Celebrity dog trainer answers Examiner question

November 30, 9:49 AMDC Dogs ExaminerMichelle Critchell

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Dog trainer, Victoria Stilwell, of the Animal Planet show, “It’s Me or the Dog,”  answered a question from the D.C. Dogs Examiner during a Washington Post online discussion on Wednesday, November 26.

Stilwell helps counsel families on their pet problems and her work reaches audiences in over 30 countries.  She is also the author of It’s me or the dog; How to have the Perfect Pet.

Question from D.C. Dogs Examiner:

Dear Victoria,
Love your show! Do you think it is a bad idea to let dogs sleep on the "family" bed?  My husband and I have two small dogs and often let them sleep on the bed. One can get "growly," though when we try to move her. Thanks!

Victoria Stilwell: Thanks -- glad you like the show!

I'm completely fine with dogs sleeping on beds as long as all the humans who are supposed to sleep there are OK with it and, more importantly, the dog doesn't display any unwanted behaviors or resistance when you try to remove him. Almost every time you see me dealing with a bed-related issue on the show, the owners have allowed the behavior continue so long that problems have developed which need to be sorted out.

Sounds like your dog is starting to get a little protective of the bed, so in your case, I'd suggest addressing the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. Be sure to get a positive-reinforcement trainer in your area to come help you, as aggression issues can be very complex and need to be dealt with appropriately.


Read the rest of the Washington Post discussion where Stilwell tackles issues such as crating dogs, unscrupulous breeders, and electric fences.

"It's Me or the Dog" airs Saturdays at 9pm e/p on the Animal Planet.