ArcaMax

Start training the puppy. Training builds a dog's confidence and helps him learn the boundaries of his world. Training should include responding to his name, sitting, coming when called, downing, staying, and heeling on a leash. Begin training in the house. As his confidence and skills grow, expand training to outside the home or a nearby park.

Once he learns basic training, she can begin to focus on her dog’s triggers, which in this case is anyone approaching him. She will need to determine the safe distance for where a person can stand without him exhibiting fear. If he seems fine when someone is 10 feet away but reacts when someone is nine feet away, then 10 feet is where you start this training.

Have the person stand 10 feet away and ask them to toss treats toward your dog. The person can inch closer to him, but if he responds fearfully at any point, then the person needs to back up to 10 feet again.

This training may require many practice sessions to see progress, so tell your granddaughter to be patient and consistent with the training. Outside of the training, she should reward her puppy with a treat whenever he appears relaxed or responds positively to any engagement.

As the training progresses, she can slowly expose him to new environments too. But she must never force him into any situation where he shows discomfort. Always encourage, praise, and build up the dog's confidence over time so he learns to trust the people around him.

Dear Cathy,

In your column regarding the "Pet Corrector" product, you said it's "a small can of compressed air that provides a "Shhh" sound to interrupt unwanted behaviors. Direct this toward Rebecca whenever she goes after Marcy."

This product should not be aimed/directed towards the pet when using it. The vendor recommends using it by aiming the spray away from the pet. The steps for use are "WAG" – witness, act, give.

— P., Cedar Falls, Iowa

Dear P.,

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