Training Tips and Tricks
Socialization and exposure is so much more than puppy play. This is an excellent article for new or soon-to-be puppy parents.
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The Social Imperative of Socialization — Fetch the Leash
www.fetchtheleash.biz
Puppies have a short window in their early lives in which they are impressionable - they soak up different situations and experiences at a faster, more sponge-like rate than if they are exposed to these later in life. Once this window closes up, teaching your puppy the world is mostly safe isn’t i...If you think your dog may suffer from separation anxiety, get a jump start on resolving it before you start working away from home again! Dog Crazy Lady, My Fantastic Friend and Pawsitive Behavior Solutions all specialize in separation anxiety training.
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www.subthresholdtraining.com
Some dogs hate being alone so much they tip over into full-blown anxiety. They’re not just unhappy that you’ve left them. They’re in a panic. But how do you know which it is? Are they disappointed you left them, or are they freaking out? It’s not as easy to tell as you might think. But there...PSA: when your puppy or dog suddenly acts out of character, think "physical" issue not "behavioral" issue. A client of mine emailed me for guidance because her dog was suddenly fussing in the crate at night even though she'd always been fine in there for months. It turns out she had a UTI which should easily clear up with antibiotics and restore her comfort and bring about peace again.
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What’s your favorite indoor activity to exercise and engage your dog? My favorite is flirt stick play for those who enjoy chasing.
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Ways to Keep Your Dog Active During Winter - Whole Dog Journal
www.whole-dog-journal.com
It can be very challenging to keep your canine family members happy during the ravages of winter. Even those who live in the warmer southern states may face long stretches of forced idleness from winter rains. Without ample enrichment activities, weeks and months of short, dark days can turn even a....Different food puzzles of course, a tunnel I can set up in the living room. I also hide treats while Cedar is out side, then she hunts for them when she comes in. But mostly she wants to snuggle on the couch.
Instead of wrangling your dog to groom him (or other animal husbandry task), try a more cooperative approach!
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Cooperative Care: Giving Your Dog Choice and Control - Whole Dog Journal
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My wonderful Scottie/Corgi/Poodle-mix, Bonnie, had long, fine, curly fur that tangled easily. She was relatively tolerant of my frequent insistence on combing out the tangles, except when it came to her hindquarters. When I would try to brush her there, she tensed up and sometimes even growled. Then...Sneak in mini-training sessions in real life contexts throughout your day for optimum results! Why not start during our snow day today? 😄
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"Quarantrain" Your Dog: How to Train Your Dog While Staying Home - Whole Dog Journal
www.whole-dog-journal.com
See that dog surfing your counter as you read this? You know, the one who jumps on you during your Zoom calls? That’s your ticket to 2020 happiness. The opportunity to “quarantrain” your furry friend – whether a new “pandemic pup” or your long-time pet – is one of the most positive way...Please, for the love of dog, socialize your 8-16 week old puppies NOW in a safe, structured way!
"The consequences of a puppy’s lack of socialization during that key time frame can be heartbreaking. In fact, AVSAB points out that the number one cause of death for dogs less than 3 years of age is behavioral issues, not infectious diseases. In extreme cases, fearful dogs can become aggressive and bite; in some cases they may be surrendered to shelters or rescues, and sometimes are ultimately euthanized. It’s terribly sad – and often preventable. How? With a little 'vaccine' called socialization."
www.whole-dog-journal.com/training/infection-vs-isolation-risks-with-your-dog/
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Infection vs. Isolation Risks with Your Puppy - Whole Dog Journal
www.whole-dog-journal.com
Suddenly, thanks to COVID-19, the whole world is asking the question that’s all too familiar to savvy puppy owners: “How likely is this experience to result in infection, and is this particular interaction worth it?” There’s a stretch in puppyhood – up through around 4 months – when pupp...Your dog, your rules!
You can be as strict or as lenient as you want to be (much like a human parent). Be wary of well-meaning friends (or worse, trainers) who say you "shouldn't" do this or that without providing a valid explanation (e.g. don't feed your dog from your plate if he is barking and jumping for food because you may be reinforcing habits you will later regret, better to feed your dog when he is quiet and has four paws on the floor).
And don't get me started on keeping the dogs off the furniture and bed to prevent your dog from being dominant. Such ignorant advice!
www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/dog-house-rules/
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Dog House Rules - Whole Dog Journal
www.whole-dog-journal.com
Once upon a time, societal norms dictated that if pet dogs failed to comply with strict rules for their behavior indoors, they were banished to the outdoors. When I was a child, dog trainers of the day often told clients that allowing their dog on the bed or other furniture would give the dog too [....