Jackie: Here are some other small things you can do that can signal to the dog that he is not the boss. I've done most of these over the years and found them in various dog behavior books or training classes.
BF should always cross thresholds before he does (doorways, etc). Make him sit by the door before he goes out and you and/or BF go first. Do this consistently. Do not engage in tug-of-war toys with him. Do not play with him when he asks -- you control the game and you decide when it occurs and when it ends. Make him sit and stay before feeding. Release him from the sit when he obeys and give him his food. you and BF should eat first. And, no jumping on you. He comes to you when called, not when he decides to jump on you demanding affection.
And to reiterate...keep him off the bed... in the wild, dogs with higher places in the pack sleep higher.
Believe me, I know it is hard but this really worked for us and the dog is happier for it!! |