“I don’t have a magic wand” I can only advise, teach & guide, you have to train your dog.

Sad but true, I don’t have a magic wand, I can only advise, teach & guide, its up to you to  be consistent and put the time and effort in to training your dog, on a daily basis.

I know there are a few people not many but enough, who think if they take their dog to a training class,  it will be miraculously trained, if they attend every session.

Unfortunately, that isn’t true, its just like going to school and the obedience class is often more about educating and teaching the owners, then the owners going home and practicing what they have learnt, on a daily basis.

Now, all dogs are different, what may work for one may not work for another, so its up to you, if you are having problems, mention it to your trainer, at the next class. They don’t know, if you don’t tell them.

Having said that, I can always tell if someone hasn’t done the work, even if they say they have.

When the last class is over, don’t expect to have a fully trained dog, that takes time, consistency and a lot of patience, meaning setting time aside each day to spend time with your dog.

Training can be fun, you are only limited by your imagination, dogs need to have their brains worked, so educational games such as canine parkour, nose works etc can be thrown into the training mix as well.

High expectations, can be a dog owners downfall, don’t expect too much too soon.  Even with older dogs.

young dogs v high expectation, and the winner is no one!  signs of stress in dogs

There are no quick fixes when it comes to training your dog

 

Puppy Training Classes, Are They Enough? To be honest, no they are not.

Click on the image to enlarge and read “A poem from an untrained puppy”

Puppy training classes, are they enough? To be honest, no they are not.

Puppy training classes can be a great start to socializing and training your dog, if run correctly but that is all they are, just a start.

They do not prepare the owner for the problem behaviours that often occur in the “teenage period” which usually starts around the 6-7 month mark and can continue until the dog is 15-20 months old, this time frame can vary depending on the dog.

Usually classes are run for four weeks and only take dogs up to 4 months of age. They cover the basics in behaviour and training but very few, cover anything in-depth. Most do not teach, you the owner, good leadership skills, in other words, what you need to know and do, to utimately have a well rounded obedient dog, who is a joy to have around. After all there is more to learn than just “sit and stay”.

Young dogs are quite pliable and can be easy to teach, owners often say to me “he is such a good boy/girl, does everything I tell him/her” but four weeks of puppy training is not enough to instill basic training in a dogs mind.

I often chat to frustrated owners who are having problems with their dog. They tell me, they took their dog along to puppy training class but for whatever reason, chose not to continue on with any form training.

Which is not good for them or their dog because more often than not owners become angry and frustrated, which can and does make matters worse.

That is why its is important to continue on with obedience training classes.

A good training class should cover obedience & behaviour problems along with many other issues, in more depth. They should teach you how to handle your dog in the real world. In other words, Good leadership and communication skills are the key. After all, like I said before, there is more to be taught than just “Sit and Stay” Classes should give you a good grounding and help set you up for life.

Below is a very good article on why you should continue you and your dogs education by taking your dog to classes.

Why should I take my dog to training classes?

http://www.tarynblyth.co.za/articles/whytrainingclasses/

I run classes on a monthly basis, If you and your dog would to join one of my classes, please contact me or visit my website or see the class information on this blog for details.

 

Before you go jumping in, ask yourself, “Is a dog the right pet for me or in reality, would I be better off, owning a goldfish?

Again, here is another post I wrote sometime ago, unfortunately it is still relevant today, with rescues, pounds & shelters seeing more dogs than ever, coming through their doors.

While you may love the idea of owning a dog, the reality maybe, you would be better off owning a goldfish. Why a goldfish you may ask, well goldfish don’t demand the same level of time and commitment from you, as a dog does.

Ask any rescue, shelter or pound and they will tell you, the continuous number of puppies & dogs, coming through their doors, isn’t slowing down.

In our consumer driven society, dogs seem to be another thing that get thrown on the heap, when the novelty has worn off. Many are in love with the idea of having a dog but the reality is, they are work, they are not “something” you leave in your backyard and ignore.

Dogs are fun and great to have around, they make wonderful companions but they will change your life as you know it, for many years to come. Whether you decide on a puppy, adult dog or a dog from rescue or shelter, you could be looking at a 10-15years + commitment, depending on the breed and age of the dog.

Are you ready for that?

So as a prospective dog owner, you have to think carefully about:

1. Your Lifestyle

Are you home a lot or do you spend a lot of time away?

Do you work long hours, are you always busy? If you are too busy, then owning a dog probably won’t be your top priority.

Do you own your own home or are you renting? (rental properties often don’t allow dogs)

Dogs are a 365 day a year commitment, to build up a good relationship and to enrich their lives, they need time spent with them everyday. Whether its training, going for a walk or playing games, Being tired or busy is no excuse for not spending time with your dog.  In fact, dogs can be great stress relievers, they are a good excuse as well, for turning off your phone, TV or computer for a while.

2. What breed of dog is right for you

All I can say on this is, do your research, don’t be swayed by, the latest TV or Movie star dog, they may look cool on-screen but don’t be fooled, these dogs are well-trained. Don’t get sucked in by that “cute” puppy look, all dogs look “cute” when they are puppies but they soon grow up and loose that “cute” look.

Some breeds may need to be groomed regularly, while others may need more exercise, so if you are not into grooming or running/walking a couple or so kilometres a day, be smart, don’t get a dog that requires grooming or a lot of exercise. Dogs don’t just need exercise & training they also need their minds enriched as well, so just walking your dog, isn’t really enough.

3. Costs 

Well dogs are not free, they come with costs, you have purchase costs, food bills (they need to eat) veterinary costs, that could be for anything, such as, vaccinations, operations, check ups, flea treatments, worming treatments etc

Then there is housing, where are you going to keep your dog, inside or outside or both. You may need to look at purchasing a kennel & run, or securing your property by altering or improving the fencing.

Then there’s bedding, collar, lead, toys, dog crate, registration, training, boarding/house sitter, if you want to go away. Grooming, dog walking, if you employ a dog walker, doggy day care, and the list goes on.

4. Damages

Ask any dog owner and they will tell you, dogs can chew, so be prepared for possible chewed furniture, clothes, shoes and the like, oh and I forgot TV remotes, just to name a few. If you get a puppy the chances are you will have accidents in the house, while house training, if your dog becomes ill, the same can happen, along with being sick, on your good carpet. All par for the course when you own a dog.

So if you are not phased by any of the above, dog ownership maybe right for you but if any of the above make you think twice, then owning a dog at this time, may not be, right for you.

 

Dog Enrichment Games, Canine Parkour also know as Urban Agility is a great way to keep your dog happy by providing physical & mental stimulation, while having fun, using natures obstacles and everyday objects you come across, while out on your daily walk.

Some basic obedience knowledge is required but there are no barriers, with a little adaptation and imagination, all breeds and ages can do this.

 

You will be surprised what you and your dog can achieve. Combined with obedience training, it will strengthen your communication and training skills. Both you and your dog will become more confident, in everyday situations. Even nervy and reactive dogs can benefit by participating in Canine Parkour/Urban Agility because your dog will be focused on you and what you are asking it to do but most of all, you and your dog will have lots of fun, and you will have, a happy dog.

 

Just a reminder Dog Training Classes start on Sunday 13th March @ 2pm in the Ashhurst Domain, Palmerston North

Small classes max no 5, Min 3, so you will learn more and I can spend more time with you and your dog. unlike some of the larger classes.The course is very comprehensive and unlike others, covers more than just dog obedience & dog behaviour.

To secure your place, Book Now!  Start: Sunday 13th March 2016 @ 2pm Ashhurst Domain, Palmerston North. Meet in the Wetlands Café Car Park.

Course cost: $110 (FAQ sheets included) runs for 4 weeks (4 x 1 hour sessions) For more information visit: http://www.zerobitesdogtraining.com/BLT.html or https://zerobitesdogtraining.wordpress.com

 

At the Dog Park The Importance of Participating

This is a very good video showing why its so important to stay connected with your dog, when you are at the park, as I often say to clients you need to know where your dog is and what it is doing, as it only takes a second for behaviour and atmosphere to change and something bad to happen.

 

The Most Dangerous Pet Chew Ever: Rawhide!

Below is a very interesting article on the dangers of rawhide chews.  I used to give my dogs rawhide chews years ago but stopped because, when the chews became soft and pliable, bits of the chew broke off and were either swallowed whole or got caught in the back of their throat and caused them to choke. Its no fun trying to pull a large piece of rawhide out of a Bullmastiff’s mouth.

How can one of the most popular chew sticks on the planet be so dangerous for your pets, you ask? I mean, most dogs chew on rawhide for hours on end, and not only does it keep them busy, but they seem to last forever. Well if you understood what it took to make this… Continue Reading

Source: The Most Dangerous Pet Chew Ever: Rawhide!

 

Socialising your dog, Its all about your dog, its not about you and what you think, your dog needs or should be able to handle.

New dog owners and not so new dog owners are all too often not well-informed, when it comes to dog socialization. socializing your dog isn’t just about socializing your dog with other dogs, it’s about getting your dog out and about, visiting new places, meeting new people, experiencing new sights and sounds because the world isn’t a quiet place. Even if you live rural, it’s a good idea to take your dog out and about.

You often hear by (not all) well-meaning experts, “You must socialize your dog” “if you want a well socialized dog, your dog should meet as many dogs as possible. or you may have problems later on”.

Unfortunately, all too often they neglect to say the dogs you introduce your dog to, should be friendly, non aggressive/non dominant dogs. Reality is, your dog should only socialize with dogs you personally know, who are friendly, non aggressive and non dominant.

Even puppy and obedience classes can contribute to behaviour problems in dogs, if not run correctly.

A bad experience especially at a young age with an unfamiliar dog, situation or person may cause behaviour problems, such as aggression or timidness.

For example: a dog rushes up to your dog and stares at it in the face, barks or jumps at it, or on it,  your dog may feel intimated or frightened. If your dog is attacked by another dog, your dog , may become dog aggressive. The same can happen with children, if they have had a bad experience early on in life, it can stay with them and influence their behaviour, later on in life.

The same can be said when you introduce your dog to unfamiliar people, places or situations, Don’t force your dog into any situation that clearly makes him uncomfortable or stressed. Take things slowly, so your dog has good associations. It’s all about your dog, it’s not about you and what you think your dog needs or should be able to handle.

If you encounter a situation where your dog becomes apprehensive or a bit scared/aggressive DO NOT pat your dog and say “Its OK” by doing that you have just praised your dog for being scared/aggressive. Instead, gently tell him “No”, get your dog to focus on you, so you can help him  behave more naturally, do some obedience, canine parkour, or whatever else your dog enjoys and sometimes if that means removing your dog from the situation, to a place where your dog feels more comfortable, that’s ok.

Click on the links below to read more about socializing your dog.

Socializing your dog the right way.    Dog Owners, its ok to say NO!   Dogs off Leash but not under control

 

Dog Safety and the need to be aware, there is no room for multi-tasking here!

Lately, I have noticed a lot more dog bite prevention information finding its way on to Facebook and the like, and it got me thinking, I wonder how many people, actually stop and read any of this information, or have many, become immune and don’t even give it a second glance.

Whenever a reported dog attack/bite incident hits the news, it creates a feeding frenzy, unfortunately in many cases, we the public don’t get to hear the full story and yet for many it fuels a lively debate, on what should be done, what isn’t being done but one thing that always seems to come up, somewhere along the way, is the need for more education.

There are many good education programs and resources out there already both online and offline. So what is going on here, I know funding can be an issue for some, even here in New Zealand but are we doing enough?

Is complacency to blame, do we see dogs too much as part of the family and forget that they are dogs.  All too often they are put in situations, (whether it be at home or away), we would not put ourselves in, if the roles were reversed, and yet we expect them to behave and be good dogs.

As a dog trainer, I personally talk to and hand out information sheets to all my clients on dog safety and dog bite prevention. I also tell them they have to become teachers/educators and teach and show anyone who comes into contact with their dog, how to act and behave. Which I know can be hard because many worry they may offend someone, by telling them what to do.

I wonder how many dog trainers, behaviorist, dog training clubs, Veterinary practices (who frequently run puppy classes) pet shops, rescues, dog breeders etc do the same.

I think Molly Summer (Kindred Companions LLC) hit the nail on the head  in a recent article she wrote.

Titled: “You’ll think twice about taking your dog’s photo after reading this…”  (to read the full article click on the link)

“Dog trainers and behavioral consultants see it and we warn the public. We tell owners that “dogs don’t like hugs and kisses”. We explain dog body language and try to open a channel of communication. And finally we try to set healthy boundaries for families and pets. But for some reason all of this education and warning fall on deaf ears. This phenomenon is a relatively new thing. Sure dogs have been family pets for hundreds of years. But the requirement that a dog be tolerant of anything done to it, especially from a child “that doesn’t know better” is new. Most parents wouldn’t leave their toddler alone with a horse, a parrot, or even a cat, but for some reason, a dog is no longer an animal. Instead it is everything but an animal.

Perhaps Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms are partially to blame. Dogs are no longer the family pet. They are the decoration in family photos. The dog is supposed to be the child’s “best friends” but did anyone ask the dog? And even if they are, the meaning of “best friend” is to care about that friend’s needs and concerns. Forcing them to interact while expressing discomfort is not treating them like “best friends.” And before an owner says that they “didn’t see the signs”, ignorance is no excuse. If your best friend spoke a different language you’d do your best to try to understand it. Yet for some reason, dog language rarely becomes part of the conversation. ….”

 

 

 

Off Leash Dogs in Public Areas: no manners, common sense or are some just confused!

I am not sure whether some dog owners are confused, don’t give a toss or don’t have any common sense or manners, when it comes to walking their off leash dog, in public areas.

Whether its a dog park, beach, reserve or park if these places are open to the public, by public I mean everyone, off leash dogs must be kept under control, just because the sign says OFF LEASH doesn’t give dog owners the right, to let their dog wander around and annoy other people or dogs.

Dogs off leash, must be kept under continuous control at all times as per the Dog Control Act. Common sense and manners is called for here, if you see your dog wandering off or annoying someone else, call it back and leash your dog or better yet, leash your dog beforehand. As an owner of a off leash dog you are liable for anything your dog does, as it is your responsibility to keep your dog under control.

If your dog does run off and won’t come back, don’t just stand there calling it, put one foot in front of the other and go and get your dog. Don’t just stand and watch while some other person has to deal with your dog, like I had to do yesterday.

The lady in question just stood there calling her dog, which had no intentions of going back to her, I asked her to put it on a lead, she said she would, if it came back to her. Not quite sure of the logic there, still trying to work that one out.  Then she said the signs says “Off Leash” I said yes it does but this is a public park and your dog must be kept under control.

So it seems to me, she was clearly confused, so maybe its time the councils added some more information to their “OFF LEASH” signs, such as “Dogs must be kept under continuous control at all times” By doing that, they may lessen the confusion.

Unfortunately, the above incident isn’t an isolated event, it seems to be happening more and more and It does make me wonder, if an off leash dog did cause a problem for someone else, how many dog owners would stand up and take responsibility for their dogs actions. (keeping in mind its not the dogs fault) or would they just grab their dog and disappear. Below are links to more relevant articles.

Dog off leash but not under control & When is a dog park not a dog park, when its a public park or reserve

Dogs, Wildlife &  Human Complacency