A Farm Dog Should NEVER Do This

So I had a bit of a training setback with Toby, our Maremma Livestock Guardian Dog. And I know it's only puppy behavior, but it's important to ensure that this type of thing doesn't happen.

Send us mail:
Gold Shaw Farm
PO Box 225
Peacham, VT 05862

About Gold Shaw Farm: Gold Shaw Farm is more of a farm-in-progress than an honest-to-goodness farm. Our dream is that someday we are able to transform our 150+ acre parcel of land into a regenerative and productive homestead and farm.

[BradMyers]

Your dog is a teenager right now, if you only have to discipline him one time, you are doing great.

[lizarnold]

That was no harsher than you would yell at a child for running towards the street....you have to be the daddy...good job..

[kattitaniummelonparker]

Pablo wants to know what Toby gets a treat for staying when he's being doing that all morning.

[dindinprivate]

I have been a dog trainer for 40 years now. I have never worked specifically with farm dogs, but as far as proper training for a pup you did exactly the right thing. You corrected him at the moment of the crime with a tone of voice that he could recognize easily as negative feed back. You talk to him all the time as well as giving positive feedback. You are ABSOLUTELY CORRECT in your decision not to use a shock collar.

[robertcarswell]

I see no problems with you reprimanding Toby. He needs to know how to behave as a livestock guard dog

[susangarland]

Teenagers. They're the same no matter the species. That "no" was delivered perfectly, both in timing and in pitch. And, Toby, because he's the perfect dog, immediately responded after the first "no." The subsequent "no"s, by doggie logic, were directed at his retreat. A bit confusing. Next time, give one "no, " and wait to see what happens. And that "only positive reinforcement" nonsense might work for purse Chihuahuas, but with the strong, intelligent, independent working breeds, it's very important that the line between right and wrong is crystal clear. You're doing an excellent job with Mr. McFluffy.

[mariemaroney]

He’s pretty smart, he listened right away to you. Apparently you’re doing something right.

[leonasnake]

I feel like it's important to have balance in training dogs.
A dog needs to know when it's done something that isn't ok, and not overdo it, as they'd be taught by other dogs.
I don't believe you did anything wrong.
Quick, stern, no physical harm.
I'm sure Toby will grow to be an excellent working dog 😊

[LaughtersMelody]

I'm glad to see that the barn cats are tolerating Toby now, even if they still don't look entirely pleased, lol. :)

[myakye]

i wouldnt worry too much about what others say about training "your" dog, remember what the mother dog would do if her pup would do something she didnt like...she would growl or even possibly snap at her pup to put it in line.

[piteusx]

Your dog is a loveable doofus. IMO, one stern "no" at time of the negative action is enough. Too many stern "nos" might confuse the dog as he stops the action and he keeps hearing NOs. It's important to catch them in the act and use that stern NO at that exact time. They'll start figuring it out. Remember dogs can tell a negative sound by the tone of your voice. They just need to hear it. Whether it's a loud scream or stern tone, it's the same to the dog.

Toby is smart and attentive. He was bred for it. A stern NO should be enough and perhaps a timeout if he gets too distracted. And don't forget a lot of treats and pets for positive reinforcements.

[Lizard]

This is like the only channel where I watch every upload.

[SunraeSkatimunggr]

Considering how young Tobby still is, that was a small "bad". Good job. My two year old blue healer mix still has a hard time staying as long as Tobby did.

[lorineidtinytoadplot]

You handled Toby perfectly, he instantly understood he was doing something wrong and came to you. I instantly thought WOW nice job. He obviously respects you. After working with rescues most of my life I have to say this dog isn't going to be one, coutos to you 👌😊

[mercswifejl]

Everybody is a critic when it's not their business! Do what works for YOU and TOBY!! If someone gives you advice and it works? works for you! Watching these videos (being a trainer) you've done an amazing job!!! Had I thought you were missing/lacking something that could cause harm to anyone I may have made a suggestion but you got this!!

[carloporter]

It's really interesting going back and watching your older videos. Toby was such a cute puppy and you can already see his potential.

[terrydodson]

There’s different ways to train a dog and I think u and Toby r doing just fine. In fact, Toby seems to be learning faster than my Pyr., Dan, at that age.

[skavossis]

He'll get it, he such a good boi.

[bennystropicalswimmigwolf]

very good looking Livestock Guardian pup

[GinaSiska]

I love how honest and humble you are about yourself...and I love how sweet and adorable Toby is 😉😇😘