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Originally Posted by Ellie May  Ellie is wiggly during exams too. 
This is how I see it. Positive reinforcement is great. Proper restaint is not negative reinforcement though. I wouldn't say you need to force her on her side and hold all four paws right now. Start slow. Do one thing at a time. But in my opinion, getting a dog used to being restrained and even putting it in uncomfortable (by that I don't mean painful) positions is not a bad thing. If I just let Ellie decide to not be restrained at home, then I'm not quite sure how her teeth would get brushed. It isn't her favorite. And how would I give her SQ fluids if I let her walk around and do what she wants? Be safe about it, but don't let her do what she wants to either. And treats are great. If you start small and are consistent, then positive reinforcement may work very well. |
Have you tried slowly getting her used to teeth brushing?
Just some food for thought: most zoo animals are trained to get *shots*. Usually this is done by training the animal to touch a mark with their nose, and then standing still. They generally get a food reward, and many of them absolutely love "performing". So if you are having trouble with a yorkie, imagine working with a giraffe.
That's not to say that I myself have trained Thor so beautifully that he would get a shot without batting an eyelash. He struggles at the vet. However, there is a difference between occasionally restraining your pet and forcing it into a frightening, submissive position several times per day just to teach it a lesson.
Let me also suggest for people whose pets really object to grooming, etc: keep in mind that if your dog is resisting you, it is probably frightened. So really, it's a kindness to your dog to train your dog to deal with these things, because not only is it easier for you, it's no longer a scary, unpredictable experience for your dog.