Bella Has Some Issues // Talked to Her Breeder and Know Why
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- Опубликовано: 28 мар 2024
- Over the past couple of months Bella has been exhibiting different and destructive behavior. We talked to the breeder and realized why. Now we need to fix it.
Elliott Homestead: / @theelliotthomestead
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Hi I'm Brian with Next Level Homestead. If this is your first time here... welcome! I'm glad you're here! If you're a longtime friend, welcome back!!
For most of my life I was a city boy, gardening in the suburbs. I was the first generation in my family to not grow up on a farm and somehow it was still there inside me. So now my wife Emilie, son Noah and I have moved to a small farm (at least it will be) and we're documenting our journey on this channel. Building gardens and chicken coops, buying a dairy cow and who knows what else lies in store. But we can't wait to take you with us!
When I saw the dirt.... Bored. I have a Husky
As a dog trainer in my earlier life, this is my two cents. Brian, you need to develop a foundation with Bella before you bring in sheep, another dog, etc.. I highly recommend you hire a trainer to come out and assess your situation. You need to know how dogs communicate, how to read dogs body language, and how to train them consistently so they understand the rules. This is a very important aspect of training is that you fully understand how dogs think and communicate. A trainer will help you get to a better place much quicker so they can point out what you are doing that is confusing to Bella. Understand, that you have basically 2-3 secs. to reward your dog for a behavior for them to understand the association of what you are asking them to do. If the positive reinforcement is late then you are rewarding the wrong behavior, which is what they are learning or are confused what you are asking. For instance if you ask for a sit and then she stands, you are rewarding the wrong behavior and she is not learning the command or the rules. It will be less stressful to have a professional trainer help you because most of training is really training the human. You may be able to get the direction you need after two sessions, but will have the correct approach for the best results. Once you learn the importance of timing, how you use your body language, etc. then you can apply this for future animals. As far as her digging or destructive behavior goes it's simply that you have an intelligent dog who likes to work and is bored. You can build a sandbox and hide toys and treats for some enrichment but your dog also needs a good dose of exercise. You may be getting sheep, but you do not have a large property for her to run and guard, which is okay. Tell the trainer your setup and they can help you work this effectively and efficiently. They need to be on your property and see your setup. If you find a trainer that also works with behavioral modification, that means they have extensive training working with different breeds, difficult breeds, etc., and can help assist with enrichment activities to keep their minds active, etc. Best wishes on your journey!
Excellent advice!!!! The trainer is for the human and explains how dogs interpret our words and actions. I predict you will master this and be a great pack leader! Maybe a hat that says “I’m The Boss” would help.😂
The human is always the problem, the dog wants to have a job(s) to complete. We breed Australian Shepherds tell everyone you MUST engage, respect is earned through physical activities and immediate rewards (treats/physical contact/whatever she covets), and you MUST MUST MUST repeat this in a consistent matter.. I warn you this one thing, whatever bad habits Bella has, the new puppy will pick them up and add to them. Now with that said, at Bella's age a puppy should work really well. The human needs to train them as a team in a consistent manner. I agree with @christytattersall5859 , a onsite trainer visiting from time to time would be a really great idea. Now to work with a 9 week puppy that is showing signs of separation anxiety so his owner can stand a chance when they pick him up on Monday.
100% agree. A trainer will help so much quicker.
I agree with this advice also. Just find a good trainer! Bella is a sweetheart and she’s smart. She can learn what she needs to know, and I also think sooner than later, when the puppy and the sheep arrive. It’ll be much harder once they’re there.
We got our Great Pyr at 12 weeks old. She just wanted to chase our goats and play with them. I eventually built a separate pen for her next to the goats. I would go out after work, leash her, and walk her around the perimeter of the goat's pen, and correct her when she tried to chase the goats. I did this until she was about 2. After that I put her in with the goats full time and never had a problem. She had to grow up. She's 11 now and has been a great guardian to our goats.
Maybe she’s helping look for the gophers
Yeah ! Bark, bark, bark ! I am bored, I am digging, biting, chewing, ... I need exercise and attention, otherwise I need to work out all my energy and calories ... so I don't get squirrely ... and this is what I am doing.
No 2 dogs, as they will both become squirrelly. Otherwise, give Bella a neutering ... and then she turns into a big salami roll, less energy, less drive. She needs to be walked (!) 1 mile a day, however done in the AM or PM, so that she burns off (tongue hanging out tired) all that energy. There is new studies of human exercise and the brain that Brain plasticity and nerve pathways create more with exercise, and the brain produces a brain hormone, but now they are also finding that muscle exercise also produces this brain hormone (going to the brain). Bella needs more of the body-brain exercise, and work out all that psychic eneryg she is storing up ....
Exercise and she will return back to being a sheep dog and protector. Big dogs big exercise.
Maybe give her " jobs" carrying heavy things for example.... burn that energy giver her " purpose" she definitely thinks YOU humans are her purpose. Why not?! You all are way more entertaining to a smart dog like Bella!
She needs a JOB that stimulates her BRAIN. Working the brain burns more energy than physical exercise.
I laughed out loud when you uncovered your eyes and said OK so . . .😂😂😂!!!
Bella needs exercise! She’s still a puppy WALKING WLL CALM HER …throw a ball PLAY WITH her work her out biting
I'm with you Emily! I'm not washing one more dish than I have to
😆
you are right about the training. for us animal lovers, it is hard to not spoil working animals. the fact that you did not have the animals first was also not ideal. you are correct about her being bored. the sheep will help a lot because sheep are also stubborn and are not calm like the cow and will keep her a lot more busy. i would not get the other dog before the sheep though. and you will have to focus on them for a while to get the training back. i have do doubt that you will be fine though. i have 35yrs of dog training experience and focus especially on "dangerous" dogs. interestingly, most dogs that end up with discipline issues are working dogs. i have saved many from being put down because they were big, strong, and frustrated which is a dangerous dog. do not think of her as your baby. think of her as your wingman. the good thing is that you are now bonded so all you have to do is assert your needs and give her rewards when she fulfills them and no rewards when she acts up. right there in the video you are playing with her and showing her love after you caught her misbehaving. that was reinforcing wrong behavior. it is never helpful to introduce negative experiences and punishment but what you need to do is withhold the positive rewards. so, instead of swinging from positive to negative (like ac electricity -10,0,10), you need to go from 0-10. do not speak cutesy to her, do not pet her, do not smile at her, just stand there and look like you are waiting for her to do the right thing. as soon as she does, that is the time for rewards. you will be fine, just be consistent. most of this is about training yourself 🙂
Don’t be so hard on yourself. I wouldn’t be able to resist Bella either. She is so adorable!
😂 The look that filthy muddy pup gave you was priceless!
I've had many livestock guardians. My best have been cross breeds of Pyr and Anatolians. They were each without exception, ready to do their job with almost no interference from me and yet naturally respectful from the get go. I've also has some crosses with Maremma and they have been considerablly less satisfactory. I recently gave a two year old to a friend who's son bonded with my dog and it looked like a better fit all around. Her behavior here was almost an exact replica of your Bella. Destructive, and obnoxious. I currently have an older Armenian Gampr who was a rescue and she has a few quirks, but is a superior dog over all at about 130 lbs. ps: I'm 80 and been doing this a long time. Best wishes on the dog front!!
Something tells me anatolians and gamprs are above his pay grade at this point.
Valid Point!! @@Barbara-te7xz
I'm sorry Brian, when, and how, you said you were getting a second dog, and a puppy no less, I could not stop laughing. Boy you've really set yourself up haven't you? :) Having had two dogs at a time for several years, and from puppies, along with chickens and goats, you, and your dogs, and Daisy, and your sheep all will be great company for each other - look forward to having a lot of fun. I think you'll find it so satisfying, and a true adventure, sharing life with them on your little homestead. Enjoy enjoy enjoy!! .....and thanks Emilie for the pancake demonstration - definitely going to give it a go!
Yeah!!! Yippee for Bella!!! That pancake is also called a "Dutch Baby".
Don't be hard on yourself, dogs have a clever way of wrapping us owners around their paws. Really excited to see the new arrivals to the farm, thank you for not giving up on Bella.
Oh Bella. Someone was having fun. LOL Awwww congratulations on the future new pup.
Thank you!
Personally I would not jump into a puppy. I think with the additional training, the additional critters coming in, and just getting a bit older, she may settle down. If she did not, then at that point, consider a puppy (who will need a lot of training/attention). From the psychological standpoint, a puppy could backfire, because of the additional attention, and Bella could act out even more. Basically, not something to rush into. Besides, you want Bella's primary bonding to be with cow, sheep, etc, and not another dog. She does have a job to do after all.
ETA: I am not a dog expect, just a multi-species animal guardian. And yes, even my chickens got jealous of the new cat. Silly and unexpected stuff.
Oh my 😂😂 I mean this in the most caring and sincere way- I hope you have done a lot of reading on LGDs. They are not like a pet. She is bored and not stimulated enough. The teenage years are between 15-18 months. Scent training is great for mental stimulation. They need a lot or they get bored and are very destructive. They are amazing dogs though 😊
And I disagree about the alpha thing. You are her Shepherd not her boss.
Re: GLD- Mine is stubborn but will graciously give in at some point. It seems they lack some typical dog characteristics that are replaced with GLD traits. It is fascinating. I got a new puppy and my GLD came into his own as the best caregiver ever. He just needed more to occupy him. They have bath time everyday complete with intense ear washing. Mine is great with getting voles. Too bad you can’t train her to get the gophers. But that would cause even more destruction. Bill does great earthwork. Hugs!
I hope Bella does better often times when dogs “ misbehave “ it’s a lack of training if they know who the pack leader is they are much more comfortable and secure
Emily, do you know if it’s OK to use gluten-free flour in the puff pancake recipe that looks amazing I would love to try it thank you for being brave enough to get in front of the camera. We love watching you.❤
I don't know about the 2nd dog things...
My daughter had an Australian shepherd that had behavior problems, from pretty much 6 months ~ mostly because he was a working dog in a boring situation.
He truly was high maintenance.
Getting the 2nd pup just gave her 2 dogs ~ different ages & very different training needs. & unfortunately her situation got Worse. She then had 2 pups with bad attitudes.
She did eventually find the 1st pup a new home (more stimuli, the behavior stuff changed quickly) and she's still trying to correct some wrongs in the 2nd pup today, 2 years later..
I'll be praying for things to improve for you though. Each dog is their own being, with their own peculiarities. Cuz I've seen people with multiple dogs that get along.
I had to laugh tho, while I was watching .. & thought ~ that poor Brian is a glutton for punishment.. 😉😉.. lol.. 🤞🤞 for you.
The work looks great tho.. you should be selling us bottles of your energy, so we can get our own things accomplished (& some California warmth, as it's just startling to warm above 0°C here in Canada, lol..)
God bless you all.. & all of us in the world.. Happy Easter.. 😊
Idea - the gopher:
Maybe it can smell "death" on the trap.
What about cleaning it with bleach, or something that will really get that smell off of the trap?
I've heard of other animals smelling things like that with the cage traps.
I don't know if it's a true thing.
But might be worth a try if you haven't done that already.
That makes perfect sense because after all, they're smelling out the areas where the plants are that they want to eat, so obviously they use their noses effectively.
Thank you
Just my 2 cents on Bella...
Skip it if you're already sick of people chiming in & telling you what to do with Bella!
I'm wondering if you can send Bella back to the place you got her for a training refresher course?
As in - stay there for a few weeks?
I don't know if they do that for that breed of dogs?
Or if the woman you got her from is willing to do it?
But somehow, the line in the sand is going to NEED to be drawn between you and Bella with the digging, etc. before the new pup arrives!
(As you already know)
I used to raise & train Border Collies.
I don't know much about the personality of Bella's breed except what I've seen thru YT homestead videos.
But if they need ANYTHING CLOSE to the kind of structure required for Border Collies to NOT go off the rails,
then the good news is they're probably smart enough to straighten out those bad habits before reaching the full adult stage.
Once she reaches the adult stage & these bad habits are still happening, changing any of it will be a monumental task, if it ever changes at all.
But doing it NOW,
it IS still possible.
Except -
IT WILL TAKE
some VERY CONSISTENT
setting & keeping of "the rules"
FROM YOU
to make it happen.
Like - every time she digs a tunnel & you just let it stay a tunnel,
she has no real consequence,
your inaction tells her it's allowed.
She may need to be confined, or tied out on a leash in the pasture, during the time of day she's been digging.
If she's digging during the time you go inside for the night & come back out in the morning, then what I would do is take that chain link fence kennel you have and set it up, out in the place where her night job is expected to be.
Is that in Daisy's corral?
Or next to the corral?
Then I would set the kennel up there, and Bella now stays there overnight.
For the foreseeable future, thats where she stays at night.
If she starts digging out of the kennel,
& she probably will, since she's discovered how digging is such great fun & good exercise!!
That leaves me no choice but to pour a concrete floor under that kennel so she CANNOT dig her way out!
I know that sounds extreme!
Afterall, this is your homestead, you are allowed to do these kinds of things.
And pouring a semi-small concrete pad doesn't have to be a forever permanent fixture. I'm thinking in a couple of years, when both Bella and the new pup are fully trained, you can then break up the concrete, and remove it.
Bcuz the thing is, when I put her in that kennel, that was me telling her,
"THIS is where you stay at night."
Period.
Just keep telling yourself
"It's not forever!"
When she's a calmer adult, she will no longer need to be tied to the pasture duringthe day, and/or corral at night.
After months of her staying away from your house at night, she'll finally be in the habit of sleeping out with the livestock.
Because THAT'S her job.
If you're wondering how she will do her job of protecting Daisy at night if she's in a kennel - she still will.
If an intruding predator comes around, Bella WILL BARK !
It will be a certain type of barking that's different from any other.
You will soon learn the difference.
And when you hear THAT barking, that's when you go outside and perform your alpha dog duties by facing the predator and winning that fight.
Because that's YOUR job.
If you want to let Bella out to help you in that fight, you could.
But if Bella learns to send out the predator alarm just to get you come outside and set her free, and there's no predator, then she will continue to do that.
So making sure it's not a bluff, & not letting her help you unless there really IS a predator will be key.
She IS smart enough to do that,
make no mistake!
I did have one puppy who really had a big digging instinct.
Teaching her "No" with digging, then literally keeping her on a short leash for quite a few months only required a few reminders to not dig.
But she was a young pup.
It worked.
She grew up into an adult who did not dig.
Afterall, think about this-
Bella sees YOU dig holes all the time!
So she definitely gets the idea that digging holes is acceptable behavior.
And just leaving those tunnels and any other holes she's dug sends her a message.
It tells her she did a good thing.
Dogs with big brains!
You gotta believe, they think like humans!
I don't know if this next thing is true bcuz of course, I only see the content you show us, but with her sleeping on the porch instead of with livestock, I've kinda been getting the idea she thinks she's guardian of YOU first,
and the animals 2nd.
Maybe that's just me?
I don't know.
But she's not a family dog.
She's a livestock dog.
But if you take your emotions out of the equation, I truly believe you can guide her back to her original purpose by not letting her have free run of the place.
Even if that means keeping her on a long leash to stay in the pasture or wherever her job is.
And keeping her with the livestock at night is muy importanté!!!
Probably just for a few months, or perhaps until she's fully into the adult stage, depending on how stubborn she is, she may need to be confined to those spaces.
And I'm thinking even when the new puppy gets there, they BOTH stay on a leash out in the pasture during the day, and then also on a leash in the corral with either Daisy, or the sheep, at night.
(Wherever their job is supposed to be.)
Start that puppy off the right way!
Yes, Bella WILL probably cry for a while.
It's a learning process.
But she won't be alone bcuz she'll be with Daisy, or the sheep, and soon, the puppy.
But she won't have free reign.
And you'll just have to take solice in the fact that she's not the fireside pooch you've always wanted.
You can always get THAT dog in a few years down the road!
Right now, you're building infrastructure.
That includes training the guard dog to be a guard
.
You'll just have to be strong!!
& Bella will get used to it.
Being the Alpha dog
(you)
IS
tough on those heart strings !
That's for SURE!!!
(It's a lot like disciplining kids!)
Consistency is THE key!!
You're not being mean.
(Don't be mean!)
You're just being firm.
It's THE ONLY WAY !!
You CAN do this!! ♥️
The problem here that I have seen with people who get Guardian Dogs is that the owners make the mistake of letting the dogs bond with the human. Guardian dogs are not supposed to bond with people, they are supposed to bond with the livestock.The digging is a symptom of boredom. She should be sleeping during the day, and actively guarding the animals, (patrolling the fenceline) at night.
You are absolutely right! I've been wondering when Bella would start acting up. Brian has been treating her more like a pet than a working dog. I have had Akbash dogs, and they are a challenge whether companion or worker.
Had to laugh at the new puppy comment. Looking forward to getting Bella trained, getting the sheep AND the new baby Bella. Good times ahead.
Wishing you and yours a blessed Easter. Remember it’s not about the bunny it’s about the Lamb.
Oh no. I see a bath in her future!😂 Daisy is so pretty.
Thank you
Bella clearly loves you and that is great! I know she needs to do her job and it sounds like getting a partner will help. You are giving a dog a great life, remember that! A big thanks to Emily for the recipe. She is a natural for the camera and showing the recipes. Thanks!!
Agree with you, as I was thinking the same thing about Emily. She is comfy in front of the camera.
❤ seeing Emilie cook helps me experience the homestead. Good luck with the challenges. Please keep the recipes coming!
Thank you!
Thanks for the tip on Briggs. We've been looking for Atropha, and it looks like they have it. Hard to get mad at Bella. She's so cute.
Love the video as always. So nice to have Emilie showing off her baking skills. I can't wait to try that recipe. Looks delicious.
Thank you!
ROFLOL! You told Bella to sit and my female sits. But my mail is howling....
Be the Alpha dog! I noticed at the beginning of the video the way you were telling her to sit. More like asking her if she'd like to sit down!
I learned that when going through obedience courses. It is hard when they're your buddy! A puppy! I can't wait! ❤❤
Bella might be trying to catch gophers. It takes a massive amount of digging to catch even a single gopher.
Couple ideas on Bella. I don't have experience with her breed, (I have goldens). my first thought about the digging was - you talk about gophers a lot. Some breeds will dig if they hear tunneling animals. Could this be happening? She's definitely bored if she's chewing things up. But, she's still young, and needs to chew. Does she like chew toys?
I think your breeder is on target, regarding Bella's perceived placement in the family "pack" and is advising you, well. Good breeders always want to be updated on, and involved with their dog-families. How is Bella's recall? That's very important for teaching hierarchy. I had a dog once who struggled with recall and who also thought that he was the boss. His breeder recommended I stop using the command, "Come!", and use the command "Here!", instead. He said it uses a sharper vowel, and is easier for dogs to hear and react to. I'd say "Here!", snap my fingers and point to the ground in front of me. Initially, i did this on a long tether, and pulled him toward me as I gave the command. Then treated him, even though he only came to me because he had no choice. Eventually, we dropped the tether, then the treat. It worked well, and I've used it for every dog ive had since. The breeder offered several other suggestions that also helped immensely. That dog became the best dog and friend, ever. My heart-dog.
One thing I noticed about Bella in your video, is her "mouthiness". That has to stop. I have a "special" dog. He gets "mouthy" when he gets excited. Grabs clothes, hands, etc. I taught him that if he wants attention, he has to go grab a woobie, first (any toy or bone or even a stick). It keeps him from getting mouthy with people. If he doesn't have a woobie, and starts grabbing, I sparply turn my back to him (or direct visitors to do so). Then he goes and finds a woobie. It's the best thing I ever taught him! Works like a charm. He soon realized he could get his pets if he acted like a gentleman. Next thing I taught him was "All done!" He's a very needy dog .
Hey, Brian! Your gardens are looking awesome!
He’s said before that she has every chew toy, when she chewed Scars dish, I believe.
My dog digs in the winter and spring. Seems like she's after a burrowing animal. It's frustrating. Then summer comes and she seems to chill out.
Good to know. Thanks!
New book idea
How to train your companion guarding dog.
Bella! That look was so funny....like uh oh... he's not going to like this 😂
Yep. She knows lol
Good luck with re-training Bella in time for the new arrivals :-D I'm sure having a pal to play with will cure the boredom as long as they are both obedient!
Hi Brian. My family bred Irish Setters in the olden days (the 60's) and they had great personalities but not the smartest -smarts had been bred out in favor of beauty. They definitely checked the beauty box. These were show dogs so they had to be trained to behave properly in the ring . All were taken to basic AKC obedience classes-heel, sit, stay, come, down and so forth. You might consider something like this for Bella. She is smart and would likely do well. The working dogs always did well in obedience trails at AKC events. You will also learn how to give a command-dogs name , command, praise, reward ..i.e. "Bella SIT' , she sit's. "good sit!" treat reward. Good luck to you !
I raised 3 terriers from the same litter. I taught them to be calm, hand signals and the are very well behaved. After they were about 2, i found the Dog Whisperer. Even though i was happy with their behavior, I learned so much. Something like that might be helpful to you.
If you put her poop where she digs, consistently, she'll stop. It worked with my Samoyeds . Hopefully the new sheep will give her purpose! Glad you got good advice.
A couple tips- never give a dog a command you cannot reinforce. Yes she must see you as the master. Start back at zero. Training must be done on a leash - lots of treats. All positive. I was a puppy raiser and trained several service dogs. Dogs get into trouble when they are bored. She needs more jobs. Replace the bad behavior with jobs you want her to do. It’s a lot of intensive training. You may need to hire someone.
I have also had a rough training journey with my Saint Bernard. I am currently learning the importance of consistency with her training. Bella acts like my dog in a couple of ways, it's so cute to watch.
Have you never had a dog before? They're children until 2 or 3. My Maremma is 11 or 12 now and his protectee is me. My shepherd dog sleeps beside me facing the door, and my Maremma sleeps between me and the door. I hope I never find out what happens if someone comes through the door, because I have white carpet.
My computer decided what it wanted to say. I wanted to say your life will be easier and Bella will be happier.
Thank you Brian, Emilie and Bella. Good luck with Bella and congratulations on your new puppy. 🪻💚🙃
Emilie! This will be a great item to make while we are camping! I can be cooking bacon or sausage on the big griddle outside while this is in the over! Thanks for showing us how! Brian, don’t beat yourself up. No one does it perfectly the first time they try something new, and Bella loves you so she will learn. You have SO MUCH on your mind to attend to! Besides dogs just love wrapping us around their big furry paws! They capture us with cuteness and affection and playfulness. They are3 all heart, but she will learn that being an obedient dog is a happy dog.
Happy Easter to you all! That dish you made Emilie looks Fantastic! I am not a fan of pancakes but this is something i will definitely make! Thank you for sharing the recipe! Have a wonderful weekend!
Thank you! You too!
Dogs like mine and yours are hands on dogs 24/7. Always learning and never give up! Trial and error always. Just yesterday me and my bride let our hens out and before I could catch it a black girl ate half a Romain Lettuce because pre occupied with a neighbor having an issue. Never give up!!
I AGREE with the breeder👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 Bella is SO LOVED 2 months tough love YOU ARE THE alpha male💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Brian, make sure you fill in all those caves that Bella dug before the sheep come so they don't fall in.😁
That recipe sounds intriguing so I will have to try that, so thank you Emily.
I took my first dog to dog training in 1965, when I was a junior in high school. I’ve worked with many dogs since and it still amazes me, that if I’m not on my guard, how fast dogs can train me. They are masters, lol. When we got our last lab, the kennel handed us a training guide, which the title read, ‘Who’s training who”. Sounds like you are on the right track. I’m amazed at Belle’s tunnels. Holy Cow!! Love your shows.
Oh geez the yard excavation looks awesome!!!!!!!
Hang in there Brian, it will ALL WORK OUT! Hello my darlin Emilie, LOVE watching you cook and share your recipes!! Beautiful lady, wife and mother who keeps a gorgeous home! God Bless!!!!
Thank you so much!
You’re right Brian. She’s board and lacks training. I’m glad you discovered this and will take action. She will still go into teenage mode so watch out. Yes I’ve made what Emily made, it’s called a Dutch baby and it’s usually made in a cast iron pan. I’ve not seen it made in a casserole dish. Very interesting. Thanks for sharing 😊
Oh Bella! You’re adorable. 🥰 I actually have a Bella too, and she is FULL of energy as well. Never a dull moment! 😁
Never a dull moment! Just had to laugh! 😂 At least she’s not digging “caves” in the gardens. I’m sure you will solve all the problems in time. Thanks Emilie. Great to see you in a segment. ❤. That “custard” looked tasty. Thank you so much for everything you do all for us. Super thank you to Bill for his hard work, too. Many, many blessings
My Siberian Husky dug dens like that when she was a few weeks away from having pups.
I think Bella is on overdrive looking for gophers.
Oh. Bella, she loves to play. Having another dog will probably help her, because she can have a companion and use up some of that energy chasing her new friend.❤️
Den digging is a natural drive for these dogs. Mine would dig a den in flat pasture even though they were not treated as pets and had plenty of sheep and goats to guard, which they did very well.
They need to be submissive to you. When they go on their back to you that is submission. We would reinforce this with "head down" when they did it. You need to be able to handle them without resistance for paw checks or anything else. Please get this going with the new pup right away. You can see this trait even in a visit to the new litter by handling each pup, just rolling them on their back and see which ones submit, which is not the same as being timid.
Oh Bella! 🤣🤣🤣 Still such a puppy. I think she's just after the gophers.
I've said it before, but I'll say it again, I love me some Bill. Super cool dude! Thank you, Bill, for all your help!
100% agreed 👍
Hey - no apologies or guilt about Bella. Smart dogs do get bored. And establishing the "alpha" heirarchy is needed and important. Domesticated as they are - dogs still look for a pack leader or become one. This happens even with dogs with no "farm" duties. Regular walks and structured play time helps keep them stimulated - and can mitigate destructive behavior. Also - for many breeds, reaching age 2 (in human years) often starts a new phase of maturity. Puff pancake! I make these - but call them "Dutch baby". I LOVE them. Try them with a little lemon juice and powdered sugar on top - divine! You can also do savory versions (with herbs and cheese, etc).
I love your ideas for that recipe. I'm going to try some of those, But I'm going to make it first the way she gave the recipe and maybe just add some cinnamon then next time try some variations.
I've made Dutch babies with blueberries and it's my favorite. Yummy!
Regarding your excess eggs; Hidden Heights Farm on YT showed a dehydrator where they dried their excess eggs. The company that makes the dehydrator may have smaller units that you may find useful. They posted a video on how the dehydrator worked and also how the eggs worked out.
So glad you are getting Bella a companion. My thought exactly as you were telling us about her misbehavior. Looking forward to the sheep! The property is looking so good!
That looks like my Dutch baby recipe! Yum!
Bit of a warning, as it happened on our farm once. If a cow steps into a hole, in our case the dog was digging for a gopher, the cow can spook and break it's own leg trying to escape what it doesn't understand. In our case, this one went into the freezer and we lost the meat growth for the rest of the season. In your case, Daisy is part of the family and I think it would really be worth filling and tamping any holes that she can get to.
I love the cave! 😂LOL...sorry I'm laughing but Bella is absolutely adorable! I know she has a job to do with protecting Daisy but the magnitude of love she has for you is immense. I'm having a similar situation. Give Bella lots of hugs and kisses for me. Oh and tell Emilie I love seeing her more in your videos❤❤❤❤❤
With sheep you will be able to make all kind of sheep cheese - like feta, manchego, and pecorino. But I also like Slovak fresh sheep cheese BRYNDZA. I think originally from Bulgaria.
My dog is like this 🙄 Lab/Mastiff and boy....the energy level is just at its peak I swear she just turned a year and oh my. Relentless
You do a great job conveying your message in an easy and relatable way. I think that is a big part of why I'm drawn to your channel. I'm a "grower" from birth. LOL It's genetic from both sides of the family and goes back generations...and critical knowledge I feel so very blessed to have tucked away in my mind. I too love to share it and teach others all I know. Allowing these vital skills to disappear is not an option.
WOW! Thanks for a great video. Bella being a teenager, you really do have a full schedule for yourself. Carry On Sir!
Love that you always take ownership when things don't go the way you think they should. Have similar issues with the training of our 18 month old - I appreciate the reminder that I need to do better. Love that Emily was on sharing a great recipe! Thanks for always sharing!!!
First thing I thought of was boredom. They are characters! It's hard when they win our heart. You have a lot on your plate coming up but you can do this and she will be what you need her to be. I have faith in you guys and I will put it to prayer. Thanks for the recipe. I know what I'm fixing for breakfast tomorrow!!!
A Bella bath is in order! ...and I think I'd consider having Bella spayed before another Maremma is introduced, before the sheep arrive, and before Daisy is bred.
My silver lab is 4 years old and I still find new holes in the backyard. He also learned he could pull up carrots and other veggies in the raised beds, so I had to add t posts and chicken wire last year. Lol
I am excited for Bella 👏. Yay!!
Dutch Babies are really good with fruit and whipped cream for a sweet pancake. Happy for the puppy and for Bella to have a friend - not sure how Daisy is gonna feel about two pups😅
Good luck with the training. I totally understand how your tender heart made it tough to be firm. Now to find the time in your already packed schedule.
Love and hugs to you, Emilie, Noah and the fur babies. ❤️🤗❤️
❤️❤️
🇦🇺You can dehydrate eggs or freeze eggs for the winter months when the chickens don’t lay. If you have a freeze dryer you can freeze dry eggs as well.
Some people call the dish you made a Dutch baby.
Hang in there Brian!!! Lots of people struggle with being the alpha of their “pack,” just because we humanize dogs so much. They really don’t think the way we do, although they are beautiful thoughtful spirits. I know without a doubt you can turn the situation with Bella around!!! You guys are together for a reason and will form an even more wonderful relationship! It will be fun!!! Life is always teaching us isn’t it? And you’re amazing because you share your experiences to help teach us all!!! Thank you!💖PS. That pancake looks amazing!!!! YUM!!! Thanks Emily!!!
As an owner of 4 Goldens it’s a very smart move . She’s bored for sure. However, she is smelling all the critters moving now too. It’s her instincts to dig❤️❤️❤️congrats on all the new animals. Jealous😂😂
With the exception of adding the syrup Emily made a Yorkshire pudding!! If you pre cook some sausages and add them to the dish before cooking you can make ‘toad in the hole’ lol
When we had a small lap dog, as a teenager she really liked digging holes to our backyard. I think young dogs just are prone to being destructive if unattended and if they are bored...
I’ll be interested to see how you break her from escaping and digging! The fluffy pancake is what we call Dutch baby pancakes.
If you don't train and control your dog she just takes over. I think you got that. It was great to see Emilie's recipe. I may be one of the few guys that enjoys that, but keep it up. Can't wait to see you next time
Bella what have youd one oh my goodness ❤❤❤❤❤
We call them German pancakes or puffy pancakes.
So yummy!
Best of luck with Bella and the training can't wait to see the additions to the homestead!
❤Sweet Bella! My springer did that too her first and half of her second year. She is young and a dog!
We call those Dutch Hats! We serve with yogurt, fruit and of course, don’t forget the syrup!
Take your gardening mindset and apply it to dog - help her succeed.
Don't beat yourself up about it you didn'tknow better it's a learning curve, you totally got this. Brian ❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊
Hi Brian. Maybe you should talk to Patara at Appalachian Homestead. She's got livestock guardian dogs and might be able to give you some suggestions. My gut reaction is that you are compounding your problems by adding more farm animals and another puppy? If anything, I would think a more experienced guardian dog could show Bella the ropes 😮
Luv Patara
Good luck with the digging! I have four Shichon dogs and 9 acres with holes everywhere. I'm trying to get them to enjoy Smilac tubers (Greenbriar) My plan is for them to dig them up and eat them! Diabolical! Prayfor me that it works.
Yay, Emilie! I was hoping you'd show us some more of your cooking. My husband makes something similar, but yours looks way easier, so I'll be sharing this with him. ~~ Buona fortuna with Bella. Your homestead is growing!
Your training begins.
Yes
I’m having to put my garden in the front yard this year. I’ve got 3 border collies… or 2 digger the dogs and 1 supervisor..
Dutch Baby pancakes are wonderful! I make mine in cast iron and put apple slices in the bottom before I put it in the skillet to warm with the butter. Makes a great breakfast.
Maybe she is chasing gophers?
That’s possible or she’s may be hot, I’d imagine it’s quite warm for her in Sothern CA. They dig into the ground to cool off 😊
That was my thought also.
@@user-pq9zc3uc7mmine are up here in Montana and when it hits about 45-50 degrees they are laying on their backs trying to cool their bellies and panting 😂 And we got all kinds of bunkers they’ve dug all throughout the pasture 😂😂
Bella looked like she had a really good time! Emilie pancake looked really yummy. Good luck with the training.! Your property is really starting to look nice. Happy Easter 🐣🐣🐰🐰🐰
Thank you. You too!
The pancake thing looks a bit like yorkshire pudding without the beef
Very similar to a Dutch baby. 19:18 I cook mine in a cast iron skillet.
Your videos are so friendly besides informative....they make me feel like ....family!
Just love your approach to life....
Best wishes
I've been making these Dutch baby pancakes lately and my husband and I just love them! Interesting about your beautiful Bella. Question: do you spend any leash time walking together? Our LGD is 50/50 Maremma and Karakachan. He is 2 and a half next month. We had a trainer come to our property when he was about 7 months old to work with us and show us some basics. We learned that leash time is very important and helps build the relationship. Titus is an excavator also but no caves yet!!! We keep areas refilled a lot. Still have to get him to stop playing with the goats (chasing them). The goats hate it! Haha... taken serious though. Don't need him stressing out the animals.
Thanks for sharing!
Emily, that looks incredible!
Kids mimic their parents. Dad digs in the dirt all day I will too 😅