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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 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 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? 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 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? 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 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’ 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 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 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 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 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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