Dog Training

Much like people, pups can have goals as well. Well, I guess lazing around on your pillow might be amongst them, but we’re talking about the goal of good behavior. When you’re teaching your pup the proper way to act in your home, or just working on a few basic tricks to impress your friends, we have to spend time with our four-legged friends and set some goals for them achieve.

Training session

Contrary to what you might think, the shorter the training period, the more your pup will usually absorb. Because pups often have short attention spans and quite frankly would rather have fun, long training sessions can actually be counterproductive to learning. A short time period of about five minutes should be the longest you will want to continuously work on a single subject. During that time, start with your command and continue to reinforce it. Your pup may be confused at first, and a little guidance may be needed (holding your pup in place for “stay,” or laying them down to put them into the lay position). Although the time period seems short, it isn’t limited to once a day. Work with your pup at different times of the day, and give constant reminders by always utilizing your commands. While the lesson may be short, learning is done throughout their experiences during the day.

Small goals

Set small goals for you and your pup, and don’t try to achieve everything in one day. There’s a lot to learn, and if you burn them out and make learning a boring part of the day, they may not even want to listen to you. They’ll just look at you and bark, “Well, you’re no fun at all.” If you’re going to keep your pup’s attention, you need to set small learning goals during which they learn a little at a time. These goals gradually work up to the ultimate goal of good behavior.

These goals need to be steady and habitual. Set certain times each day during which you and your pup will spend time learning good behavior. Teaching a pup good behavior is like teaching them a habit. They may learn to sit today, but if you don’t continuously enforce that skill each day, they won’t make a habit of learning that’s what their supposed to do.

If you have trouble with organizing your day, or keeping track of when puppy school starts, go ahead and make a schedule. Whether it’s added into your daily planner, or you may even put your smart phone to use and set a few alarms to remind you. It’ll help you maintain the goal of working with your pup, and your pup will be able to make a habit of getting a good education.

Treat with fun

When teaching your pup, entertainment is a must. If they don’t enjoy the experience, they won’t want to do it. Make learning a treat in itself. The situation is positive for your pup, and they’ll actually want to learn good behaviors. One way to teach a pup to “stay” is to incorporate their playtime into the mix. While you’re playing a good game of tug-o-war, use your “stay” command during the game and stop playing. They may want to continue, but you just ignore them and continue to use the command until they settle down. Then use your “release” command and begin playing again. It will take time to solidify the knowledge, but it’s a process that you have to continuously work on. And the best part is that it’s fun for your pup. The learning itself becomes a game rather than school.

Making the experience fun means that you want to refrain from doing anything that would upset them during this process. Rather than scold or yell, ignore them until they are successful. If you start shouting, they may get confused or become irritated with you. When the student isn’t enjoying the class, they won’t pay attention. When you don’t pay attention, you won’t learn a thing.

Setting goals for both you and your pup keeps your pup learning at a steady pace. Rather than dump all of that puppy knowledge on your dog in a few short hours, you set a good learning pace to ensure a fun learning environment. Properly training your pup takes time. Spend a little time with them each day, and eventually you’ll find that your pup was a clever rascal after all.

When your four-legged friend first enters your life, we know how important it is to train them properly. Aside from potty training, we need to influence their behaviors to help them become as likeable to others as they are to us. Of course, few couldn’t help but adore your pup’s wagging tail, but your pup isn’t always up for talking to strangers (and you didn’t even have to tell him). During a pup’s early months, the relationship they build with other people will affect how they will behave when out in public.

This leads us to the puppy training party. This is a positive situation that will help your pup adjust to people. Not all dogs are naturally friendly with everyone, which is why it is important to introduce them to others at an early age.

What this party is begins with a few friends of yours. Family members can join in, but make sure that you have a few new faces and hands that your pup can familiarize with. Since you want to express individuality, have your friends dress very differently, such as hats and purses of various kinds. This helps your pup associate with the style and looks of many different people.

A place to party

Choose a place that is neutral to your pup. You don’t want them in defense mode as they try to protect their den and family from intruders. Best place to start may be a unoccupied park (not a dog park with distractions) or out in your yard where things are familiar, but not necessarily territorial. Another thing to remember is that everything should be well lit. You don’t want anybody in the shadows where they may appear intimidating to your pup. This should allow your pup to meet his new friends without wanting to play the instinctive guard dog (plus it gives everyone some room to play and interact).

Party manners

Now keep in mind that some basic training skills will help the situation strongly. Pawing or jumping up on people shouldn’t be allowed at the party. The purpose here is to socialize and teach your pup proper manners around groups of other people. Even if they are happy to meet these people, they shouldn’t be allowed to jump upon them out of eagerness for a treat. You may confirm this by ignoring them, rather than punishing them or pushing them down, especially since you want your pup to develop a positive relationship with people.

Time to party

When your guests do arrive, it’s important to avoid a mass of hands seeking a hold of that furry rascal. Introductions should be one at time. Go about this by putting your pup’s instincts to work. Have each person hand-feed some regular dog food to your pup when introduced. It teaches your pup that hands are friends and shouldn’t be attacked or bitten. As your pup becomes more familiar with each person, they can gently touch and pet, starting with the collar area. Try to avoid places where your pup can’t see what their hands are doing. Make sure you avoid anybody using intimidating actions towards your pup. Most pups don’t like it if you cover their eyes (if you’re trying to pet their head from an elevated position) or touch their hindquarters when they aren’t looking. Keep every action clearly visible to your pup to avoid startling them. The last thing you want to do is scare your pup during his party.

One thing to keep in mind is not to force your pup to allow someone he does not seem to like, for instance- if he is growling and cowering profusely, since it will only leave them despising the person or persons. Wait until your pup is ready to get comfortable with them, not the other way around. Take things slow until everyone is ready to have fun. After all, it is their party.

It is important for your pup to socialize at an early age, or they may end up with behavioral problems later down the road. Throw a puppy training party for your faithful friend to ensure that they get along with others as well as they do with you. With the help of some good friends, your pup can learn to appreciate more than just you and your family.

Dogs make great companions. Ask any dog owner. But there are times when things may seem a little strange. It’s almost like you aren’t really in control. If you’ve ever had a young pup, the attitude may be familiar. Growling is common, but barking might even emerge. A young pup or adopted dog may show these signs in their new environment. But, even a pup that has been a friend to your home for years can show these signs of aggression.

A little intimidated?

What happens when someone pushes you? Do you get mad? Perhaps a little yelling and arguing takes place? Well, pups do the same thing, only their words are growls and barks. In a dog pack, there is a hierarchy of power, the alpha being the dominant pup. The alpha has the respect of the other pups in the group. If you find your pup growling at you, it might be because you’re doing something they don’t like and you don’t have their respect.

Growling and barking aren’t your pup’s only warnings that they might be intimidated or frightened. If you push them, eventually they might snap at you or put their teeth on you. This isn’t always a solid bite. It’s supposed to be a warning that you’re doing something that intimidates them. This can be fairly common when a pup is “grouchy” if you’ve awoken them or disturbed their eating time.

But, a happy home isn’t a home with peoples and pups arguing all the time. So you’ll need to remedy the situation. While punishment or arguing back might be the most likely route, it doesn’t necessarily solve the problem. If your pup is growling a warning, the last thing you want to do is punish them for warning. All you’ll teach them is that they aren’t supposed to growl, not that they’re not supposed to get mad at you.

BT, good for you, good for me

The best thing to do is train your pup with a few basic skills. If you haven’t spent the time to teach that rascal a few tricks, this process definitely helps them bond with you and understand that there is a give and receive relationship here. When your pup does something good or right, appreciate them, even if it is just being calm as they chill on their favorite rug. Now here’s the other part that I like, have used, and definitely works: When they’re doing something wrong, ignore them (pawing, whining, or begging). This is basic training for pups and gets them into shape and adjusts them to accepting you as the alpha.

Now it’s time to address the reason your pup is growling at you. When does it happen? What are you doing? What is your pup doing? This combination allows for a wide variety of scenarios. Fortunately, it’s likely that growling problems arise when they are either eating, sleeping (sofa, bed, a favorite blanket), or you may have something they want (toy, bone, piece of paper). Here is where the attitude has to stop. It’s important that your pup perceives you as the alpha, so the idea that they have to earn the right to do things, such as get on the bed or sofa or even play with toys, needs to be earned. This may require the use of a leash or restraining them from accessing these areas without your permission.

The first step is to prohibit access to areas where they have growled at you (an eating area may be difficult to do this with if your pup has a tendency to fight over food). Then, a command should be taught here. A simple word with hand motion, such as patting on a seat or bed, tells them that it is now alright for them to get up. For practice, prevent them from getting up on the bed by use of either leash or holding them back. They’ll likely fight, so if that rascal is strong, be prepared. Then, go through a few basic tricks they’ve learned. When they’ve accomplished what you want them to, treat them with access. With a bit of practice, your pup will acknowledge your authority. So when it’s time to get off, use another command to signify your desire. Now that they understand that that area or object is yours, and that you’re in charge, you won’t have to argue with them…at least not as much.

Training is essential for teaching your dog the mannerisms of a well-trained pup. But on the contrary, you still want your pup to enjoy the company of you and other dog friends. The two are a balance much like yin and yang. A good pup knows the difference between play time and time to behave. As your pup’s owner, it is imperative that you teach your dog the difference between the two or you will have a chaotic wild pup or a dog that doesn’t know how to enjoy themselves.

Quiet time

It is important to train your pup to be obedient. Jumping on people, barking at anything and everything and tugging you along on their leash are things that we train our pups not to do. This is quiet time for your pup- picture yourself at work, you need to focus on working, not playing right now, and the same goes for your pup.

Walking your pup on a regular basis gives you the chance to practice many of these habits. Here you can teach them not to try to play with other people or dogs and focus on the walk and you. Don’t let them tug you toward another dog or object of interest. This is important in distinguishing the difference of quiet time.

Another trick to this is to familiarize quite time with the leash. When they have the leash on, it is time for a walk or time to settle down and go home.

Don’t forget to treat them when they are successful in any of your commands. Don’t forget that treats are anything that rewards the pup- belly rubbing, tasty morsels, or even play time. Without a treat, often times pups will begin to disregard you and seek out entertainment elsewhere.

Social time

Aside from training your pup, play time is enjoyable for the both of you, so unleash your pup and let them have fun. You can even use this as a treat for your pup after a walk. They may play and interact with you, kids or even a friend’s pup. Taking your pup to the dog park is often a nice treat for them. They can run and interact with other dogs and simply be themselves.

Social time helps your pup get out their energy and experience their own nature. Many times they will return to their instinctive selves and do what dogs do best- play. Often nipping and play fighting, however we may see it as, are just a dog’s way of playing. We humans sometimes do the same, for entertainment or laughs, so why not dogs as well. It is important to remember to keep an eye out for signs of aggression though.

Balance

Finding balance between the two keeps your pup happy. You need to ensure that your dog does not lean one way or the other. A pup who knows nothing but obedience has trouble socializing with other animals- dogs and humans and can lead to an aggressive talent when they are placed in a playtime situation. If your pup isn’t trained properly, and doesn’t know the difference between play and quiet, they will run all over you (I have seen it done many times) and basically do whatever they want to do. Balance is essential to all things, and your pup’s well-being and happiness rely on their understanding of quiet time and social time.

We don’t regularly think about it, but there is always the underlying fear that someone would pup-nap your beloved canine. This happens far more often than you might think, and usually when you least expect it. A pup isn’t an item to be stolen, but some people don’t think about how much it actually affects an owner- sometimes financially, but mostly emotionally. It is always important to protect your pup from the possibility of pup-napping, and you need to consider some things to avoid and precautions to take.

Situations to avoid

When walking your pup, make sure that they stay on their leash. Although some romance movies display a situation where a runaway dog leads someone to their true love, this is not what happens in real life. A wandering pup is much more likely to grab the attention of a potential thief.

Try to avoid displaying information regarding your pup to strangers, even if they too have a pup. Offering info on the financial value or breed of your pup can stimulate the thought of theft, especially as some of our four-legged friends can cost a pretty penny.

When you let your pup out for potty time or simply to play, make sure you check on them regularly. Make yourself seen actively with your pup, especially if you have a visible yard. Thieves can easily lure a pup out with a tasty steak or morsel.

Something that you should never do is leave your pup in a vehicle. Not only is this a target for thieves, but it is quite unkind. Also when shopping, don’t tie your pup up outside. That is just asking for a passerby to pick the leash up and walk off with your best friend.

Precautions

Technology allows us some fancy devices these days, and one of them is the micro-chip for dog tracking. Because collars and tags can be easily removed, finding your pup without ID tags can be difficult. With tracking chips, recovery centers can easily track your dog with GPS locators and recover your pup quickly. This is a great deterrent for thieves, and sometimes simply telling others this will keep your dog out of the hands of puppy-nappers.

Another precaution to take is to always have an updated photo of your pup. Pictures are of course worth a thousand words, and can make the difference between loosing and finding your pup. Pass out flyers and use the internet too. Using your pup’s photo gets their picture displayed to anyone and everyone across the internet- including someone trying to sell your pup on another website.

Something to consider is getting your pup spayed or neutered as this will help keep them from exploring and seeking a romantic escapade. This may not be for everyone as some people still want their pup to have their own puppies.

Always remember that training a pup is essential to owning a pup, and it decreases the likelihood of a thief being able to coax your pup to them. A well trained dog will not be as likely to respond to a stranger.

Does it seem that sometimes your pup is stalking you? There seems to be no place you can go that your pup does not follow. In the bathroom- your pup lays at the door and waits. Trying to leave for work and your pup is at the door- trying to prevent you from leaving. These characteristics make it seem that your pup is perhaps a little obsessed with you. For many owners, this may seem like an annoyance, but the truth is it is because your pup loves you- a lot- and they are suffering from a bit of separation anxiety.

Obsession

These obsessions can be common in most pups- to some degree. A pup following you around the house and sitting in the same room with you is not unhealthy. They simply want to be around the person they love- it’s only natural. Problems may arise when you can’t leave because your pup is hounding you or won’t leave your side and you find it difficult to get through doors because they are right there with you. Sometimes pups may even tackle you when you first arrive home and won’t leave your side until you force them away. These characteristics can be annoying, but the truth is they are actually symptoms of something more.

Stress and anxiety?

If your pup is over-obsessed with you to these extremes, they are more than likely suffering from separation anxiety. It is not only hard for them to leave your side- their body and mind becomes stressed when you aren’t around. Their heart races and they begin to worry or get depressed. This will often be followed by lack of eating, overeating and most likely- destruction. Chewing and clawing at doors, or tearing up things that carry your scent (shoes, clothes, and remote controls) are often primary targets for a pup suffering from anxiety. This is not to spite you from leaving them or their own wrath manifested through destruction- it is them coping with the stress.

Fortunately, not all forms of obsession are this intense. Genuinely, a dog is man’s best friend and follows through the best they know how. Some pups are more friendly than others after all, personalities differ from person to person, so why not the same for dogs? Light obsessions such as a wagging tail when you arrive home, or them waiting for you and meeting you when you get home from work are not harmful in any way. Characteristics such as being excited to see you when you arrive home- but vanish after a few moments and greetings are not harmful in any way and are quite common.

Obsession- is it possible that pups are guilty of this? If your four legged companion is guilty of wanting to be with you then yes. There are extremes to obsession- situations that can be harmful for your pup to endure, but most are generally symptoms of a happy pup that loves you. These are the obsessions of a being that adores you and wants- quite simply- to make your life a happy experience.

What can I do? Is my Dog Obsessed?

If I take a bath/shower my dog will sit outside the door or if I happen to enter a room and close the door she will sit outside of it. Should I choose to step outside the front door, she will either lie quietly by the door or she will jump in the blinds and watch me or pace back and forth in front of the window until I come in. I simply can not go anywhere without her underfoot. I seriously think she is obsessed with me. My question is: Can dogs be obsessed with their owners?

Even though you find it worrisome, it warms my heart…she loves her mom. I have seen dogs sitting in front of a home, watching their favorite child walk to school, so the behavior itself isn’t unheard of. Does she eventually walk away and do other things, or is she still in the window when you return home? I would worry if she didn’t drink any water or chew her toys while you are away. We had a dog who’d whine when he saw us leave. He grew out of it as he became older, but some dogs never do. When their owner leaves, they don’t know for how long, and they worry that it may be too long. They want to be with the owner always. It is touching, yet on the other hand it can be bothersome. Have you talked to your vet? I would certainly ask a vet and see what they say. I think a lot of animals suffer from separation anxiety. I think it shows the depth of the love and loyalty an animal can and will have for their owners.

During the summer months, there are many activities we entertain ourselves with to keep us cool. Water provides an element that is both fun and cool. We enjoy swimming, boating, fishing and just running through the sprinklers at home. Regardless of what water activities we entertain ourselves with, it is important to remember our four-legged friend’s safety. They want to enjoy some time in the water, and it’s up to you to ensure their safety.

Boating and fishing

Taking your pup out into the ocean with you can prove to be an exhilarating trip. A cool breeze in the face and cool water all around is quite the experience for anyone. Remember that safety is always first though. You, your children, and even your pup should be kept safe from the dangers water can sometimes present. Even the best swimmers can be caught off guard by undertows and water currents. When a pup unexpectedly falls into the water, just like a human, they too can panic. Anxiety can kick in and disorient a pup’s bearings. Breathing shortens and he becomes exasperated. This is a dangerous situation for your pup and can be for a person trying to save them.

Life jackets for…Everyone

Using life jackets for you and your family is always important during a trip like this. So why not have one for your four-legged friend as well. They’re sharing the trip with you, and now they can be kept safe as well. Doggy life jackets are becoming more popular in usage. They are designed specifically for pups and can save their life if they happen to fall (or jump in trying to chase a fish) into the water. They come in a variety of bright colors for easy spotting and have straps designed to make it easy to grab them and pull them back on board.

Size matters

Getting your pup sized for their life-jacket is vital to their safety. Dogs vary in size (like us humans) and although there are vests made for pups your size, it is best to try a few on to ensure that everything is secure. If the vest is loose, your pup could slip out when they fall in a body of water and the vest would do little, if anything.

Strap your pup in the vest and make sure that everything fits right. You don’t want anything to be too restrictive though, make sure that your pup can breathe and still move around okay.

Life jackets also add protection during water sports. Playing and interacting with other pups in the water, your pup can find themselves bouncing and smashing into their playmates. The life jackets can act as a security vest that prevents them from injuring themselves, while keeping them above the water. They can enjoy chasing you across the pool or playing with you down by the river.

Wherever you are, remember that safety is always first. Life jackets save the lives of people every year, so why not let it be there to offer the same safety for your pup as well. Whether they are out enjoying the ocean with you, or playing with your kids in the pool, your pup can be kept safe.

Your plans are going to separate you from your pup, but only for a short time. Finding someone to care for you pup while you are away on either your extreme vacation or on a business trip can put some pressure on you. You want to ensure the safety of your canine friend, so choosing a person that you can depend on will take some investigation.

Consider your trusted friends

If you don’t already have a trusted puppy-sitter, you will need to find someone that you can trust. Consider friends that also have canine companions. These people will understand the needs of a pup and your dog would have a playmate. Locate someone who has a pup that seems to get along fairly well with your dog. This can be a great starting place for locating a trustworthy person.

Plan an interaction before you leave

Finding a sitter that is professional or certified may be another option. Invite them over to your home to see how your pup interacts with them. If everything goes well, set up an appointment for your pup to stay with them for the day. Let your pup decide whether they like the person because it is they who will be staying with them while you are gone. You will want the experience to be good for them, not depressing.

Considering that you find a professional puppy-sitter, check their history. Ask around about their credentials and get opinions from people that have used them previously. It will help if those you ask have a pup similar in breed and nature to yours. Dogs are like people and present different personalities. Someone may be good with certain breeds, but not with others.

Your place or mine?

You will have to decide where your pup is going to stay- your home with the sitter or with someone else at their house.

If you decide your pup will be better off at your house with all the familiarities, you will need to locate a person that can be trusted with your belongings. A close friend would be best for this job. If they aren’t familiar with a dog’s nature, you will need to spend time instructing them on the basics. Writing down your pup’s daily habits and time frame will help quite a bit. Take into consideration if the person is going to stay with your pup at the house, or just drop in to check up on them.

It will be difficult for your pup to say goodbye to you, even for a short while. If they are going to stay with someone, consider that they will need things that remind them of you. Their favorite chew toy and a blanket that smells like you can help keep their anxiety down. Consider dropping your pup off at your sitter’s home a week early, and spending time with them there. This will help them associate the place positively and won’t affect them as harshly.  Dropping your pup off early will also keep you available if any circumstances or questions arise because you will be there to take care of them and adjust your pup to the situation.

Finding a puppy-sitter will take some time, don’t rush it or you may feel worried while you’re traveling. It can be difficult to say good-bye to your pup even for a short time- but by planning ahead and making quality arrangements, you can ensure your pup is well taken care of.

The sun is out, the summer is hot, and your canine companion is panting in the heat. Summer’s official start was just yesterday, Tuesday, June 21st!   Trying to keep your pup safe from the heat can be a pain on its own. But there are other dangers that the summer brings for your four-legged friend. Chemicals, insects and even a cool swimming pool can prove a hazard to your pup’s well-being.

Pools are dangerous

Around the house, pools can be a danger to your doggy in a number of ways. The pool itself can prove a water hazard to some pups that can’t swim well and fall in. The edge may be too difficult to achieve, and steps may not be available to get out. Make sure that your pup stays away from the danger zone. Maintaining a pool requires chemicals that are poisonous in concentrated doses. Chlorine tablets and other detergents need to stay out of your pup’s reach. Some of the newer pools now use a salt solution to maintain the water. It’s overall much safer, but if your pup begins to drink far too much of it, it can result in dehydration and or salt poisoning. Something that serious would have to be treated by a veterinarian.

Fleas, ticks and worms

Outside your home, bugs and insects of all sorts come with the season. Fleas and ticks are a nuisance that every pet owner is familiar with. These nasty rascals can be quite annoying, carrying dangerous diseases and can make your pup scratch with a fierceness.  Mosquitoes can carry the dreaded heartworm disease that is plenty bad for a canine. There are several different types of preventatives for insects that include food supplements and topical solutions. Get with a veterinarian and find out what kind of repellants would be best for you doggy.

Sunburn

Getting sunburn is common for us humans, but dogs can get burnt as well. Sensitive areas like the tip of their nose and ears are vulnerable to the sun. There are special sun-screens for pups that are safe for the PH level of their skin. Do not leave your sunscreen around for your pup to get though. Licking small amounts off your skin won’t hurt them, but in large quantities, the chemicals in sunscreen can do lots of internal damage to your companion.

Overall, keep your eye on your pup during the summer, make sure he doesn’t get to hot, and is as comfortable as you. Stay cool and keep the dangers out of reach for your mischievous pal.

It can be a difficult time when your pup first joins your family. Training is the starting point of the relationship and can decide how your pup will continue to act in your household. Outside interference can obstruct the training process and side track your canine companion, preventing them from learning to cope in the new environment.

Family disagreements

Through the training process, it is crucial that your pup develop a bond with your other family members. Ensure that everyone is involved in the training process, so that your four-legged friend can develop a bond with everyone. This helps to prevent insecurities while you are away. If you are the only person in the household the pup trusts, when you leave they may feel abandoned and express trepidation by destroying furniture or relieving themselves in the house. It can get messy, so you want to avoid the situation by building your pup’s trust with your partner.

There are pheromone collars that can help when a pup seems nervous around your partner. There are also nutritional supplements that you can ask your vet about to help keep your four-legged friend a little less nervous. If there still seem to be problems with your pup misbehaving and acting out when your partner is around, you may consider consulting the vet to check if there are any physical reasons or problems. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Lack of trust

If your partner and other family members seem to cause a disturbance with your pup, it may simply be because there is a lack of trust amongst them. You and other family members should use a leash to walk the pup around in the park regularly. The sights, smells and experience have been proven to help create a bond between the pup and the person at the end of the leash. Canines associate all the pleasure and fun with whoever is walking them. If there is still a problem, allow your partner or family member to offer the pup the treats from now on. This will help the pup to understand that they are also a companion.

Taking the time to train your pup as a team will greatly improve your canine friends bond with your family. Keep your pup happy with all the love your family has to offer.