Brilliant K9s -Dog Training and Behaviour by Anita Takacs

04/10/2024

We celebrate YOU on October 4, the World Animal Day, a special occasion dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare. This day provides a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the incredible significance of our four-legged friends in our lives and to recognize the efforts of organizations and individuals who tirelessly work for the well-being of all animals.

02/10/2024

Sam here, sending a big woof and a happy Waggy Wednesday your way! 🐾💕

07/08/2024

When you want the cat to move because you want to go outside 🤣🤣

12/07/2024

Why Punishment Doesn't Work for Training Big Dogs

Many owners of large breed dogs resort to punitive training methods, thinking a "firm hand" is needed to control a powerful animal. However, research and experience show that punishment-based training is counterproductive, especially for big dogs. Here's why positive reinforcement is a better approach:

1. Punishment can increase aggression: Harsh corrections may cause a large dog to react defensively out of fear or pain, potentially leading to bites or other aggressive behaviours.

2. Damages the human-dog bond: Punitive methods erode trust between dog and owner, making training more difficult long-term.

3. Ineffective for lasting behaviour change: Punishment may temporarily suppress a behaviour but doesn't teach the dog what to do instead.

4. Risk of physical harm: Forceful handling of a large, strong dog can result in injury to either the dog or handler.

5. Missed learning opportunities: Focusing on punishing mistakes means losing chances to reward and reinforce desired behaviors.

6. Stress and anxiety: Punishment-based training increases cortisol levels, hindering learning and potentially causing long-term behavioral issues.

Instead, use positive reinforcement techniques like clicker training, treats, and praise to motivate your big dog. Focus on rewarding good behaviours rather than punishing bad ones. This approach builds a strong bond, encourages enthusiasm for training, and results in a well-behaved dog who listens out of trust and understanding rather than fear.

Remember, a dog's size doesn't determine its trainability or need for harsh methods. With patience and positive techniques, even the largest breeds can become wonderfully obedient companions.

24/06/2024

22/06/2024

**Struggling with Dog Training? You’re Not Alone! 🐶❤️**

Hey Dog Lovers! 🐾

Ever feel like your furry friend just isn’t getting the memo when it comes to training? You’re definitely not alone! 🐕 Training can be tough, but it’s all part of the journey towards a well-behaved and happy pup.

Whether it’s potty training mishaps, pulling on the leash, or that stubborn sit command, every dog owner has been there. The good news? It’s all part of the process! 🌟

Here are a few tips to make things a bit easier:
- **Consistency is Key:** Make sure everyone in the house uses the same cues.
- **Positive Reinforcement:** Treats and praises go a long way.
- **Patience:** Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a well-trained dog.

Share your stories, struggles, and victories below! Let’s support each other on this wild ride of dog ownership. Together, we can make training a fun and rewarding experience for both us and our pups! 🐾💪

Drop a pic of your pup and tell us one thing you’re working on with them. We’re in this together! 🐶📸

09/06/2024

While raised hackles, or piloerection, can be associated with aggression in some cases, it is not always a definitive indicator of aggression on its own. Hackles can also be raised in response to fear, arousal, excitement, or even uncertainty. Dogs may display this physical response as a way to appear larger and more intimidating in situations where they feel threatened or unsure.

It's important to consider the overall context and body language of the dog when assessing the meaning behind raised hackles. Observing other signs such as body posture, facial expressions, vocalizations, and tail position can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the dog's emotional state and intentions.

While piloerection can be a signal that a dog is experiencing heightened emotions, it is not always a direct indication of aggression. It's essential to consider the individual dog's behavior and the specific situation to accurately interpret their communication cues.

08/06/2024

Piloerection in dogs can indicate a range of emotions and anticipation. Here are some common interpretations:

1. Fear or Anxiety: When a dog experiences fear or anxiety, piloerection can occur. The raised hair is a defensive response that makes the dog appear larger and more intimidating. It may indicate that the dog is feeling threatened or uncomfortable in a particular situation.

2. Aggression or Threat: Piloerection can also be a sign of aggression or threat. When a dog's hair stands on end, it is a visual display of assertiveness and readiness to defend itself. This can be observed in confrontational situations or when a dog is trying to establish dominance.

3. Excitement or Arousal: Dogs can experience piloerection as a response to positive emotions such as excitement or arousal. For example, when a dog is anticipating playtime, going for a walk, or about to receive a treat, their hair may stand on end. This can be seen as a sign of heightened excitement and anticipation.

It's important to consider the context and other body language cues when interpreting piloerection in dogs. Factors such as the overall body posture, facial expressions, vocalizations, and tail position can provide additional insights into the dog's emotions and level of anticipation. Additionally, individual dogs may have their own unique ways of expressing emotions, so it's important to consider their overall behavior and personality.

09/01/2024

Such good information ℹ️

Let's get real for a second.

The world often paints a picture that dogs who live together are best friends and do everything together.

This is just not true. Many many many multidog household utilize management in different situations to allow dogs personal space to enjoy things such as:

- feeding time
- chew time
- play time
- attention time

This. Is. Normal.

Just because someone utilizes management, doesn't mean their dogs don't enjoy each other's company or have fun together. It just means that there are certain activities that they prefer to do on their own.

And I will tell you firsthand that implementing safe space zones and time apart can be so beneficial to the relationship between two dogs.

Think about it-- do you enjoy doing every single activity that you do at home with your spouse, family, or sibling RIGHT there? I don't think so.

So let's normalize management between dogs who live together!!

Do you want to work on your dogs' relationship and/or interactions? Go to my website here to schedule a private consult: perkedears.com/private-training-sessions

04/01/2024

Happy New Year to you all!! I’m a bit late with the well wishes, been working really hard to get this boy ready for the deadline.

He is so brave and I’m so proud of him.

I fully compliant insurance wise to offer training to XL bullies and exempt dogs after February 1 as well to be able to help you with any issues you want to iron out.

In our training support group there will be training challenges to build your relationship with your dog to get the results you want.

If there’s less control and more agency, sprinkled with fun you’ll achieve that recall you want easier, have a dog that listens to you, settles at home instead of jumping off the walls.

Let me know if you want in and I’ll send you the details to join!

Let’s squeeze the best out of 2024!

Who wants in?

28/12/2023

19/12/2023

UNWRAPPING
YOUR PRESENTS

"Unwrapping Your Presents" Dog Game

This playful activity inspired by the Russian Doll concept encourages your dog to unravel a series of boxes, each concealing a hidden treat or toy, fostering their problem-solving skills, determination, and resourcefulness.

Concepts:

Grit: Encourage your dog to persevere and overcome obstacles as they unwrap the boxes.

Independence: Promote self-reliance and decision-making as they navigate the puzzle.

Confidence: Build their belief in their ability to successfully complete the task.

Tolerance of Frustration: Help them manage their emotions when faced with challenges.

Focus: Enhance their concentration and attention during the activity.

Flexibility: Adapt their approach as they encounter increasingly complex configurations.

Materials:

A set of different-sized boxes, wrapped in festive wrapping paper if you like

A high-value reward, such as their favorite toy or a delectable treat

Instructions:

Begin with a Single Box: Start by hiding the treat or toy inside a single, easily accessible box. Encourage your dog to sniff and paw at the box, praising their efforts and providing encouragement.

Introduce Multiple Boxes: As your dog masters the single-box challenge, gradually increase the complexity by hiding smaller boxes within larger ones. Make sure the treat or toy is always accessible through the outermost box to avoid discouraging them.

Vary the Presentation: Keep the game engaging by changing the arrangement of the boxes, turning them upside down, or stacking them in different ways. This adds an element of surprise and encourages your dog to adapt their problem-solving approach.

Use High-Value Rewards: Keep your dog motivated by using treats or toys that they truly value. The excitement of the reward will drive them to persevere and overcome the challenges. (For some dogs the activity is rewarding enough, for the ones that looove shredding - no need to do any extra for them, just enjoy their happiness)

Provide Positive Reinforcement: Throughout the game, shower your dog with praise and encouragement. Reward them with treats or toys when they successfully locate the hidden reward.

Gradual Progression: Gradually increase the difficulty level of the puzzle by adding more boxes, combining different box sizes, or hiding the reward in more obscure locations.

Adapt to Your Dog's Pace: Adjust the difficulty level according to your dog's skill and motivation. Allow them to progress at their own pace and offer assistance if they seem overwhelmed.

Show Patience and Consistency: Consistent practice and positive reinforcement are key to success. With patience and encouragement, your dog will develop the grit and determination to conquer even the most challenging puzzles.

Additional Tips:

Keep the game fun and engaging. Avoid making it too difficult or frustrating, as this might discourage your dog from participating.

Make it a fun family activity. Join in the puzzle-solving fun with your dog and encourage them with enthusiastic cheering and clapping.

Enjoy the Unwrapping Adventure: As you watch your dog navigate the unfolding puzzle, you'll witness their resourcefulness, confidence, and problem-solving abilities blossom. Unwrapping presents will become not just a Christmas tradition but also a fun and enriching mental workout for your canine companion.

Every day I’m releasing a game like this (actually there are she’s 3!!!) in our free group Anxious and Reactive Dog Training Support that you can play at home during the festive season and beyond. Happy Christmas from ours to yours 🎄

18/12/2023

🎄🐾 Christmas Fun at our Reactive Doggie Class! 🎁🎉

What an amazing day we had at our Christmas themed class today! Our adorable dogs and their loving guardians rocked around the Christmas tree, opened presents, went for a Santa hunt, and had a bubbly good time. 🎅🐶🎁

The laughter and joy filled the air as we all had a blast together. (And other dogs all wanted to join in 🤣) We are so grateful for the opportunity to teach and learn alongside such wonderful companions. 🐾❤️

Thank you to everyone who joined us today and made it such a memorable experience. Wishing you all a pawsome holiday season filled with love, laughter, and lots of wagging tails! 🎅🎄🐾

17/12/2023

We are making ripples 😊 Thank you for tagging us in this post and thank you for contributing with education to help these dogs to continue to have a life.
Educating and helping as many people and their dogs is in the heart in everything we do.