We have a Newfoundland who is just over 12 months old, she continually wees and dirties on her bed and tries to keep the kids separate from Mum, if Dad feeds her she won t eat. Obedience training only works when a treat is in full view. Any advice please as no expereience with others of the breed. Many thanks

Looks like its back to basics for the housetraining and making sure that her bedding is either renewed (I would use old towels for bedding and just throw them away ahen she messes them). Taking the dog out every hour etc. However, it could be that she is messing because she is anxious or confused. It would also be best to ensure that ALL members of the household are involved in her care. So get the whole family together to feed, walk and groom the dog. Do the children play with her alot because that could be why she is keeping them separate from the adults as she feels the children are more fun to be with rather than the adults so playtime is for EVERYONE.

About the treats: this is not that unusual, you have to phase them out gradually.

I was given some good advice for this which works a treat (forgive the pun!!!):

Show dog the treat

Ask for a Sit (for example)

Dog sits

Verbal praise but put treat away.

Ask for Sit

Dog won't Sit

Show dog the Treat

Ask for a Sit

Dog sits

Verbal praise and put treat away.

Eventually the dog will try sitting withouth the treat in full view and then you give treat and lots of praise. you may have to repeat this a lot.

Then after a few days graduate to hiding treat in pocket or on worktop or anywhere so the dog doesn't know the treat is forthcomng. Also rememeber to sometimes surprise your dog with a treat if it is no t expecting one and has done a fast Sit or whatever.

Good luck!!