First let me say I recognize that she is still a puppy. A big puppy but a puppy. My Holly is 10 months old, and she is driving me crazy. She behaves well for my wife when she is home with her during the day, but the minute I get home she acts crazy and wants to play and will not leave me alone. I walk her multiple times a day, make sure she gets to play, do training with her, but she seems to view me as a playmate to beat up on more than anything. It makes it very hard for me to enjoy her. The second issue if she goes nuts anytime she sees our cats, and barks and chases them. To the point they won't come down to the main floor of the house. Any advice on either? Thanks!
This happens a lot with family members that 'rough house' with their dogs. To resolve it, you'll need to change the way you interact with Holly. Spend more of your time together reinforcing calm behaviours such as sitting or standing still, or lying down. And put a stop to any physical or rough play. Time spent training is good too The cats are pretty wise to keep out of her way if she chases them, so you'll need to think of ways to prevent her from doing this. Baby gates between rooms can stop dogs dashing around a house, wearing a harness and house line (trailing leash) can help you control your dog when your cats are brave enough to make a reappearance. Make sure you always have treats and toys to hand to reward you dog for paying attention to anything other than the cats when they are in the room together.
