Tag: dog training


Walking your dog with a Leash

An Exercise in Training and Practice

Teaching your dog to walk on a lead or leash is an exercise requiring training on the part of both you and your dog.  You must have the dog walking beside the owner without overtaking him or pulling.  Walking your dog should definitely not be an exercise in stretching or pulling, but rather a simple task.

The dog lead or leash is an ideal way in which to maintain control of the dog and communicate information to the dog.  Each and every movement, your change of direction and the contraction in your arm are all ways in which you can signal directions to the dog without it looking at you or even having to take a verbal instruction, once the animal has been properly trained.

You can begin the lead training when the dog is a puppy, getting the dog used to wearing of a collar first and then adding the leash to the combination.  Practice this at home, associating it with pleasant and playful times such as petting, games and rewards.  Try to avoid having the dog wear a collar and leash when you are away from it, as this association will consequently associate the restrains to its freedom with your departure from the home.

Once the puppy has achieved a level of comfort with wearing the collar and leash, and is able to walk about comfortably, you can move the next phase of the training in which you are able to make corrections to the dog’s actions.  If your dog pulls too strongly this will indicate a needed correction with a verbal correction,"NO."

You should not pick a retractable dog lead that would prevent a proper avenue of communication with the dog.  In the initial stages of training, a longer lead might be more appropriate and as the dog advances, the lead can be shortened.

Be patient, kind and consistent during all phases of the collar and leash training.  With time, rewards and consistency, your dog will be well behaved and safe.

Don’t forget to visit Leads and Leashes.

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Pet Etiquette for the Holiday Season

A Well Behaved Dog Guest is only SOMETIMES Welcome

Often we become so attached to our canine companions that we don’t think about NOT taking them along with us when we travel.  But, there are times when it is just better to consider traveling by yourself and making the holiday season with your beloved canine friend, something that you share in the comfort of your own surroundings.

If you do plan to take your furry friend for visits at the holidays it is prudent to check ahead with your host.  Not everyplace that welcomes you will do the same with your dog, even it the dog is very well behaved.

Better Left at Home, Sometimes
Crowds often annoy a dog and they may find themselves getting snappish, growly and short tempered when otherwise nicely temperamented.

Fancy holiday foods, while they are treats for us, can make a dog very ill.

Decorations may end up being tempting treats for your dog and ribbons, cords and tinsel pose health threats.

If They Go With You…
Pack a "Dog-E Bag" that includes every possible essential that you can think of for your dog friend and try to remember to include a special surprise, whether a toy or a small treat.

Take medications, vet records, leash, collar and additional identification.

Pack a gift for your dog hosts, both human and canine.

Don’t leave your dog unattended in the house with the host dog.  Things can happen and the results may not be what you had anticipated.

Happy howl-i-days and remember to give your dog a bit of extra attention at this time of the year.

 

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Getting over the Hump

Why do they Do That?

One of the most obvious reasons that dogs hump is sexual.  Males that have not been neutered are able to perform humping as displaced sexual behavior.  Some dogs continue to hump even after having been neutered, possibly for purely pleasurable reasons.  However, there are actually other reasons that dogs do this.  It may be either some genetic background or else, it is a display of dominance.

The humping behavior is seen in both genders of dogs and is sometimes merely a sign of aggression or a desire for dominance in the hierarchy of the family, whether human or canine.  It is the dominant dog who gets the right to breed with receptive females.

Females that display this behavior is something a bit less common but not to be overlooked. 

As early as possible, if this behavior is evident, it should be corrected.  The "object" of the dog’s affection should be removed and the dog should be distracted.  This may take consistency and patience.  In extreme cases, it is essential that the human establish a dominant role to make sure that the dog understands who is in control of the situation.  In the early stages of this training, you may also have to resort to ignoring ALL inappropriate behaviors.  After a few weeks of consistent distractive techniques and the dog learning who is in charge, the canine should become oriented to more socially acceptible ways in which to play.

Read on in Chew toys for Dogs.

 

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Bring it to Me

Dog Tricks – Teach Your Dog To Retrieve

Teaching your dog to run and retrieve is a very basic and easy training command for him to understand. It is one of the easiest of tasks to train your dog to do, such as pick up a newspaper or a piece of mail, and it’s fun too!
 
You can begin the exercise by first showing your puppy or dog how to focus on the area in which you want him to retreat from. You do this by simply pointing to the location with your finger. Your goal here is to get your dog to scope out the exact area while looking for something to bring back to you.
 
The best way to take care of this first step of retrieve training is to use little bits and pieces of dog food or dog snacks. Take out the food and just sprinkle two or three treats on the ground. Do not let your dog run to eat the food too fast. In fact, you should first train him to sit and stay until released, then you point to the ground and say "pickup", "pickup".
 
Each time your dog grabs a piece of food, drop another piece behind you and then point while giving the "pickup" command. As you can probably guess, your dog is going to associate the command you are giving him of "pickup" with the notion to look for something to put in his mouth. This part of training does not take long at all, especially if you are using tasty treats and by also training your dog when he is hungry, as this helps to increase his motivation.
 
The next step is to start throwing smaller non-food items instead of snacks. For example, after you throw a couple of treats and your dog responds to the "pickup" command, surprise him by tossing a small ball and then point and command him to pick it up, in the exact same manner that you did with the dog treats. By this time he should run to pick up the ball without hesitation and even start to bring it back to you. Be sure to praise him each time he does.
 
Finally, it is time to teach your dog how to drop the object in front of you after he retrieves it. Once your dog has the ball, or whatever object you are using, he should naturally run back to you expecting praise. Give him the "drop it" command and as you pet his head with one hand, take your other hand and pull the object out of his mouth and drop to the ground. Do this as often as you can. Tie the entire process together by starting from the beginning and tossing a ball for him to retrieve. From now on you will enjoy your dog coming back to you and dropping the object right at your feet, every time!

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History of the Breed

Dog Breeders – How To Get The Most From Your Breeder By Educating Yourself

One of the top aspects of being a reputable breeder is that they should know what type of behavior to expect from his puppies as they grow into adulthood, known as temperate.
 
Although it is easy to predict the future temperament of a litter by observing their parents, the right breeder has the knowledge and understanding of the breed that goes way back to its history. This knowledge and understanding gives the breeder a better insight of his dogs’ behavior and temperament. He can tell you why his dog behaves a certain way, its personality, and what drives the dog to do certain things and act the way it does.
 
A good breeder can also tell you his puppy’s strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, and what changes to expect as it gets older (physically and mentally). Does it enjoy being around children? Does it get along with strangers and other animals? Is it needy or independent? What are its grooming and exercise needs? Is it a good watchdog? The right breeder should be able to answer these questions and more.
 
It is important for him to make sure that you, the potential buyer, are well equipped with the necessary tools and information to create the best home for the puppy. Furthermore, a responsible breeder will want to make sure that the puppy will be happy living in your home and that you all are the ideal family for it.
 
Arm Yourself With Breed Conformation Information
 
A breed conformation is defined as a specific way of describing a certain breed; the shape, size, and structure there are common with the standard type of breed. 
 
Before visiting a breeder, you should check the official breed standard of the particular breed you’re looking for. The official breed standard is posted on the AKC.org website. By checking the site, you will have the knowledge of what the puppy is supposed to look like before you make the purchase. In addition, you won’t be fooled by a dishonest breeder into giving him more money for something that is allegedly a “rare” size, color, or look, but is actually a disqualifying or severe fault.
 
An honest breeder conforms to the standard of the breed and will only sell puppies with disqualifying or severe faults for a lesser price (up to 50% off). He should let you know that these puppies are less expensive because they are considered as pet-quality dogs and not show-quality dogs.
You’ll get more information about dogs in Stay on Track.

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A Bit of Respect, Please

Respect Other People’s Fear Of Dogs Through Leash Control

When dog owners have poor leash mechanics and control over walking his or her pet, their dog will invariably pull toward strangers. Some strangers are fearful when dogs approach them in this manner. Owners make the mistake of trying to comfort a person who is fearful by saying, "It’s okay, my dog is friendly, she won’t bite." But this is not a comforting response to someone who is fearful of dogs or just doesn’t like dogs near them. You can make the person feel more comfortable by using your leash to sit your dog at your side and giving the person some space to pass. When a person sees a pulling dog and an owner being pulled off balance, the perception is lack of control.
 
By having your dog sit at your side, you are exhibiting to others that your dog is well trained and can be controlled. Senior citizens and parents with kids are generally more apprehensive when dogs pull too close. A pulling dog, especially if it is a big dog, can be seen as aggressive rather than friendly.
                                             
Also use this maneuver if your dog is pulling to greet a strange dog. Your dog may be friendly, but never assume a strange dog is friendly. Sometimes the consequences of a dog pulling toward a strange dog can be dangerous if the strange dog is aggressive or has a mean streak.
 
Be patient with yourself as you learn leash mechanics. Leash handling is like learning to drive a car or playing an instrument - it will feel a little awkward at first, but with a little practice you will improve. When puppies and dogs are out of control when out for a walk, it’s because the owner has no knowledge of leash handling. Use the leash as a tool of communication as you lead your puppy on your walks.
 
Many owners frustrate or confuse their dogs because of poor leash mechanics. The dog will only do what you are directing him to do. If you don’t know how to maneuver your dog, don’t expect your dog to read your mind. You will only frustrate your dog. Frustrated dogs either become more aggressive or learn to tune you out all together.
 
Smart leash handling is essential in the city, particularly in tight, congested areas. By learning how to maneuver your dog on leash, you not only keep your dog safe at your side, but you also are practicing good dog owner etiquette. Your dog won’t be a nuisance to other people and other dogs that you meet along the way.

For a different perspective continue reading Making the "right" Turn with your Dog.

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The Underlying Anger Issue

Aggression – What is Territorial Aggression & Why Does It Make A Dog So Angry?

All dogs have one form of aggression or another and to some degree, it is perfectly natural. However, since our pets are domesticated then there is a certain level of calmness that we should expect from them. The most common aggression behavioral problem that dogs display is called "territorial aggression". To sum up the definition of territorial aggression, it simply describes a dog that goes absolutely crazy whenever a stranger approaches their home.
 
What encourages a dog to display such aggressiveness?
 
As we stated earlier, it is natural for your dog to want to defend his home and make it known that the area is his territory. However, the following scenarios may cause your dog’s aggression over his territory to escalate:
 
1. Aggression is reinforced in a dog whenever, for example, a delivery person approaches the house and then after dropping off a package he leaves the territory. Your dog actually thinks that he drove the stranger away and this in itself creates more aggression.
 
2. When riding in a car, a dog with extreme territorial aggression tends to bark incessantly at every person he sees and every moving thing outside the window. He is saying to them "stay away, this is my territory!" And of course nobody is going to approach the car so your dog actually thinks he is "winning". Therefore, the dog will bark even lower to celebrate his victory.
 
3. Another very common reason why a dog may increase his levels of barking and aggression is whenever he is acting up and barking at the door (for whatever reason) and the owner starts to yell at him in order to shut him up. Most dog owners do not realize that yelling at their dog is doing nothing but creating more aggression. A dog will think that you are "supporting" his aggression towards the approaching stranger or delivery person.
 
4. A fourth reason why a dog may have heightened levels of territorial aggression is whenever he is isolated or locked up when there are guests and strangers inside the house. When you first think about it, it seems very reasonable to take your barking dog and lock him up in a room or crate whenever you have guests. However, during this time, your dog can smell the "intruders" and since he can do nothing about it, is aggression levels can rise dramatically, causing stress and anxiety, which of course leads to more behavioral problems.
 

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Never too Early to Think about Safety

Dog Safety: 10 Christmas Tree Decorating Tips For Your Dog In Mind

Creating a holiday tree that is both beautiful to look at for you and unattractive to your dog is a special challenge. Here are some suggestions to keep your tree pet-friendly.
 
1. Tree water at the base of live trees can be harmful if preservative chemicals have been added to prolong the life of the tree. Keep your dog from drinking the water by covering the tree basin with foil or a tree skirt.
 
2. Place dog-safe ornaments near the bottom of the tree in case your dog decides to use the ornaments as playthings.
 
3. Tie up loose electrical cords of the lights used to decorate the tree and keep them concealed by attaching them with wire or cord to the trunk of the tree. End-to-end lights eliminate individual cords dangling from the tree that might entice your dog to chew them.
 
4. If you have lots of tree lights that are not end to end, purchase a power strip in which to plug the lights. Attach the strip to the tree trunk at a level that is higher than the height of your dog. As a result, you will have only one heavy-duty power cord running from the tree to the outlet instead of several flimsy cords from single strings of lights.
 
5. To prevent your dog from knocking over your holiday tree, anchor it with cord or wire to the ceiling directly above the tree’s trunk. Don’t attach it with wire to a wall behind the tree because your dog could get caught in the wire if be darts behind the tree.
 
6. Spray the tower branches of the tree with bitter apple, cinnamon, lemon, eucalyptus, or other unappealing scents.
 
7. Hang your ornaments with ribbons rather than hooks to keep your dog from accidentally swallowing something that could get lodged in his throat.
 
8. Do not use tinsel or angel hair on your tree. Angel hair, made of glass fiber, and tinsel, made of metal, can cause internal damage if your dog swallows any.
 
9. Avoid decorating your tree with strings of berries or other edible ornaments - many are harmful if swallowed. The string on which they are attached can cause damage to your dog’s intestines if swallowed, and a dog, eager to get to the "treats," could knock over the tree.
 
10. If you like, decorate a small, artificial tree for your dog with items he will find appealing, such as doggie biscuits and dog toys. Hide the tree until you are ready for your dog to open his presents.

Remember that if you begin by introducing the dog to holiday hazards early in your relationship, you are far less likely to have problems with destructive behavior or illness related to decorations.  Patience, kindness, consideration and respect all play tremendous roles in forging the positive bonds that create life long memories with your canine companion.

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Who’s the Alpha Dog here?

Dogs Do Not Learn By Dominance And Submission

Many people believe that dogs learn by dominance and/or submission. This is an interesting theory that appeals to our sense of logic and the way nature appears to be ordered from the point of view of the human ego. Supposedly, dogs can learn to respect another individual through dominance. This presupposes that they can perceive another being’s point of view. Humans can indeed entertain others’ points of view, yet we know that no one learns to work effectively through the dominance/submissive model.
 
No matter how much employees respect their boss or how submissive they may act around him, they expect to be paid fairly. Not enough pay and the attraction turns to resentment and a poor working attitude. Since humans reject and resist such an approach whenever they experience it, how can we expect the dog, with his more limited view, to work on this basis?
 
Not only does dominating a dog make him resistant to cooperation, but dominance has nothing to do with the smooth operation of wolf society. While it may appear that the leader is the most dominant in a pack of wolves, and that the inferiors have a profound respect for this "alpha" wolf because he is so dominant, that is a surface misreading of their lives.
 
Supposedly, this dominant individual teaches the other members of the pack what their lesser stations are, bringing order and stability into the group. However, the reason this individual is superior is because, within the group mood, he is endowed with the most uninhibited temperament and perceives order when the others sense disorder.
 
This produces an emotional balance, a self-confidence level that makes him active and direct in his behavior when the others are reactive and indirect. This confidence is then broadcast through his body language and probably through an internal chemistry revealed when he eliminates.
 
Given the pack leader’s internal balance, he will experience the least amount of stress when passing on to less familiar ground, as negatives are smaller in his sense of order. In addition, the pack leader will feel the strongest compulsion to be first on any path that leads outward to the hunt as he acts in the most straightforward manner.
 
The inferiors will depend on the pack leader’s enthusiasm to draw them across a threshold that may have a stronger inhibiting effect on them. An individual doesn’t become superior by being dominant; the leader, to feel complete, needs the group behind him. Only by guiding the hunt does one becomes a leader.
Find out more in A Firm yet Gentle Guide.

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Which Method is the Best?

Choosing Dog Training Methods

Before choosing a particular training method, carefully examine the technique to ensure that it will communicate proper associations. Certain methods may not communicate what you intend. A dog-aggressive Akita was enrolled in a training program that his owner thought was reputable. The trainer convinced the owner that the only way to break the Akita of aggression toward other dogs was to let a more dominant dog put him in his place. The trainer’s dog displayed dominance toward other dogs, so she placed him in a room with the Akita and left the two dogs to work things out. When the trainer heard a window crashing, she opened the door to find that her dog was injured, and the Akita had been richly rewarded for his aggressive behavior with a nice victory under his collar.
 
If this method does not make sense to you, it probably won’t make sense to the dog, either. One trainer sent around a flyer giving free advice to the general public on how to stop dogs from digging. The trainer suggested filling the newly dug hole with water and taking the dog over to the hole by the scruff of the neck to dunk his head in the water filled-hole. The next sentence on this flyer cautioned the owner that the dunking probably would not stop the dog from digging; instead, forcing the dog down to the water by the scruff of the neck was a demonstration of dominance, a root cure-all for problem behavior. The trainer thought through the method far enough to figure out that the water would have no effect on future digging. Unfortunately, he did not explain that the dog would learn to mistrust his owner for trying to drown him. Shortly after this flyer was distributed, another trainer was indicted for animal abuse for employing this very correction technique.
 
Occasionally, even thinking through a method does not result in a clear understanding of how it works. One day a fellow drove up to class in a pickup with his dog in the back. The dog trainer explained to him that it was very dangerous to have the dog in the back of an open pickup. He went through the normal lecture on how the dog’s nose and eyes could be damaged from debris in the air, the danger of the dog being thrown out of the truck in an accident, etc. The fellow proudly said, "I fixed the dog from jumping out of the truck. He was jumping out and I would throw him back in. We did this for five or six times when I finally got really mad and threw him in the truck for the seventh time and stuffed a piece of horse manure in his mouth for good measure. After that the dog never jumped out again, and the next time he does something bad, I am going to use that manure trick again."
 
It was really hard to determine if the dog stopped jumping out of the truck because he got tired of being thrown back in, or if he was grateful for the gourmet horse manure treat. If you are not sure about exactly how or why a method works, it is probably best to avoid the technique altogether. Even the most popular methods use techniques that may not be suited for every breed or temperament of dog. A trainer who evaluates each method based on the efficacy of the associations and motivators will be better equipped to match the appropriate obedience method with the dog’s individual temperament.

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