Puppy Training

[GarryW]

I've got a new puppy and I'm wondering if any can tell me how do I prevent him from running over or jumping on sails? Yes he's on a leash when he's out of the house but just in case. Thanks

[NOVAAN]

Don't take the dog where people have their expansive sails. One sharp claw can ruin a brand-new sail. I have had it happen.

[JamesHardy]

Rig a sail, the bigger the better, in your yard. Let your dog walk freely around the sail when the dog gets around a foot away from the sail push down on the base of the sail so it makes a lot of noise. The louder and more violent (for lack of another word) the action the better to create a fear response that will translate into a respect for sails. If your dog is smart it should get it right away if its a slow learner you might have to do a few sessions with it. I have used this method with two of my dogs and it worked very well, it was shown to me by a dog trainer I use to sail with 25 years ago. One thing to remember is that regardless of how well your dog is sail trained if it damages someone else's sail you are obligated to either pay to have the sail repaired or buy the person a new sail, it's their choice. So keep that in mind when your dog is giving you those sad eyes when your packing up your gear to go sailing it makes it easier to leave it home to sleep on the sofa.

[NOVAAN]

Thoughtful response. I have had hunting dogs, snake trained in the same way.
They use a de-fanged rattle snake and a shock collar. Even the most stubborn dog gets it by the second time. Way better than a dead dog. Just sayin.