[RottnKid1]

First, I want to compliment you on seeking out help. Unfortunately, many owners won't do that :(.

What kind of collar are you using on Rock? Is is a choke chain or a prong collar? As I've stated, I would prefer to go with a Halti first to see how hat works. Many people swear by the Gentle Leader, but my dogs prefer the Halti. The muzzlel strap remains loose unless they pull.

If you're using a choke chain, first you need to make sure that it's on correctly. You should hold the collar in front of you and form it into a "P." With the dog facing you, you slip it over his neck. This way, when you apply a correction, the chain will loosen up as soon as you release the pressure. A correction shoud be a quick, sharp tug on the lease, then release the pressure immediately. When I use a prong collar (also called a pinch collar), I make sure to attach the leash to both rings, though some people attach to only one ring. By hooking on to both rings, it's basically a self correcting tool. The dog begins to pull and the prongs apply an uncomfortable feeling. If you attach to only one ring, it's a prong and choke chain all in one. The collar tightens up and the prongs become even more uncomfortable. Some people will tell you to correct the dog severely enough to elicit a yelp, but I don't hold with that unless your dog is exhibiting behavior bad enough to warrant such a harsh correction. Yes, if you're going to apply a correction, you want it to be srong enough to get your dog's undivided attention and deter that behavior from happening again, but harshness to the point of borderline abuse has no place in training. From what you've described, Rock's problem on lead is pulling. Now you can try out the Halti or Gentle Leader and probably take care of the problem with one of those, or you can elect to stay with your choke chain. As I said, with a choke, you use a quick snap and release. It's always preferable to use far more praise than corrections. When Rock is walking close beside you, on your left side, with his front legs right next to yours, say "Hee" and immediately praise him. You use verbal praise only or verbal and a food reward. Training treats should be small and able to be eaten very quicly. The same principle should be used with a prong collar, though if a correction is needed with a prong, it must be done MUCH more gently. You would use the Halti in a very similar way. The bottom line is that you want your dog to want to please you out of love and respect, not out of fear. You'll end up having a much more reliable dog that way and the both of you will be happy.

As for your problems at home, you'll want to implement the "golden rules."

I've got a wicked migraine, so I apologize if I forget some, but your dog doesn't seem to have any aggression, so the rules I'm going to tell you about should suffice.

1. No free rides. Have Rock sit prior to be being given treats, meals and petting.

2. No furniture. He must be made to stay off furniture and beds.

3. Humans must precede him in or out the door - and he should only exit or enter after being given permission.

4. If Rock is in the way, don't step over him. Have him get up and move out of the way.

Since Rock really seems to be a good dog without any serious behavioral problems, the above rules should suffice. Stepping on feet will just take some time and learned commands along with some behavior changes on your part. First, I would try backing up a step, then turning your back on Rock and ignoring him for a minute. If you choose commands instead, choose the words you want to use (this is extremely important for ANY commands you use. The same commands must be used by everyone in the family or it'll cause Rock to be confused). For instance, when I want my dogs to lay down, I say down. If I want them to get their feet off of me or anything else, I say off. So, try that while either lifting your foot or pushing him back.

Stealing? First, try to make sure clothing is out of his reach. Has he been taught the command "out" - or drop it, give, whatever word you prefer t have him relase something? If not, teach him that. The "leave it" command also comes in very handy to have him leave something alone BEFORE he touches it.

Lastly, I'd find another good obedience course. This helps not only to train, but to socialize and stimulate both the mind and the body and best of all, creates a closer and more trusting bond between you and your dog. Best of luck and please keep us posted!!!