Posted on 30 August 2010. Tags: barking dog, barking dogs, Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog bark, dog barking, dog breed, dogs bark, dogs barking, good dog, Ownership Advice, Tips and Advice, Train Your Dog
Dog barking and complaints from the neighbors about barking dogs are the most frequent reasons that dogs are voluntarily sent to shelters and rescues by owners that have no idea how to stop barking. Besides voluntary surrenders, there are also by-laws in many cities, towns and urban areas that can result in a dog being seized by the city if there is a repetitive pattern of complaints about barking. Unlike what many owners believe, there are very successful ways to train a dog to only bark when required.
Dog Barking – The Good
Dogs instinctively bark, they don't need to be trained to be watch dogs. Even toy dogs and companion breeds will vigorously bark to let their owners know that someone strange or something different is in their environment. Most people that have dogs appreciate this natural instinct, however when barking gets out of control or is allowed to continue for prolonged periods of time it quickly changes from a benefit to a serious problem.
Part of the problem with good dog barking and bad dog barking is that the dog really has no idea when the line is crossed. This is an important part of training that owners need to start as soon as the puppy or dog starts showing the behavior. By training barking dogs a simple "enough" or "stop" command the issue can be resolved, at least while the owner is present.
Stop Barking Techniques
As mentioned above, there are different techniques that owners can use when they are home and when they are away to help their dog learn to stop barking. Teaching the stop command or the enough command, depending on your preference, is the easiest way to control barking dogs.
To do this simply allow the dog to bark once or twice as normal, then give a sharp but not loud command such as "Stop barking Spot" or "Enough barking Fido", at the same time offering a treat or a favorite toy. The dog will naturally turn to the sound of your voice, see the treat or reward and stop barking. Reward immediately then have the dog sit or chase the toy, resulting in a distraction and cessation of the barking behavior.
If your voice doesn't stop the dog from barking, you can use anything else that will make a noise that is unusual. A whistle, bell or even a few coins or dried beans in a tin can will all produce a sudden, sharp and unusual noise that will get the dog to stop. If you are using a noisemaking device, remember that a reward needs to be provided the second the dog is not barking, and you have to give the verbal command of either stop or enough before making the noise.
Dog barking when you are away is more problematic. If it is caused by boredom, provide more exercise, toys and attention to the dog before you leave, plus ensure the dog is attended to when you are home. It may also be caused by separation anxiety, which will need more intensive training. This type of barking is the hardest to stop. Barking from anxiety is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as panting, frantic behaviors and unwillingness to be away from the owner at any time.
Citronella collars for barking dogs are a safe way to monitor your dog when you are gone, as the collar will spray a puff of citronella in front of the dog's nose when triggered by the vibrations in the throat. Of course barking dogs will also need attention, training and ongoing monitoring to learn how to stop barking and remain quiet when left alone.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 18 August 2010. Tags: aggression, aggressive dogs, Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog aggression, Dog Behavior, dog behaviour, dog breeding, Dog Training, good dog, Tips and Advice, Train Your Dog
Owners of aggressive dogs have a very real, serious issue that they have to deal with either through training or ongoing modification of this potentially serious dog behavior. There are literally hundreds of dogs that are seized and destroyed every year in most major cities because they became aggressive and either injured or killed another animal or even more serious a child or adult. While there are breeds that are known to be more aggressive, it is really a case of inappropriate training or lack of training that results in these types of attacks.
Aggressive Dog Breeds
There is no doubt that some dog breeds are more closely associated with dog aggression than others. It is interesting to note that there are just as many if not more smaller breeds that are considered to be dog aggressive or generally aggressive than the larger breeds, however it is the bigger dogs that tend to carry the negative stereotype. This is because a larger dog breed such as a Pit Bull or a Rottweiler is much more likely to cause serious damage when it becomes aggressive than a smaller breed.
In reality any dog that is mistreated or not properly socialized and trained can become aggressive. Many of the breeds of so called aggressive dogs are excellent family pets when properly trained and socialized and are routinely worked with by someone that is knowledgeable about the breed. Unfortunately irresponsible owners that have encouraged aggression or simply failed to control and train their dogs have resulted ruining the reputation of many breeds and breed bans in some cities and urban areas around the world.
Training and Managing Aggressive Dogs
One of the most important factors in managing aggressive dog behavior is to start training very early. If you are working with a breed that is known to have some aggressive tendencies be sure to get the puppy into a puppy obedience class at approximately the 12 week mark. This will help with early socialization as well as help the owner learn about how to work with the breed.
Often aggressive breeds also tend to be dominant dogs in training, meaning that a person that is planning on owning these dogs needs to have some experience or knowledge of how to correctly train and manage these dogs. Since these dogs also have their wonderful, loving and playful sides, finding a balance between companion and leader is absolutely essential in the relationship.
Spaying and Neutering Dogs
As with non-aggressive breeds, it is absolutely essential to neuter or spay aggressive breeds as soon as possible. Dog behavior will become more pronounced in both males and females during the reproductive cycle, so early spaying or neutering will prevent issues of aggression related to hormonal changes.
There are many examples of aggressive dogs in any breed or hybrid mix. In most cases the dog behavior that is problematic is caused by inexperienced or ineffective owners. As a prospective owner of a breed that is known to be aggressive, it is essential to get help in managing dog behavior in a proactive and responsible manner. This will include early and ongoing socialization and training as well as spending lots of time in developing a great relationship with your dog.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 18 June 2010. Tags: dog rehoming, Dog Rehoming: What To Expect When Rehoming A Dog, dog rescue, rehoming
Dog rehoming is a term used to indicate the process of acclimatizing and getting a dog accustom to new surroundings with a new family. A rehomed dog does need time to adjust, plus keep in mind that rehoming a dog is going to be somewhat stressful on both the new owners as well as the dog until you both get used to the situation.
Prepare A Space For Your Rehomed Dog
Think of a dog rehoming just as you would when bringing home a puppy. Your new dog is going to need his or her own space, bedding, food and water dishes, toys and crate, depending on the breed you are considering and the type of training method you are using. One of the benefits of working with a rehomed dog is that the shelter staff can give you a heads up on what type of toys the dog enjoys playing with, if he or she is already crate trained or if they have any particular preferences for bedding, areas they like to hang out in and even how much interaction they prefer with humans.
A lot of rescues will have foster placement programs that actually put the dogs in volunteer's homes during their stay at the rescue. This enables the staff to see the dogs in various environmental situations including homes with kids, other dogs and even other pets. New owners then have a good idea about what they will need to do to prepare for rehoming a dog based on this feedback.
Give Time To Rehoming A Dog
Even a very friendly, highly socialized and well trained rehomed dog is going to need an adjustment period. Think of a time that you ended up staying at someone else's house; it was a bit uncomfortable the first few days, wasn't it?
One of the biggest mistakes made when rehoming a dog is to expect they will simply fit into the family and understand all commands and routines. While a great many rehomed dogs will do just that, others will need more time in the dog rehoming process. Some dogs may be timid, frightened or nervous, which may translate into slightly aggressive behaviors. Since you may not be aware of all the trauma the dog has been through, giving the dog a week or two to adjust before starting difficult or challenging training routines or asking too much of the dog is important. It is also essential to start using positive training methods immediately, but don't try anything too complicated as the dog can easily become frustrated or confused.
Getting them to do the basics of come, sit and lie down is a great start, then of course working with them on the leash is the next important training goal.
Rehoming a dog does take patience, time and effort, but for the rehomed dog there is really nothing better. For the owner dog rehoming can be a wonderful way to bond with the new pet, starting a lifelong, positive relationship.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 28 December 2009. Tags: Behavioural Changes, Behavioural Changes In Senior Dogs, Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, Dog Health, doggy, owner, Puppies, Puppy, Senior Dogs, tips, Tips and Advice, training older dogs
As he or she ages, your dog’s behavior may change. You may notice some different facets of conduct creeping in to everyday life. This is nothing to of which to be afraid. Behavior changes are simply a part of getting old. It is only if the conduct becomes severe or bizarre that you may need to consult an animal behaviorist or a veterinarian. Either may help you decide whether training is the answer. While it may be true it is hard to teach old dogs new tricks, training older dogs may sometimes be necessary.
The types of behavior changes you may see in an older dog can range from the physical to the mental – in all sense of the word. On the one hand, your dog’s behavior may alter mildly. He or she may actually become more sedate and less excitable. On the other hand, an older dog might exhibit severe signs of separation anxiety or phobias. You need to react to them as symptomatic of old age.
Some problems of your pet are due to changing physical circumstances. The ability to control bowel movements is weaker in older dogs. This requires either diapering or altering your habits and movements to meet the new potty times. It is you, not the animal, who will require training.
Older dogs may also suffer from stress and anxiety. This may be the result of a changing environment. Senior dogs are less tolerant of change than puppies. If you move things about, introduce new people or animals, or move to a new home, this will stress out an older dog. As a result, the dog’s behavior may easily change. In this case, extra attention and positive reaffirmation of their needs is best.
In the case of increased vocalization or aggressiveness, consider some form of training. Older dogs can be led along new paths. First, however, see if the causes are physical. If an animal cannot see properly, it may become more aggressive. This is particularly true at twilight when shadows leap out and forms become fuzzier. A lack of hearing can also produce increased barking. Talk to a trainer and your Veterinarian to see about help in these areas when training older dogs.
Cognitive dysfunctions are found among some older dogs. Anxiety and separation anxiety are the two most common forms of this disorder. To deal with these and such things as aggression, consider professional help. You are dealing with an older dog and you do not want to increase the levels of stress. This could produce physical manifestations such as heart and respiration problems.
It is not easy dealing with the physical changes of your dog. Imagine how it feels from his or her end. While you need to prevent any bad behavior, you need to ensure you are meeting your dog’s needs. You must not consider a dog’s behavior a whimsical change, but as part of the aging process.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 27 December 2009. Tags: Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, dog healthy, dogs, good dog, owner, Ownership Advice, The Mind Body Connection, tips, Tips and Advice, Train, Train Your Dog, Train Your Dog And Avoid Spoiled Puppy Behavior, train your puppies, train your puppy
Keeping your dog healthy involves more than just nutritious food and good veterinary care. It also takes exercise – both mental and physical. Most of us understand our dog’s need for physical exercise; we provide it by going on walks, running, playing chase, or something similar. Less well understood is our dog’s need for mental exercise, too.
Mental exercise? For a dog!?!? Yes, this is a critical part of keeping your dog happy, healthy and well behaved.
Different Breeds, Different Needs
Most dog breeds were developed to perform a specific job of some sort. Protecting the owner, herding livestock, hunting game – these are a few examples of the types of work dogs have been bred to perform. Do some breed research to find out what “life purpose” is inherent in your dog and use that information to fulfill his need for mental exercise.
Exercise That’s Both Physical And Mental
Keeping your dog healthy both physically and mentally fit is not as hard as it may sound. In fact, many common physical activities can also serve as mental stimulation. A good game of fetch is excellent mental exercise because it simulates your dog’s natural predatory behavior. Mealtime can become a mental challenge when you put food in a Kong toy instead of a bowl, or hide the food in small portions throughout the room. It’s great fun for your dog to use her nose and search for hidden treasure.
Organized Activities
Many breeds of dog excel at more organized activities like agility, flyball, tracking, herding or search and rescue. Check with a local trainer, humane society or animal rescue organization to find out more about what’s available in your community.
Doggy Buddies
Just as children benefit from playing with other children, your dog will benefit from playing with other dogs. Find out if there is an off-leash dog park in your community, or get together with your neighbor and allow your dogs to play together. Because dogs are pack animals, they are naturally inclined to social play.
Training
Even training can be stimulating mental exercise if you keep them fun and interesting. Start with short (5 – 10 minute) sessions, making sure your dog receives lots of praise and rewards so she has fun. Once basic obedience has been mastered, try teaching her some simple tricks. You can also set up an obstacle course inside or outside the house and have fun teaching her to navigate through it.
Though combining physical and mental exercise may seem strange, it’s an important part of maintaining your dog’s overall health. If you sat around all day with nothing to do you’d be bored silly, and it’s much the same for your dog. All it takes is a little creativity and a sense of fun to add a world of enrichment to both your lives.
Posted in Psychology & Training
Posted on 27 December 2009. Tags: Breeds & Hybrid/Mixed Breeds, Choosing A Dog Training E-Book, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, Dog Training, Dog Training E-Book, dogs, E-Book, good dog, owner, Ownership Advice, pet ownership, Puppies, Puppy, tips, Train Your Dog, Train Your Dog And Avoid Spoiled Puppy Behavior, train your puppies, train your puppy
Training your pet is an essential part of pet ownership. It’s necessary for the pet and for yourself. There are a lot of dog training products out there. It can be difficult to choose the one that’s right for you. What should you look for when trying to choose a dog training e-book?
- In depth info.
You want to know that there will be many areas covered that will help you train a happy, healthy and well-adjusted four-legged family member.
- Learn more than just the basics.
You want to know you’ll get in depth information on various aspects of training your dog.
- Breed specific details.
You’ll probably want a specific set of guidelines, which is an important part of pet ownership, if you’re buying a breed that’s known for aggressiveness, for example.
- Help for old dogs and new dogs.
You can teach an old dog new tricks! Buy a book that looks at adult dogs and training issues as well as puppies. This way, the book will be a great resource for you later on as well as when you have a tiny puppy to deal with.
Extras that would be nice could include direct support for your pet and a customized training solution. You won’t find this type of scenario too often but in some scenarios (such as this dog tutor program) you can get an included e-mail consultation so you can get specific help with your dog’s issues from an expert. Getting audio visual info as well as a book can be helpful if you’re a visual learner.
When you’re researching various dog training tutors, it might also be a good idea to look for a money back guarantee. That way, if you’re not satisfied you’ll know that there’s nothing lost.
Posted in Psychology & Training
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