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Location: Moose Jaw, in between the Moose's butt and nose.
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I don't know how much I should judge my GF about this, but I've never seen a dog that old (small Maltese) who won't sit or stay when told. That should be an automatic for a dog that old.
Is it hopeless?
The only reason why it's in the back of my mind, is, it's her dog, but if we ever move in together and/or I watch the dog like I've been this week, it's just a turnoff. The dog has more positives than negatives, but, does anyone else have an adult dog that doesn't obey the sit and stay command?
In my personal experience, most people don't train their toy breed dogs, at least beyond the "sit in this purse" trick. A lot of small dogs out there are not trained and are allowed to get away with things that a larger dog could never get away with (e.g., jumping on people, pulling on the leash, etc). She needs to train that dog. Sure an untrained Maltese may not be as much of a menace to society as an untrained mastiff, but it won't be a good family pet and things could get problematic in the future if any behavior issues crop up (such as kids coming into the picture or if you move in and the dog reacts negatively). If she doesn't have control over than dog, then she's not the head of the pack.
I don't know how much I should judge my GF about this, but I've never seen a dog that old (small Maltese) who won't sit or stay when told. That should be an automatic for a dog that old.
Is it hopeless?
No sit and stay are not automatic for a dog of any age. Dogs have to be taught obedience. If it really bothers you why don't you try teaching it sometime while time while you are watching it?
At first I thought you were joking because I don't think too many people train their dogs to sit and stay. If you do try to train it, remember to limit training to 5 minutes a session or it's going to be pointless. Also study up on the breed as some dogs are easier to train than others.
sounds like OP thinks sit and stay come with age. not to be snarky, but have you had any experience with dogs and training? sounds not likely to me. Training dogs needs some sort of preparation and study and you could really mess things up if you don't do it right. Personally I would not be too comfortable with somebody coming in with a "OK I'm here now and I'm going to whip this dog in shape" attitude. If you want to make some good points and keep the relationship smooth offer to go with her to doggie obedience school and do it together as a couple.
I have four minimum training standards that all dogs under this roof must learn:
• House train. This is the most important, as my dogs are always inside dogs
• Sit/wait for permission to eat
• Permission to exit the door to outside
• Walk like a proper lady when on the leash (I always have females). No lunging or side trips
None of these come with age. That little Maltese needs to be demoted from the alpha position, but that ain't necessarily your job yet.
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No sit and stay are not automatic for a dog of any age. Dogs have to be taught obedience. If it really bothers you why don't you try teaching it sometime while time while you are watching it?
