Great advice, for anyone who is thinking of or who has adopted a dog lately and is a must read. I originally posted this article back in 2015 but I thought it is time for a repost because lately I have had a few people contact me regarding the dog they have just adopted.
Again, high expectations (good intentions) on the part of the dog’s new owners, can set them all up, to fail. Lets face it, your newly adopted dog doesn’t know you, your family, environment or routine. It may be stressed, scared or frightened as well as some dogs have a history, you know nothing about. So expecting them to act and behave and do what you tell them, can be a bit hard for them to grasp. Whether it be a puppy or older dog, they need time to adjust and feel secure.
I often try to remember back to when I adopted my first shelter dog. I was so uninformed and inexperienced back then. I had never adopted a dog before. I had absolutely no idea what to expect with an adult dog, especially not one who had a whole history behind her that I didn’t even know about. I probably made a lot of mistakes and bad decisions in those early days (I am sure of it).
What I didn’t know then, but know now is that for a rescue or shelter dog, the first few days and weeks in their new home are risky ones. They are at the mercy of their new human to make the right decisions for them. One mistake, and the dog could end up back at the shelter, or worse, euthanized for a serious mistake that could have been prevented if the human had made a…
Across the road is the park but dodging cars, left its mark,
No more digging, under the fence for me,
Chasing butterflies or being free,
Dodging cars, was the death of me.
– Elayne Hand
I know most dog owners, have probably been there at one time or another, your dog escaping off your property, I know I have, it happened only once and never again.
Dogs are smart, once they learn how to get out, they will continue to do so, unless you fix the problem.
The reality is, for your dogs safety and your peace of mind, good containment is a must. Basically, your property isn’t secureif your dog can escape, under, over, or through, any form of containment you have, for your dog.
If your fences are too low, and your dog is a jumper, extend them, if your dog is a climber, put brackets (similar to prison fencing, pic below) on the top of your fence, leaning inwards towards your yard, and cover with wire, (not barbed wire, ordinary fencing wire chain link or the like). While a cat maybe able to climb and get over the fence, a dog may fall and land on its back and injure itself because unlike cats, dogs don’t land on their feet.
If you have holes in your fence, fix them, if your dog is a digger, you have a few options, you can lay a boundary containment wire around your property, and your dog wears a collar, if it goes too close to the fence, the collar can vibrate or shock. You can also, bury the likes of chicken wire or bricks/stones under the fence, cover with dirt, so when your dog tries to dig, it will hit the wire or brick/stones.
Lastly, make or buy a kennel & run, the size is up to you, if the run has an open top, put shade cloth/wire or the like over the top, so your dog can’t jump or climb out.
If you are one of those dog owners who think, it is cruel to have your dog contained, while you are at work or out for the day, or you just can’t be bothered to fix your fences. Maybe a dog isn’t the right pet for you, owning a dog, comes with responsibility.
I am not going to go into detail of the responsibilities of dog owners re: The Dog Control Act, its online for all to see. I am however going to mention dog owners, social responsibilities.
Not all people like dogs, some are afraid of them, there’s nothing worse than a stray dog, bounding up to a person, who doesn’t like dogs. They may feel threaten, scared or may even think the dog is going to attack them or worse, it may attack them. You can count children, in that equation too.
If your dog is out roaming and wandering around and causes a traffic accident, you could be liable for the damages, let alone the pain and suffering your dog may have caused. Lastly, your dog maybe left bleeding and dying on the side of the road, not a pretty sight. (would you want that for your family pet?)
Dog owners, walking their dog, don’t want to have to contend with your wandering dog, while out on their daily walk, because anything can happen.
So if you truly care about your dog and regard them as part of your family, you do right by them, you keep them safe, secure, happy, content, and protect them the best you can, as you would, a human family member.
I wrote this post in 2014, it is still relevant today, as it was back then.
A few good reasons why young children shouldn’t take their dog out for a walk, without adult supervision
Parents, often ask me if its ok for their children to take their dog out for a walk. I say yes sure, so long as you or another adult accompanies them.
The main reason these days for not letting young children take their dog out for a walk alone is the one of safety, safety of the dog and child.
Young children don’t have the strength or presence of mind to act quickly enough, if something bad were to happen.eg: such as a stray or off lead dog were to approach them. Adults, in the same situation can often find it hard to manage, let alone a young child.
Anyone who takes their dog out has to have their “Eyes Wide Open” all the time and be aware of their surroundings and what is going on around them. Young children are not really capable of doing that, due to their age and immaturity.
Lastly, the Dog Control Act states: Section 52 Obligations of Owners, The owner of any dog shall keep that dog under control at all times. a dog shall, for the purposes of this Act, be deemed to be not under control if the only person present or in charge of the dog is under the age of 16 years.
This article was posted online back in 2013 by The Telegraph. The article was written by Sarah Knapton, Science Correspondent 3:21PM GMT 03 Dec 2013.
“Bad dog owners to blame for aggressive animals not their breed”
New research suggests dogs which have been deemed ‘dangerous’ and banned by the government may have been wrongly stigmatised because they are prized by bad owners…”
Now, this suggestion may or may not be popular and yes it will not reach everyone but its a proactive start.
How about anyone involved with dogs. All dog trainers, vets, pet shops and behaviourists hand out information and discuss basic dog safety and the dog control act with their clients? It’s easy enough to make up FAQ sheets.
There are different coloured links to videos, articles & graphics. All information is free to use.All information is copyright so a mention or link to the various authors of the graphics, articles & videos including ZeroBites Dog Training, would be greatly appreciated.
I have been a advocate of dog safety education, including the Dog Control Act for years.
To that end I have been discussing and handing out information on both, to my clients for a very long time.
I’d be interested to hear from any trainer, club, vet who is doing this as well, apart from myself.
We as educators have a opportunity to make a difference and maybe along the way,
prevent someone from getting bitten and save a few dogs, a one way trip to the vet.
We are on the front lines so to speak, we can make a difference! We have the opportunity to be part of the solution, and if we do nothing, are we passively contributing to the problem?
Rescues, SPCA, Plunket and the like, are on the front lines also, they like us, have a great opportunity to educate their clients about dog safety, keeping both dogs and people safe.
It would be good, if we could all in a small way, help turn the tide in 2017 and try to reduce, by education, the number dog bites/ dog attacks in NZ.
Again, hopefully along the way, prevent someone from getting bitten and save a few dogs, a one way trip to the vet.
I have put this page together as a one stop, dog safety resource.
So lets make a difference in 2017!
There are links and videos, to a lot of good information on dog safety, dog body language and do and don’ts ( how to keep dogs and people safe), on this page. You will find the links in different coloured text, so please click on them, if you want to learn more and help to turn the tide on the rising number of dog bites/dog attacks.
77% of dog bites are caused by the family dog or a friends dog. While dogs can and do make great companions and are a lot of fun, people often, feel too secure and comfortable when in the company of them and don’t see, or are oblivious to the potential dangers.
Dogs and Humans are different species and both speak different languages and its up to us, as humans, to learn what they are trying to tell us. Like all animals, dogs do speak to us, if we as humans, choose, to watch, listen and learn.
They need to be treated with respect and understanding and sometimes human expectations are too high, they don’t think like we do, they are, after all, a different species.
Please watch the The Family Dog, stop the 77 video below. There are more videos on their site, great for all the family and friends to watch.
Parents, educators & dog owners have a responsibility to learn and then teach, children adults, non dog owners, & dog owners, how to act and behave when in the company of any dog, including their own.
Both kids and adults need to know about basic dog safety and awareness, because for the most part, children under the age of 12yrs are the one’s who get bitten. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of adults who get chomped on, as well.
Even non dog owners, need to know how to act and behave when in the company of dogs. as they may not have a dog but the chances are, they know someone who does.
Below is a very good graphic from family paws, on the 5 types of supervision, it is too easy to get caught up in doing something else and not being aware of what is going on around you, such as talking or texting on the phone or on the computer, chatting or having coffee with friends, the list is endless.
Again, dogs do talk to us, if we as humans choose to watch, listen & learn. They need us to watch out for them.
The same can be said about introducing your dog to people: If you are unsure remove your dog from the situation, it only takes a second for something bad to happen.
TV and Movies often portray “The good family dog” but don’t be fooled, these dogs are well trained, and they have trainers on the sets with them. If you want a well-trained and adjusted dog, you have to put the time and effort in. They need guidance, direction and boundaries, as do children.
Even people who have been around dogs all their life’s should Never assume that a strange dog is going to be friendly towards them, remember you may think you know dogs but that strange dog doesn’t know you. It may see you as an intruder or a threat.
There are many things that can cause a dog to bite you, so please take the time to read
Never leave a child alone with a dog, because a child’s actions may inadvertently trigger an unwanted response, and the child may get bitten.
Never tease a dog. (E.g.: shouting & yelling, barking, throwing things, pulling faces & ears etc). These actions can cause a dog to attack because it may feel threatened or frightened If the dog is confined in a yard or tied up it will not forget the teasing, and if the opportunity presents itself, it will get its own back.
Always ask the owner’s permission before petting a dog. If the owner is not around leave the dog alone. If it is a stray dog, stay well away.
Never run away from a dog and Never run away screaming and shouting, because a dogs natural instinct it to chase and catch its prey.
Never enter a yard with a dog in it; always ask permission from the owner.
Never stare into the eyes of a dog, the dog may see it as a threat or a challenge to fight.
Always approach dogs calmly, carefully and slowly. Let the dog see and sniff you that’s how they get to know you and never approach a dog from behind.
Dogs like to play rough, they don’t have hands like you or I, and they jump up and use their mouths to grab hold and hang on. So do not jump, wave your arms around or scream when playing around dogs, these actions excite and stimulate the dogs chase response.
Never play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
If you are approached by a strange dog stand very still and remain calm. Don’t scream and shout, stand sideways and don’t stare, that tells the dog, via body language, that you are non confrontational, then slowly move away, by taking small steps, if you can.
Never approach a strange dog. (You will never know what it will do).
Never put your hand through a fence or a window of a parked car to pat a dog, because it will bite you.
Never disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, or caring for pups.
Never try to separate dogs that are fighting. (unless you know what you are doing)
If you are knocked over by a dog, Always protect your face, arms & neck and roll up into a ball and remain very still.
If you get bitten tell an adult.
Never put your face close to a dog.
Never hug your dog or any dog around the neck because you may trigger the dogs bite reflex and the dog will bite you.
Children should not take their dog out for a walk unless accompanied by an adult, because if a situation arises e.g.: encounter with a stray dog, children don’t have the strength or presence of mind, to act quickly enough.
Be careful when handling a dog who is in pain or injured, it may bite you. Always, take precautions.
Always, try to be relaxed and calm around dogs, erratic movements could startle a dog or they may think you are teasing them.
Never take your dog on someone else’s property without finding out first, if it is OK to do so.
Fast-moving outdoor athletes should keep a safe distance between them and dog walkers. (E.g.: joggers, Cyclists etc). Again, these actions trigger the dog’s natural chase response.
Never run or walk up behind a dog, (even one you know) and try to pat it. Always, let a dog know you are there, let it see and sniff you.
Below is another very good info graphic from Doggone safe, although it says holiday tips, these tips can keep everyone safe year round.
This will probably be, my first and last article I write on this subject because quite honestly, its enough to make a person pull their hair out, in frustration and disgust.
I am not going to get caught up in the fray and ramble on emotively, there are plenty of people out there, who without a doubt, are more qualified at emotive and unproductive rambling, than I.
The number of dog attacks/ bites have been slowly increasing over a number of years, there are many reasons for that, the theme however always seems to remain the same.
NZ has a spate of reported dog attacks/bites. Reports in the media usually lead to a feeding frenzy of emotive rants, raves & ideas on how to solve the “dangerous dog problem”. This theme seems to be repeated every time a serious attack story hits the media.
Common sense facts and solutions, are what is needed, not emotive rants and raves. I have been an advocate of dog safety education for all (children & adults) for a very long time and I have to say, “Lets get real, is the dog really to blame?”
When I refer to dog safety, I mean teaching both children and adults, how to act, behave and stay safe, when in the company of dogs, it’s about teaching and keeping both dogs and people safe. 77% of dog bites come from the family dog or a friends dog. stopthe77.com
Personally, I have found that most dog bites & attacks are caused by inappropriate interactions with a dog. There’s a real culture of “she’ll be right”, or “oh Fluffy wouldn’t bite – he’s bomb proof”. People are complacent and usually not aware of the warning signs.
Indeed in a recent online survey commissioned by Hon Louise Upston (associate minister of local government) which ran from 1st August 2016 – until 14th August 2016. The need for more education was indeed one of the things identified, yet it seems one of the last things on the “to do” list.
Yet, Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) is often mentioned. For those of you who don’t know what BSL is, it’s laws or legislation based on the breed your dog is, or in some cases what people think your dog is if you’re not sure. Unfortunately, it’s pretty much a quick fix solution that worldwide, is known not to work! However, it has the potential to cost a lot of dogs their lives. So why look at adopting it? Is it to placate the uneducated & uninformed, while trying to curry favour, with the general public?
Why not, dare to be different, how hard can it be, to research and maybe try something new.
For example take a look at: How Calgary reduced dog attacks without banning pit bulls Briefly, they changed from the “standard animal control model” to a “responsible pet owner model” education is a big thing, all schools are visited every year, dog owners are urged to get training for their dog if problems arise and so on. Read the article, it is food for thought.
In a recent article published on Radio NZ web site 23rd September 2016 an article titled:
Mr Les Dalton (Institute of Animal Management president) said the new measures were well overdue.
“It’s something that needed to be done. We’ve had far too many children being mauled by pit bull-type dogs and dogs that had the content of the wrong breed in them. Would you put your grandchild or little daughter or little son in the lounge with a pitbull and leave them alone with the child?” A very emotive statement, to say the least.
Maybe, Mr Dalton needs to be taught some basic dog safety education. You should never leave any dog, irrespective of the breed, alone with a child or even some adults for that matter. (dog safety 101, folks!)
All dogs can bite, even “GOOD WELL TRAINED DOGS” if they are teased, hit, abused or put in situations THEY find uncomfortable. People need to be taught how to act and behave when in the company of dogs. “All animals speak to us, including dogs, if we as humans, choose to watch, listen and learn”. Dogs need us to protect & respect them.
Having a well trained dog isn’t enough, basic dog safety/dog bite prevention, should be taught in all schools, while I know in some areas of NZ, it is being done. I am also aware “Funding” is an issue. If NZ wants to turn the tide and is serious about reducing the dog bite statistics, make the funding available.
The old saying, “talk is cheap, put your money where your mouth is, or shut the bleep up” springs to mind.
Now, this suggestion may or may not be popular and yes it will not reach everyone but its a proactive start.
How about anyone involved with dogs. All dog trainers, vets, pet shops and behaviourists hand out information and discuss basic dog safety and the dog control act with their clients? It’s easy enough to make up FAQ sheets or even print something off the internet and hand them out. I’d also be interested to hear from any trainer, club, vet who is doing this, apart from myself.
Also, rescues, SPCA, Plunket and the like, are on the front lines so to speak. It’s a great opportunity to educate your clients and help turn the tide.
Even “GOOD HUMANS” will react if they’re pushed, teased or threatened – so why do we put our pets in potentially life threatening situations?
Dogs need space, same as we do, Imagine if a total stranger were to come running up to you shouting “Hi its ok, I am friendly” then proceeded to try and hug you, invading your personal space, how would it make you feel?, would you feel threatened, frightened, scared or uncomfortable? What would you do? Try to move away, tell that person to back-off and if they didn’t, maybe lash out. You would consider that person to have no manners or respect. In other words unacceptable behaviour.
Dogs are no different, they need their our own space too. Yet many dogs have to put up with that kind of behaviour from other dogs, on a daily basis, who’s owners think its ok, to let their dog barge right on up, while shouting “Its ok my dog is friendly” without asking, if its ok to do so.
Its all about manners and respect, we as humans expect to be shown some manners and respect and dogs are no different.
77% of dog bites are caused by the family dog or a friends dog. Dogs are dogs not substitute human children and all have the potential to harm. While they make great companions and are a lot of fun, people often, feel too secure and comfortable when in the company of them and don’t see or are oblivious to the potential dangers.
After all you are living/interacting with an animal, that is quicker/faster than you, in every way, has sharp teeth that can do a lot of damage and in a lot of cases, is stronger.
If I were describing another animal, say for instance, a Tiger, would you feel as secure and comfortable in the company of one them, of course you wouldn’t, because they have the potential to harm or kill you. You would be very aware, safety and knowing how to act and behave, would be your top priority.
Dogs are no different, they need to be treated with respect and understanding and sometimes human expectations are too high, they don’t think like we do, they are, after all, a different species. Please watch the The Family Dog, stop the 77 video below.
Parents, educators & dog owners have a responsibility to teach children and adults how to act and behave when in the company of dogs. Both kids and adults need to know about basic dog safety and awareness, because for the most part, children under the age of 12yrs are the one’s who get bitten. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of adults who get chomped on, as well.
Even if you are not a dog owner, everyone needs to know how to act and behave when in the company of dogs. You may not have a dog but the chances are, you know someone who does.
Below is a very good graphic from family paws, on the 5 types of supervision, it is too easy to get caught up in doing something else and not being aware of what is going on around you, such as talking or texting on the phone or on the computer, chatting or having coffee with friends, the list is endless.
Parents & dog owners, need to do more than just supervise, when children, adults and dogs are together. They need to be watching 100% of the time.
Dogs do talk to us if we watch, observe and listen. They need to watch out for signs of stress in the dog, such as: changes in facial expression, licking of the lips, and the dog’s general demeanour. If you are unsure remove the dog from the situation, it only takes a second for something bad to happen.
TV and Movies often portray “The good family dog” but don’t be fooled, these dogs are well trained, and they have trainers on the sets with them. If you want a well-trained and adjusted dog, you have to put the time and effort in. They need guidance, direction and boundaries, as do children.
Even people who have been around dogs all their life’s should Never assume that a strange dog is going to be friendly towards them, remember you may think you know dogs but that strange dog doesn’t know you. It may see you as an intruder or a threat. There are many things that can cause a dog to bite you, so please take the time to read 5 easy ways to get bitten by a dog and Dog Owners its ok to say NO!
Dog Safety Advice for All
Never leave a child alone with a dog, because a child’s actions may inadvertently trigger an unwanted response, and the child may get bitten.
Never tease a dog. (E.g.: shouting & yelling, barking, throwing things, pulling faces & ears etc). These actions can cause a dog to attack because it may feel threatened or frightened If the dog is confined in a yard or tied up it will not forget the teasing, and if the opportunity presents itself, it will get its own back.
Always ask the owner’s permission before petting a dog. If the owner is not around leave the dog alone. If it is a stray dog, stay well away.
Never run away from a dog and Never run away screaming and shouting, because a dogs natural instinct it to chase and catch its prey.
Never enter a yard with a dog in it; always ask permission from the owner.
Never stare into the eyes of a dog, the dog may see it as a threat or a challenge to fight.
Always approach dogs calmly, carefully and slowly. Let the dog see and sniff you that’s how they get to know you and never approach a dog from behind.
Dogs like to play rough, they don’t have hands like you or I, and they jump up and use their mouths to grab hold and hang on. So do not jump, wave your arms around or scream when playing around dogs, these actions excite and stimulate the dogs chase response.
Never play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
If you are approached by a strange dog stand very still and remain calm. Don’t scream and shout, stand sideways and don’t stare, that tells the dog, via body language, that you are non confrontational, then slowly move away, by taking small steps, if you can.
Never approach a strange dog. (You will never know what it will do).
Never put your hand through a fence or a window of a parked car to pat a dog, because it will bite you.
Never disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, or caring for pups.
Never try to separate dogs that are fighting.
If you are knocked over by a dog, Always protect your face, arms & neck and roll up into a ball and remain very still.
If you get bitten tell an adult.
Never put your face close to a dog.
Never hug your dog or any dog around the neck because you may trigger the dogs bite reflex and the dog will bite you.
Children should not take their dog out for a walk unless accompanied by an adult, because if a situation arises e.g.: encounter with a stray dog, children don’t have the strength or presence of mind, to act quickly enough.
Be careful when handling a dog who is in pain or injured, it may bite you. Always, take precautions.
Always, try to be relaxed and calm around dogs, erratic movements could startle a dog or they may think you are teasing them.
Never take your dog on someone else’s property without finding out first, if it is OK to do so.
Fast-moving outdoor athletes should keep a safe distance between them and dog walkers. (E.g.: joggers, Cyclists etc). Again, these actions trigger the dog’s natural chase response.
Never run or walk up behind a dog, (even one you know) and try to pat it. Always, let a dog know you are there, let it see and sniff you.
Below is another very good info graphic from Doggone safe, although it says holiday tips, these tips can keep everyone safe year round.
Day Trips for the Uninspired
Day Trips for the uninspired. Things to see and do in and around Palmerston North, Manawatu, Tararua, Wairarapa and Hawke’s Bay & Wellington Regions of New Zealand
Adventuring the globe whilst based in the beautiful PNW, with a focus on fitness & adventure travel, conservation and a healthy balanced lifestyle. All with my beautiful partner in crime, Stephanie!
I often try to remember back to when I adopted my first shelter dog. I was so uninformed and inexperienced back then. I had never adopted a dog before. I had absolutely no idea what to expect with an adult dog, especially not one who had a whole history behind her that I didn’t even know about. I probably made a lot of mistakes and bad decisions in those early days (I am sure of it).
ZeroBites Dog Training 