Boredom is a top-ranking source of stress for dogs. Because puppies and young dogs spend lots of waking hours seeking mental engagement, boredom also sets up for problem behaviors. Owners can channel their dog’s energy into constructive, safe, and appropriate activities with knowledge and preparation. Cold weather months can mean a stressful change for dogs […]
A proactive approach is the best option for fast and reliable results in a housetraining (potty training) program. With a proactive program, the owner takes leadership responsibility for setting the dog up to “hold it” and go when access to the preferred potty place is provided. With a passive program, the owner places this responsibility […]
Adding a puppy to any household brings plenty of new demands on the family’s time and energy. Understanding this early phase of life and maintaining realistic expectations keep everyone on an even keel. A sense of humor helps, too. Stress in a New Environment Moving from a breeder’s home/facility or foster situation and into your […]
Socialization is the process where animals learn about the world around them. The most effective and humane way to socialize your dog is systematically exposing her to many different stimuli at levels she can calmly tolerate. This is a gradual process. It’s important to keep expectations in check and remain patient. Puppies have a brief […]
All animals, including dogs, grow through developmental phases. The adolescent phase begins at around seven months of age and can continue until around 18 months of age. Early training and behavior management makes an enormous difference in adult behavior outcomes. Puppy training is a great beginning. Consistent use of learned obedience cues along with behavior […]
Clicker training is a method initially used to train marine mammals. The clicker sound functions as a reward marker. It provides essential feedback for an animal’s correct response to a learned cue or offering a desirable behavior. The sound of the clicker quickly becomes relevant to the dog when it is followed by a reward, […]
Barking happens for various reasons. What is the purpose of your dog’s vocalizing? Understanding the purpose behind any undesirable behavior is the first step in changing it. The Attention Seeker Dogs learn quickly that barking at a human can result in obtaining his attention. Remember that simple eye contact qualifies as attention in the dog’s […]
Sorting through the quagmire of toy and chew options can be confusing…not to mention, expensive. The choices are overwhelming. The true test for great “dog stuff” involves productive, constructive FUN, safety, and durability. Toys vs. Chews It helps to separate your dog’s playthings into two categories: toys and chews. You and your dog play together […]
Some dogs are snuggle-bugs. Some really are not; they prefer limited touching and a wider “zone”. Regardless of your dog’s preference, it’s important to install and maintain his appreciation of petting and demonstrations of physical affection. Too much of a good thing is often de-valued and too much unwelcome attention sets up for avoidance. Either […]
Dog are social animals, with a group mentality. For some individuals, this group includes both humans and other dogs. But, many dogs thrive best as an “only”, preferring to share their home environments solely with humans. Should yours be a multi-dog household? Carefully consider your motives and the impact on your already-established canine friend. Perhaps […]