Initially thought it daft to ask, but realise that I could create problems if I don't handle this correctly.
Basically, the word 'naughty' has worked for appropriate occassions such as the odd chew of sofa cushions etc.....but why now, when we say this word, does Rosie respond by wagging her tail like I've just given her the sunday roast!?...it appears defiant rather than attention seeking *LOL*
Anyway...its only occassional [because she's such a good dog ;) ].....my question is, should I be reinforcing this [being more assertive in tone during this teenage stage] or continue as normal [as we are doing]?
On reflection, I suppose this question is applicable to how I handle any 'Kevin' moments in general. I have loads of patience, its what is 'correct' that I'd value your expert opinions on.
Many Thanks
Jo
:)

Have replied on the PM system, did not mean to, but you know me can't stop typing even when I have run out of things to say ;)

LOL...ditto ! ;)

I believe a wagging tail isn't just an expression of pleasure, as it often appears to be just as much a sign of appeasement.  The basic rules still apply during the 'Kevin' years - ignore what behaviour you can, distract from that which you can't ignore (for safety or whatever reasons) and praise the good :)

Norman wags his tail when he's in trouble/eaten cat poo/stole food/chased a cat.  It's a littler wag than his happy wag but still a wag.  I used to think he was taking the mick - now it's part of his saying sorry.  He also 'smiles' when he's in trouble.  My mother told him off because she thought he was showing his teeth at her. :)

Hi Jo, I think you may have touched upon something when you mention tone!  You will obviously know yourself how you are saying it :) - My other half say's everything in a playful tone to our teenager :rolleyes: - She's not listening to his words, just his tone and often see's this as an invite to play!  You can try it...In the friendliest tone you can say something like "your such a bad girl/boy" :D  When you do say NO make it count, think of your tone and if it is still ignored I turn my dog away from us or ignore her for a couple of minutes but you will soon come to realise what is effective for your dog :)  As for general 'Kevins' (:D) I would say that 'correct' is what is acceptible to you!  It is your pack/house and your rules go, you say what is correct and what is not...Just make sure you are sending the right messages, which is why I love using clickers so much :D
Hope this helps?
Sarah

Thanks for your feedback Digger, Joe & Rozzer. It was interesting to read that the tail wagging could be that of appeasement as well. LOL...I can see that now :rolleyes:
I will certainly continue with the basic rules as yourselves and Jackie have advised, and just plod on.
I do admit to having a problem with 'tone' consistency...I'm OK and use 'high' for good and 'quiet' for bad, However my husband is a different matter....with permanent stubble, a bald head and missing teeth I've no idea how he manages to sound like a woman each time he delivers instruction!!...for want of a better expression, I'll just have to 'rough' him up a bit....'vocally' I mean ;)
Many thanks for your reassuring feedback
Jo
x

LOL JO, Hounds aren't daft, she will not expect your OH to sound like you. Try to let your voice reflect how you are feeling and then it is easy, if you are pleased you will sound pleased and if cross, then cross, but if you are giving a warning then your voice will automatically sound like, "I would not if I was you" sort of sound. The main thing is only use one or two words and the same ones for you and the OH. Try not to use too many negative commands, it is if possible, better to call her and then you can praise rather than say NO, now, I realise it is sometimes not possible to stop what you are doing to give a training section however short, but since I yelled leave it without realising the it was a vase and the floor was hard I try very hard to only give commands when I am in command of the situation :) if you see what I mean.

(Admin.....give this lady a gold star !) That makes perfect sense...and what a great tip...thanks Jackie...it'll mean I also use the opportunity to practise recall rather than voice negatives so frequently.
What would I do without you here to advise? ;)

Glad I'm doing the right thing already re my own teenage Kevin AKA Wilf. When Perry AKA Ruby went through this stage I found it better to stop any further serious training and just adhere to basic rules and had lots of fun while she was in this silly mood. I have fewer grey hairs or should I say I didn't have to pull too much out and now Ruby has gone through this stage she's remembered everything again and is more willing to listen to further training (well as much as a cocker ever wants to). LOL

LOL @ FrankieB...grey hairs definately coming thick and fast at the moment, but nice to hear you got through it all OK, especially as I'm having a bad 'Kevin' day today with Rosie :rolleyes:
Thanks
Jo
:)