Dog Behave Help

11/30/2024

On Leash Greetings

Many dogs don’t do well with “on leash” greetings. They may be ok with other dogs when they’re off leash, but react negatively or even aggressive when on leash.
There are many reasons for this, the most common - fear of unpredictable behaviours by the approaching dog, over excitement or aggression.
Young dogs especially can be too exuberant and often ill mannered.

Please don’t allow your dog to approach any “on leash” dogs, as it can end in disaster. People with leash reactive or leash aggressive dogs are trying to do the right thing by keeping their dog on leash. 

Teaching your dog not to approach “on leash” dogs does take a lot of work, but it stops a lot of problems. It also helps you teach your dog about polite approaches and introductions. 

11/25/2024

11/09/2024

Older dogs.
It’s sad to see your dog slow down and often experience behavioural changes.
It’s important to record the changes and make adjustments for them.
At their next Veterinarian appointment, ask for a senior blood panel and a thorough check up.
Walks are so important to ensure they maintain muscle mass and get mental stimulation through a sniff walk. Ensure you’re letting them pick the pace and length of the walks.
Ensure they’re not struggling to get in and out of bed, on the sofa, etc.
If you have slippery floors, put grippers socks on your dog’s feet or anti slip throw rugs to help them get around without falling.
This is just a short list to help you see the changes your dog goes through as they age.
Observation is the key to helping them at every stage of their lives.

09/18/2024

Grooming is something most of us, and our dog’s, don’t always enjoy. It’s super important to groom your dog regularly, starting the day they come home.
Mats rip their skin, cause rashes from moisture and if the rips get infected, maggot infestation can occur.
Nails need to be kept short as long nails cause joint problems and can split and bleed.
Ears need to be cleaned and checked for burrs, bugs and mats.
Their whole body needs to be checked weekly for new lumps, bumps, mats, cuts,etc.
Bathing should be done regularly according to their fur and activity levels.
Keeping your dog well groomed helps not only their physical health but also their mental health.
Uncomfortable dogs can be aggressive or nervous.

09/09/2024

If your dog has behavioural problems and you’re planning or expecting a baby, don’t wait until the baby is due to seek help.
Also remember, most rescue groups won’t take dogs with behavioural issues.

08/01/2024

Another post about puppies

Have you started handling your puppy?
Looking in their mouths, ears, eyes, nose, brushing their teeth, playing with their feet, trimming their nails, brushing their fur, etc?
This should be started the day they come home and everyday, with nail trimming weekly.
If you have a pup that will need regular grooming, they need to start going weekly for practice at the groomers.
It’s extremely important to teach your pup that grooming is a part of life. Puppy’s pick up things and you’ll need to take them out of their mouths. Spring time in Alberta means sticky’s from the trees are in fur and feet, you have to put these off.
The list is endless and your pup needs to feel comfortable with you helping them.

Your pup, groomer and Vet will thank you for the work!

07/08/2024

Here’s a reminder

07/01/2024

Fireworks bring a few minutes of joy for humans but create fear and worse for dogs, as well as most other animals.

06/27/2024

Adopting vs purchasing a pup/dog.

The correct answer is different for everyone.

If you want to adopt, fantastic!
Ask lots of questions about the dog’s behaviour - separation anxiety, aggression, fear, etc.
Also very important, ask about health and previous owner’s history.
Request any records that may be available.
Many “preowned” dogs are surrendered because of behavioral or health issues the original owner didn’t want to, couldn’t afford or didn’t have the time to work with.
These issues can be minor or major.
But, there’s also lots of easy, ready for a new home dogs that will fit into your family without much work!
Don’t be bullied into “adopting” because you feel guilty. Make the choice that’s right for you.

If you want to purchase from a breeder that’s great too!
Find a breeder that does health testing, has behaviourally stable dogs, provides good nutrition for the mom and babies, has a clean & mentally stimulating environment and provides healthcare for the pups.
Ask to see where the pups are raised and to see both parents. Many times, the male isn’t in the same location so you’ll have to go elsewhere to see him.
Daily videos are also an easy and convenient way of learning about the pups.
Don’t buy a dog without seeing the environment they were raised in. There are many puppy mills and most have fantastic websites and know the right things to say. If you can’t visit, contact the local animal control office as well as the local shelters and SPCA to find out more detailed information about the breeder.
Being an CKC, AKC or a breeder group member doesn’t guarantee the breeder is a good one.
Know a lot about the breed you want before you purchase. Find a dog show and hang around that breeders area. Watch and ask questions.

A dog is a lifetime commitment. It’s important to ensure you’re ready before you bring him home. If you’re unsure, consider fostering a dog. It’ll give you a chance to “test run” dog ownership without the commitment. It you fall in love with your foster dog, you can adopt her!

Most dogs live 10-15 yrs. They need training, healthy food, regular medical care, daily walks, playtime, love and attention. Be sure you’re ready before you bring home a new family member. They take a lot of time and money.

06/02/2024

Things to remember for your new puppy’s first night’s home.

1. She’s a baby
2. She’s scared
3. She’s not house-trained
4. Everything and everyone is new
5. She doesn’t have a clue how to behave in her new environment
6. She’s not trying to be bad, she’s being a dog baby
7. Biting is a big part of how puppies play together, you have to teach her people don’t play that way
8. Expect to get up a few times a night for the first while to take her out to relieve herself
9. She’s probably never been in a kennel before, be patient
10. Feed her at certain times each day to regulate her bathroom schedule. Not the exact time but within an hour or so
11. She needs to have lots of different toys/chews. Do not give her things that may confuse her such as old shoes/slipper, etc
**She’s a baby and you need to teach her what your rules are BUT you must have realistic expectations!
**What you don’t want her doing at 2 years old, she shouldn’t be doing at 8 weeks.

05/02/2024

Has your dog been for a SNIFF walk today? If not, take them to a treed area and let them investigate.

04/24/2024

***Reminder***
Never leave your dog’s collar or harness on, they should only wear them on outings. Many dogs are strangled by collars and harnesses. You also have to be very cautious when your dogs are playing, jaws and paws can get tangled in these and cause injuries or worse.
Ensure microchip and tattoo information is up to date! Have your Vet read the microchip each year.

03/31/2024

Does your dog jump out of the car the second you open it? Do you have to be a goalie to stop him from running out the door when the pizza guy shows up?
It’s extremely important to teach your dog safety protocols as well as manners.
Many dogs are hit by cars or lost because they were never taught these basic skills.

03/03/2024

Socialization
Often dog owners are told to socialize their pup once they’ve had all their vaccinations.
But, the socialization window closes between 12-16 weeks old.
It’s not taking them to a class, it’s about introducing them to the world. Let them meet and play with fully vaccinated, well mannered dogs. Not large groups. First one on one, than you can build up to small groups if it’s controlled and your pup isn’t intimidated.
Take them places, not crowded places but on adventures. Walk in trails meeting people and dogs, go to the Vet and get on the scale, anyplace they’re likely to go regularly.
Socializing is an ongoing adventure but works best if you start early and of course, never flooding the pup/dog!

02/03/2024

Are you thinking of bringing a puppy or dog into your family in the future?
Before you do, understand the needs and characteristics of the breed you choose before deciding.

Not every dog fits into every family.

It’s important to remember that children and dogs aren’t always a good mix, both need to be taught how to behave towards each other. If your child can’t control themselves around dogs, wait until they’re mature enough to understand.

Most bites happen when a dog is trying to communicate it’s uncomfortable but the child doesn’t understand or won’t stop interacting with the dog.

01/11/2024

PLEASE
if you see a pet outside without a heated shelter and it looks in distress, contact Animal Control or Alberta SPCA. This sudden extreme cold kills!

12/31/2023

**A yearly reminder**

To everyone getting a puppy in 2024 and beyond, here’s a few things to know

1. Socialize them from day 1. They need to be around other dogs (well behaved, vaccinated dogs) to learn how to communicate with them. Many behavioural problems are caused because of lack of, incorrect or too late socialization.
2. Don’t flood/overwhelm them when socializing but introduce them to as many things that will be in their lives as you can before 12 weeks.
3. They’re babies but they can learn! Teach with kindness, never punish and if they don’t get it, look at how you’re teaching.
4. The socialization window closes between 12-16 weeks (Scott and Fuller) don’t wait until they’re fully vaccinated to start, it’s too late for most. Put boots on them and don’t let them put anything in their mouths if you’re unsure or concerned with disease transmission.
5. Only get a puppy if you’re sure you can commit time daily to her/his mental and physical needs for 10-15 years.
A dog is not an ornament or an accessory!