I think this is in the right place?? I didn't really know but assumed they would come under working! Righto... I've been asked to go and see a lady with a 10 month old American Bulldog and a 10 month old Sharpei cross, both of whom she rescued when the previous owners were keeping them tied up behind a fish and chip shop and the poor things were being attacked by rats. She phoned the RSPCA for help because they are only puppies but are big and bouncy and the AB likes to run and knock you over as well as dragging her all over. The RSPCA told her to rehome one and said she was willing to bring one in but 'don't bring the Bulldog because we've got one in and he's been here ages' But she refuses to give up on either of them and wants help. So... I was just wondering what sort of activities people did with Am Bulldogs to keep them stimulated? I know there's the weight pull competitions but probably not going to help when he's already pulling her down the road! Also, he's only 10 months so I know he may not be able to start anything just yet but I suppose it'll be something for her to look forward to. I know there's heavy breed agility classes for when he's over 18 months but don't think there's anything like that around here... Any ideas much appreciated - I've not been to see her yet so as yet don't really know how good or bad the situation is!
Hi Lottie I think an obedience class would be a start. Agility or weight pull is no good if the dogs don't have a decent level of obedience as a foundation, but those activities are obviously a possibility for the future. With regard to the pulling, I would definitely suggest some kind of training collar for each of them. Preferably a head collar of some sort (Gencon, Canny, Halti, etc.) as most non-pull harnesses probably are not going to be affective with an AB. That should give some instant control before they start training properly. I'm guessing if the dogs are really out of control they are probably not getting enough exercise. I would certainly up the exercise, off lead if the dogs are good with other dogs and have a good recall. If they don't have a good recall, again that is something to work on...I like whistle training for recall. For in the house you could suggest clicker training, teach some place commands (I use "Bed!", meaning go and lie down), talk about interactive toys, etc.
Thanks I was intending to go through the obedience, head collars, exercise, diet etc. with them anyway but just not sure on what heavy breeds can do as 'extra curricular activities' so to speak
I think what you have already suggested (agility, weight pull, obedience, etc.) is about it to be honest for those breeds. Anyway, I wouldn't say that they NEED extra curricular activities provided you sort all of the above out...probably 95% of dogs are content without those extra things, so long as they get adequate stimulation.
My brother has an AB and she's the most layed back dog ever. She just needs a good walk a day and maybe a session with a ball and she's good
i agree i have two myself so layed back its unbelievable all they need is a good walk loads of love and attention same as any other large breed
