Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) I think dogs do improve with exposure to livestock insofar that they loose interest, but it's probably worth working on it a bit for those unexpected moments that ultimately happen, despite one's best efforts, and the dog is confronted by a cow/horse/sheep/lamb without warning. I'm fortunate in that Lady is already very wary of cattle and horses so that she always gives them a wide berth and chasing is the last thing on her mind. I've also been able to socialise her with sheep through the help of a farmer friend. I think that it's a very useful learnt behaviour to have. I've just had a quick Google and there do seem to be livestock socialisation classes available. Maybe others on the forum have made use of a class?
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) I have had experiences of a herds of bullocks or heifers charging towards me but have found if I turn round, spread my arms and say "get back" (very loudly) they skidder to a halt and do as they are told. However, since I have heard stories of people being gored and killed, I am not so brave these days!
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Can I just second what others have said. Be vary wary around cows. My previous lab chased a herd who in turn started to chase me and my young son. The dog thought it was great fun. My son who is autistic didn't understand the urgency in my voice so I had to literally throw him over a hedge and dive into it myself. It was bloody terrifying! The dog was fine and followed me through. I could have cheerfully strangled him at the time. Needless to say I never went near cows again without a fence separating us. Fortunately I live in Wales now and sheep are the issue. I am training Albert the "leave" command and progress is being made albeit slowly. Jan
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Cows can be dangerous. My brother was a farmer 'till he retired and I am used to cows - but I am careful round them too. http://www.ibtimes.com/trampled-death-cows-it-happens-more-often-you-think-844859
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) After reading the articles on severe injuries and fatalities from cows, I think I may put Buddy's lead walks through cow fields on hold!
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) [quote author=David link=topic=7202.msg99253#msg99253 date=1407073294] I've just had a quick Google and there do seem to be livestock socialisation classes available. Maybe others on the forum have made use of a class? [/quote] I didn't know that - although had seen an advert for an (on lead) class near the Richmond Park deer. A livestock socialisation class is just what we need. Not many cows in Wimbledon. Horses though...
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) This chap was on Countryfile a while back. I don't know anyone who's been to him though.... http://www.cotswoldpetservices.co.uk/canine-country-etiquette
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) [quote author=JulieT link=topic=7202.msg99358#msg99358 date=1407104893] I've just had a quick Google and there do seem to be livestock socialisation classes available. Maybe others on the forum have made use of a class? [/quote] Don't you just love a business opportunity ( although I'm totally supportive of its value) The course must have been developed after the 'Fenton ' incident ? ;D My friends Dad was nearly killed protecting his dog from cows....of course once they had him on the ground ...the dog ran off and he was left at nearly 70 with broken ribs,wrist and concussion....awfully scarey x
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Haven't had a dangerous problem with cattle (so far) but did get stomped on by a stallion a while back that could have been terminal. Small Black Dog sat neatly about 300 yds away waiting for the outcome.
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Small Black Dog has immense faith in your ability to handle the situation
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Actually I think she was getting set to team up with the horse if necessary. ;D
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Never! She was ready to leap into action at any time if you needed her. Honest.
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) A dog that can repel cushions can take on a stallion! Anytime! She just assumed you'd shout if you wanted a hand
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) [quote author=bbrown link=topic=7202.msg99477#msg99477 date=1407183992] A dog that can repel cushions can take on a stallion! Anytime! She just assumed you'd shout if you wanted a hand [/quote] ;D ;D
Re: Buddy's Bad Behaviour (chasing cows) Definitely don't want to mess with cattle! Not exactly a class, but a lady in the village who has a (now elderly) black lab was concerned about sheep with lambs in the field next to their house some years ago. The garden was reasonably well fenced off from the field, but she was worried that Bud might decide to go and visit. She spoke to the farmer and her got her to take Bud on the lead with him into the field and let the ewes muscle up to him in protective mode! He was quite intimidated and backed off pretty quickly. He has stayed well clear of sheep ever since! We need to find a willing farmer next lambing time as we missed our chance this year. Wouldn't work with the coos though!
