In order to raise awareness about canine cancer, amazing photographer, Julie, of Bailey and Banjo photography, is taking a photo of a dog every day of 2012. Thanks Julie! Here’s January. . .
It is 2012! With the start of a new year and the puppy adoptions that have happened and will happen in the coming months of spring, it feels like it is time to do a few posts on life with a puppy. I have a few suggestions, but am starting off with a video that demonstrates one of my favorite suggestions for not only how to train but also how to exhaust a puppy - use an older, well-behaved dog!
Dogs may be as receptive to certain human communication signals as infants. Here’s a great article that brings insight into how we communicate with our dogs. As with humans, actions speak louder than words!
Being a responsible human isn’t always easy. Owning up to our choices and their resultant consequences can be a challenge. Sometimes, and too many times, it seems easier and harmless to blame someone, something, and worse of all - a being that cannot defend itself. The image below is worth sharing and has been making its way around Facebook. I completely agree with Cesar Millan. . .when will the humans be held accountable and responsible for their actions.
Unless you decide otherwise! I don’t have a one-method-fits-all approach to dog training and behavior modification. There are rules and then, there’s the wonderful “whatever” command. It, of course, should be used sparingly and preferably not when an overly serious dog trainer is around.
I believe the first few weeks of a dog’s life in their new home is when the standards should be set. I would go so far as to say they shouldn’t be allowed on the bed or furniture and they should go through at least basic obedience and learn house manners. If the dog is worthy of sharing the space on their human’s bed, then it can happen after an appropriate amount of structure.
It’s funny to me that people have kids and understand the need for structure but their dog knows no boundaries. If you want boundaries and peace in the kingdom and when out in public, start it early and be consistent. Later, it will all seem so easy - especially when you get the opportunity to tell them, “whatever!”
My dogs are expected to share their beds. While Melody has no problem dominating the large dog bed, she does have a small bed which is where I usually find her. On occasion, when she gets up for a drink of water or something, Moby will quickly take her place. In fact, I think he pretends to hear something and runs to the door so she’ll follow him and then he races back to claim the prized little dog bed.
Just today, Moby was on the little bed when Melody tested the waters by slowing crawling up next to him and quickly lying down. Moby quickly exhaled his frustration, but rather than leave, he stayed next to her. I’m sure in his own way he drew a line between them and told her not to cross it.
Since this is a rare occasion, I decided to call it my Thankful Thursday; because it is, and I am.
I have posted previously about dogs and their need for exercise. Humans tend to be highly motivated and inspired to exercise after the first of the new year and into spring and summer. After that, we call it good until winter passes. Our dogs don’t quite see it the same way.
Exercise needs vary depending on the breed and some dogs need their brain exercised more than they do their legs; however, it usually goes together. I like to remind people who walk their dog every day at 4:00 for 30 minutes, that eventually their dog’s stamina increases and 30 minutes will no longer be adequate, not to mention boring. I suggest varying the routine - duration and what it is you use for exercise.
I was working out this morning with my hand weights and Zoe decided to join me. I told her she will receive greater benefit if she gets off the couch!
Dogs are of service to us in so many ways. This week, I noticed my grass and dandelion-filled lawn could use a trim. I sent the dogs out in the yard to serve as a gauge and measuring tool of sorts. This was their report of findings: “If you can’t find the dog, the grass is too long!” I thanked them for yet another service and promptly called a gardener.
It’s true, your dog may need glasses. Rosie, a lovely Standard Poodle, was showing signs of impaired vision. She began to mistake friendly, nice humans as those who deserve her “words” (and maybe a few teeth) for approaching when they should know to ask before they pet her. A girl has gotta’ have some boundaries to be safe in this world!
Normally, as a trainer, I would suggest a head collar and some redirecting for when Rosie is passing people who just have to touch a pretty Standard such as herself. In this case, I told Susan we should try glasses. Maybe Rosie’s vision is shifting right along with ours, and clearer vision may do the trick. I know I’m far less likely to growl and bear my teeth when I can see clearly who is approaching.
There will be an adjustment period required in order for Rosie to adapt to her new look. Personally, I think she looks beautiful in her new specks!
