Lieberdog

Lieberdog Positive Reinforcement & Fear free Dog Training Services
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Our Why: To enrich your dog's life and well being

What we do: We enrich you and your dog's life through personalized dog training services that focus on meeting your goals and your dog's needs, through positive reinforcement and force-free methods.

One of the main keys to working with your dog is the three d’s which are Distance, Duration  and Distractions. To have y...
01/04/2024

One of the main keys to working with your dog is the three d’s which are Distance, Duration and Distractions.

To have your furry best friend be able to give you attention and focus in many different environments is to work on all three of these in different rooms and environments and at different lengths in duration and distance with and without distractions.

Today we focus on distance.

Distance is so important when working with your furry companion. At the beginning of working with your dog to teach them new skills is to always be close to them. For example teaching them sit you’re right in front of them generally, that’s why when you cue sit they are generally in front of you instead of at the side or behind you.

This allows you not only to teach your best friend a preferred behaviour todo instead of the one they are offering but allows you to have easy opportunities for reinforcement.

Secondly, by practicing well know behaviours at different distances it helps to generalize the behaviour and teaches your dog that they don’t have to be right in front of you to be reinforce for responding to said cue at different distances.

On the opposite end of using distance is when your best friend is scared of a stimulus in their environment. In this situation the closer you get to the stimulus the harder it will be for your best friend to listen to you, unless they’ve been reinforced at distance and slowly have been moving closer to the scary stimulus at their own pace. That’s why distance is always your friend in leash reactivity and overcoming environmental fears such as vacuums or any other things that make loud noises.

At a distance reinforcing your dog when they see a scary stimulus is approaching, they are learning that good things come from noticing the scary stimulus building confidence in your best friend and even intrigue to explore it.

That’s why distance is your ally throughout training and will be one of your go to throughout your furry best friends life.

2023 has come and gone and what a year it was for Churchill and me. We did a lot of work on his separation anxiety hitti...
01/01/2024

2023 has come and gone and what a year it was for Churchill and me. We did a lot of work on his separation anxiety hitting 40mins of alone time. I graduated from the KPA and started training in April which has been brining me joy everytime I see my client and their dogs progression. It’s just so cool seeing animals learn. Finally we were able to hit up new trails and spend a lot of time with our pawfriends :).

This year I’ve decided on 4 goals that I know I can achieve with your support! Swipe right to learn more! I can’t wait to get started.

When socializing your puppy or dog, it's crucial to understand that socialization goes beyond interactions with other do...
11/02/2023

When socializing your puppy or dog, it's crucial to understand that socialization goes beyond interactions with other dogs and puppies. It encompasses exposure to both familiar and novel objects, such as the vacuum cleaner, as well as various everyday sounds like traffic and people raising their voices. Additionally, it involves introductions to a diverse range of individuals, including those who use wheelchairs, and other pet companions, such as cats. Lastly, environmental factors play a role, including experiences in different weather conditions like foggy and rainy days, exploring various trails, and exploring different neighbourhoods.

By engaging in this comprehensive socialization process, you enable your dog to gain a better understanding of the world and teach them that the cues in their environment are not only safe but also contribute to them being well-adjusted in their development.

Speaking of socialization experiences, please share your amusing anecdotes about socializing your puppy in the comments below. We all have memorable stories to tell!

When you do what you love you'll never work a day in your life is a mantra most dog walkers live by, however like any jo...
10/26/2023

When you do what you love you'll never work a day in your life is a mantra most dog walkers live by, however like any job it also comes with it's fair share of risk and stress. Dodging off leash dogs, distracted drivers, and too close for comfort runners are just some of the obstacles they are bombarded with daily.

This week on Training Tip Thursday we asked Meaghan from .and.free.pet.services on what dog walkers want you to know!

A well tempered pack can look deceptively friendly leading many passers-by to believe the pack is open to greetings from people and dogs alike, unfortunately this is usually not the case. Although the pack is happy and tolerant of their walking buddies, unfamiliar dogs and people approaching without consent can create unnecessary stress for both dog and Handler. It's important to remember that dog walkers are working and sometimes need to focus their full attention on their pack and their surroundings especially in busy urban areas.

As tempting as it may be to want to rush up to pet all the adorable dogs, please always ask permission to approach and say hello and always respect the handlers response. Managing multiple dogs can be a challenge at times so allowing a little extra space goes a long way to make their day that much easier.

Let us know in the comments something that your dog walker does to help keep your bff happy and safe on their walks! Thank you to Wild & Free Pet Services for this collaboration on "what your local dog walker wants you to know". If you are in the Ottawa area be sure to check them out for all of your pet care needs!

Last week, on Training Tip Thursdays, we shared a post detailing positive indicators that your dog exhibits when express...
10/19/2023

Last week, on Training Tip Thursdays, we shared a post detailing positive indicators that your dog exhibits when expressing curiosity about interacting and potentially desiring to engage with another furry companion.

This week, we turn our attention to discerning negative body language cues, which serve as clear indications that your dog lacks interest in play, interaction, and may be experiencing underlying fear. In such instances, it is imperative to exercise caution and advocate for your dog's personal space. These warning signs encompass:

Growling
A Rigid, Stiffened Posture (from head to tail)
Air Snapping and Baring Teeth
Lunging
Raised Hackles
Bent Elbows (Pawing or Paw Raises)
Tucked Tail
Lip Licking, Ears Pinned Back, and Displacement Sniffing

It is essential to note that some of these signs may manifest in different contexts, such as when a dog raises its hackles in response to a highly charged play session, only to lower them as it breaks away briefly, shakes off, and then returns to the interaction, which is generally acceptable.

However, when these behaviors manifest due to a perceived threatening stimulus, such as a child approaching with excessive exuberance, it signifies fear. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the specific context when interpreting your dog's body language.

If you have any questions regarding dog body language or wish to share additional signals or signs to augment this list, please feel free to inquire or provide your insights in the comments section below.

Reading dog body language can be confusing, if you do not know what you're looking for. The signs shown in this post are...
10/13/2023

Reading dog body language can be confusing, if you do not know what you're looking for. The signs shown in this post are great indicators that your dog can potentially be interested in playing with a potential new paw friend, such

1) Relaxed Facial Expression On Approach
2) Investigation Of Head and Rear Areas
3) Allowing Investigation of Head and Rear Areas
4) Continual Movement During Investigation
5) Simultaneous Mutual Rear Investigation ( The Circle Investigation)
6) Rapid Segue Into Play, Voluntary Withdrawal To Go Separate Ways, Or To Urinate
7) Elbows Are Bent ( Bends) Pawing or Paw Raising
8) Freezing In One Of The Dogs ( If Other Dog Stands Over)- Most Common In T-Position But Can Occur Muzzle To Muzzle

If you do not see any of these signs mentioned in the post during the interaction your dog is about to have, it's a good indicator that a problem may occur especially if you notice any growling or snarling.

That's why it's important to always watch your dog's body language before interacting with a dog you could be passing by as they are communicating with you their comfort level and that should always be respected.

If you need help learning more about dog body language, don't hesitate to contact me and comment below if their are any other signs that indicate a positive interaction.

Here’s a reminder that there’s no such thing as a perfect dog, but the perfect dog for you. Meaning our dogs all do thin...
10/08/2023

Here’s a reminder that there’s no such thing as a perfect dog, but the perfect dog for you.

Meaning our dogs all do things we don’t like, but those moments are generally so small that we forget how great they really are.

And for me the perfect dog is Churchill! I wouldn’t trade him for anything!



Photo credits

Photo I’d 1. Max a white young adult male whose bald with brown eyes and a trimmed beard. He is wear a salmon coloured polo shirt and blue jeans. He is kneeing on the grass looking at Churchill a black, white and tanned brown beagle. Churchill is sitting in front of him and looking and smiling at him.

Photo I’d 2: Churchill a black, white and tanned brown beagle is giving Max a kiss on his nose and mouth. Max is kneeling and holding his paw. Max is a white young adult male whose bald and has brown hazel eyes. He is wearing a salmon polo shirt and blue jeans. He is smiling well receiving the kiss.

I know this tip seems like a no brainer, but ensuring your dog or puppy has their id tags attached to their collar or ha...
10/05/2023

I know this tip seems like a no brainer, but ensuring your dog or puppy has their id tags attached to their collar or harness and having them micro chipped can help to save their life as the finder can connect with you, alert the finder that said dog my have a medical issue if anything were to occur and ultimately gives you assurance if anything were to happen that said person will be able to contact you.

That’s why I never leave the house without church’s id tags no matter how good his recall is you never know how your environment will change in an uncontrollable environment.

This tip was inspired by a moment that occurred the other day. I helped a friend who lost her dog find her dog and reunite them. It was such a scary experience to have been apart of that I truly felt like I had to share this tip.

So please never leave your home without your dogs id tags, it truly gives you a peace of mind.

Many people will expect the general rule of thumb with all dogs that they will be scared of x and like z, for example be...
09/28/2023

Many people will expect the general rule of thumb with all dogs that they will be scared of x and like z, for example be scared of thunder and love being in big groups of dogs.

In reality no matter what they are breed todo all dogs have their own distinct personality, desires, fears and feel more comfortable in certain environments.

That's why it is important to not force your dog to be someone they are not as you will be doing a disservice to them. Keep them safe and healthy by allowing to thrive in situations where they feel safe and can have their needs met.

Training Tip Thursday: Don't Scroll and walk! I know that we are always connected to our phones and I'm guilty of this t...
09/21/2023

Training Tip Thursday: Don't Scroll and walk!

I know that we are always connected to our phones and I'm guilty of this too.

But when we are not paying attention to our dogs while we are on our phones, especially while walking them in public we can put each other in dangerous situations that can be avoided. For example saving your dog from choking on a chicken bone picked up off the ground, or yourself getting tangled in an on leash greeting causing you to trip and fall.

Secondly when we are not on our phones, we can notice our dog's triggers if they are reactive. Afterwards you can make a plan to help make your furry best friend feel comfortable and safe during your walks and prevent any altercations.

Finally, being present with your dog allows you to enjoy every little detail and moments you have with your best friend creating life time memories. I know, I won't forget the day I brought home Churchill and the first night we snuggled on the couch, him giving me a kiss before curling up under my arm pit.

Speaking of memories comment below about a cherished moment you have with your furry best friend.

All in all that's why it's important to be off your phone while looking after your pup and if you need any help making your time more enjoyable with each other, feel free to reach out! I will be happy to help work on any skill or behaviour you would like to improve upon. Direct message me for more info!

A common misunderstanding pawernts are told is that a certain walking tool will stop pulling, which can be used to sway ...
09/14/2023

A common misunderstanding pawernts are told is that a certain walking tool will stop pulling, which can be used to sway a person's decision to use said tool to put a stop to the pulling behaviour.

But in reality no matter what walking tool you use, your dog will pull as

1. They walk faster than us naturally ( they have 4 legs generally and we have two)

2. Their is generally a highly reinforcing influence they want to explore in their environment, such as seeing a squirrel they'd like to chase. That's why you see dog's who even walk on prong collars pull.

3. Walking on lead isn't natural to them and they have to be taught.

The only aspects you should be concerned with is if you prefer to use an aversive punishment tool to stop the pulling behaviour such as a prong, pinch or choke collar ( which I don't advocate for because of the damage it does to your dogs neck) or a less aversive tool like a harness.

Secondly, teaching your dog how to loose lead walk will help to remedy this problem by teaching them to stick near you on your walks and that more exciting things come from you then influences in the environment.

If you like the tip we shared today, share it with your friends and share a moment below on a memory you look back fondly now from your dog's pulling days.

09/04/2023

Are you getting stressed because your dog isn't listening to you and would love to make your time with them more enjoyable ?

I'm happy to help through the use of positive reinforcement, shaping and fear free methods I will help you and your dog work together to meet each others needs.

To get you started take advantage of our fall promo 10% off your initial consultation with us and let's unleash the pawtential in our furry best friends!

Did you know that when your dog sniffs objects within their environment ? In this Training tip Thursday post we explain ...
08/31/2023

Did you know that when your dog sniffs objects within their environment ? In this Training tip Thursday post we explain why and how it can helps.

Sniffing helps your dog learn about the environment they’re currently in helping them to learn and grow. It not only calms them down but also exercises their mind as by sniffing your dog is learning a lot about their surroundings and if done for at 20mins it’s equivalent to an hour walk. That’s why it’s important to let them sniff and it can make your walking experience easier for the both of you.

Thank you everyone for making the   charity initiative a smashing success and watching the head shaving live and asking ...
08/29/2023

Thank you everyone for making the charity initiative a smashing success and watching the head shaving live and asking your dog training questions. I truly enjoyed every second of it!

We have raised $1,000 for to help care for the animals in their facility until they find their forever homes. It will make a difference for them!

Thank you to Luis for for donating his time and shaving my head. He’s a great hair stylist and you definitely will be well taken care of if you go to him.

This couldn’t have been a better birthday gift, I can’t wait to celebrate my 31st birthday on the 31st of August. Thank you all for making it special.

If you have any other dog training questions don’t hesitate to connect, I’d be happy to help and if you’d like to donate their is still time, donations will be accepted until August 31st.

Reinforcement

Photo I’d- Max a white young adult male is kneeling beside his dog Churchill a black, white and tanned brown beagle. He is wearing a grey v neck and kaki shorts. He is bald with a trimmed brown and hazel brown eyes. He is smiling into the camera. Churchill is chewing onto his bully stick beside Max.

08/26/2023

Hi Pawernts & Pawfriends,

Happy Saturday!

As we all know today was supposed to be the day that I shave my head bald, but I received some unfortunate news today, so we are postponing the head shaving until August 28th at 6.30pm.

But I do have some good news, as of this morning we hit our target goal of $1,000 dollars!

Meaning I will be bald for the entire year! More importantly thank you all so much for helping to provide aid to the Toronto Humane Society to care for all the animals in their facility. You'll have made my birthday very special!

I can't wait to answer your dog training questions Monday August 28th on our instagram handle at 6.30pm !

We have gone bald for a cause!

All the best,
Max

I love dog friendly people, but it doesn’t mean our dog will love the stranger who would like to interact with them. Tod...
08/17/2023

I love dog friendly people, but it doesn’t mean our dog will love the stranger who would like to interact with them.

Todays tip explains how I handle the situation by explaining to the friendly person that it’s up to my dog if he/she wants to say hi, watching my dogs body language during the initial interaction between us and how their body language helps me decide if it’s a good interaction for my dog. I look for cues such as curiosity, neutrality and the big give away turning into the stranger for pets as signs of an interaction I’d want. But if I see signs such as lip licking, ears pinned back and avoidance I know the interaction isn’t one my dog wants.

By saying it’s up to my dog to the dog friendly stranger, it helps them understand that your dog can make their own choices, giving your dog agency and control of their life, which they have very little of. As well you’re advocating for your dog at the same time, which is always beneficial.

Comment below on how your interactions with dog friendly strangers have been going! We hope this tip helps!

Hi Pawernts and Pawfriends, We just wanted to give you an update about   charity initiative for my birthday. We have rai...
08/11/2023

Hi Pawernts and Pawfriends,

We just wanted to give you an update about charity initiative for my birthday.

We have raised over $500 improving many animals lives in the care of Toronto Humane Society meaning I’ll be bald for half of the year. With over two weeks to go, we still have time of hitting our goal of $1,000 dollars and me being bald for one year!

So here’s what I need from you, please donate whatever you can and share with your friends who have dog training questions. Join me live on this handle on august 26th at 11:45am and witness the head shaving by Mateus Hair. At the same time I’ll be answering your dog training questions, please keep them generic! Make me bald for a cause!

Donate here : https://m.charitableimpact.com/DSGK

I’d - Max a white young adult male with brown hair, brown beard and hazel brown eyes is wearing a grey athletic t shirt and black athletic shorts. He’s sitting on the couch, smiling into the camera and talking about the update. Behind him is his kitchen table.

Training Tip Thursday: You Don't Determine What Your Dog Finds AversiveThere are well-known tools that I don't advocate ...
08/11/2023

Training Tip Thursday: You Don't Determine What Your Dog Finds Aversive

There are well-known tools that I don't advocate for or use when training dogs/puppies, such as pinch/prong collars, shock collars, and e-collars. These tools are designed to be aversive, causing discomfort and pain to discourage unwanted behaviors.

Your dog will exhibit signs of discomfort and pain, such as whale eyes, pinned-back ears, lip licking, overall stiffness, and panting, among other uncomfortable body language cues.

On the other side of the aversion coin, there are everyday interactions that your dog might find aversive, such as being hugged, having air blown into their face, or being petted on the head without their consent. These same behaviours can manifest here, as your dog might feel uncomfortable in these situations.

This is why it's crucial to observe your dog's body language. If you notice any of these signs, do not ignore them, as they signify your dog's discomfort. Ignoring them repeatedly could potentially escalate their behaviour, leading to air nipping or lunging, as they don't feel safe.

What's one behaviour you've noticed your dog or puppy doesn't like? Let us know in the comments below!

Training Tip Thursday! Socializing your dog is super important, but it doesn’t mean you should allowing your dog on leas...
07/27/2023

Training Tip Thursday!

Socializing your dog is super important, but it doesn’t mean you should allowing your dog on leash to greet every dog he/she sees on the street.

Why ?

1. Greeting can be uncomfortable for you and your dog as their flight response is taken away from them being attached to the leash and held in your hand/waist, leaving them to use their second response fight, eg lunge and bark. As well the leash can tangle hurting our furry best friend or us in the process.

2nd Each dog has their own personal space needs, so it’s important to be mindful of that and not to force interactions.

The best thing todo is follow the rule of 80% and 20%. 80% of the time don’t greet dogs on leash and the other 20% of the time go for it, just ask the pawernt for permission first. Keep your interactions short to 3 seconds maximum and afterwards call your dog away and reward for exiting the space.

To celebrate my birthday on August 31st, I want to help other pawfriends find a forever home by raising money for Toront...
07/25/2023

To celebrate my birthday on August 31st, I want to help other pawfriends find a forever home by raising money for Toronto Humane Society.

Every dollar raised will go towards feeding and general care of the animals at the facility until they find their new home.

In return, I will be shaving my head bald Mateus Hair and doing a live stream on Instagram Lieberdog during the shave.

During the stream I will be doing a Q&A to answer any questions you may have about dog training, please keep the question generic.

If you have any questions you'd like me to answer please post them in the comment section of the donation page. I will not forget them! This will occur on August 26th at 11.45am.

Please also share this initiative with friends of yours who want some advice on their training needs or if you just want to get your kicks out of seeing me bald, either or is cool with me!

Here's the fun part the amount of money raised by us will help decide how long I keep my head shaved bald.
�$150= 1 month
�$250= 2 months�
$500 = 6 months�
$1,000= One Year

To donate visit the link below.

https://my.charitableimpact.com/groups/lieberdog

Let’s find homes for loving pets!


Training Tip Thursday: Understand Your Dog’s Cues! 🐶💡🔎 Instead of reprimanding and yelling at your furry friend for bark...
07/20/2023

Training Tip Thursday: Understand Your Dog’s Cues! 🐶💡

🔎 Instead of reprimanding and yelling at your furry friend for barking or jumping, let’s take a closer look at their environment. Cues in the environment can explain their reactions and emotions.

For example, is traffic noise scaring your dog 🚗 ? Or perhaps they get very excited when they see other dogs 🐕 ?

By observing these cues, we can gain empathy for our pups and understand their needs better!

🤝 Work with your dog to make them feel happy and safe in their environment. Create a positive atmosphere, help them cope with triggers, and teach appropriate responses together.

Share your experiences in the comment section below, and let’s support each other on this journey of understanding and training our furry best friends! 🐶

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