Scolding
I had something interesting happen with Maya tonight, I was curious to see if this is common with other Bull Terriers as I've never raised one before Maya. She's almost 3 months so of course she hears the word NO about 300 times a day. But tonight I scolded her for chewing on my feet and pinned her down until she submitted. She went into the kitchen and after I hadn't heard anything for a few minutes I checked on her and she lying in the corner of the room, facing the wall with her nose under the cabinet. I went to pick her up and she was very calm, almost mopey. Do you guys see this after you scold? I thought it was very interesting. I am glad she seemed to recognize I was upset with her...I've never had any other puppy breed do this!
Comments
She got the message that whatever she did was wrong. Before you begin feeling really bad that she got her feelings hurt trust me she'll test her limits with you again like a little devil. (A lovable Devil)
Bull Terrier puppies are as rebellious and energetic as they come but once they mature it's light a light finally goes on and they become loyal and attentive. However, at 3 months old you have a way to go. Enjoy the playful antics while you can and continue to train and discipline her as needed. Maya is a smart Bullie just like her parents and she'll conform to your standards with love and affection.
"It's not just a Dog, it's a Bull Terrier!"
www.bulliesofnc.com
@alexa I would have probably started crying if I had seen it...really, I might have. But, you are doing the correct thing by nipping it in the bud immediately, and most importantly, consistently. Don't give in to those cute puppy dog eyes....even though I wouldn't obey my own advice.
I think Rodney's' just living it up and spoiled to death. >:D<
"It's not just a Dog, it's a Bull Terrier!"
www.bulliesofnc.com
He does seem very confident, so he very well could be putting on a brave face even though he's insecure or dejected internally.
What I'm wondering about is if having multiple dogs plays a part. Meaning, I wonder if they're embarrassed that their pack is seeing them being disciplined, sort of like pride being hurt.
I've come back to edit about him lying on his back, and what it means for him. Being 14 months when we got him, we didn't have the advantage of starting early like most. I tried the pinning method with him, but it has never had the impact that it has for others. He doesn't really resist, he thinks it's playing. He chills. It's like he never submits and has won the game. What I've done over time, and it is consistent and immediate, is I go up to him and tell him "no". I make him sit and then lie down. I praise him for listening, and he almost always does, and then I rub his belly, laughing and praising over the top to encourage him to do this when he's losing control.
My goal was to get him to soothe himself or stop himself. It works most of the time. He'll shake off the energy, and he is usually on a different path and/or distracted with something less destructive. I don't have the control at the level I'd like, but he's listening and learning as he goes. He's smart, very, very smart, so he is getting better and easier every day. I probably shouldn't let this play a part, but I've worried about his past, and I do feel strong pangs of guilt when he looks sad. If he didn't have the temperament of his parents, I don't think this approach would work. However, his parents are lovely and he definitely has their wonderful temperament.
When we get our new puppy, I'll be starting like you, Alexa. I do think you've been given the best advice, and if you are consistent, you really will have a wonderful companion.