TEACHING POLLUX NEW THINGS ~ GETTING A DOGGIE DOOR FOR POLLUX

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Pollux is a stubborn dog! I'm trying to teach him something new, and it's proving more difficult than I expected. Maxxie got it right away, but Pollux is another story. We installed a dog door for screen door for our shelter dogs, and I'm doing some dog door training with Pollux. Maxxie our Miniature Schnauzer has been using the dodge door for years. He's a pro!
// WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
◼︎ LIFE LESSONS I'VE LEARNED FROM MY SHELTER DOGS • Life Lessons I’ve Lear...
◼︎ ADOPTING POLLUX~491 DAYS IN THE SHELTER • I Adopted the Dog Nobo...
◼︎ POLLUX'S FIRST BED & COLLAR • Pollux *The Dog Nobody...
◼︎ MAXXIE GOT AN ANXIETY CALMING BED • Getting a Calming Bed ...
◼︎ PUP CUPS (HOMEMADE ICE CREAM FOR DOGS) • Pup Cups *Homemade Ice...
◼︎ GET RID OF DOG HAIR • HOW I GET DOG HAIR OFF...
◼︎ POLLUX'S WEEKEND AT THE POOL • POLLUX Spends the Holi...
◼︎ HOUSE TOUR 2020 • My House Tour ~ Welcom...
💗🐶 ITEMS MY DOGS LOVE 🐶💗
⚬ CALMING DONUT BED amzn.to/3cEgRC0
⚬ CHOMCHOM ROLLER DOG HAIR REMOVER amzn.to/3csyggI
⚬ ROPE TOYS amzn.to/2Bv9Whn
⚬ WOOLY SNUFFLE MAT amzn.to/2AE3xQJ
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⚬ NEWMANS OWN DOG BISCUITS go.magik.ly/ml...
// WHERE TO PURCHASE DOGGIE DOORS
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[@loveforeignaccents]

Even though it might be considered a "quick walk/run through", I think that small space might remind him of being confined to a small space in the shelter. Fears with animals or humans are real to them, and I wouldn't pressure him to do it. If he wants to, one day, on his own, he will. You can't compare him to your other dogs... all of them are different and have their own personalities... not to mention, he has been through a lot. Just appreciate all of the progress he luckily has made so far would be my two cents.

[@treasure2behold282]

I almost expected Renee to go through the door 🤣

[@gaylegreene]

I thought the same thing. 🥲

[@SugarAddictions]

You need to be patient with him. He’s already scared and confused by the door and the negative energy you send off when you get frustrated by him is making it worse and can also damage his trust in you long-term. Start slow and hold the door for him and be positive and praise him when he goes through and with each time you can lower the door ao the hole get’s smaller until he is comfortable walking through by himself with you only standing by encouraging him. If he at any time get’s unsure then you just take a step back and hold it up a bit higher. Patience is key.

[@noenn9895]

perfect advice. I couldn't have said it any better. Also, remember it's new and scary to him so don't force him.

[@janetchapman5114]

I agree

[@nini5377]

I totally agree, always have positive mindset to a scared dog. It looks like he feels alone. Not a part of the pack.

[@Mia_9135]

Perfectly stated!

[@ajmoore5569]

Very good advice

[@greenshp]

Every dog is different. My coonhound mastered the doggie door in about 3 days. The border collie - yeah, the SMART one - is still hesitant one month in. She will at least use it now without my holding the flap. However, she still rings the bell to go out (I taught them that previously), comes and stares at me, and I have to follow her to the door and say, "Go out!" and through it she will go. Apparently I must supervise! I am confident that with a few weeks time, she'll do it on her own. Meanwhile, someone here said that forcing him was your first mistake, and showing frustration/displeasure your second. Yep - I agree. The suggestions like putting a "high value treat" on the other side and letting him figure it out, or even rewarding him for getting CLOSE to the door (which is the step back you may need to take at this point) and then touching it, and finally for going through - these are excellent suggestions. Whatever you do, you really have to be patient and respect that he's afraid of it. With my border collie, it was the sound, but more it was the weight of the flap on her back, I think. I used treats on the other side, held it for her, and it's been a month and she is finally going through without help.

[@ssquared2321]

You are an amazing mother ❤️🐾

[@sharroon7574]

It's so important to not let yourself get emotional when teaching a dog to overcome these little obstacles. Remember it's not about you, your schedule or what you want to happen it's about figuring out what your dog needs from you.

[@rationalistinanev]

Ms Curls please be patient. We've adopted so many rescue dogs, their primary response to everything is fear for many months. Be patient, reward, encourage they will learn.

[@rnbsn777]

Such a sweet dog, both your boys. Pollux isn't stubborn pro ably just confused and scared. Over 400 days in a shelter who knows what he's afraid of. Please be patient as I know you all will. He loves his yard that is clear and he loves to play, that's most important. We dog lovers do anything for our pets and if it's special attention, care and spoiling them we do it. Pollux may never use the door but he will decide. Thank you for anotger nice video. Maxie and pollux are so cute.

[@Oohmyymiaa]

Ooh, the sweet baby is just scared. Let him approach it in his own time and way; please don't force him. He'll figure it out soon enough...💗

[@stefanieschafer5834]

You must help him. First Lift it up and hold it. don' t let it down !!!When he goes thru back and force. Still hold it, but a little lower. It needs patience. Never let it fall down. It will scare him. Greetings from Germany. Be patient with him.

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

I've been working on that with him.....holding it up and letting it slightly brush his back as he goes through. It seems to be working so far :)

[@fernandapartridge5174]

WELCOME TO MY CURLS He will get there.... He’s a smart dog and it’s obvious the way he looks at you, that he completely adores you.... it is strange, my dog has weird fears over things, just keep at it and he’ll get there. Bless Pollux.....he’s come so far..... beautiful beastie as is Maxxy. 💕💗❤️

[@doodle1370]

I love Pollux hes so cute

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

He IS cute....along with stubborn!

[@Jepse89]

@@WelcomeToMyCurls he has a personality😂

[@sondrasmith2691]

Only my personal dogs of the past captured my heart like Pollux.

[@gaylegreene]

Maybe it reminds him of the shelter in some way. I can’t imagine being in a cage locked hearing the click of the lock. Maybe the clicking noise of the magnetics reminds him of the cage door of the shelter 😞. You are so patient with him I know you will be good to him. He is a sweetheart. Bless his heart ❤️

[@AidaJof]

Something struck me watching him go through the doggy door when you held the flap up for him ... he does not like the clicking noise the magnets make. Keep at it with positive reinforcement & treats and he will eventually get it. Good luck Pollux

[@treasure2behold282]

I think you may be on to something. Sounds bother then because their hearing is so sensitive.

[@polianasweden]

Maybe if you think: "Polux is scared" instead of thinking "Polux is stubborn" you will find the solution. He feels that you are not happy about this and he wants you to be happy. And you want a happy Polux!

[@flappycelery]

Right. Keep it positive. Actually, this whiny pleading is not a dog training technique. Hold a treat on one side of the door, hold the screen with smaller and smaller opening space, and let him get comfortable with the process in baby steps. Treats, praise, baby steps. Dogs don't understand whining...except it's level 1 before level 4. And he clearly has some abuse issues. I had a dog exactly like Pollux -scared of everything. Traumatized from abuse, stand-offish, skittish and submissive. She DID learn to trust but I had to really watch my frustration level around her. It made her worse!

[@lindaweston9456]

@@flappycelery such great advice! I want to add that Renee should get on all fours and slowly climb through the doggy door herself and then back out with Pollux watching!

[@ttwillow9073]

instead of treats, use his favorite toys. even leave one on the lip of the door so the door is slightly door.

[@Skylightatdusk]

If you are impatient and he senses it in your voice, he will continue to hesitate. He is fearful. He has had a different earlier life and will learn differently as a consequence.

[@rebeccasoubra]

I love Pollux, thank you for taking such good care of him so glad you gave him an furever home! I love Maxxie too!

[@trish7754]

Thank you for this video! I love watching Maxxie and Pollux! I swear it does look like Maxxie is trying to teach Pollux to not be afraid. They are both precious! And so are you and Randy. I am so amazed how you have changed things around your home just for Pollux. May God continue to bless you and your family.

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

He's a sweetie.....just a stubborn sweetie 💗

[@chomka426]

He can feel your energy relating to learning the door. He resists the vibes more than anything. He'll use it when the energy relating to it is open and flowing. Cesar Milan teaches all about dogs and energy. It's very interesting. Pollux is beautiful and I'm glad he and Max have such a nice home.

[@evgeniyapo4250]

Greetings from Moscow, Russia! Renee, you are a very patient and kind person. We have had for almost 15 years a small doggie, a mix a Maltese lap dog and an unknown hero. He pretended to be blind and deaf every time we forced him to do things that he did not like at all. Good luck and patience, love will fix everything. Perhaps the next 10-15 years you will have to open door for PoIIux, LOL

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

pretended to be blind and deaf LOL😂 Maxxie does the exact same thing!!!! He can completely ignore me when wants to....pretending he is deaf. Dogs are soooo funny!

[@cboyle707]

I see a certain amount of trepidation... fear? Maybe associated with the shelter. And perhaps he is worried he might do it wrong. Let time pass. But don't lose your patience. Please. His whole life in a shelter. Let your daughter teach him. I see fear. Not so much stubborn. Thank you for saving his life.

[@dianncrossman8437]

I used favorite treats to lure my 2 through the doggie door. I was on the other side with the treat, they saw it and smelled it so I would pull the door up a little, put the treat right under the opening but they still had to use their nose and head to push the door open. It took an afternoon over and over but by evening they were doing it themselves. Good luck!

[@yolandawray7153]

He's such a big sweet lovable puppy he'll do it in his own time

[@constantdarkfog49]

Yep, Pollux is sure being scared, if maxie can do it so could Pollux, when he's ready. Please show us once he does the doggie door, hope he'll get it, he is really shy to new things, give him time.

[@lesleyrolon3761]

Pollux will eventually figure it out. He learned to pee with his leg up when you rescued him, Renee. He needs patience. It seems he's scared when the magnets click, evidently there's trauma issues from his past, it might seem like stubbornness, but he's plainly terrified and him coping with new stuff, takes time. Patience Renee, he'll get it. 👍👍👍 Love your videos. 💖

[@bridgetmohr3170]

Our rescue dog we have had for over 5 years still doesn’t get the idea on what he’s supposed to do to be a normal family pet. Thank you for loving Pollux and showing him what it’s like to be part of a family.

[@Katy32344]

I used to stand on one side and call the dog through to the side where I am, rather than trying to get him to go through while im on the same side as the dog. The reward is hugs and pettings.

[@AidaJof]

I love Pollux -- keep at it. He loves you and his forever home so when you least expect it he may surprise you. His stubbornness may come from a breed other than collie(?) I am addicted to your postings!

[@johnhamlin7055]

Oh that Pollux is such a good boy. Master of the universe! Do not fret he will getr done! Patience Patience Patience with a little sprinkle of love! :)

[@kimcarr3741]

Hey there! I love your content and how you share your wonderful life with others. My heart goes out to Pollux because he does appear to be frightened by his reflection in the flap among other things associated with the door flap. This is just a thought but has he ever seen himself in a mirror? If not you might try that and see how he responds to his image. This could give you a clue as to how to proceed. Like I said, it's just a thought. I get the biggest kick out of watching him run outside of the pool area. He reminds me of a little bird that's been set free and when you think about it.....he has. Wishing you the best with sweet Pollux.

[@yolirankin9733]

I laughed the whole way thru this video. My favorite was when he walked by and looked at it. You laughed too. 😂😂😂 seriously! Maxxie is one of the cutest doggies ever!! And Pollux reminds me so much of my childhood pet. ♥️. Can’t wait to see the video of Pollux going in and out someday! Lol

[@pe-ga-sus]

Oh no, this is the first time I've had an ache in my heart while visiting Welcome To My Curls. Please give him more time. This is about him being comfortable and learning something new, which doesn't come easy to shelter dogs. I live in Sweden and have a rescued dog from Russia and she is still skittish sometimes after four years with us. She learns, but at a much slower pace compared to the flatcoat/golden mix we've had since she was a puppy. To regain Pollux trust, may I suggest looking into clicker-training? It might be something for him, since he seems fond of his treats. There are many good books about it and also a ton of online resources. Once he gets the hang of the clicker method, you'll be able to use that to help him with the screen doggie door. I really like your channel and with you and Pollux the very best.

[@kristiannavarro666]

YES then he will stop being afraid of the clicking of the doggie door.

[@deenaayala2284]

It's the trust and when you dont force it he'll go it's not a norm for him act like you dont care the more you force Hun I think hes scarred and frustrated! Luv yur trying though!!🤗🙏

[@cicelybrown747]

Hi Renee! I am a new subscriber to your channel and love your content! Pollux was in the shelter for a long time before you got him. He probably has a lot of fears and insecurities because of it. He is developing slowly, but he is making progress. Just be gentle with him and have patience. Love him through his apparent fear of something that is new to him. I know you don’t like to spend money but maybe a professional dog trainer might help him calm his fears and teach all of you how to have fun together, like he does with his big brother, Maxer.

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

We've talked about taking him to a trainer this fall. He's going to be traveling with us this winter ...and we need him to have some specific skills. I'll keep you posted!

[@ameenaazzouni4253]

@@WelcomeToMyCurls Try to find a fear-free trainer - one that won't use pinch collars or e-collars. Pollux is a lot like my dog Maddie (she's afraid of everything), and punishment-based training will only make it worse. Encouragement, praise and treats are the way to go!

[@lexiebond2389]

I think Pollux is amazing. He adjusted to being a member of your family immediately. He played with Maxxie almost as soon as they met. Anything Pollux resists let it go and in time he may do it on his own. Going through the doggie door is not a necessary part of his life and he may try it on has own. Insisting on something will not make it happen. I would just enjoy your two wonderful dogs and forget about the door. You are wonderful with Pollux don't let this become an issue.

[@sherrieshatzen3801]

I think it is possible that Pollux is intimidated by the door. If you watch when he watches Maxi he flinches. It is going to take time for Pollux to develop complete trust in you. You might try putting some kind of treat he really can't resist on the other side of the door from where Pollux is. If he is motivated enough he will eventually use the door. Pollux is probably more self protective than stubborn. It will take some time for him to get past spending his puppy hood in a shelter which is not a great environment for developing trust and connection.

[@ellenmuseum]

Let go of outcomes focus on having fun with him....reward yourself too for letting go

[@craftykid4775]

I made your pup cups for my mums little dog and she loved them 💕 Pollux will get there in the end, he’s doing so well in his new home... hugs from the UK xx

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

Yay!!! 💗💗

[@marietheresa7866]

Pollux loves his new Mom, Dad, beautiful sisters and gorgeous Maxx. Wish we could say the same for his doggie door !!!! Gorgeous Mommy and Pop on behalf of Max and Pollux, loads and loads of love from their and your fans.

[@sailon4017]

Good for you giving Pollux a whole yard fence to run run run!!!! A suggestion re the doggie door: Pollux may be scared to go into dark or go thro his reflection. Try holding a treat on the side you want him to go to and see if he’ll go toward the treat

[@janhankins911]

Just did want to give a big shout out to you for adopting Pollux. You're giving him a wonderful home and it's clear that you love him.

[@kristine6324]

I love Pollux so much! Thank you for posting his life online!

[@sassykat2000]

I love your whole family. You're all just wonderful people. And Pollux is a very lucky doggo. He's stubborn because he's still a nervous dog. Remember how long it took for him to just relax about having people who love him? It happened but it took a little while. Does he push anything else open with his nose or body? Working on a door that's cracked open that he has to push open to get to you and a treat on the other side - where he can see you and the treat as well as smell it could help give him the idea he'll be okay if he does push through. Sending you and Pollux best wishes!

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

Hi! Pollux loves to test things out by poking it with his nose. And when he wants something from me, he pokes me too! LOL

[@gigigugu9619]

Hi Renne! I can't stop laughing with Pollux way of life! Both are so cute!!! I think with all this corona virus, Pollux is still keeping social distancing from "that dangerous door".😂😂😂 But I think with the time, he'll figure out. XOXO's from Brazil.💖💖💖🕊🕊🕊

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

🤣🤣🤣

[@lindamarocco4583]

We have a doggy door for our door... not screen door, regular door... one of our dogs just wouldn’t do it... she was so afraid... so, I just let it be... Pollux is getting scared it seems... I feel badly for him!... I hope he does it!... if not, sliding the door open for him is ok!.., you and your family are so good to your fur babies!.., I love to see them with you all!..thank you for sharing Renee!!!!... great video!... btw... I am going on week 14 with my hair!!!!..wooohoooo!💜💜💜💜💜

[@Jackieisabel]

Wooow 🥰! Pollux comes from a long way You have done such a wonderful job with him🥰🥰🥰He looks so happy

[@frankscarborough1428]

I believe her is scared. Give him time💕

[@lindaarchinal9008]

Love your vids- I would lock the flap up so it can’t go down and feed him on the other side until he goes easily back and forth - then see if you can’t lower it a bit by bit with the food showing- it’s always instant reward and validation .

[@nikkib5151]

The magnet clicking might scare him. I have one dog that will and one that won't go through our doggie door. That's the only thing I can figure out is that she is scared of that noise. Just like Pollux she will watch and you know she wants to go through to come in or out but she just won't do it either! Grrrr stubborn dogs, gotta love'em🐕🐕‍🦺🐩

[@cee1164]

Thank you, Deanna! I was going to say the same! Renee, everybody who said you should be patient is right. Also, please try looking through his eyes and zero in on what he is focusing on when he becomes 'paralyzed' and fixated; that's not stubbornness, it just looks like it. And I recommend you do it off camera for awhile until he gets it. Remember you said he isn't a big fan of the camera? Possibly making him doubly afraid. But once he gets it, through your constantly giving him his space, patience and time, there will most likely be no turning back. And he'll begin to trust more. In the meantime, stop fretting over it. You know he had a hard start in life; which is why you got him to give him a beautiful life. Which means every time he learns something new, he needs your compassion again and again. Bless you and your beautiful family and home. Love you, Pollux and Maxxie!

[@River_wylde]

i love that lent remover. i think he'll get the hang of it. You guys are great and hes sooo lucky to have found a home with you guys

[@PinkerJewel]

When we taught my dog how to use the door, it took two of us. We got his favorite treats, one of us outside, and one inside. He went in and out for the treat and got a treat from someone each time. He is a skittish rescue, too, but this worked great with him.

[@marybrown3125]

We have 2 standard poodles and when we got a doggie door, one went through it immediately but the other one would not, no matter how we tried to encourage him. After 3 YEARS, he finally went through it himself, and now there’s no problem. Funny how they all have there own issues. My two are brothers and have been raised together and have had pretty much the same experiences. All I can suggest is try not to make too big a deal out of it. Maybe he will get tired of being left out. Good luck!

[@jessical6944]

The time lapse of Pollux and maxie is the best time I’ve seen all day!

[@debndogs2208]

He will get it .. just make it a good experience - maybe leave a tasty treat on the otherside . 🐕💕

[@Whoismyname999]

I just want to add, don’t force him. It will make it worse and more scared of you. So he will be afraid to get close to you. Only patience can work. I know it’s frustrating sometimes but be patient with him. He is so lucky to be adopted to you and your family.

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

yeah.....he ignored me for an entire day. Wouldn't get near me!

[@beverlyjean2237]

@@WelcomeToMyCurls Yes, you sure wouldn't want him to think he needs to avoid getting close to you, because of the doggie door. Alot of patience is right. Maybe someday he will surprise you, to decide using it on his own! Perhaps, a dog trainer may help? The clicking of the magnets, might remind him of sound cage at the shelter makes, opening & closing door. Ofcourse, magnets should not be taken off, on doggie door. It will take time for him realize, not to worry about it.

[@123koby]

Polux loves you very much 💘

[@pollyesther123]

Not sure what the bug situation is where you live, but is it possible to tape the flap up so it's just open for a while, and let him get used to running through that open hole on his own? You could then put it down a little at a time.

[@teresawalters6358]

Good idea!!

[@alyssaleigh6209]

I want you to know with this pandemic going on IT IS SOOO NICE TO WATCH SOMEONE RELAXED AND SWEET doing something good 💖💖💖... Love you AND THE FAMILY/FUR FAMILY! 😊

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

🤗

[@anonymous2513456]

My dog was like this too. We got him trained by shoving him through like you did and then giving him a treat and intense playtime immediately after we went through. It's important to reward him straight away so he knows what he is being rewarded for. Do this multiple times a day and he will soon learn that going through the door is a good thing.

[@davidschurman7683]

Pollux is just scared. Our shelter dog was terrified of the screen door.

[@BlackPanther-vk5ew]

She has no clue what she's doing. Thinking he's stubborn, instead of a dog!? Many pets get abused or dumped for reasons like this.

[@isadoravieira4477]

Just a tip I thought while watching: hold the treat on the inside of the house so he will get interested and then pull the plastics for him to get through. If that works, you could do it multiple times until he gets used to it, and after some days, you´d stop to pull the plastics up, but keeping the treat thing, and see how he ´d react.

[@lindadicicco2269]

Thank you for sharing your weepy times over your daughters move. You always make me feel there is someone out there for me

[@CynthiaSchoenbauer]

I don't think Pollux wants to deliberately be of an opposite will. I am sure he loves you more than anyone else. But with his background he can not take safety for granted. Living in the shelter must have made him feel he was completely responsible for his own well-being at all times. Attachment to a figure who protects is what has been missing. Everyone he knew at the shelter left, probably one by one, and he was left completely on his own, or so he felt... I know the feeling. I am sure he will eventually learn the dog door skill. But as for trusting, cuddling may be the answer. But it looks like he will not let anyone get that close...yet. I hope you are willing to learn as he goes through these changes, because you could have an opportunity to develop a special bond with him! Thank you for all your efforts with him. I am rooting for you!

[@suzannestanley2051]

You need to tape it up for a couple days. He will go through! Then gradually lower the door as he becomes more used to it

[@naturalwhitch]

Hi Renee So collie mixes are unbelievably smart but also very anxious. The way i would train him to go through the door is to make him focus on something else. So i would start by playing near the door and then rolling a ball towrds it. To start just roll the ball so it stops there.... Second sit on other side of the door and roll it through towards pollux... Next move back to the same side...roll the ball through and praise when he even attempts to go after it It may take a few days but it will be the calmest and most fun for him. In future doing agility training (even just at home), will help his really smart brain overcome new challenges easier Take care

[@madeleine363]

Id keep doing the lifting of the door then giving a big treat and praise everytime he goes through to desensitize him to it

[@rectify2003]

Renee, Pollux will be fine, you are so caring and patient with him xx

[@anniem.8803]

I would try putting a treat or something he really love on the other side of the doggy door... It's really good that it is transparent, so he sees what is on the other side!

[@lajuni2979]

I love you because you adopted him. Thank you!

[@jenniferlee7167]

Hi Renee: This will take more than one day, like house training. Since Pollux loves peanut butter, why not create a special treat or some Cheetos or even use his dinner bowl at 4:30PM and place it inside the door in your kitchen where he can see it. When he gets hungry enough he may want to come inside. Isolate Maxxie (so he does not eat the treat). Do not let Pollux in through the sliding door, no matter what, he has to use the doggie door as his only option. If, or when he does come through the door, then praise, praise, praise him. Ignore him totally when he does not use the door-it may have to be his idea, and he has to have a reason to want to use it. He knows how it works...he has seen Maxxie do it dozens of times. The flopping sound of the magnets may bother him too. When you held it open for him and he came through--did he get a treat? That may help. No matter how he uses it, you should reward him. It appears that Maxxie is thwarting Pollux efforts when he gets the treats first. I also feel Pollux must have been assaulted by someone at the shelter..there is no reason for him to be so afraid all the time--unless he had a bad experience somehow while there. He will take a lot more patience. You are a great dog Mom, but I do not see any incentive for Pollux to go through the dog door when he knows you will just open the sliding door for him if he waits long enough. The treat may be the incentive and your praise as well once he does it correctly. I agree with a previous poster (I just read them), eventually a trainer may be the way to go in the long run. Maxxie and Pollux are adorable and I love your videos. Good Luck!!

[@kennan200]

Get on the opposite side of the door from Pollex & show him a treat. If he wants the treat he has to come thru the door. You might have to get Maxi next to you & give him treats so Pollex can se him getting them. The CV learning door may be throwing him if he can't see it. Put a piece of colored painter's tape or masking tape catty corner across the plastic so he can see it. Take it off when he's confident with using it.

[@ac8907]

Pollux is just happy to live. He is cute.

[@valeriekelly2910]

I agree with Erica. I believe it's the reflection coming off the flap-especially since he doesn't have a problem going through it when the flap is held up. Is it possible to get a flap that isn't so reflective? The ones I've had are more like a thick matte plastic that are not highly reflective. Or, try covering it with something, cloth or paper to test this theory. I really don't think he's being stubborn at all. Something bothers him about the flap. Google Temple Grandin. Interesting reading/viewing for behavior issues in animals. The Woman Who Thinks Like a Cow. (BBC special) TED talk. Time. 60 Minutes. Taught me to think differently about my animals when they were being difficult.

[@patl3070]

Was watching a trainer on tv once and he trained a dog to go through the door in stages. Fold it up and have him go through and give a treat a few times When he seems comfortable, drop down a little...and keep doing that until it is down all the way. Try that. It really worked for the trainer. (It was the "Lucky Dog" show.) Good luck!

[@judymcfadden3577]

My rescue cat was terrified of going out on my balcony, and now I can't get her to come in. Talk about stubborn. She is quite funny, as her little lip sneers at me if she doesn't want to do something.

[@cynthiaamitrano8915]

As long as he's housebroken, be thankful. He'll do it eventually. Dryer and wet rags are great for removing pet hair. Get a battery operated cat toy and put it outside the door and hopefully he'll go through the doggie door to chase it. I gave a little pomchi female who is extremely stubborn. Haven't been able to teach her anything. Her brother is extremely intelligent and so happy to make his mom happy. She has a large vocabulary so she's not stupid. Just stubborn. I finally gave up.

[@richardkafka5625]

Absolutely love the Pollux videos. He had me laughing every time he stood there and watched Maxxie go in and out! I'm sure he'll get it. Just in "His" time, not anyone else's! He just looks so happy with you guys. Thanks again for rescuing him!

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

Hi Richard!! Pollux is a handful.....that is for sure! Filmed a video with him yesterday...and he was completely uncooperative. Completely!! Gosh

[@--Valentina-]

7:17 & 9:31 Classic! 🤣 🤣 Love the doggie door. Love Pollux and Maxxie!!

[@christinagordon4204]

You are so lovely with your dogs! Bless you and them||! \I am so glad you adopted Pollux!

[@canadiangirl5854]

He’s absolutely adorable!! He’s come a long way since you’ve adopted him.

[@62djones]

I've watched your growth with Pollux and have enjoyed your learning experience. Something I think you're missing with him. He wants to figure it out himself. It's part of his confidence building. Go overboard with praise when your other dog goes through the door, Pollux will want some of that attention too. The clear doggy door might be an issue for him too, maybe try a strip of painters tape at the bottom for a few days and see if that helps. Good luck to you both and I look forward to seeing him conquer the door!

[@lyddyc9830]

He needs more time ,my rescue took 2 weeks to get it although ours is a hard plastic one.Hang in there! We are having alot of adjustment with our new boy, home number 4 but he is a keeper!

[@xertijagee2812]

Pollux isn't stubborn,he is extremely scared I don't know why.

[@teresawalters6358]

Maybe it is due to having spent a big part of his life in a shelter

[@xxxxOS]

He's weary and trying to find his place in the 'pack' ie family. Hes very intelligent and he's testing Renee to see what he can get away with, she needs to show him that her and her husband are the top dogs. He needs to know who's boss, he will become so much more comfortable when the lines are drawn in the sand. What Renee should have done is not open the big door for Pollux, because she kept opening the big door for him, he felt he didnt have to go through the dogyy door on his own accord. This is very common with smart dogs from rescued backgrounds. Right now hes being a little bit too babied. It's no fault of Renee, shes doing her best, they have had smaller dogs and they arent as pack oriented. Renee is actually the pack leader, momma bear. Pollux needs to respect her and that means she has to test him back, by leaving him outside by himself until he comes through that doggy door, when all the family are sitting eating their dinner without him, he will come in and Renee will have won that psychological battle. Solidifying her position as the pack leader.

[@caroll6261]

It clicks, maybe the clicking scares him. Moo, what a great nickname.

[@spiritmoonintuitive]

LOL LOL I can't stop laughing at Pollux. He looked like the flap was scaring him when he ran through, or maybe the sound & the flap. I'd let him be to figure it out on his own. H'e watches Maxxie so eventually he'll get over his fear. If y'all keep opening the door for him then he;ll wait by the door and won't ever conquer his fear. Good luck!!

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

Download June's Journey for free here: pixly.go2cloud.org/SH1rA In the past few days, Pollux has learned to go thru the door if I slightly lift the flap for him so I'll take that as progress!

[@susanmercurio1060]

Go outside the door and hold a treat for Pollux to see, and call him

[@Carolinchen10]

I suggest taping up the flap for a day so that Pollox can get used to going that way. Step by step, you can then lower the flap.

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

He's not having it! Tried it! Even this morning, he was outside the door and I had his breakfast waiting on the other side. Nope! Didn't work 🙄

[@fluffymuffi1]

I think it's what he confronts when he sees a reflection of himself in the shiny plastic... to push through it with his face is counterintuitive. Hopefully time will ease his confusion but yes opening the flap for him will help him make the connection.. old dog new trick!

[@LivingLifewithJudith]

Pollux is very afraid of being touch, so the flapping door causes him to be anxious. He is always in a flight mode. Maybe because of what he lived before. My suggestion would be to have pollux on a short leash to prevent him to flight. Have the doggy door flap open. Pass the leash through the door sit inside while Pollux is outside and call him with a very appealing treat (chicken, cheese, sausages, cheetos, etc). The treats you are using are not appealing enough to him. While you call him, have your hand through the door and have Pollux come and grab the treat, without moving your hand. Don't ask him to go through the door yet because he is not ready for it. Than, each time, bring your hand a little more towards you. If you see resistance, go back a step and repeat until you feel he is more comfortable. With Pollux, you'll need to go very slow because he is scared. You don't want to push it because he is not gonna trust you (he was running away from you when you wanted to brush him). Also, you don't want to force him, because it is not a decision made by him so it will take longer to "get it", and he will do it out of fear to be pushed, not because he wants too... if that make sense. Have short session 15 minutes max. Always end on a positive note. Repeat everyday. You can have more than one sessions in one day, but keep them short. I wouldn't say Pollux is stubborn, he is a very scared and anxious dog. You need to break that by making him trust you. ♡ Let me know if you have more questions! I'll be glad to help! Hope your daughter like her bed!!

[@deannamunro8148]

Hi - love Pollus and Maxi - like human beings, dogs all have different personalities. i was wondering if that vinyl on your doggie door is too shiny - it reflects objects in an odd way so maybe he is not sure what he is seeing. Just a thought. good luck!

[@evefrantz9976]

Thank you for all your videos. There is something so calming and enjoyable about them. I find them especially wonderful right now.

[@ursulamelia7136]

Oh, I hope Pollux eventually will go through the door himself! Please keep us all posted when he does!

[@judid.1637]

Ahh, sweet Pollux. He`ll get it in time : )

[@susanmercurio1060]

I'm happy to hear the news about Pollux! Even if it's bad news!😁

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

Pollux sure has a mind of his own....and he can stand his ground FOREVER! Last night, he stood outside and barked at the door for almost an hour because we wouldn't open it for him. Geez 😏

[@noenn9895]

@@WelcomeToMyCurls that's because you've trained him that you guys will open it. Lol! you have to praise his successes of when he's gone in on his own, even though you had to hold the flap up.

[@allister.trudel]

@@noenn9895 lol no he's not going through cause he's scared, not because he trained them to open it for him. You think he'd stay out barking for an hour just for the sake of having humans open for it? No if he was able to go through, he would. He obviously have a paralyzing fear of the door at this point...

[@CynthiaSchoenbauer]

Pollux is the MOST BEAUTIFUL dog! I learn from him.

[@justinerags7062]

Pollux and Maxi are so cute and you clearly love your dogs and family. I appreciate you sharing your experiences. I just know Pollux will get this and be so happy once he does. You got this! Also, thanks for sharing info on the doggie door.. I need a good one and really like the products a Hales and that they are a small business. The Covid19 pandemic has made me want to support small business more now then ever.. even if that means buying less because of increased cost. I don’t want anyone to slave at their job to save me a dollar and I like my neighbors, so makes sense to support them. Thanks again for your videos. Go Pollux!

[@devlovesjac2]

I love your patience! You could always try a little peanut butter on the door ! Haha! Doggos are so silly about things 😆

[@WelcomeToMyCurls]

LOL Randy said the same thing! To smear some peanut butter on the door....but Maxxie will run through it and get peanut butter all over his back. That would be stinky!

[@LisaKate2010]

Renee, I'm just getting to read through more comments and, maybe, if you only put a little PB, on one bottom corner, (or?), that would help Pollux push it part way open but not smear on Maxi??

[@bananafranasherbert]

@@WelcomeToMyCurls I think it might help if you put Maxxie away during Pollux training sessions. Just in another part of the house. You shouldn't feel bad about this, all dogs should know that it's OK to have a little separation. This will help any issues you bring up about Maxxie getting involved in the training. Easy fix!

[@AidaJof]

Had lots of fun revisiting this video ... oh, that Pollux is really stubborn, whereas Maxxie is so cool and makes it look like a breeze :)

[@Barbara_Schulz]

I would check the shelter and ask if he ever encountered this type of door while there. He may associate it with getting shots from the vet or something like that.

[@marimarguerite]

One thing you can do about training with two dogs is tethering one of them while training the other, i.e. tethering Maxi while training Pollux. Also with the dog door, baby steps! Use high rewards and reward him every time he goes near it. As soon as he's comfortable going near it, reward him every time he touches it. Then every time he puts his head through a bit, reward him, etc etc. Dog doors can actually be quite scary for some dogs! The sounds of the flaps hitting and the enclosure snaps can be quite loud. I've had some not so confident and anxious pups in the past, so it really takes some time for them to create positive associations with the doggy door.

[@babymammoth6254]

Renee I love you and can hear the frustration in your voice. Pollux doesn’t have to use the door straight away. I’m sure the need to be outside will eventually override the fear of the door if you stop letting him in and out. I would get him used to the sound of the magnets as he seems to be scared of them. Did the CBD oil treats work? Anyway that’s my 2 cents worth. Love you guys

[@cindyrasmussen2152]

Guest bed: I bought a King flat sheet and throw it over the comforter and pillows on the queen bed that the cat loves. When guests are coming, I just pull sheet off and everything is nice and clean.

[@teresawalters6358]

He is probably scared of the magnet noises

[@terryciavola2251]

OMG this is so funny! Frustrating for you! Stubborn boy! Maxi is so cute. They are a riot. Renee I love June's Journey. Try Pearls Peril. Both by same company and they are my favorite! 🤗💕

[@SusanScrapPassion]

Considering that Pollux spent the first year and a half of his life in a shelter, it may be that Pollux will never go through that doggie door. He did not know how to be a dog, and clearly, he has a great deal of fear. He may be stubborn, but fear is more powerful. You may have to accept that he will never be like an average dog and do regular dog things. You may have to just accept that he is who he is with all his little idiosyncrasies and unique behaviors. If he is not food driven and will not go through the door for a treat, then maybe something like a toy or other object will work. If not, then Pollux will just have to wait for someone to open the door for him.