If you really can't work with a trainer then I have another suggestion. When Loki gets really crazy we go for a REALLY long walk. Obviously not when it's 90 degrees although I take him around 7:00 at night and when we get up first thing in the morning. Then he is just too tired to act out and he really behaves well. He is always clingy when he's tired (which I like, I want a lap dog - which he is not!) and he doesn't have that pent up energy that makes him want you to chase him all day!
Also, be careful trying to train from a book or on your own. I have several training books that I've read that don't give the best advice. You should never punish or correct your dog. (Time-outs are not a punishment, their crate is a happy place for them, or at least it should be.)
You have to be consistent and I know you said you didn't like time-outs but they are necessary. He will learn that nipping at you when you are on the phone means he doesn't get to hang out with you for a while. It really does work. |