Cardinal wrote:The snapping and biting seem to be new occurances because of being fearful/wary of strangers. Strangers are bad enough to this dog, no reason to make them worse. Putting a negative aspect to an already negative situation does not make a positive outcome.. Despite math class, lol. Making strangers a positive thing will take away the /need/ to fearfully strike out at someone/thing. =)
True, but I've heard (though I've never experience this but I trust the person I heard it from) Afghan Hounds tend to have a mind of their own and when already used to a behavior, positive training isn't necissarily successful. If you, for example, have the stranger give the dog a treat every time they come into the home, the dog will not change and just expect treats every time someone steps into the home.
You do have a fair point, but honestly it's a hit or miss either way. I've known dogs who when treated with positive reinforcement when trying to correct a behavior get even worse. But I've also known dogs when treated with negative reinforcement to get even worse also.
However, you have reminded me to add something that I guess ties in with your idea. Over time, you can begin treating the dog when he does not bark or bite at people who enter your house. My suggestion would be to not start off with that at first, but eventually if he starts improving, begin to give him treats as a reward. My GSD mix knows that if she barks at the visitor, she gets the can. However, if she's nice and quiet and goes away, she gets a treat. Not every time, but the majority of the time. I hope this clarifies a little.
