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How to Leave your Dog while on Deployment – November 14th, 2014

Leaving your precious dog for a long period of time is a hard thing to do and wondering what choices you have for his care can be very stressful. Dogs do not keep track of time, this is an important thing to remember, and by knowing this information it will help you to feel at ease when you have to leave. The important thing to know is how the situation is when you leave. Showing your dog emotions that are happy and positive will free your dog from feeling insecure or anxious, so upon your return your dog will relate to these emotions and feel happy as when you left.

Thinking of who would be the best choice to take care of your dog in the same special way that you do, and to give him  the love and attention that he needs is a very important and hard decision to make.

If you are thinking about choosing a parent, friend or a loved one there are several important things to consider. First be sure the place your caregiver lives allows dogs and does not ban the breed of dog you own. Your dog should know the caregiver very well and get along together and have a positive relationship. The caregiver should treat your dog the same way that you do so your dog will feel safe and secure in your absence. Will your dog be able to keep his daily routine that he is used to, such as his play, exercise feeding and sleep time. If your caregiver is a senior they may not be strong enough or have physical limitations to handle your dog if he has a lot of energy or is a big dog. Knowing that your dog can still enjoy his daily routine, the caregiver should keep your dog’s lifestyle as normal as possible because as a result of your absence your dog will experience some stress.

To ensure your dog’s health while you are away provide your caregiver with information about any special treatment or medication your dog may need. Also give your caregiver your veterinarians and a 24 hour Animal Hospital’s phone number and address. Advise your veterinarian that you will be deployed and who will be taking care of your dog in your absence. Your dog is your financial responsibility while you are away so arrange with your caregiver to pay for veterinary care, emergencies, food, supplies and grooming.

If you are unable to find a caregiver that you can trust and be responsible for the best care for your dog, a professional foster organization may be your best choice. An industry that is small but growing fast is pet fostering. Military personnel have the option for short and long term care for their dogs. Private foster homes that are qualified and experienced take your dog into their home for the entire time you are deployed, giving your dog socialization, exercise, veterinary care, shelter and food. Foster parents are volunteers and do not receive any money except for veterinary expense and your dog’s normal living. Check in your state if there are any requirements for these fosters to be licensed which will put your mind at ease knowing they are to go by strict rules in the care of your dog.

Exploring all of your options will make your choice easier as you decide what would be the best fit for your dog while you are away. Knowing that your dog will be taken care of in the best possible way will make the time you both are separated less stressful. Upon your return you will have a happy reunion.

Photo credit: The U.S. Army/Flickr


Posted in Dog News
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How to Find the Right Boarding Kennel for Your Dog – October 6th, 2014

A Boarding Kennel can give you peace of mind and quality care for your dog. Kennels must adhere to strict guidelines that are determined by the American Boarding Kennel Association. The code of Ethical Conduct ensures that the kennel staff are trained by a professional and certified.

Locating the right boarding kennel is an important task. Recommendations from your veterinarian, a friend, neighbor or an animal shelter is a wise thing to do. It is very important to do a background check when you locate kennels that you are considering to use.

Check if boarding kennel inspections are required in your state. Kennels that are reputable proudly display the credentials for dog owners to see as they enter the kennel making known that they insure the safety and good care of your dog.

The kennel should require that your dog is properly immunized with the correct shots including Bordetella which is for kennel cough. The health and well being of your dog depends on his shots being up to date.

The kennel staff should conduct a tour of the facility. The kennel should be well lighted and relatively quiet. The dogs should be calm and comfortable. The living and playing areas should look and smell clean free of odors and disinfected every day to eliminate any chance of your dog contracting a disease. There should be no urine or waste in site preventing the spread of disease.

The staff should show you indoor and outdoor runs so you know that your dog will be going outside during the day for exercise and have the proper covering for the cold and hot weather. Indoors should be properly ventilated for correct air flow to all the animals. Adequate air conditioning for summer and heat for the winter is very important. The facility should have enough room for each dog so they are not crowded close to each other for health concerns. Special bedding for dogs that have any medical issues such as arthiritis, should be available. The kennel should have food and water bowls that are clean with each dog.

The kennel staff should inform you as to what type of interaction is available during the day for your dog, because they need physical and mental stimulation with activities such as playtime with the staff and other dogs, also walks. During playtime dogs should be kept together by size so there is no chance of injury. Your dog should receive individual attention from the Kennel staff if he is solely around people.

The kennel should have staff on duty at night in case there is a medical emergency. Specific steps should be in place with the kennel staff being fully knowledgeable in dealing with any problems that arise. The kennel should have a relationship with a veterinarian that is on call for 24 hours, so immediate treatment is available to care for your dog if you are unreachable. Be sure to also leave the contact information of a family member or friend in case of an emergency so they can make a decision for your dog to be taken care of if the situation arises. Some dogs have serious medical conditions, severe separation issues and special needs and need to be supervised constantly during the night, or this could become a serious problem for your dog. If your dog needs medications be sure the kennel has a system in place for delivering the necessary dose when needed. The decision to choose a kennel with staff on call all night should be a number one priority on your list when selecting a boarding kennel.

Photo credit: behavior training & coaching/Flickr


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How Often to Bathe a Dog – September 5th, 2014

The breed of dog determines how often you bathe him. Indoor dogs do not need much bathing, compared to outside dogs that come in contact with the elements, and they like to dig in the dirt, play in the mud after it rains and running in the yard. Grease and oil on dogs’ coats will build up on different breeds more frequently than others.

There are dogs that have skin conditions that will require different bathing scenarios. Cocker Spaniels need to be bathed every four weeks and are prone to several skin conditions such as Seborrhea which you will be able to see patches of oily and dry skin at the same time. Even though these symptoms are opposite they are both considered to be the result of Seborrhea. Cocker Spaniels need to be given regular baths with special shampoo and conditioners that are used specifically for Seborrhea. Cocker Spaniels are also prone to get yeast, various bacteria and ringworm. Noticeable signs of irritated skin in cocker spaniels are persistent itching, scratching, biting and chewing their skin. Common areas are at the base of the tail, the belly and hind legs.

German Shepherds are active and frequently run and play outdoors due to their energetic personality. They need to be bathed more often, especially when rolling around in leaves, playing in the mud and being exposed to other outdoor debris and elements.

Huskies and Chows have double coats that are very thick and should be bathed three or four times a year. These breeds have undercoats that are insulated and waterproof, and if bathed more than the suggested times will make their coats softer, less insulating and waterproof.

Non shedding dogs such as the Schnauzer, Bichon Frese’, Yorkshire Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, Shih Tzu, Poodle, Italian Greyhound, Basenji, and the Chinese Crested which has very little hair need to be bathed often.  Poodles and Schnauzers along with the non shedding dogs would be bathed every six weeks or every other week and also weekly baths will present a problem.

Labrador Retrievers and Rottweilers should be bathed once a month, but every three months is recommended so the element protection is not stripped. The protective oils in their coats are quickly regained and will smell if bathed too often, and as a result they will get extra oils for over bathing protection. Yorkshire terriers especially do not need to be bathed frequently, their hair is considered more human like. While frequent bathing is not required, grooming and brushing is recommended at least three times a week. This will remove knots, tangles and small pieces of debris such as sticks, leaves, dirt and food particles from their hair.

Dogs that shed a lot should not be bathed frequently because this leads to increased hair loss and it is the result of stripping the natural oils from your dog’s skin hindering the normal shedding cycle. Unnecessary bathing can result in skin irritations, rashes and skin conditions.

Any dog breed can develop skin problems. If persistent and unusual behavior develops in your dog, seek the advice of a veterinarian. The veterinarian will examine your dog’s skin and determine if it is a special skin condition causing the constant discomfort or if it is an allergic reaction. At times, it may be an allergic reaction to shampoo and conditioner treatments used during grooming.

If your dog suffers from a skin disease, a specific skin condition or has an allergic reaction to any shampoo or grooming product, advise your dog groomer so certain precautions can be taken to assure your dog’s skin is well cared for and healthy.

Photo credit: Rachel/Flickr


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Dog Proofing Your Home – August 8th, 2014

As you welcome your newest member of the family into your home, there are many important steps to take to make sure your home is completely safe. Pet parents should realize that the way you decorate your home could have objects that could be dangerous to your dogs’ health and well being.

Dogs are curious and want to explore their surroundings and think that everything they see is just for them to play with or chew on. The kitchen is one of the most dangerous places that your dog will have access to, the aromas will make this a fun place for your dog to want to be in. Be sure not to have any food that could make him sick on your table or counter tops, limit his access to have the capability to jump up and eat, also sharp objects or drinking glasses that he could knock down on him with his paw. Remove all cleaning supplies from under your cabinet, such as your dish and laundry detergent, any harmful chemicals that come in plastic bottles. These items can be chewed and your dog could swallow the liquid and be poisoned. Dogs love to chew on plastic bags because of the noise, but they are a choking hazard and if they put their face in it they can suffocate. Garbage cans should have a cover on them so your dog will not be able to pull it down and get into any food that he could choke on, or you could put it under a counter that is able to shut securely.

The bathroom has a number of hazards that could hurt your dog. You and your family should be very careful not to leave harmful products within his reach that can be swallowed easily. Cotton swabs, soap bars, shampoo, razors, pills, tissues. Hair dryers should not be left on the counter that he could chew on the cord easily and have it fall on his head. These objects should always be kept in a drawer or inside a cabinet.

The main place that the entire family gathers together is the family room or living room. Keeping the items in order that we use most in our main living areas is also very important. Electric cords should not be visible or easy to access. Blankets and pillows could be put in storage bins to match your décor so your dog will not be tempted to chew on them or drag them around the house. Decorative items or your favorite knick knacks that are breakable should not be on end tables or the coffee table, a high shelf would be a better choice for these special items. Common house plants that may be poisonous should not be easy for your dog to reach. Children’s toys, arts and crafts and sewing supplies are a choking hazard and should be safely put away.

Your bedroom is a special place for your dog because anything that smells like you he will be drawn to. Clothing, slippers and shoes are like toys to your dog. Store shoes in the closet as well as your clothing and put laundry in a hamper that is tall and out of your dog’s reach. Small items that he can choke on such as coins, hair ties and jewelry should be stored safely in drawers. Lotions, cosmetics or medicine on tables next to your bed should be out of reach.

Taking special care to make your entire home and making it safe for your dog is the best thing you could do for your dog and for your peace of mind. Knowing you have protected him completely, will make your life together safe and happy.


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Best Guard Dogs for Families – July 4th, 2014

One of the most common ways to protect your family from danger is to own a dog. Dogs have a natural tendency to protect their families and never hesitate to put themselves in harm’s way to save the life of the people they love.

There are specific breeds that have the characteristics needed to protect and chase away unwanted people or dogs form your home. The following breeds are considered the best dogs for protection because of their resistance to pain, physical strength, courage and most of all their loyalty to the family.

German Shepherd – These wonderful dogs are quick to learn commands and extremely intelligent and a highly favored for police dogs. They are confident, fearless and bold. In the family home they are very calm but when their home of family is threatened they react without hesitation to the immediate danger. They are a wonderful choice as a guard dog and a pet for families with children as they will protect a child with their lives. They are eager to please and they form extremely strong bonds with their family.

Bullmastiff – These dogs were bred to overpower a person or game animal pinning it down until help arrived with his agility and weight. They are soft on the inside in spite of their tough exterior. They are a great choice for a guard dog for the family because they are very eager to please. They do not need a lot of exercise and grooming is low maintenance. Barking is minimal their silence is a virtue because they sneak up on predators and were originally used to guard estates making them excellent guard dogs.

Boxer – These adorable dogs are easily trained and highly intelligent. The Boxer has a tendency to stand on his back legs and “bat” at his “opponents” that included large game and bison therefore give him this name. These dogs have a lot of energy so families with older and active children will enjoy them as a pet. In the face of danger they are very protective and powerful. They are very affectionate and are a great choice to have as a guard dog for your family.

Saint Bernard – These beautiful dogs rescued avalanche trapped travelers as their work in the Swiss Alps originally. They have a very protective nature to their families and to children especially. They are loving and loyal. They have a gentle spirit, awesome strength and are very smart which makes them a wonderful guard dog. Due to their size they do not want to be confined so they need a lot of space to roam.

Doberman Pinscher – These dogs are able to reach an intruder in a short time because they are very fast. They are alert, loyal and fearless dogs and are also known as the fifth smartest dog breed in the world. They are ready and on the alert to protect their home and family. They are adventurous and a loyal companion and an intelligent capable guardian. They respond to their owner’s wishes and are sensitive. They are great guard dogs for your home or if you have a large piece of property.

Rottweiler – These dogs have a loving heart, and are strong and true. They are extremely loyal to their owners and are very intelligent. They learn quickly, a gentle companion and powerful. They have a natural instinct to protect their family and can be ferocious. They are calm and confident, never timid or fearful and typically distant toward strangers. Their attitude is “wait and see” when they are with new situations and people, then as this situation comes together they are a natural guard dog with a mellow disposition and  successful as a protector and a family friend.

When choosing one of these special breeds of dogs you will be making a great choice not only for a guard dog, but also for a wonderful addition to your family.

Photo credit: Peter Kunasz/Shutterstock


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Travel Tips for Dogs – May 29th, 2014

Vacations are the most anticipated time for all of us. Leaving your daily life behind and being able to include your precious family dog makes this time of relaxing more enjoyable.

Taking a trip in your car should be a safe experience for the whole family. Deciding to travel with your dog in a crate is a choice to consider. It is very easy to become distracted if your dog is loose and you need to stop quickly he could be thrown around the car and become severely hurt. Some dogs want to get near the window and decide that they want to jump out. You should not feel that you are being mean by crating your dog most dogs feel safe and secure making it easy for them to really enjoy this journey.

Teaching your dog to welcome a crate takes a few easy steps. Take your dog for a short walk first so he is relaxed and ready to be able to pay attention. Make sure you do not put his leash in the crate he could strangle on it if it gets twisted around his neck. In your home show your dog the crate and open the door putting his two front paws inside and letting him go in on his own, never push him in the crate. Close the door when he is comfortable inside. Do not talk to him in a sad voice, this will make him become anxious and think something is wrong. Tell him to stay and then walk away. Return after fifteen minutes and let him out. Do this several times until he gets used to it.

Dogs experience motion sickness, do not feed them a large amount of food before or during your trip. A high protein snack should be given when you take a break. To get rid of some excess energy from the ride spend time walking your dog or even playing a little. Never leave your dog in the parked car which heats up quickly and could dehydrate him causing serious health issues.

To relax and comfort your dog having his favorite toy, stuffed animal, a bone and a blanket with him will make the ride a happier experience.

Medicating your dog with a drug to calm him down or a sedative may be something that you might be considering. This is not a good option to make him rely on medication because it changes his disposition and he is not the same precious dog and will not be able to fully enjoy this experience. Your dog will be calm seeing your body language, your attitude and your voice that all is good and he is safe.

Hotels that accept dogs is a priority on your list before you take your vacation. There are several hotels that accept dogs like Best Western which have many locations and they have everything in order for your visit. Dog friendly activities along with parks are recommended so you will know your choices and your dog will enjoy great activities. It is very important that you bring your dog’s food and treats. The only food that your dog is able to eat in Hotels is the Continental breakfast which really is not good for them, they should have their special food as they do at home.

When you arrive at the Hotel be sure to take your dog for a long walk to introduce him to the new surroundings so your dog can feel at ease and feel calm.

Being prepared for your vacation and traveling together can be a wonderful experience that you will want to continue for many years to come.

Photo credit: alee_04/Flickr


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5 Top Separation Anxiety Cures for Dogs – April 25th, 2014

Separation Anxiety is very common in dogs. When dogs are left alone they suffer with severe panic symptoms and become so distressed showing destructive behavior such as howling, barking, licking and chewing themselves which causes physical harm to their bodies.  Becoming a dog owner is an important step to take. Teaching your dog as a puppy a balance of becoming independent to be left alone for certain amounts of time and for you to be a good companion to your dog should be a priority.

1-      Tolerate Staying Alone – As you teach your dog to stay alone you should start with short amounts of time for a few days so you will be able to see if there is any sign of anxiety then gradually add more time. Short intervals will help your dog not have a setback and get anxious and accept this as a normal part of life. Learning that you are the pack leader and you make the decisions, your dog will then be confident that you will return.

2-      Independence and Self Assurance – Dogs need to learn to balance solitude, companionship and to respect their pack leader. Learning to survive by himself, teach your dog not to follow you around by telling him “Down” and “Stay.” If you are watching television or talking on the phone, tell him “Down” on his blanket and “Stay.” When you are ready to interact with him reward him by playing with his favorite toy.

3-      Leaving and Coming Home Showing No Excitement – The best thing to do for your dog is to make leaving and returning a very uneventful time. No emotional “Good bye” or “Hello, I missed you.” It would greatly benefit your dog if you avoid eye contact and say nothing and completely ignore him for up to twenty minutes before your leave and upon your return home. Your dog should be calm then you can let him come out of his safe location, and while you stay calm praise and pet him quietly. If there are any signs of being anxious, continue ignoring him until he is fully relaxed and calm.

4-      Safe Environment – Choose a room that is well lit, safe, comforting and has familiar family smells such as a family room or a kitchen for your dog’s home alone place. Use a strong baby gate if there is no door to block the entrance. Safety proof the room by keeping plants out of reach, latch cabinets, and keep windows closed as dogs can tear through screens and jump through opened windows. Remove items that your dog would destroy such as collectables, baskets, shoes and tablecloths so they are not tempted to chew.

5-      Mental and Physical Stimulation – A continuous playing CD with calm music, classical music or sounds of the ocean with quiet music in the background is great to keep your dog calm. Play the music when you are home so your dog is familiar with it and will relax while you are away. Stimulating and safe toys are a must to keep him content and occupy his day. Chew toys that are safe, and of course his favorite toys that he loves will comfort him and make his day more enjoyable. There are Kong-type toys that are hollow and can be stuffed with treats such as carrots, and kibbles that will keep your dog occupied for a long time, and Buster Cube and Kong can feed your dog his complete meal.

Time and patience to overcome anxiety with your dog along with security in their environment, and having confidence in you and themselves will make your dog stress free and give him a well balanced life.

Photo credit: Espen Faugstad/Flickr


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5 Tips on Helping Your Rescue Dog Adapt to Their New Environment – March 5th, 2014

You have made a great decision choosing to adopt a rescue dog. The experience of sharing your home and heart with a rescue dog will be truly rewarding. These precious dogs may have experienced life as a stray, been abused by their owner, moved around from one foster home to another or their family gave them up.

1-      Plan Ahead – The change in your dog’s environment will be stressful as he leaves the shelter and you bring him into a loving and safe home. You have to guide him calmly as he tries to adapt to this big change in his life. The adjustment period will be easier if you have your home ready with the important supplies needed for the first week that your dog is home. Choose a safe place for your dog’s water and food bowls where he is not in the way and will not be disturbed while he eats. The shelter should give you any important information about the health of your dog such as allergies or any medication he may be taking, as well as the kind of food he is used to eating. Your dog’s digestive system is very delicate so you should change his food slowly if you need to. For your dog’s safety, have a harness that fits him properly along with a five to six foot leash that is sturdy, and decide if you want to use a microchip or tags in case he gets lost. Have the phone numbers for your animal hospital and veterinarian and a pet first aid kit close at hand for emergencies.

2-      Prepare your Home – Secure any areas that could be a hazard using a barrier, or install gates. Deciding where you want your dog to sleep is very important. Do you want him to sleep with you? This makes for a life-long commitment, building a special bond that makes your dog feel loved and secure. Or have him enjoy a special bed of his own. Decide where your dog will stay while you are away from home and make this place secure and safe for him. Make your dog feel comfortable when he arrives by showing him spaces you want him to be in with bedding and toys to play with and reward him with a treat. Adjusting to a new home will take time, usually six to eight weeks, so try to avoid having a houseful of people over for several days keeping your schedule free until he gets used to his new home.

3-      Communication – Reward your dog with treats and praise if he does something good letting him know he should continue this behavior. Then if your dog does something that you do not want him to repeat such as chewing on your shoes replace them with a bone to chew on or a toy. You should never use fear, force or pain to communicate with you dog.

4-      Separation Anxiety – Practice doing your everyday activities before you leave home, so your dog will not feel that you are leaving him alone. Going out for small amounts of time is a good thing to do to. It will cause your dog a lot of stress if you leave him for eight hours at first. Always have treats and toys for him so he feels calm. Your greetings when you leave and come home should be relaxed so his anxiety level is at a minimum.

5-      Patience – Adjustment to your dog’s forever home could take up to a couple of months. It may take a little while for him to feel like your dog, just relax it will happen. Your dog will give you signs that are easy to recognize when he needs to be alone, or if he is uncomfortable. He needs time to feel at ease with family and friends so advise them to let your dog come over to them when he is ready and be sure to always give him treats as his reward.

Photo credit: Jakub Halun/Wikimedia


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General Dog Training Guideline – March 18th, 2013

You just brought home a new dog – congratulations! Whether you’re on your own or have a family, your new dog ill bring you many years of happiness. There are a few things you should be prepare your new dog for in order for it (and you) to live a happy, healthy and stress free life. These tips will help guide you as to the best practices of keeping a dog.

Discipline

You may not want to, but trust us – it’s in your dog’s best interest to introduce discipline. You need to think and work one step ahead of your dog, and lay down the rules with love and firmness. You’ll find a better behaved dog on your hands. But remember –a dog that’s well behaved now may not stay that way. A dog’s behavior constantly changes; so make the discipline constant, too.

Training your Dog

A well trained dog can go anywhere with you. This freedom gives your dog confidence and allows it to reach its full potential as a smart, soulful and people-oriented companion. However, a poorly trained dog can be a loud and destructive irritation around the house, becoming more of a burden on you. Training is your responsibility – if a dog isn’t well trained, it isn’t his fault, it’s yours!

To make the process easier, start training when the dog is young. Even though you can teach an old dog new training tricks, you’ll find it simpler if you start early.  Start your training somewhere that is familiar to your dog, where there are minimum distractions.

 Socialize your Dog

Socialization is an important part of the training – you don’t want to end up with a fearful or aggressive dog. Again, it’s important to start young. Take your dog to as many new places as possible. Introduce your dog to other dogs and people. Good doggy manners are important if you want to bring your dog to the dog park or to other people’s homes.

Always try to make training fun. If something works, keep using that training tactic over and over again.  Use play time as a time to train, that way, it’s never a chore and always fun.


Posted in Dog Obedience
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Lead Handling Basics – February 13th, 2013

Dogs love socializing and exploring the outdoors, and walks and public outings are a great source of pleasure for them.

With proper lead training, owners can take their dogs everywhere, without risk of injury to themselves or others.

Start training your dog to walk on a leash at 8 weeks. Young puppies can be safely walked with a harness attached to a 4 to 6 foot leash. An adjustable, nylon harness is a good beginner’s item that will allow for some of your dog’s growth. Practice taking it on and off until you can do so quickly and easily. Squirming and wriggling is normal for a puppy first adjusting to a harness. Be patient, and give lots of praise once the harness is on. Your dog should always wear a collar that is tagged for easy identification. This will make the transition to collar leading smooth later on.

Have your dog wear its halter around the house without the lead attached. Gradually, start attaching the lead during feeding or when your puppy is tired. Let it hang loosely at your puppy’s side. Next, pick up the lead occasionally and follow your puppy around. Keep the leash slack, and do not pull or restrain your dog with it.

When you are ready for lead training, take your dog to a place with minimal distractions. Schedule training after a play session when your dog is somewhat tired out. Position yourself with the lead in your right hand and your dog on your left. Hold a toy in your left hand, and encourage your puppy to follow after it as you slowly move forward. Say heel when you both begin to walk. Stop after a few feet, let your dog play with the toy, and give lots of praise. Repeat several times, using the toy or a treat to guide your dog’s starts, stops, and position at your side.

If your dog becomes distracted or impatient, it may begin to pull. If you do not move forward when pulled, your dog will learn that only a slack leash lets him go forward, and brings treats and praise. When your dog stops pulling and the leash is slack, encourage him to return to you, and begin the process again. Once heel is mastered, be sure to practice with your dog in a variety of places.

If you cannot stop your dog from pulling in all directions on the lead or control lunges, seek professional training help. Only as a last resort should you consider purchasing a no pull harness or Gentle Leader. These are specially designed to make pulling uncomfortable or impossible. They may end unruly behavior, but should only be considered temporary solutions. The goal of lead training should always be to walk your dog with a regular collar and lead. The best training will teach your dog how to behave, not force it to.

 


Posted in Dog News