You DO have your hands full with that combo...Murphy looks adorable and "angelic" in the picture...looks are deceiving? 😉
I've raised Rottys and Blue Heelers...two really stubborn and smart breeds (I know I'm a glutton for punishment!). Of the two the smaller Heeler is by far the hardest, UNLESS they decide you are worth of their attention. Both of these require Alpha control because if either doesn't respect you...it won't work and everyone will be miserable.
I recommend Caesar Millan's videos and books for good info.
He is a sweetheart at home. He loves human contact and is truly a goofball. We are working on his reactivity to other dogs right now, which is weird since he bonded immediately with Ruby. It took a couple of days for he and my daughter's Labradoodle, Ellie, to come to terms, but they play like litter mates now. He has already learned not to pull on his leash and has learned a half a dozen word and hand commands. He's super smart.
After 8 weeks of dog trainer school (Read "Blood, sweat, and tears) followed by multiple seminars and 15 years of hands on experience, I can provide you with the full benefit of that experience in four simple words: DOGS DO WHAT WORKS. Fortunately, the same principal applies to people. Good luck with Murph. I bet he is a stick of dynamite! Such fun! (Mostly)
You DO have your hands full with that combo...Murphy looks adorable and "angelic" in the picture...looks are deceiving? 😉
I've raised Rottys and Blue Heelers...two really stubborn and smart breeds (I know I'm a glutton for punishment!). Of the two the smaller Heeler is by far the hardest, UNLESS they decide you are worth of their attention. Both of these require Alpha control because if either doesn't respect you...it won't work and everyone will be miserable.
I recommend Caesar Millan's videos and books for good info.
He is a sweetheart at home. He loves human contact and is truly a goofball. We are working on his reactivity to other dogs right now, which is weird since he bonded immediately with Ruby. It took a couple of days for he and my daughter's Labradoodle, Ellie, to come to terms, but they play like litter mates now. He has already learned not to pull on his leash and has learned a half a dozen word and hand commands. He's super smart.
Sounds like you've got it under control. Look forward to updates.
After 8 weeks of dog trainer school (Read "Blood, sweat, and tears) followed by multiple seminars and 15 years of hands on experience, I can provide you with the full benefit of that experience in four simple words: DOGS DO WHAT WORKS. Fortunately, the same principal applies to people. Good luck with Murph. I bet he is a stick of dynamite! Such fun! (Mostly)
Murphy looks like a winner, Michael, but read up on the Malinois. They're wonderful animals, and a breed unto themselves!