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The Art of Dog Training: A Calm State of Mind
The Art of Dog Training: A Calm State of Mind Good dog training should ultimately give you the skills you need so that you can absolutely influence the decisions of your dog upon a request or command, and your training should result in your dog being able to accept and execute those requests. However, great dog training is when you don’t need to use those commands to be able to live life together. I’m the youngest of five children and never had my own anything. It was hand-me-down everything until I got my first dog for my twelfth birthday. All I wanted to do was learn how to train my new girl, my very own Australian cattle dog. I begged my mom to let me take Kizzie to obedience classes. She finally gave in, and off I went. My dog bit the instructor on day one. Not a very auspicious beginning for this young, aspiring dog trainer. I was mortified; plus, the lady who was going to teach me everything I desperately wanted to know just got bit right in front of me. I was more determined than ever to figure this all out! I learned heel/sit/down/stay/come with the best of them and won the top award in that novice class. And yet, even after all that, I still had a dog that had some strange, neurotic behaviors back at home. She would obsessively run the fence line or jump up and bounce against our windows when she was excited. I couldn’t treat it, yell it, command it, ignore it, or startle it out of her. Kizzie just wouldn’t stop, no matter what techniques I tried or classes I attended. Kizzie even ended up blind in one eye because I couldn’t get her to come when she took off after my horse and was kicked in the face. All those commands and blue ribbons didn’t work when real life distractions kicked in. They also didn’t take into account her strong cattle dog prey drive. But at that time, I had no insight into those things, which certainly weren’t prevalent ideas in the teachings I had access to. I knew something was missing, but it took years before I could put the pieces together. And then came Izzie, my very first labradoodle. She came into my life and helped me understand the missing links I didn’t know. My Izzie, the dog who stole my heart, was such a great communicator with other dogs and became the catalyst for my examination and understanding of dogs on a different level. What I’ve discovered on this journey of learning how to “speak dog” is that the art of dog training is knowing when you’ve done just enough, not enough, or more than enough. If the perfect down/stay or militant-style compliance is your ultimate goal, then we have different goals. And if you’ve done all you know how to do—all the commands, praise, clickers, or treats—and your dog is still not where you want her to be on some issues, then you’ve discovered this truth that has become my driving, burning conviction that compels me in my relationships with dogs: You can’t command calm, and you can’t compel acceptance! If we are commanding our dog every millisecond of the day, our dogs aren’t thinking, growing, maturing, or deciding anything. You should be able to be with your dog, on or off a leash, out in society without compelling him into a command. You should not have to put a dog into a sit/down/stay position when a person approaches, just because he will jump on the person otherwise. I want my dog to be able to handle the excitement of an approaching person and choose to be polite and respectful. I’ll even give my dog the option of choosing what makes him most comfortable in that situation, whether sitting, standing, lying down, or moving around a bit. I let him be aware of his world and aware of me. He is not sitting, glued onto the concrete with eyes glued to mine. He is learning how to relax and choose calm. At Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp (APBC), we expose our pups and dogs to other people of all ages, a variety of animals (dogs, cats, horses, goats, bunnies, chickens), and different sight sensations, smell sensations, texture sensations, noises, etc. Since life is often crazy, busy, noisy, smelly, and full of surprises, it is important that your pooch has the ability to maintain composure in the face of stimuli of all kinds. How your pup or dog is exposed to different stimuli is critical; the key—they must be calmly exposed! Once a dog can learn to think, make good choices, and handle all that life has to offer in a calm, safe, sane, and civilized way, then he is actually in the state of JUST BE. And truly, I believe that the greatest thing you can teach a dog is the art of JUST BE. Four Rules of JUST BE I have four general principles about how dogs should be acting and the choices they should be making when hanging out around me, no matter what we are doing together. I want my dog to relax and know that as long as he doesn’t break my four rules, it’s all good and he has some leeway about what he can and can’t do. These principles guide me in every facet of my working with a dog. The following should never happen: Dog, don’t make me spill my scalding hot coffee, not even one drop. Dog, don’t do anything to irritate me. Dog, don’t do anything to irritate anyone or anything around me. Dog, don’t do anything to piss me off. If a dog breaks one of these four rules of JUST BE, I shut down the silliness, instantly and effectively. To shut down the silliness (meaning anything a dog is choosing, other than what I’m asking for), it is imperative that you can hold your leash and quickly and firmly move your dog in a counter-clockwise motion back around to your side, then put him into a sit. As you are beginning to move your dog around in that “stirring a cauldron” motion, you take a step back simultaneously to aid in your arms momentum to get your dog around and back to your side as quickly as possible. Then immediately release the pressure of the leash the millisecond their butt hits the ground. Now, just breathe. Release ALL pressure and tension on the leash. Don’t do anything. Wait. Let your dog decide if he is done choosing silliness. If he chooses to break a rule again, no problem, you just efficiently and quickly move that dog around to your side, get a sit, and release the pressure. Timing counts on this. How many times will a dog test you on whether or not you will shut down the silliness? It varies from dog to dog. Stick with this, and I promise, before very long your dog will decide that learning how to JUST BE is way more easy and gratifying than being silly. That’s it, gang. It really is. Yes, sits are nice, heels are fabulous, long-distance downs are exceptional, tricks are fun, tasks are helpful; but the ability to JUST BE—well, it’s priceless. Alyson Rodges Alyson Rodges is a dog trainer specializing in puppies and all things DOODLE. She loves people as much as their pooches and teaches the necessary skills for them both to enjoy a balanced life with each other. Aly’s approach is rooted in relationship, not commands alone. Aly trains multiple dogs at once in her own home, complete with teenagers, a bit of chaos, and a lot of real life. Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp is located on the gorgeous central coast of California near Pismo Beach. You can find out about Aly at www.alysonrodges.com or email her at info@alysonrodges.com :|zpendofcontent|:
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How to Care for a Three-Legged Dog
How to Care for a Three-Legged Dog Dogs are amazingly resilient creatures. No matter the circumstance, many dogs are able to overcome and persevere. Tripod dogs exemplify that need and ability to overcome an obstacle and adapt to anything they come across. In truth, caring for a three-legged pup might not be all that different from caring for a dog with four legs. Though they may need extra attention, they are still just dogs looking to have new experiences and be loved by their owners. Stewart Black/Flickr If you own a three-legged dog, your dog is new to the tripod life, or you’re considering adopting a three-legged dog, you’re a valuable asset to the tripod dog community. Caring for a dog with three legs is just like caring for a dog with four, with just a few variables to consider. Encourage Exercise Exercise is important for every dog regardless of their leg count. For three-legged dogs, it can seem counterproductive to encourage time spent putting strain on one leg. However, exercise can be even more important for them than a dog with all of their legs due to the health benefits they get from the exercise. Keeping their weight down is really important in tripod dogs in order to limit the amount of weight on their one leg. Not every dog has the same abilities and limitations, but just a simple walk regularly can do great things for their exercise as well as your own energy and focus. If you’re really looking for the best exercise for them, look into swimming locations. Just as with people, swimming is a great low-impact exercise that will keep them healthy and their weight low while lowering strain on their legs. Know the Added Health Risks Though tripod dogs are just like any other dog in many ways, they do tend to have some added health risks when compared to their four-legged counterparts. For one, they may suffer from arthritis and joint issues earlier than normal due to the stress that the one leg takes to make up for their missing limb. You may also pay extra attention to their foot pads that can crack due to the extra weight and pressure as well. Younger tripod dogs may be susceptible to elbow hygroma, which is a fluid buildup around the elbow due to putting weight on one elbow before they are old enough for protective calluses to form on the elbows. Take extra care of their remaining legs and work hard to keep them healthy, especially as they age. Be sure your dog doesn’t overexert themselves and take care in making sure they rest their remaining legs during physical activity. Be Prepared for Expenses It’s not a sure thing that your three-legged dog could rack up your expenses more than a normal dog, but it’s possible. Since they have a few more health risks, or different health risks than a normal dog, you may have more visits to the vet throughout their lifetime. Though there are some things you want to avoid using a credit card for, getting a credit card for veterinarian bills is not a bad idea. There are even some credit cards that specialize in veterinary and medical care. This will ensure you don’t avoid going to the vet for financial reasons and that you can afford bigger payments without putting yourself in a difficult financial bind. You can also look into insurance for your pet or discuss a payment plan if your vet allows it. Alter Their Surroundings Dogs are great at adapting to their missing leg, but there are alterations you can make to their surroundings to help them transition. If you have your dog right after their surgery to remove the leg, the transitions and alterations can be more important as they re-learn their center of gravity, balance, and abilities. Be aware of falls and sores from laying in an area with too much pressure. It’s also important to note that transitioning to the loss of a back leg can be significantly easier than a front leg because dogs carry approximately 60 percent of their weight in their front legs. Either way, you can help them walk a little easier by eliminating slip risks, minimizing the need for stairs, and elevating their food and water dishes. Look into the best option for pet beds that are soft enough to eliminate elbow problems, provide them with a ramp if possible, and talk to your vet about any supplements they may need. Pay attention and make note of their struggles. If there is something specific they struggle with, see if you can make an alteration to make that task easier for them. Give Them All the Cuddles Caring for your three-legged pooch is pretty similar to caring for a pooch with all of their legs. Be sure to give them a lot of love and care. Tell them they are a good boy or girl, take them out to explore new things, and don’t hold them back from being a dog due to their handicap. Dogs thrive on new experiences and smells, so be sure to still allow them those experiences. A fall here and there will happen, and that’s OK. They will play with other dogs and get tripped up, but they will have fun anyway. Other people will see your pup and feel bad for their circumstance, but chances are, your dog will bounce back and forget they are any different. With your love, cuddles, and awareness, they will be as happy and active as ever. A dog losing a leg can be a traumatic experience for both dog and owner, but caring for a three-legged dog tends to be easier than many people think it will be. Dogs bounce back from an amputated leg rather quickly and get their energy and happiness back at a surprisingly fast rate. Being aware of the added care they need and scratching the spots they used to reach with their amputated leg is all they need to live happy and fulfilled lives with three legs. Chelsy Ranard Chelsy is a writer from Montana who is now living in beautiful Boise, Idaho. She graduated with her journalism degree in 2012 from the University of Montana. She is passionate about animal rights, bad television, and white wine. She is a volunteer at Simply Cats in Boise. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Beware of The So-Called "Internet" Pet Experts!
Beware of The So-Called "Internet" Pet Experts! Before the World Wide Web existed, we relied on books or knowledgeable professionals to help us figure out problems and gain understanding. It is true that once a book is printed it is already out of date but the same can be said for information on the internet. These days we don’t often reach for a huge tablet of an encyclopedia, we google it instead, but anyone can upload their opinions. It is the same on social media, dog owners are increasingly turning to dog-related Facebook groups, to seek out help for that behaviour problem or health issue our dog is suffering from. I don’t doubt there is a lot of experienced owners and trainers on the net, but for every good one, there are often ten more who can dish out the wrong advice, advice that can sometimes be downright dangerous to you and your dog. Too often I see people diagnosing the problem from scant information; no in-depth history means the real route of the issue or that vital piece of the jigsaw puzzle can be left in the box. In the worst case scenario, dogs can lose their lives due to bad advice given by keyboard experts. You may think I am exaggerating but believe me, I am not. The trouble is, if you need to ask about why your dog is doing this or that and how to stop it, it means you lack the knowledge to weed out the bad advice. That isn’t a criticism, I don’t know how my fridge works……. We also seem to be increasingly living in a society that wants something for nothing. People don’t think they should pay to help their dog overcome his aggression problem or separation anxiety; we want a quick fix. However, does that solution involve looking at the dogs' emotions and anxieties and asking, ‘What can I do to support you in this’ or does the advice you follow mean your dog goes on suffering because you have covered up the problem with a Band-Aid? I cannot tell you the number of times people quibble at the price of a good trainer or behaviourist. They don’t see why an hour’s lesson or a package of sessions should cost so much. What people fail to note is the time outside the session the trainer spends working. First there is the initial conversation and booking process, some trainers may have to travel miles to see you, (taking up more time), we work with you face to face, often putting ourselves at risk in doing so they have to travel home and write a detailed report and be on standby for any questions or support you may have going forward. Just one dog from one session can take a good eight hours of our time. Not only that, professional trainers have spent thousands on gaining an up to date education in their field. They have paid money joining organisations which show they are ethical and work to a high standard, and have to continue to do as much as 40 hours a year of continued profession development to stay current with the latest research and methods (How many occupations can you say insist on that to stay qualified in a professional guild?). So when looking for help, spend time doing your research before following someone’s advice or booking a trainer. Does the person have a qualification in training or behaviour and to what level? How long have they been working with dogs? Do they have testimonials from clients on their service? Are they a member of a professional organisation and if so, what are the ethics and mission statement of that body? Do you like how they interact with you and your dog? Do they have several ways to train the same thing, if one way isn’t working for your dog, can they be flexible and find a way he can learn? Just be careful who you entrust your precious pooch too, after all, you wouldn’t ask an unskilled person to fix the brakes on your car now, would you! Toni Shelbourne Animal Behaviourist, Tellington TTouch Practitioner, Real Dog Yoga Instructor & Author Toni has worked with domesticated and wild canids since 1989. After a long and successful career with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, she started her own business as a Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner. She is now one of the highest qualified Practitioners in the UK. In 2001 her skills in TTouch took Toni to the UK Wolf Conservation Trust were she meet a pack of socialised wolves. She went on to work with them for over a decade as a Senior Wolf Handler and Education Officer for the organisation. In more recent years, Toni has gone on to become a Real Dog Yoga Instructor, (Visit www.therealdogyoga.co.uk to find out more) and updated her qualifications in behaviour with the International School of Psychology and Behaviour, for which she is also an affiliate. She is now a full member of The Association of INTO Dogs as a certified canine behaviourist. She teaches all over the UK and abroad, works with clients' one to one, and writes. Toni lives in Oxfordshire, England with her husband and their dog MrP. In more recent years, Toni has gone on to become a Real Dog Yoga Instructor, (Visit www.therealdogyoga.co.uk to find out more) and updated her qualifications in behaviour with the International School of Psychology and Behaviour, for which she is also an affiliate. She is now a full member of The Association of INTO Dogs as a certified canine behaviourist. She teaches all over the UK and abroad, works with clients' one to one, and writes. Toni lives in Oxfordshire, England with her husband and their dog MrP. Over the last two decades, Toni has been developing her writing. She spent two years editing and writing features for Wolf Print, the UK Wolf Conservation Trust's international magazine. She went on to write for national dog magazines, rescue society newsletters and blogs. Her first and second book, The Truth about Wolves & Dogs, (Hubble and Hattie 2012) and Among the Wolves (Hubble and Hattie 2015) have been a great success. Her latest writing collaboration with co-author Karen Bush sees a series of books entitled HELP! My Dog is…. Titles include, HELP! My Dog's Scared of Fireworks, HELP! My Dog doesn't Travel Well in the Car, HELP! My Dog is Destroying the Garden and HELP! My Dog has a Canine Compulsive Disorder. All are available in paperback and eBook format on Amazon. Toni and Karen have many more titles planned under the banner of Skinny Dog Books – named as they both own sighthounds and the books are small and concise. Visit www.tonishelbourne.co.uk for more details about Toni, her work and books. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Truth-about-Wolves-Dogs-216136181810393/ Twitter: @tonishelbourne Toni Shelbourne and Karen Bush’s book HELP! My Dog is Destroying the Garden: US paperback link: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden/dp/1976563313/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250534&sr=8-6&keywords=toni+shelbourne US Kindle link: https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden-ebook/dp/B07622F3N5/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250597&sr=8-7&keywords=toni+shelbourne UK paperback link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden/dp/1976563313/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250633&sr=8-5&keywords=toni+shelbourne UK Kindle link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-My-Dog-Destroying-Garden-ebook/dp/B07622F3N5/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1534250633&sr=8-7&keywords=toni+shelbourne :|zpendofcontent|:
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The Rule of Threes: The Puppy Socialization Rule You Need to Know
The Rule of Threes: The Puppy Socialization Rule You Need to Know At a seminar last year, I heard about a wonderful rule of thumb for socializing puppies. We all know we need to socialize our puppies and of course, I advocate systematic socialization in our group and online courses. I also see issues on the flip side of socialization. Just as a puppy can be under socialized I think we are seeing what I have taken to calling “over socialization.” This seems to manifest in puppies who get aroused and over excited and even frustrated when prevented from being allowed to immediately and wholeheartedly greet other dogs or people. This becomes a problem because the puppies are being rude. They jump on other dogs and people and often will end up getting a big negative response which can result in the puppy then showing aggression and/or timidity. Jo-rosie Haffenden & Nando Brown have provided a wonderful plan for helping families called the Rule of Threes. I have been using it with families since the fall and very much like the simplicity and efficacy. So basically, the rule of threes is this: For every 3 people or dogs your pup meets: 1 out of 3 your pup must ignore 1 out of 3 your pup can politely greet 1 out of 3 your pup can have greater interaction with including potential play Sounds simple enough. Of course, easier to communicate than to do. For example, if your puppy has been allowed to run up and greet every single person or dog that he or she sees you may have to spend a week not allowing your pup to greet ANYONE. We use an exercise called Park & Pay to help relax the pup and get them over the “but, but, but, I absolutely must greet everyone all the time” mindset we may have accidentally taught them. (If you would like more info on that exercise feel free to email me at tina@sithappens.us) I am a huge advocate for polite socialization and the rule of threes seems to be just the ticket to get that done. Happy Socializing! Tina M. Spring Tina M. Spring is the owner of Sit Happens Dog Training & Behavior, LLC in Athens, GA. She is the creator of the Hounds for the Holidays program to help prepare dogs for the stress of the holiday season and prevent dog bites. She is also the author of 90 Days to the Perfect Puppy which is available as an online course. :|zpendofcontent|:
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How to Toilet Train Your Puppy
How to Toilet Train Your Puppy Teaching your puppy to toilet in the right spot can be one of the most frustrating experiences you’ll ever go through with your dog. So much so some owners go on a quest to find the ‘missing piece’ of the toilet training puzzle and shell out lots of money in return for it. After all, in their mind, the stress of being up close and personal with their pup’s excrement and constantly cleaning the carpet is easily worth the $49 ‘magic solution to toilet training all dogs. Once they get their hands on this advice, it always turns out to be nothing different to the information they have already heard but lengthened in laborious detail to justify the price. Toilet training your puppy is a simple process but it takes time, the ability to read your dog’s cues and careful management of both the home and your expectations. No tricks just hard work. Teaching Once your puppy comes into your home it will have no idea where they should toilet. The way to help them learn is to show them where to go. To do this, lead them to the designated spot at times they typically need to toilet for example every 30 minutes or so, ten minutes after eating/drinking and as soon as they wake up. If they toilet at the right spot praise them by saying “good boy/girl” and give them a treat. If they look like they are about to go in the wrong place you can gently pick them up (providing you manage to do this in time) and put them in the right spot. If you do not get there in time do not make a big deal about it as the dog may then relate your stressful state to not wanting to be near you. Rather clean it up (with a spray that eliminates the odor) without a fuss and understand it’s going to take some time. Reading Signs Your dog won’t toilet predictably so be aware of their subtle language to show they are going to toilet. This could include more sniffing than usual, circling, a squat and walking towards an area. If you see any of these signs, react quickly by leading them to the designated spot. Manage the Environment Ensure you close doors, pick up all rugs and put down training pads to increase your dog’s chances of getting it right. They will toilet on the mats by sheer fluke but over time they will learn to associate their actions of toileting on a pad with receiving a tasty morsel. Once they learn to toilet on the pads you can slowly reduce the amount of pads in the home whilst simultaneously teaching them to go outside. Once they are going of their own accord outside you can completely remove the last training pad. To Crate or Not to Crate? A dog is less likely to toilet if they are in a crate. This works for many owners as they can manage the environment if they have to go out for a short while and at nighttime. However, some dogs really reject crates and getting them used to it can be more bother than it is worth. It is best to weigh up your individual situation and figure out what works for you and your puppy. Understand Your Dog’s Needs to Manage Your Expectations All dogs have the same needs but what they need in each moment varies with each dog depending on the environment/time of day and their physiology. For example, if you are teaching a French bulldog or whippet puppy to toilet outside on a cold night with their thin coat then expect them to resist. In these moments, either put a coat on them or do not force the issue - rather let them toilet on a training mat. On a sunny day, you can hang outside with them for longer periods to get them into desired habits of behaviour. To summarise, be patient with your puppy and teach them to toilet in a calm, consistent approach. Manage the environment by closing doors, picking up rugs and using training mats. Learn to read their signals and react in time. Understand their needs and don’t resort to paying out for a magic formula on the Internet – it doesn’t exist! Nigel Reed Nigel Reed is an Amazon best selling author and dog behaviourist with 15 years experience. He lives in London, England with his wife Stephanie and his daughter Amalie. His goal is to help 100 000 dogs in his lifetime which he plans to do this through online courses, talks, his book The Dog Guardian and online videos which he receives 10's of thousands of views each month. He is also very keen to travel the U.S to help owners better understand their dogs. For more information on how to ensure your dog is happy and well behaved buy my book from Amazon: The Dog Guardian: Your Guide to a Happy, Well-Behaved Dog, Facebook | Instagram | Website :|zpendofcontent|:
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How to Socialize an Anxious Dog
How to Socialize an Anxious Dog I was recently asked how you socialize a young dog when they are already anxious? We are told we need to socialize our dogs as puppies and continue this process through into adolescence and beyond. But what happens when our dog is already anxious by that stage? Do we still socialize? Or will that make it worse? It is a great question. Socialization is often misunderstood, even with young puppies. People can think it is simply exposing them to everyone and everything, letting them experience as much as possible in the first few weeks and months. But it is not just about experiencing lots of things; it is about having safe experiences of lots of things. Our role is to manage what our puppy experiences so that they learn that the world is a good place and that, even if things are unusual, they are not threatening. So, with puppy socialization, quality is every bit as important as quantity. Yes, we want them to experience lots of things in that primary socialization window before about 12 weeks old – but those experiences must be good ones or we risk doing more harm than good. When we are dealing with an older, already-anxious dog, it is even more important that we manage the experiences they have carefully. No dog will learn to be comfortable with something by being “thrown in at the deep end”. They need to learn slowly and safely that the things that worry them are not so scary after all. So, with anxious dogs, quality of experience is even more important than quantity. Here are some dos and don’ts for socializing your anxious dog: DO plan. You will be more successful if you plan carefully in advance. Write down all the things that your dog is concerned about. Be specific. Are they only scared close up or is it also at a distance? Does the size of the dog or the age of the human or the type of vehicle that is passing make a difference? Think about where you can go to see these scary things in a controlled way. Is there a park where you can watch dogs play from the safety of your car? Where can you stand to watch children coming out of school without your dog being approached? Is there a road where you can start walking well away from the traffic? Put together a plan for all the things you want your dog to experience and the ways you can do this safely. What? Where? When? Who? How? And once you have a plan, DON’T be distracted from it by well-meaning but misguided strangers or friends who tell you that you are doing it all wrong, that your dog needs to “face his fears” or that he is scared because you “mollycoddle” him. Just smile and stick to your plan. DO start with distance. Distance is your friend. Always start further away from the scary thing than you think you need to be. Far better that and for your dog to be calm and happy than to accidentally get too close and for your dog to freak out! Start working further away than you need and move closer very gradually, as your dog becomes more comfortable. DON’T be tempted to move too quickly. Take your time – it is not a race. Only move closer when your dog is really relaxed and comfortable. DO make experiences positive. The golden rule is that great things appear every time they see the scary thing. Choose the best thing ever for your dog – roast chicken, playing an exciting game – whatever they love most – and keep it just for these occasions. If you do this consistently then they will start to associate the scary thing with getting that amazing thing that they love and, after a while, it won’t be scary anymore. DON’T force interaction. Never make your dog approach another dog or person – that won’t ever help them feel comfortable. Always let your dog choose if they want to interact with someone or something, or not. DO take breaks. Experiencing new things is tiring. Learning is exhausting. So work in short sessions and take lots of breaks. Your dog needs time to process all the information they are taking in. It is your job to make sure they get it. And DON’T be afraid to speak up if you need to protect your dog when they need space. Tell people what your dog needs. Be prepared to say ‘No’ to requests to meet your dog if you don’t think it is right for them. It is far better to risk offending a stranger than to risk a set back with your dog! DO choose your moments. This is something to do when you yourself are feeling relaxed and on the ball. You need your wits about you so that you can make sure your dog feels safe. You need to be calm and focused and be able to give all your attention to your dog. So this is not the thing to do when you get in from a stressful day at work or when you are in a hurry because you are running late for your next appointment. DON’T feel you have to do this every single day. Getting frustrated with your dog won’t help and is much more likely to happen if you are stressed yourself. Take time out when you need it. Spend quality time with your dog at home instead or go and walk with them where you won’t encounter the scary things. And remember quality beats quantity every time! 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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Does Wildlife & Exotic Animals Pose a Threat to Pets?
Does Wildlife & Exotic Animals Pose a Threat to Pets? Although the internet is full of cutesy videos of wild animals interacting with our domesticated pets, these encounters are rare. You seldom see pictures of the damage certain types of wildlife can cause to homes or the potential dangers they often pose to our pets, but both are very real. As a matter of fact, owning a wild animal yourself is becoming more problematic than ever according to a report from Livescience. Since 1990, incidences, injuries and deaths from humans keeping exotic animals as a pet have been rising steadily (over 1,500 attacks and 75 deaths). Some of these creatures also carry potentially dangerous and deadly diseases. When it comes to reptiles, 90% of these seemingly harmless pets carry and shed salmonella in their feces. While most owners are aware of this fact and clean their cages carefully, this doesn’t stop these cold-blooded critters from defecating outside their confines. Other types of exotic pets can carry diseases like monkeypox and herpes. Isolated Incident Kills 50 Wild Animals In a rare, but true story, a depressed and deranged man in Zanesville, Ohio released dozens of wild animals into the streets before killing himself. Police and other officials were forced to shoot and kill almost 50 animals before they injured or killed people or their pets. Among the dead were: 18 tigers 17 lions 6 black bears 2 Grizzly bears 3 mountain lions 2 wolves 1 baboon It was later leaked that at least one of the primates on the loose was “highly likely” to be infected with the Herpes B virus. Not dangerous to monkeys, but humans can suffer brain damage if exposed to this disease. Obviously, the chances of you or your pet having a run-in with a Bengal tiger or Grizzly bear is extremely rare. Pets are more likely to have trouble with some of these more common “nuisance animals” that could be found in your own backyard: Black Widow Spiders Fairly reclusive and non-threatening, pets are often bitten when walking through a web or accidentally disturbing them. Brown Recluse Spiders Another eight-legged threat to pets, their bite isn’t particularly painful, but it leaves behind a nasty wound that is hesitant to heal. Fire Ants These little pests aren’t likely to cause more than irritation to sensitive paws and noses, but the pain caused from their bites is brutal. Raccoons Although they aren’t likely to attack or bite unless provoked, they could be carrying rabies, which is another reason to ensure your animal’s vaccinations are always up-to-date. Rattlesnakes Perhaps the most dangerous and often encountered critter when it comes to dogs and cats that roam around outside. Venom strength and severity varies throughout different species and can range from simple swelling to death from exposure to these sometimes deadly bites. Be sure to keep a close eye on your pets whenever they’re outdoors, and when it comes right down to it, wildlife is simply better off left in the wild, protected in a zoo or located on a preserve rather than in a household. It’s simply much safer for everyone and everything involved that they aren’t allowed to interact. 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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10 Benefits of Using Fish Oil for Your Dogs
10 Benefits of Using Fish Oil for Your Dogs This time of year can be all kinds of awesome. Playing in the snow, cuddling up with your dog by the fire. Watching movies tucked under warm blankets, or out playing in the snow. Whatever your favorite thing to do during winter is, I'm sure most of us can agree on one thing - skin. This time of year can do horrid things to our skin. Drying it out, making it itchy. Well, the same thing happens to our dogs. If you notice your dog itching more than usual in the winter, and not a flea in site... you're probably looking at a dry skin issue. So what can you do to help? Fish oil! The most common use of fish oil is to help improve the skin and coats of our dogs. But did you know it has numerous other benefits as well? Let's talk about my top 10 benefits of using fish oil for your dogs. 1) In recent studies, fish oil has been shown to slow the growth of cancers in dogs. While research is still very much ongoing for this, a lot of vets have begun recommending fish oil to patients who have dogs showing signs of cancer. 2) Help reduce the risk of hot spots. 3) Fight dry irritated, flaky, itchy skin. 4) Promotes shiny, healthy coat. In doing so this reduces the amount of fur your dog will shed. And for those kitties out there, this means less hairballs for you! (yes! fish oil is good for cats too!) 5) Helps with conditions causing inflammation of joints, kidneys, heart and skin. 6) In reducing inflammation in joints, fish oil can also be helpful for dogs with arthritis. 7) Fish oil has been shown to improve dogs immune systems. 8) Fish oil can even be used for picky eaters. Most dogs love the taste, so a couple squirts on their food, and you may just see an improved appetite. 9) Increased energy. 10) Can help with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. the omega-3 fatty acid, DHA has been shown to improve cognitive dysfunction in affected dogs. "So, I hear what you're saying, but how would fish oil help with all these things?" A lot of factors come into play here. Omega-3 fatty acids DHA, EPA are components of cell membranes. These acids act as signals in those cells to reduce inflammation. Of course with less inflammation, that means less swelling/pain in joints, skin and organs. By decreasing inflammation in our dog's organs, skin and joints, we see so many health improvements you might not have even realize your dog even had trouble with. Until you see the results! What are your thoughts on fish oil for dogs? Do you use it? Jenna Drady Hi, I'm Jenna Drady AKA HuskyCrazed - author and creator of ownedbyahusky.ca. I am a mother of two beautiful daughters and of course my 3 huskies. Being a husky mom for a long duration of my life, I was inspired to begin writing about them. In doing so, I started doing massive research on dog behavior, and all things dog in general. I am inspired every day by my family, and love to bring my readers valuable information as well as a little laugh while i’m at it. I created my own business partnered with my lovely mother while blogging called Pawz N Clawz Jewelry N Things. We 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, we donate a portion of our sales to local shelters throughout Canada. :|zpendofcontent|:
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Dog Resilience: What It Is and Why Is It Important?
Dog Resilience: What It Is and Why Is It Important? What is resilience? The definition of resilience is: "The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties." You may be wondering why this is important to dogs? Resilience is important to dogs because the more resilient they are, the more balanced and happy they will be. In fact, the same is true for humans! Have you ever wondered why one dog can get startled by the vacuum cleaner and determine that all vacuums are evil, but another dog could be startled by the same thing and never has an issue with vacuums? That is because the second dog is more resilient than the first. As humans, we can definitely relate to this too. It is the reason some people can experience a tragedy and move on when other people experience the same tragedy and dwell on it for a long time (sometimes their entire lifetime). Our dog’s resilience can be determined by many factors. A few of those factors include genetics, early socialization (or lack of socialization), fearful events, exposure to many new things and training techniques. If you have ever met a fearful puppy you realize that the fear likely is at least in part genetic, especially if the puppy has not had any negative experiences in its life. Without early intervention and positive life experiences, this puppy it as risk of having little or no resilience. Dogs that have little or no resilience often live a life full of fear and anxiety. When a dog is fearful or anxious they will often go into “survival mode” when they feel threatened. The typical behaviors that are expressed when a dog (or person) is in “survival mode” is fight, flight or freeze. Flight and freeze can be problematic but when a dog exhibits fight, the human-dog bond can be seriously hindered. When dogs go into the fight response they will often bark, lunge, growl or bite whatever they are afraid of. These dogs often get labeled “aggressive” when they are actually afraid and lack resiliency. Although building up a dog’s resiliency can be difficult, it is possible. As with everything in life, prevention is best. All puppies should be socialized early and often, all puppies and dogs should be trained with positive, force-free techniques and if a dog experiences a frightening situation, be sure to help them overcome the fear as soon as possible. When a dog lacks resiliency due to genetics, it can be more difficult and may require medication to help them overcome the extreme fear and anxiety. If your dog or puppy appears to lack resilience, it is important that you seek help from a behaviorist or a trainer who has special training to help with this problem. Lack of resilience is not a “training issue” it is a mental issue; therefore, you need a professional that is similar to a therapist rather than a teacher. If you have little or no resilience in difficult situations you would not go to a teacher, you would seek help from a therapist. By understanding resilience, you will be able to understand your dog better. If you have a dog that never seems bothered by anything (often labeled “bomb proof”) you will understand that they are very resilient in strange or difficult situations. If you have a dog that startles at everything and never seems to “get over it”, you can recognize that your dog is lacking resilience in those situations. Neither dog is good or bad, they just are who they are. As dog parents, it is important to recognize why their dog behaves the way they do so they can have empathy and compassion for them. This awareness also allows you to know when you need to seek help from a professional. 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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10 Life Hacks For Dog Parents
10 Life Hacks For Dog Parents Life hacks have been all the rage these last few years, only growing in popularity. And why wouldn't they? Anything we could do in our lives to make normal every days tasks easier is a welcome in my eyes. But what about life hacks for dog parents? Have I peaked your interest yet? Read on! 1. A lot of people won't let their dogs on the furniture. While some people simply don't want them up there, others have this rule set in place because they don't want dog fur all over their sofa. My suggestion? Grab a sheet, a couch cover, or a blanket, throw it up when puppy wants to come up and snuggle. Remove when its time to get down. 2) Keeping number one in mind... If you don't want to take the time to throw a sheet over your sofa, here's something useful... DRYER SHEETS TO THE RESCUE! Did you know dryer sheets pick up dog fur off of fabric incredibly well? Now you know. You're welcome. 3) Want to keep your dog busy on a rainy day, but don't have the money for those expensive treat puzzle toys? Cupcake pans. Yes... cupcake pans. take a cupcake pan (muffin pan) put some small treats in a few of the slots, and place tennis balls over top of each slot. Let your dog find out which ones have treats in them!!! 4) Do your dogs like to dig up the yard when you're outside having playtime? Try making them their very own doggie sandbox. Reward them for using it, and soon they will learn where it is okay to dig, and where it isn't. 5) Are you one of those people who always see these incredible recipes for frozen treats, or any dog treat for that matter, but you just don't have time to try it? Or you really aren't the baking type? A super quick and easy recipe for a summer treat... Are you ready? Organic beef/chicken broth. Pour into ice cube trays. freeze. That is all. 6) As a Siberian Husky owner, I know the struggle is real when it comes to dog fur on carpets. Sure if you have a vacuum that works well your good to go right? Wrong... I have been through so many vacuums it's ridiculous. But who needs to spend hundreds of dollars on vacuums in their lifetime when you can just use a squeegee? Rake your carpet with the squeegee and watch the fur come up! It's a beautiful thing. 7) Do you have one of those super fluffer duffer dogs where the fur is so thick it's nearly impossible to check for fleas? Try the white towel test! Lay a white towel on the floor under your dog, and brush him out! If there are fleas, chances are a few of them will fall onto the towel. At the very least some flea dirt will. Problem solved. 8) This next hack is more known, but hey, you never know who hasn't heard it yet. If you cut your dogs nail too short, or if they caught it on something and is bleeding... flour, cornstarch or baking soda is very handy to have. Either dip your dog's toenail right in the powder of one of the things mentioned above, or if you have time, make a paste out of it with some water, then apply to the nail. Little bit of pressure afterward and the bleeding will stop. 9) Does your dog always seem to find a way to open up the trash can lid? Try using some baby locks to keep it shut. 10) I saved the best for last. Dog fur. An ongoing struggle. To the point where I started joking with people that the dog fur on my clothes was simply a fashion statement. My solution? TAPE! Any tape will do, but wide packing tape works wonders. Wrap it around your hand backward and go nuts on your clothes. Have you used any of these life hacks as a dog parent? Do you have any paw-some hacks to add to the list? Jenna Drady Hi, I'm Jenna Drady AKA HuskyCrazed - author and creator of ownedbyahusky.ca. I am a mother of two beautiful daughters and of course my 3 huskies. Being a husky mom for a long duration of my life, I was inspired to begin writing about them. In doing so, I started doing massive research on dog behavior, and all things dog in general. I am inspired every day by my family, and love to bring my readers valuable information as well as a little laugh while i’m at it. I created my own business partnered with my lovely mother while blogging called Pawz N Clawz Jewelry N Things. We 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, we donate a portion of our sales to local shelters throughout Canada. :|zpendofcontent|:
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The Pros and Cons of Dog Parks & Simple Guidelines if You Decide It’s a ‘Go’
The Pros and Cons of Dog Parks & Simple Guidelines if You Decide It’s a ‘Go’ Going to a dog park can be a wonderful experience for your dog, but it's wise to consider the pros and cons before you embark on the journey. The Pros: •Terrific for high-energy dogs as the parks provide plenty of off-leash running and play time. • Socialization with other dogs (and people as well)! • Many dog parks provide an enclosed area within the park where you can train your dog off leash in a safe environment. This also helps train your dog to pay attention while surrounded by distractions. • Dog parks provide valuable mental stimulation. And the Cons: • Injuries at dog parks are not infrequent. Some people bring aggressive not appropriately socialized dogs into the park - putting your dog in danger. • Although dogs at the park should be free of parasites and disease, that's not always the case. Most dog parks require proof of immunization before granting a yearly membership. However, they may offer day passes which do not require proof of immunization. If this is the case, proceed with caution. • Your dog may not enjoy dog parks. Some dogs experience stress or can be overwhelmed by dog parks (mine included!), but other dogs absolutely love the experience. Knowing your dog’s personality will help you make the right decision. If you decide to go to your local dog park - keep these practical tips in mind to ensure a positive experience: • Make sure your dog is comfortable meeting unfamiliar dogs on leash first. If your dog pulls or lunges, or shows signs of aggression towards other dogs on leash, then your dog needs socialization and training before heading to a dog park. • Make sure your dog's vaccinations are current. • Check the rules of the dog park online before heading over. For instance, some parks don’t allow toys (balls, frisbees, etc.) because it can cause possession aggression. • If your dog is high-strung, it's a good idea to give him/her a short walk on leash before going to the dog park. This will help you avoid over-excitement issues - especially if this is a new experience for your dog. • Have your dog wear a simple collar and tags. Bandanas, leads or other items another dog may pull at or tug can cause issues. • Check online to see if the park has fresh water available. Some parks have well pumps or faucets, but you may need to bring your own container to fill. Other parks require you to bring your own water. Having a refillable gallon jug works great! • Remember to pick up after your dog. Most parks make this step easy by providing poop bags. However, it’s always a good idea to bring a couple extra with you. • Be respectful. If your dog is misbehaving or bullying another dog - it's your responsibility to step in and correct the behavior. If need be, leash your dog and leave. Safety for everyone at the dog park is top priority. • Don't overdo your dog's first trip to the park. It can be an overwhelming experience (even if your dog is having fun)! Don't allow your dog to become overtired. An overtired dog can become cranky (understandably so). Set your dog up for success by leaving the park on a good note while he/she is still having fun. Finally, weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you decide it’s right for you and your dog, following these easy guidelines will set you both up for success! Mindy Nelson Mindy Nelson writes for the blog, Shelter Mutt. Her goal is to help dogs find a ‘furever’ home by promoting dog adoption for ‘mystery mutts’ and purebred rescues as well (she considers all rescue dogs ‘Shelter Mutts’).In addition, Shelter Muttpromotes spay/neutering responsibility and Shelter MuttPride!You can check out her website at www.sheltermutt.com for blogs related to adoption, rescue, entertainment, recipes, dog tips and more. :|zpendofcontent|:
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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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