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Mirtillo meets his 'nephew'

Behavioral Issues

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  • I'm onto you!

    Behavioral Issues
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    R
    It is their boredom that you have to curtail (pardon the pun), not there energy or their spirit. I have four Bs, and they all have different personalities. The bones keep them occupied for a while, and they keep their teeth clean. Their teeth are important.
  • Why all this talk about 'unpredictable'?

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    I got a big 'good' and 'unpredictable' surprise this morning: Binti was chased from view by a german shepherd and didn't come back. Usually they will walk around until we find each other again. This time she went all the way back to the car park, where she sat down next to our car, whining and moaning. I had no idea she knows which car is ours…
  • Do they or don't they?

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    P
    I've followed this thread with interest and I think both Debra and Fran have pinned it down. I do think that right and wrong are subjective and that those who say that animals feel guilt are anthromorphising. Guilt is a very human feeling. I raise my Basenji to respect me but I also respect them. They listen to me and I 'listen' to them. I see no need for physical discipline. My dogs are taught from the beginning what their limits are. Not to say that they are instantly obedient. They are just normal Basenjis with normal Basenji instincts. Some are unacceptable to me and that is where I draw the line. I believe the tone of voice is very important as is the Basenji's vocalisation. I feel it's good that we don't always agree - after all it would be a very dull forum if we did!
  • Basil's worse after meeting with behaviorist

    Behavioral Issues
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    K
    Hello, One of our B's had similar biting issues - she had been raised in a pack with a lot of competition, and she had never learned that a treat or a toy must be released on command. I applied Cesar Millan's approach and it worked beautifully, the first time and within 15 minutes! 1. Show the dog the treat, make her sit and stay, and make eye-contact. 2. As she calms, bring the treat closer and stay in eye contact - she must stay calm-submissive throughout. 3. Put the treat on the ground in front of her - use your posture, body language and voice to keep her calm-subm. 4. Then release her to get the treat. 5. After a minute or so, order her to release. If she doesn't, a little Cesar-prod to the side will help to snap her out of her state of mind. 6. Repeat the whole process, until she releases the treat at first command. 7. Repeat the next day. Be patient and follow through all the way to the end - Binti got it really fast that we wouldn't let up and she changed accordingly. I'm sure you can find videos on Cesar's site or National Geographic with similar episodes - it works! All the best, Kees-Jan Donkers, The Netherlands
  • Unbelievable B's!!!

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    renaultf1R
    Animals definitely know. The one day that I've been sick since Ruby arrived, she curled up with me on the couch for most of the day…wasn't her usual rambunctious self. I once was taking care of my friend's black lab for a weekend and was sick one of the days. I was on the couch and the dog just came over and put his head on me like he was saying "sorry you don't feel well...don't worry about running around with me, I'll stay with you"...it was the sweetest thing, and we basically just hung out in front of the fire for the day.
  • We've got a biter…

    Behavioral Issues
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    luzmery928L
    Even with all his nipping and jumping all that meet him love him, do u blame them?