How long until my step-dog listens to me?

I just got married. My hubby's dog, 9 y/o, is really smart and willful. He does whatever hubby says, but doesn't really listen to me. I'm sure he thinks I'm taking his place in the pack-which, I suppose I am. My husband has alwasy been very consistant with the dog regarding behavior control, and I take my cues from him. About how long should it will take for the dog to accept me as another master? Anyone have any tips that might make the dog react better towards me?

Thanks!

♥.Emily.♥2008-03-21T09:16:53Z

Favorite Answer

It shouldn't take too long before the dog accepts you as one of its pack.
I would ask your husband to take a back seat with the dog for a while...
You can walk it, feed it play with it...and discipline it
This way your dog will not always be looking to your husband for guidance

I hope this helped..x

☼HNC☼2008-03-21T09:05:45Z

Walk the dog every day, and practice the commands that he knows. Ask your husband to show you how he gives commands and corrections (sit, heel) on the leash. You can also practice in short (formal) sessions at home, and make sure that the dog gets rewarded for good performance and response to your commands. Make it fun for him, and always end on a positive note, with something that he enjoys, like fetch or a toy/bone. Be consistent, and show the dog that you are a strong leader. The more time and effort you put into it, the sooner he'll come around. Congrats on the marriage! Good luck!

BrownEyedGirl2008-03-21T09:15:38Z

Dogs generally listen to men more than women because of the different voice tones. Men, when they discipline, do so with a much deeper voice than women (who are so sweet). Next time you tell him "no" or whatever, try putting on your big-boy pants and dropping the voice down an octave or so. Do that every time you want him to obey you, and eventually he will.

Savanah K2008-03-21T09:16:52Z

Contact a local trainer if your step-dog starts to bite or growl at you when you near your husband.

Since it doesn't seem like the dog is doing that, it's probably just a show of dominance. Don't feed her table scraps, that's a sign of submission.

Just to be on the safe side, contact your local trainer.

Anonymous2008-03-21T09:06:41Z

you have to wait til he views you as dominant and on the same level as your husband. try some obedience classes with just u and the dog. if uve never had a dog before you need to read up on pack behavior and how to get the dog to see you as a leader.

Show more answers (1)