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8 Dog Breeds With Probable Health Issues
8 Dog Breeds With Probable Health Issues As most dog lovers already know, larger breed dogs don’t live as long as smaller ones, it’s simply a matter of fact. For example, Chihuahuas are among those dogs that have one of the longest life expectancies, as the Norwich Terrier while larger animals like the Rottweiler may only live half as long as a practically pocket-sized pooch. But size isn’t necessarily everything as the popular idiom argues, and seem breeds of dogs are more susceptible to certain medical concerns compared to others. Here are eight dog breeds that are known to have probable health issues connected to their breed: 1. Great Danes These gentle giants are favored by lovers of large dogs, but they’re also at a higher risk of developing GDV (gastric dilatation and volvulus) more commonly called “bloat.” But it’s not just the Danes that are in danger, any giant breed of dog with a deep chest is more susceptible to this condition of unknown origin. Fortunately, if caught early it can be treated. 2. German Shepherds These highly intelligent and active dogs have long held a reputation for having trouble with their joints, especially hip dysplasia. Similar to the Great Dane, this disorder is common in many large breeds and since it’s genetically passed down, over-breeding may be to blame for its prevalence in these particular types of canines. 3. Bulldogs (and Pugs) Due to the shape of their heads, short length of their snout or simply a face that appears “smashed,” these traits put pugs and Bulldogs at a greater risk of developing breathing problems. From snoring to grunting, you may hear visible signs that these breeds can struggle with their respiration at times. 4. Cocker Spaniels With those adorable, long, floppy, curly-haired ears, it’s no wonder these dependable dogs are more prone to ear infections. The length and weight of their oversized ears can cause problems since the inside parts of their auditory canals literally rarely see the light of day. 5. Dachshunds Elongated backs cause Dachshunds to have more spinal injuries and vertebrae conditions compared to dogs with shorter spines. Jumping off furniture, being overweight and too much time spent climbing stairs can also contribute to more problems for them. 6. Pugs The bulging eyes on these little dogs make them more prone to eye issues and injuries. Fights with other animals, falls and injuries can increase these risks. If you notice something peculiar about their eyes or vision, they should see a veterinarian immediately. 7. Labradors Although any dog can become overweight, Labradors seem to be more susceptible to obesity compared to some other breeds. These are highly active dogs that need a great deal of exercise and a closely monitored diet to ensure they maintain a healthy weight. 8. Boxers Boxers seem to contract more types of cancer, especially lymphoma and mast cell tumors. Lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes) and mast cell tumors are often diagnosed after their owner feels swelling or bumps on their bodies so check them regularly. Just because you have a German Shepherd doesn’t mean they’ll automatically inherit a hip condition or getting a Great Dane means they’re destined to develop bloat. But current and potential pet parents should be aware of some of the health concerns that certain breeds may present before purchasing. Amber Kingsley Amber Kingsley is a freelance writer whom has donated countless hours supporting her local shelters. With writing, she has spent most of her research on animals with regards to food, health and training. :|zpendofcontent|:
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The Pros and Cons of Training a Service Dog
The Pros and Cons of Training a Service Dog Right now, there are many people who have decided that they want to train their own service dog. Some of these people have a disability that warrants them having a service dog, others just want to take their pet with them in places that pets are not allowed. Although there are some people who can train their own service dog, for most people it is too much work. For people with the disability, the training required can be difficult or impossible. In addition, many new “train your own service dog” groups are sprouting up claiming that if you get a puppy from them and you train with them, you will end up with a service dog. Sadly, many of these groups just end up disappointing the people who are desperately looking for a service dog. Dogs that are born and raised at a service dog facility (like Guide Dogs for the Blind) starts their journey, being thoroughly socialized as a puppy, typically going everywhere with their trainer. As they get older (usually 6 months to 1 year roughly), they begin intense training. In many situations, these dogs continue to go everywhere with their trainer and are being actively trained much of the time. Not only are these dogs learning how to behave in various environments, they are learning how to pick things up, how to indicate to a person that someone is at the door (they even can differentiate between a doorbell and phone ringing) and many other skills that will eventually help a person needing help. For the average person, this amount of intense training can be daunting and overwhelming. A typical dog parent has a hard time practicing new behaviors for 10 minutes a day for their pet dog! A service dog requires many more hours of consistent training than a pet dog does, so it can be nearly impossible for the average dog parent. There is more to being a service dog than just training, they also must have the right personality. A service dog must be calm and comfortable in any environment, they must not be anxious or fearful and they must not get distracted easy. Although training can help with many of these, genetics also plays a key role. Even puppies that are born at service dog organization with “handpicked” parents, fail at becoming actual service dogs (on average only about 50% of dogs bred specifically to be a service dog actually become one. I like to compare service dogs to Olympic athletes. To become one, you must have the right genetics, get the right coaching and practice a lot! Like Olympic athletes, service dogs often “miss out” on many dog activities. Many Olympic athletes explain how they do not socialize, they don’t have a lot of friends outside of their sport and they are always training (many have to be homeschooled because they don’t have time for school and training). It takes a special person to become an Olympic athlete, just like it takes a special dog to become a service dog. To get a dog from a service dog organization, like Guide Dogs for the Blind, often requires that the participant join a long wait list. Although this can be discouraging to a person who would benefit from a service dog, there is a good reason for this wait. To train a service dog properly, it takes a lot of time and money, therefore this limits how many dogs can be trained at one time. For most of these organizations, the trained service dog is given to the person in need at no charge. This means that sponsorship and fundraising is also required for these organizations. In short, to have a well-trained service dog requires a lot of time and money (not to mention proper genetics and training) and most of the time any shortcuts just lead to disappointments. Shannon Coyner Shannon has been a pet lover all her life and a dog trainer for over 20 years. She has spent her life observing, caring for and training animals of all kinds. She has worked in the Bird Department at Marine World Africa USA, and worked as a handler and trainer for an African Serval Cat at Safari West, a private zoo in Santa Rosa, California. She has participated in behavior studies including observations of bald eagles and addax antelope through the San Francisco Zoo and Safari West. Her education includes a Biology Degree, specializing in Zoology from Sonoma State. She is a "Registered Veterinary Technician," a "Certified Professional Dog Trainer" (Knowledge Assessed), a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, a member of the "Association of Pet Dog Trainers" and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Shannon is currently serving as President for the Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians. Shannon's dog training philosophy revolves around force-free, positive reinforcement, however, her ultimate goal is for healthy happy relationship between pets and their people. Diet, exercise, environment and training all play a significant role in achieving this goal. Shannon is currently the owner of Ventura Pet Wellness and Dog Training Center in Ventura, CA where she works with anxious and fearful dogs privately as well as teaching agility classes (Venturapetwellness.com). Shannon has also started a training website called Truly Force Free Animal Training. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Senior Dogs: Understand the Aging Process Part 1
Senior Dogs: Understand the Aging Process Part 1 Our dogs are wise; they are privy to all our secrets and love us like no other. While aging is inevitable, understanding how we can help our dogs age gracefully can give a whole new meaning to teaching old dogs new tricks. With the right care, including proper nutrition and exercise, in addition to alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic and massage, it's not uncommon for dogs to live to 14 or 15 years of age these days. Great advances in treatments for illnesses such as cancer and kidney disease, along with treatments for genetic diseases such as hip dysplasia, also mean pets are living longer. As a general rule, a dog who is seven years or older should be considered middle-aged to senior. But no two dogs are alike. Therefore, a small dog weighing less than 20 pounds might not seem to show any signs of age until she is 12 or so. A 50-pound dog won't seem old until about age 10. Larger dogs begin to show their age at eight or nine. One of the first signs of aging in dogs is slowing down. It's likely you will wake up one morning to find your dog is moving more slowly, playing less, has a harder time waking up from a nap, or even had a house training accident. Other telltale signs of aging are vision and hearing loss, frequent thirst, excessive urination, breathing difficulties, bumps and growths, irritability, change in sleep patterns and teeth and gum problems, among others. Simply, if an older dog is "not himself," it's time for a check-up. Richard Dienst, Esq. says he recognized the signs of old age when his 12-year-old Labrador Retriever, Fauna, stopped greeting him at the door and started spending more time lying down. Now, Dienst trying to do everything he can to make his companion as comfortable as possible. He has cut back on long walks, bought an orthopedic bed, amended caloric intake and tried to limit excess exposure to both hot and cold weather. It's best to never assume that a change in behavior or habits is simply due to old age. Still, when it comes to veterinary care, older pets need more frequent routine visits to detect potential health problems as early as possible. While many conditions of aging are inevitable, if caught early they can often be slowed down or managed so that the dog can continue to have a good quality of life. Health problems such as hypothyroidism and or back pain are certainly treatable. THE GERIATRIC EXAM When screening a geriatric pet, veterinarians make several overall immediate observations based on coat quality, the smell of the animal, the health of the mouth and oral hygiene, and the dog's weight and body condition. For example, a dull coat is indicative of sub-optimal nutrition or other health issues related to diet. A musty yet sweet smell in the ears signifies the presence of yeast, which can also indicate poor nutrition or food allergies. Bad breath is an indicator that something is amiss; an ammonia smell may signify a kidney problem, while a foul smell may signal a problem with the liver. Good dental health is important throughout a dog's life to protect the heart and kidneys. Bad teeth and gums can be corrected by using products that dissolve plaque by changing the pH of the saliva. This prevents bacteria from migrating to the vital organs. Weight management is also vital for a senior dog. An overweight animal is more prone to endocrine disorders such as diabetes, Addison's disease, Cushing's disease and hypo- or hyperthyroidism. Checking for lameness should also be included in any geriatric exam. A dog who bends one leg when standing may be shifting his weight because of pain and one paw larger than the other is a sign of swelling. A vet should look for unusual head position to evaluate either neurologic damage or lameness deficits and to check both hips visually and manually for pain or dysplasia. Gently checking down the spine for "hot spots" that make the dog wince helps identify any parts of the back that are painful. Although some breeds have an increased risk of developing certain health problems, there are no particular age-related conditions specific to certain breeds. However, larger, heavyset dogs, such as Labrador and Golden Retrievers, are prone to hypothyroidism. Some smaller breeds, such as Scottish Terriers, are more likely to develop Cushing's disease. Check back next month where I'll discuss various treatments to help aging dogs and also explore when it's time to (sadly) let go of our beloved furry family. Dr. Babette Gladstein Dr. Babette Gladstein practices integrative medicine in the greater New York area. For more information please visit her website: http://www.drbabette.com/, also her: Facebook page :|zpendofcontent|:
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Why Never to Leave Your Dog Unattended in Public Places
Why Never to Leave Your Dog Unattended in Public Places How many times have you passed a supermarket or shop, to see dogs left tethered and unattended outside? Personally, I have lost count and time permitting, I try always to remain with these dogs until their owner returns. I have been called neurotic and scaremongering, when I point out the dangers to unconcerned owners, while thankful owners have assured me that they will think twice before leaving their dogs again! It is estimated that five dogs go missing every day in the UK, but the true amount may be even higher since these are only the cases which have been reported. There are numerous dangers to consider when leaving your dog unattended and below are some ‘common sense’ reasons for not doing so. Isolation in a public place can be extremely stressful for your dog. Trolleys rattling past, unwanted attention from admiring strangers and screaming children, can be enough to ignite barking from the mildest mannered dog. Theft So-called ‘designer dogs’ are a prime target for the opportunist thief and can reap handsome monetary rewards. Weather We all know the risks of leaving a dog in a hot car, but extreme heat in any situation can cause your dog to dehydrate and the consequences can be lethal. Likewise, severe rain and cold can be extremely uncomfortable for your pet. Another reason to leave them at home on your weekly shop. Fear Frightened dogs can be seriously hurt if their lead becomes tangled and well-meaning strangers offering help, can be bitten. Escape A stressed dog is quite capable of slipping a lead or chewing themselves free. A dog on the loose is not going to know his highway code and could get killed or suffer a serious injury on the road. Dog Attacks A tethered dog is defenseless against an aggressive dog, especially if the other dog is off the lead. Feeding your dog chocolate, or tormenting him and unruly children who think that it is fun to unleash your dog and watch him run away. Leash Hazards An outstretched lead on an unsupervised dog can become a hazard itself, especially for young children or people who are blind or partially sighted. Fearful People Believe it or not, some people are actually afraid of dogs and one blocking an entrance can force them to wait until your return, before they dare pass! While dogs will undoubtedly enjoy a walk to the supermarket, they are unaware of the risks and look to their owners for safety. It is highly unlikely that legislation will ever allow non-service dogs inside public places such as supermarkets or eateries, so we must take precautions to protect them. Of course, we want to include our dogs in daily life, but not at the expense of their safety. It may have been a safe practice to leave your dog’s years ago, but modern-day risks could see you losing your dog forever. Social media is awash with stories of lost pets. Some owners stating that they were gone for just minutes, but when they returned their dogs had gone and were in disbelief that someone could steal their beloved pet. Combining your errands with exercising your dog may seem convenient, but it takes but seconds for a dog to lost or stolen. Every minute your dog spends unattended increases the dangers and the heartbreak of losing your dog can be eternal. Nina Cole My name is Nina Cole and I am the founder of Nina’s Nannies for Pets, which I formed in 1998, following my recovery from a brain hemorrhage which occurred five months after my husband was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I have always been passionate about animals and their welfare and my childhood was spent caring for a menagerie of pets including rabbits, hamsters, rats, guinea pigs, cats and dogs. Following my husband’s MS diagnoses and my own recovery from brain surgery, I decided to realise my dream of working with animals. Pet sitting in the late nineties, was largely unheard of in the UK. but I wanted to offer a more personal service and offer an alternative to kennels and catteries, which allowed pets to stay within the comfort of their own home while their owners were away. Following much research, I contacted our local newspaper, who helped with our launch, distributed copious amounts of flyers, visited numerous veterinary establishments, training centers and pet shops and within six months of trading, my husband left University where he was studying to be a microbiologist, in order that we could meet the demand of our ever- increasing workload and our partnership was formed. I am now an established author writing for various magazines and often appear in the media regarding both my business and animals in the news. I am also a regular contributor on BBC radio where I am called upon to comment on animal welfare issues. :|zpendofcontent|:
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5 Things to Do When You Can’t Walk Your Dog
5 Things to Do When You Can’t Walk Your Dog Walking our dogs is one of the joys of life. We watch them run and play. We wonder at the power of their noses, as they follow the scent of an unseen rabbit. We get exercise and, most importantly, we enjoy time just being together. But what about when we can’t walk our dogs? They might be injured or ill, with instructions for limited, or even no, exercise for a period of time. Sometimes they need to rest an injury, or allow stitches to heal, or protect other dogs from infection. But if our vet tells us our dog needs “crate rest”, or to be “kept quiet” for days or even weeks, it can feel like we have an impossible task ahead. Sometimes we are ill or injured, so we can’t continue with our normal routine. This happened to me a few years ago. I was unexpectedly hospitalized for emergency surgery and told I couldn’t walk my dogs for 6 weeks! Even with help, this really disrupted my dogs’ normal routine. And when our dog is anxious or reactive, walks can be stressful for them. It can be a good idea to take regular days off walking, to allow your dog to relax fully and to let stress levels (yours and theirs!) go down. So what can you do to help your dog enjoy the days when walking isn’t an option? Here are 5 ideas to keep your dog entertained and content at home that only use what you already have in your cupboards or garage, along with some treats or your dog’s food. Recycle the recycling to make home-made puzzle toys and brain games. Hide treats in a cardboard tube with the ends bent inwards, or use plastic milk bottles, ice-cream tubs and egg boxes – cut some holes in the side if needed – and place a few treats inside. You can make these more challenging by hiding one inside a larger container – but always build up slowly. You want it to be easy for your dog to start. Sprinkle treats on an old towel or t-shirt, roll it up and teach your dog to unroll it to find the treats. Start with one or two treats along the edge and encourage him to push it with his nose to get the first treats. Gradually hide the treats deeper and deeper inside, as he gets the hang of it. Scrunch up pieces of paper into tight balls and use them to fill a low box to create your own ball pit. Scatter some tasty treats in amongst the paper balls. Your dog will love snuffling in the ‘ball pit’ to find the food. Get three or four yogurt pots or paper cups and place them upside down on the floor. Put a treat under one and ask your dog to find it. As always, start simple by letting your dog see you hide the treat. Once they are confidently finding that, you can move on to hide treats unseen and even move your pots around, once the treat is placed. Set up a simple obstacle course in the house or yard, using bits and pieces from your garage. You can use poles or bamboo canes to step over and different surfaces, like carpet, plastic, rubber and wood, to walk on. Plant pots are great to weave around, and planks or boards to walk over. Keep everything low to the ground and encourage your dog to move slowly and mindfully around the course, on a lead if needed. We use exercises like this in TellingtonTTouch to improve balance and body awareness, and you will find that your dog is tired after just a short time working, because of the mental processing involved. For all of these, be interactive as you work with your dog. Encourage him to experiment and work out what he needs to do. Work at your dog’s pace and make sure he gets rewarded for thinking it through, rather than simply using brute force to get what he wants! All of these activities can be kept quiet enough for recuperating dogs but have enough stimulation to be satisfying for them. Remember that mental exercise is at least as important as physical exercise in tiring your dog – and after a good session doing these kinds of activities, your dog will be relaxed and ready for a sleep. Note: You can use any materials that are safe for your dog, but make sure you check for sharp edges and remove plastic rings or small choking hazards first. Always supervise these activities. Janet Finlay Janet Finlay is a TellingtonTTouch Practitioner, Dog Trainer and Human Coach, based in Yorkshire in the UK. She specializes in working with reactive dogs and their guardians by addressing tension and anxiety at both ends of the lead. She runs the online Canine Confidence Club (www.canineconfidenceclub), which provides information, education and support to members all over the world. You can find out more about Janet and her work – and get her free online courses on TTouch and coping with reactivity at www.canineconfidenceacademy.com. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Animals and The Afterlife
Animals and The Afterlife Have you ever considered the spiritual aspect of your relationship with your pet after they die? Have you wondered what happens to your pet in the nonphysical world? You may ask is my pet happy and do they know I still love them? An important element to understanding the nonphysical world happens via an animal medium session. This is where you would experience contact with the energy or spirit of your deceased pet through the guidance and expertise of an animal medium. An animal medium can translate and communicate messages from a pet that has died to you. Although a session with an animal medium is not a cure for the grief that you may be going through, it can help ease your pain and misery. In my own work as a medium, connecting pet owners to their deceased pets, so many people described it as a helpful and reassuring experience. A Perspective on Death One way to consider death is to explore the notion that it is a pause between living in physical and nonphysical forms. Your pet will continue loving you and being loyal even after they continue to the afterlife in spirit form. They can do this by giving you: a brief sighting of them out of the corner of your eye or in a cloud formation; a glimpse into their life by way of a dream; an opportunity to hear them meow, bark, whining, chirp; and/or a feeling in your heart that they are close to you Even knowing this, there are many questions that you may have. I am going to share with you three of the most common questions that I receive from my clients. Common Questions Concerning the Afterlife Question #1 – What happens when my pet dies? When your companion dies, they move into spiritual energy. They exist without sickness, pain, or fear. Question #2 – Does my pet that died have a special message for me? The answer is YES! When a pet dies, they are still contactable and often want to continue to contact their people for many years. Even though they are not in the physical body, their spirit is alive and well. When they do contact you, there is a purpose in that connection, so having an animal medium help you sort out this message can be helpful. You can consider your pet as your lifetime guide or guru, helping you to find peace amongst the chaos of being human. Question #3 – Will my pet come back to live with me? They can and they do! They will come back as an animal companion. Animals do not reincarnate as humans. Also, parts of their “personality” can also come back as part of another pet’s personality. Strengthening Your Forever Bond Connecting with your pet in the afterlife is a healthy way to cope with your grief. Listening to what your pet has to say in spirit form will strengthen your forever bond in a new way. What are your experiences of “sensing” your pet’s presence? Have you had any dreams of your pet? What do you think is the message your pet wants to share with you? How are you still spiritually connected to your pet? Wendy Van de Poll Wendy Van de Poll is a pioneering leader in the field of pet loss grief support and the human-animal bond. As a bestselling author, speaker, educator, and pet loss grief coach, she has passionately devoted her life to the mission of increasing the quality of life between animals and people. Wendy has run with wild wolves in Minnesota, coyotes in Massachusetts and foxes in her backyard. I provide a calm and very safe place for you and your healing journey please reach out. :|zpendofcontent|:
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4 Reasons Why Teaching Your German Shepherd Commands in German Doesn't Work
4 Reasons Why Teaching Your German Shepherd Commands in German Doesn't Work Perhaps you've heard this one before. You see many people buying or adopting German Shepherd puppies and begin inquiries to teach the dog commands in German. I have experience of dog owners coming to me, with this specific request. It’s a bit of a struggle as a dog trainer because I am speaking to the owners in English about the rules and tools used to train (teach a person to fish sort of a thing) but the dog needs to learn to respond to German commands. It becomes confusing for the dog and confusing for the owners, not to mention confusing for the dog trainer as well. Before I mention why this type of a training method doesn’t work, so effectively, I’ll explain in what circumstances it would work. 1. Teaching your dog a foreign language works if, and only if, your dog is already obedience trained. When your dog can run through a basic set of commands using nonverbal cues, he or she is ready to up their game to verbal cues. You must go through initial training before you introduce verbal cues. The verbal cue is anything which feels natural to you, and feels natural to your dog as recognizing as a repeated cue. 2. Repetition. Repetition. Dogs learn by repetitive tonality and repetition in verbal and nonverbal cues. You must know how to comfortably call out a cue in a foreign language for your dog to learn the new language. If it’s not rolling off your tongue naturally, your dog won’t recognize it as repetitive and thus training becomes inhibited. Learn the new language yourself, and then repeat it to your dog in a consistent and even tone. Here’s some of the common pitfalls for many owners unsuccessful with the technique of teaching a foreign language to their dog: 1. In the instance you and your household are being robbed or attacked, your hormones are spiking. Adrenaline is pumping like a river without a dam. You're in that fight or flight mode. You, as a Native English speaker, think, act, and respond in English. Unless German is your primary language, or you are fluent in German, your brain will have the most extreme difficulty issuing a command that is foreign to you. 2. Your dog isn't foolish enough to take commands in complete obedience from everyone he or she meets. Your dog is a highly intelligent creature. These guys know the very sounds and nuances of yours and others’ voices. No, or Nein (German for no), sounds very different when you say it and a stranger says it. Don’t presume you should teach your German Shepherd or any other breed for that matter a foreign language because everyone around you can say, sit, stay, heel. Have confidence that your dog is going to obey you, and not a person he or she has just met. Your dog is smarter than the movies. 3. I said it earlier, dog training works because of tonality. That's all your dog is focusing on. As puppies most of us trainers recommend most dogs learn the difference between Go! Go! Go! and No! No! No! Initially, these two words are heard by the dog as exciting tones, so they don't understand the difference between the verbal commands. So, you introduce the words later, teach your dog his or her cues with hand signals or body signals first. Once the dog understands the body posture or hand signal, you introduce the word second. It's the only way a dog understands the difference between two commands delivered in a state of excitement. 4. There is a good chance your pronunciation is incorrect. A professional trainer will teach you to train your dog in whatever language you've selected. But, they may not have specialized in the language. But because neither you nor your trainer are fluent native speakers, and may even have different regional accents, what you say and what the trainer says will be different. Remember, the dog is listening to the tonality and consistency in the relaying of the word. Go may sound like No because they have the same ending emphasis and number of syllables, but they are two different commands. Save some money and don't confuse your dog because you're trying to learn a new language while your dog is learning his or her first human language. Make sense? Melissa Hoover Melissa Hoover is a certified Dog Trainer, holding a B.S. in Animal Science Behavior from Purdue University. She is a vegetarian of 17-years, an animal right’s activist, and hosts her website LetMeDogThisForYou.com where dog and animal lovers are welcomed to learn new and interesting animal science trivia. To Melissa, animals aren’t just animals, they are members of the family – only with a little more fur than the rest of the members. :|zpendofcontent|:
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5 Easy Ways to Increase Your Dog’s Food Motivation
5 Easy Ways to Increase Your Dog’s Food Motivation Lack of food motivation is a common complaint and can make training with your dog frustrating. If you’re an owner of a picky pup, you aren’t alone. But, don’t let your dog’s current lack of a treat tooth stop you from training. Chances are, a small change in your dog’s daily routine will help find their inner chowhound. Here are five easy things you can start doing to increase your dog’s food motive. 1. Set a Feeding Schedule If your dog is free-fed, it’s time to get them on a feeding schedule. Food significantly loses value when it’s always available. Plus, your dog probably won’t be hungry when you want to train if they graze throughout the day. Feed your pup 2-3 meals a day (unless otherwise instructed by your veterinarian) and pick up their bowl after thirty minutes, even if they didn’t finish. Your dog should adjust quickly to their new meal schedule, giving you the ability to plan training around mealtimes. You can also use a portion, or all of a meal, as training rewards! 2. Try Different Treats The treats you’re using need to be valuable to your dog. You’ll need to experiment to find your pup’s preferred flavors and textures. Harder tricks need a higher pay so it’s important to know your dog’s favorites. Kibble works just fine as a training treat when you’re practicing known skills at home. But, you’ll probably need something better for teaching new skills. Training around distractions, or in new environments may call for some favorite treats. Save the really good stuff, like cheese and hotdogs, for big challenges and stressful situations. 3. Recognize and Accommodate Stress Sitting for a kibble in the waiting room at the vet’s office is a big ask. In these situations, your dog is just too nervous to eat. It isn’t that they don’t want to – they just can’t! Every dog has their own fears and familiarizing yourself with canine body language will help you to read your dog’s stress level. Knowing your dog’s fears gives you the ability to plan ahead so you can bring some extra tasty treats the next time you have to go somewhere stressful. 4. End Lessons on a High Note Training lessons that end in frustration are usually too long. Try your best to end every lesson before your dog is too tired or frustrated to continue. Otherwise, your dog may form a negative association with training. If your dog loses interest in the middle of a lesson, try taking a break before interest is lost. For example, if your dog happily works for 4 minutes before losing interest, only train for 2 to 3 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. Give your dog time to relax, play, drink, or quickly take them out to go to the bathroom. Training will once again become fun and you’ll soon be able to work with your dog longer between breaks. 5. Use Toys as Reinforcement You don’t have to use food to train. Most behaviors can be practiced or taught with a toy, especially if your pup is more playful than hungry. Toss a toy for a quick game of fetch or tug instead of using treats. As an extra bonus, this is a great opportunity to practice a release cue, such as “drop it”. If your dog won’t work for food, don’t dismiss it as a lack of food motivation. A few adjustments can go a long way in making your training sessions more enjoyable. Ann Marie Silverberg Ann Marie has been working with animals professionally for over a decade. From dogs and cats to pigs and turkeys, her many positions in animal husbandry have taken her from volunteering in animal shelters to veterinary medicine. She recently started her own training and behavior consulting business in Massachusetts, Brainiacs Dog Training. www.brainiacsdogtraining.com | brainiacsdogtraining@gmail.com | facebook.com/brainiacsdogtraining :|zpendofcontent|:
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7 Of The Strangest/Funniest Dog Behaviors – Explained
7 Of The Strangest/Funniest Dog Behaviors – Explained If there is one thing we all know as pet owners, it is that each one of our babies has their own personalities. Their own little quirks, and behaviors that separate them from the rest. But what are some of the most common behaviors? And why on earth do they do some of these things? Today, I have 7 of the strangest/funniest dog behaviors – explained! 1. Dreaming While it is pretty normal to dream, some dogs go above and beyond! There are dogs who run in their sleep, dogs who bark, dogs who howl, whine, and even eat in their sleep! The reason for this is the same as us human folk. Brain activity! 2. The Poop Eaters We have all seen it or at least heard of it. Dogs who eat their own poop, or poop from another dog. Why, oh why do our beloved furries do this habit that is nothing short of disgusting? From my own research, I discovered a few things: Eating poop is a natural instinctive scavenging behavior inherited from ancestors They could be lacking in certain nutrients Pancreas issues Parasites. So if your dog is a poop eater, be sure that it out of habit and not an underlying health issue. 3. Circling Before Laying Down A lot of dogs have this behavior. And a common explanation is they do this to ensure maximum comfort. Another natural instinct coming from ancestors who would do circles to pat down the grass in an area before laying down for a snooze. 4. Licking I mean, they are dogs, so licking is normal right? To a point. But there is such thing as too much licking, or excessive licking. If your dog could literally sit there for hours and lick your leg. Or you notice your dog constantly licking the couch, or floor, he could have anxiety issues. Licking acts as a calming agent for a stressed-out pooch, or one who is dealing with some form of anxiety. 5. Suckling This one is seen mostly in younger dogs, but if the habit isn’t stopped early on, older dogs can carry it on. Dogs who suckle on blanket, pillows, things that… cute as heck right? But there is normally a reason behind it. This dog could have been separated from mom too early. And while it appears to be adorable, there have been several cases of dogs getting a blockage, having surgery or even losing their lives due to a piece of the fabric coming off in their mouth while they are suckling. So if you have a dog who displays this behavior, I recommend putting a stop to it sooner rather than later. Try getting your pup to focus on something else when he starts suckling. 6. Dogs Who Can’t Stand Other Dogs While Out for Walkies Have you ever seen those dogs that can play wonderfully with other dogs indoors, or off leash at a dog park, but that same dog acts like he should be number one on the top ten list of most aggressive dogs while he’s out for a walk on a leash? Reason? This dog may feel like while he is leashed, he is vulnerable… He feels like he has to act big and tough as a warning to other dogs due to him being restrained. Another common reason for this is the feeling of having to protect their owner. 7. Dogs and Mirrors Have you ever put your dog in front of a mirror to see what his reaction is? Some dogs won’t have a care in the world when it comes to mirrors while others will literally go crazy barking at this strange furry figure inside the frame. To them… they are seeing a dog, who has no smell, and is mimicking his behavior. He will go to all lengths to figure it out. We are curious! What are some of the funniest/strangest behaviors your pets display? Jenna Drady Jenna Drady is the author and creator of ownedbyahusky.ca. She is a mother of two beautiful daughters and 3 Siberian Huskies. Being a husky mom for a long duration of her life, Jenna was inspired to begin writing about them. In doing so, she began doing massive research on dog behavior, and all things dog in general. Jenna is inspired everyday by her family, and loves to bring her readers valuable information as well as a little humor too! Jenna has created her own business partnered with her lovely mother while blogging called Pawz N Clawz Jewelry N Things. They currently sell handmade jewelry with added pet charms, as well as a few dog toys too! As an animal rights activist, and huge believer in helping pets who have been stuck in shelters, they donate a portion of their sales to local shelters throughout Canada. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Help, My Dog Is Constipated! Best Natural Constipation Remedies
Help, My Dog Is Constipated! Best Natural Constipation Remedies Constipation is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Although it can usually be resolved naturally without veterinary intervention, constipation can lead to serious medical problems if you don’t get it under control. If you’re not sure whether or not your dog is constipated, here are a few tail-tale (who can resist such a pun!) symptoms to watch for: Your dog doesn’t poop every day. The poops are hard (dehydrated). Your dog is straining to poop. There is mucus and or blood along with the poop. Your dog’s anus is bloody. Your dog is lethargic and doesn’t want to play. We must offer a cautionary note before we tell you how to treat your dog’s constipation naturally. While your first inclination may be to reach for a laxative in your medicine cabinet, you should NEVER do so without checking with your veterinarian first! Some human laxative medications can do serious harm to your dog! Constipation is a blockage, or partial blockage, in the intestine. Therefore, the overarching goal is to unblock the intestine to get things moving again. Getting more water into your dog’s system should be your top priority. There are a few ways to go about this. First, you’ll want to encourage your dog to drink more water. Don’t worry if your pooch is resistant to this because there are other steps you can take that will guarantee you get more water into their system. Switch your dog from dry kibble to a 100 percent canned food diet. Canned food contains much more moisture than kibble so this will automatically get more water into your dog’s intestine. You can also very easily mix water into the canned food. For small dogs, try adding an extra teaspoon or two. For large dogs, try mixing in a few tablespoons of water. Once you’ve done the above, you add some wholesome fiber to your dog’s diet. Please note that you should NOT use any fiber supplement meant for human consumption as some of these can actually hurt your dog! One of the safest and best sources of fiber for dogs is canned pumpkin. Be sure to buy pure pumpkin puree without any sugar, spices, or other ingredients added. To make sure, read the ingredient label rather than the front label. Dr. Mercola’s holistic veterinarian team recommends one teaspoon of canned pumpkin per ten pounds, one or two times per day. Since most dogs love canned pumpkin, you can offer this as a special treat or mix it with your dog’s food. Medicine that they love — yea! If you happen to have a fresh pumpkin on hand, you can simply boil it, mash it up, and use this instead of canned pumpkin. Another very effective natural remedy for constipation in dogs is exercise. In fact, you can try this remedy right along with the first step of giving your dog more water. Take your dog for a brisk walk and or play a good round of fetch with your dog. In many cases, this may be all that is needed to get the blockage moving again, especially when combined with extra water. Once you have remedied the constipation, you may need to make changes to ensure your dog doesn’t get recurring constipation. First, you should commit to ensuring your dog gets daily exercise and adequate water in their diet. The second thing you need to do is consider cutting back on how much you feed your dog. According to a 2016 survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 53.9 percent of all dogs who are checked by veterinarians are overweight or obese, with a whopping 19.8 percent of these dogs in the obese category! We know it’s hard to resist those puppy dog eyes begging for food, but if you truly love your dog, you’ll make sure he or she is at a healthy weight. Have your dog weighed at your veterinarian’s office and ask where they fall on the weight scale and how much he/she SHOULD weigh for his/her size and build. Many veterinarians will actually do this for free in between regular visits. Good luck to you and pooch! Sheri Renaud Sheri is the owner and founder of trainthatpooch.com, a blog inspired by her girl Bella, a five pound Yorkshire terrier with “attitude”. She was ready to have the perfect Yorkie… And she did… for about a minute. That’s when she realized that she had to train her if she wanted to have a well-behaved companion. Long story short, through many mess-ups and not knowing what she was doing, she was able to figure out a few things. Reading, researching and studying about dog training online helped her to better understand Bella and what she was going through, and she learned even more. As she talked to other dog owners at dog parks, out and about and at dog-related forums, she realized one thing – More people could benefit from what she was learning through trial and error. That was the moment that Train That Pooch was born. The only thing that outweighs her love for all things dog related is here love for Bella. She knows how much you love your pooch and wants you to have the same kinds of fun experiences and memories that Bella and she have had thus far. :|zpendofcontent|:
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The Most Useless Word in Dog Training
The Most Useless Word in Dog Training What is the most useless word in dog training Could it be endlessly calling your dog’s name as they run off in the park in hot pursuit of a squirrel? Is it when you yell at your dog to ‘leave it’ as you hold them back from lunging after every child, dog or leaf that they see? Is it when you are chasing your dog around the room shouting ‘drop’ as they run in circles with the TV remote? If you are having the problems above, the words you are using are unfortunately of little meaning to your dog. However, I would not say these qualify for the most utterly useless word in dog training. This is a word common to the everyday language of the average dog owner. A word repeatedly used at all different times and in all different situations. A word that you will commonly hear at the park, the vets and anywhere there are owners and their dogs. A word often used out of frustration, embarrassment, and concern. Have you guessed it? It’s the word ‘No’. But before you recoil in horror and perhaps a little panic (I mean how can you train a dog without the word no??) consider the following. From a dog training perspective, the word ‘No’ does not convey any information to your dog as to what you would like him or her to do. For example, if my dog jumps up and I tell him ‘No’ I have not actually told him what it is I would like him to be doing instead. The only thing I have told my dog is that I’m cross with him, causing enough frustration or anxiety in some dogs that they will actually jump up more. Even if my dog stops jumping up this time they will likely jump up the next time and every other time after that. Not knowing what else to do the dog simply continues to perform their natural greeting behaviour. If I ask my dog for a ‘Sit’ every time he greets me I have instructed my dog with exactly what I want him to do. In addition, if only rewarded with attention when sitting and not jumping up with a bit of patience almost any dog can be taught to sit for polite greetings. So let’s go back to that recall. My dog has taken a very leisurely approach to returning when I’ve called him on a walk. Feeling annoyed and a bit embarrassed I shout at my dog when he returns. Now think about it from the dog’s point of view. When I come back to my owner, I get told off. Therefore in order to avoid this telling off, it is better to stay away from my owner especially when there are lots more fun things out there I could be doing! Of course, there are other factors that impact on the success of training Including increasing difficulty too quickly and circumstances where owners have unrealistic expectations. You are not going to recall your dog mid squirrel chase (remember Fenton and those deer anyone?) but you do have a good chance of recalling your dog if you spot that squirrel first. There are now well known humane and successful methods of achieving dog training goals that are easy for most owners to achieve. There’s no need to shout ‘leave it’ as you hold your dog back from lunging or ‘drop’ as you try and wrestle that TV remote out of your dog’s mouth. A good dog trainer can help teach a range of obedience exercises without relying on punishment. So if you find yourself at the end of your tether spending all your time yelling at your dog and telling them ‘No’ perhaps it’s time start focusing on what it is you actually want your dog to be doing. The behaviours you train are after all the behaviours your dog will perform. Tamsin Peachey Tamsin is a qualified animal behaviourist having obtained an MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour from Lincoln University in 2013. In 2017 Tamsin started running Puppy School classes in Solihull, having received tutor training from renowned author, dog trainer and canine behaviourist Gwen Bailey. Prior to running Puppy School Solihull Tamsin spent over two years working at Dog’s Trust gaining valuable experience in caring for and training a wide variety of rescue dogs. In 2014 Tamsin and her husband adopted their own rescue dog, Milo, with whom Tamsin has worked successfully to reduce his reactivity towards other dogs. In addition to dog training, Tamsin enjoys writing articles and resources on the topic of dog behaviour for both professionals and dog owners. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Does Your Dog Need a Sweater?
Does your dog need a sweater? The answer depends on where you live, what kind of dog you have, and in some cases, personal preference. I love dog sweaters (and so does my dog), but I also live in the Midwest where sub-zero days in January and February are the norm. Dogs with thick fur stay warm on their own as long as they stay dry. While others – shorthaired or short-legged dogs, seniors, puppies, toy breeds, thin dogs with very little body fat, and dogs with chronic health or immune system issues – need the extra layer when the … Continue reading →
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