Hello,

My first recommendation is to enroll her in a behavior or obedience course. These classes are often underestimated but can be the saving grace in rectifying this behavior. Once your dog has learned who is in command and how to follow basic commands curbing this behavior is a breeze. The fact is if your dog does not understand what "no" or "stop" means then all she understands is you are saying something to her in a firm voice.......what that is she has no real clue.

In addition to the classes you will want to pick up a spray bottle fill it with cool water. Anytime the dog picks up the paper or moves the paper, be quick to spay her square in the face. Followed by the firm NO! This will not only stop her but will show her NO is a serious word.

If you are not in the same room or are busy doing other things, keep a bottle (Pop bottle or water bottle) with some loose change in it around you. If you see her messing with the paper......shake the bottle quickly to get her attention then give the firm "no" command or "leave it" If she continues the spray bottle and time out will be needed. After a few days you should be able to simply say NO and look at the bottle and she will settle down.

Keep in mind, Rome was not built in a day and your dogs behavior will not change overnight either. You must be consistent and firm each time. If you allow her to get away with it every now and again she will not learn.

Walter

Hello,

Some dogs do try to take over alpha control and it is better to stop this now before it gets out of control. I agree to wait on the obedience classes until she is fully vaccinated. The good news is the water bottle technique is very good at curbing most behaviors and teaching your dog how to follow your orders.

To address the alpha dog issue you will want to show her that she is not alpha. Being gentle yet firm is the key. Walk tall and proud and look her in the eye when addressing her. Do not ask her to get off the couch, order her off the couch. Dogs can often tell the difference in a "Get off the couch honey" and a " I said Get Off The Couch Now" In a firm voice with no nonsense attitude. The same goes with any order you give your dog. Firm orders not requests.

Alpha dogs are used to being fussed over. In a real dog pack, subordinate dogs are forever touching, licking and grooming the alpha dog. It's a show of respect and submission. For now, until her attitude has shown improvement, cut down on the amount of cuddling your dog gets. When she wants attention, make her SIT first, give her a few kind words and pats, then stop. Go back to whatever it was you were doing and ignore her. If she pesters you, tell her NO! in a firm voice and ignore her some more. Pet her when you want to, not just because she wants you to. Also, for the time being, don't get down on the floor or on your knees to pet your dog. That, too, is a show of submission. Give praise, petting and rewards from a position that's higher than the dog.

Walter