hit by a car or be stolen
It doesn't mean he doesn't like you --- he just needs to learn --- don't expect a couple NOs to work -- you have to be consistant --- EVERYDAY ---- If you can't make the 21 days, he will eventually forget what you tought him and start running off again --- 21 days minimum!!
It has nothing to do with the dog not liking you...the dog was most likely abused and mistreated. The dog was probably not properly trained to stay close by because the dog didn't trust it's owners. Try setting up a run in your back-yard, slowly training him to come or any other commands. It's important not to get loud or aggressive, or the dog will become more terrified. Be sure to reinforce him with treats(try cut up hot-dogs) and Lot's of love when he does something right. Just remember it takes patience but eventually he will learn to trust you and do what you say.
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