I don't believe in crating as a form of punishment. You want them to think of the crate as a safe place. In order for punishment to be effective it has to be linked to the bad behavior. This is difficult with humans and they "KNOW" why they are being punished, but the more closely you link the punishment and behavior the less likely the behavior will repeat itself. That's why a can of penny's (loud noise) or a spay bottle (annoying) done right after the bad behavior is more effective than banishment. The dog has no idea why he's being banished or what he's done. Bchgirl is correct when she suggests making them sit before giving treats; you are acting in a leadership capacity when you do this. Always give the treat to the Alpha dog first. The alpha dog is usually the dog that has been with you the longest, and usually the oldest, but some dogs will give up the leadership role to another dog in the pack. Your dog is trying to tell the new puppy whose boss, and when food is involved, she gets bossier. She needs to learn that YOU not her, are the true pack leader. One of the ways to accomplish this is by making them sit and stay, before any food is given, and then only when the "release" command is given they can take the food. There are other ways to establish yourself as the alpha, as well, but I believe the food rule is one of the most important. |