Confident Canines NZ

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Confident Canines NZ

Human and Dog Educator - Helping you understand your dog better using humane methods & modern science

We use scientifically based positive reinforcement training methods to help you teach your to become a confident canine.

23/12/2024

Happy Holidays with a Happy Dog

As you tackle those last-minute errands, don’t forget about preparing your dog’s enrichment for tomorrow! A little effort now can save you stress later and keep your dog content amidst the chaos.

Ideas like frozen LickiMats, stuffed Kongs, or Toppls are perfect for providing mental stimulation while also helping your dog feel calm and occupied. You can fill them with dog-safe ingredients like yoghurt, mashed pumpkin, or peanut butter (just make sure it’s xylitol-free), and pop them in the freezer.

Why is this so helpful? On busy days with loads of people in the house or heightened excitement, enrichment can:

Help your dog stay calm and relaxed, even in noisy environments.

Prevent unwanted behaviours like barking, jumping, or chewing.

Give them a sense of routine and predictability during an otherwise hectic day.

So, while you're ticking off your to-do list, take a few minutes to prep something special for your dog. They’ll thank you with their calm and happy demeanour tomorrow!

You can even share some of your Christmas dinner with your dog! Dog-safe foods like cooked turkey or chicken (no bones or skin), carrots, green beans, or a dollop of plain mashed potato (no butter, cream, or salt) make great festive additions to their enrichment. It’s a simple way to make them feel included in the celebrations!

23/12/2024

How adorable is Dolly?!

Dolly is the last dog/puppy I will be seeing before Christmas. She is a wee firecracker, who is clearly loved by her family.

21/12/2024

Perfection doesn’t mean fitting into someone else’s idea of what’s right. My dogs may not be "perfect" by society’s standards, but to me, they are perfect just as they are—quirks, flaws, and all.

I’m not perfect either, but that doesn’t matter. Together, we create something truly special. It’s not about being flawless; it’s about being perfect for each other.

What makes your dog perfect just as they are? Let’s celebrate those perfectly imperfect bonds—share your thoughts below!

20/12/2024

🎄 Christmas Day is Almost Here! 🎄

Most of us have plans for the big day, but have you thought about how it might affect your dog? If your furry friend is spending Christmas with you, here are some tips to ensure they enjoy the day as much as you do:

♡ Provide a Safe Space
With all the excitement, your dog may need some quiet time. Create a safe, cosy space for them, especially if there are non-dog-savvy kids or adults around. This can be a spot for self-selected or enforced time out to relax.

♡ Plan Enrichment Activities
Keep your dog engaged with pre-prepared enrichment like LickiMats or Kongs. Fill them with high-value foods and freeze them ahead of time for a soothing activity during heightened arousal.

♡ Offer a Dog-Friendly Feast
Treat your dog to their own Christmas meal! Dog-safe options include chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, cooked pumpkin, potato, kumara, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage (coleslaw is fine without onions), and even a bit of gravy if you're having a roast.

♡ Avoid Harmful Foods
Steer clear of foods like chocolate, grapes, sultanas, raisins, salty or fatty dishes, and anything toxic to dogs.

♡ Skip the Costumes
Unless your dog is used to wearing them and enjoys it, avoid dressing them up. Let them stay comfortable.

♡ Use Wrapping Paper for Enrichment
Reuse Christmas wrapping paper and boxes for a fun activity! Hide treats in scrunched-up paper, inside boxes, or scatter kibble over a pile of wrappings and let your dog explore.

♡ No Time in the Car
If your plans mean your dog will be left in the car, it’s best to leave them at home. In New Zealand’s summer heat, cars can quickly become deadly, and even freezing cold cars can be harmful.

♡ Don’t Forget Their Presents!
Dogs are always on Santa’s good list, so don’t forget to include them in the gift-giving!

Christmas is a time for family, and dogs are family too. Keep them safe, happy, and included this festive season!

20/12/2024

Not all enrichment is good. And example if this would be laser pointers These are often used as enrichment for cats but are also been know to be used for dogs.

Laser pointers can seem like an easy and exciting way to provide enrichment for dogs and cats. After all, chasing that bright, fast-moving dot can trigger their prey drive and provide a burst of physical activity. However, while it might look like harmless fun, using laser pointers as enrichment can have negative effects on your pet's mental and emotional well-being.

The Problem with Laser Pointers

The key issue lies in the fact that the laser dot is intangible—it cannot be caught, smelled, or physically interacted with. For many dogs and cats, this lack of closure can lead to frustration, anxiety, and obsessive behaviours. Here’s how:

1. Frustration and Stress: Animals are hardwired to complete the "hunt" sequence: see prey, chase prey, catch prey. Laser pointers remove the critical "catch" stage, leaving pets unsatisfied. This can result in frustration or even increased stress levels over time.

2. Obsessive Behaviours: Some pets may develop obsessive-compulsive tendencies, such as chasing shadows or lights, even when the laser pointer isn't being used. These behaviours can be difficult to manage and may indicate underlying anxiety.

3. Missed Opportunities for Natural Enrichment: Laser pointers lack sensory engagement. Dogs and cats explore their world through their sense of smell, touch, and taste, none of which are satisfied by chasing a light.

4. Injury Risk: Pets may overexert themselves or collide with furniture during intense laser-chasing sessions. In some cases, staring directly into the laser beam can also damage their eyes.

Better Alternatives for Enrichment

Enrichment should mimic your pet's natural behaviours in a healthy and fulfilling way. Here are some safer, more beneficial options:

Interactive Toys: Use toys that your pet can physically catch, bite, or paw at. Feather wands for cats or flirt poles for dogs are excellent alternatives.

Puzzle Feeders: Engage their problem-solving skills by providing food puzzles or slow feeders.

Sniffing Games: Especially for dogs, hiding treats or using snuffle mats allows them to use their incredible sense of smell.

Structured Play: Incorporate games like fetch, tug, or hide-and-seek with toys or treats.

If You Still Want to Use a Laser Pointer...

If you choose to use a laser pointer occasionally, make sure to incorporate a "catch" element. For example, end the game by directing the laser to a tangible toy or treat that your pet can physically interact with. This can help reduce frustration and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Enrichment is an essential part of keeping our pets happy and healthy, but it’s important to choose activities that consider their mental and physical needs. While laser pointers might seem fun at first glance, the long-term consequences may outweigh the benefits. By selecting enrichment tools that cater to their natural instincts, you’ll ensure your pet lives a more fulfilled and balanced life.

Do you use a favourite enrichment tool for your pet? Share your ideas in the comments!

19/12/2024

Problem Behaviour vs. Behaviour Problem

As a follow-up to our post on Training vs. Behaviour Modification, let’s explore the difference between a problem behaviour and a behaviour problem. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to very different situations. Recognising the distinction is key to knowing how to effectively address the issue.

Problem Behaviour

A problem behaviour is something that may be inconvenient or undesirable from a human perspective but is actually quite natural for the dog. These behaviours typically stem from the dog’s instincts, needs, or natural tendencies. For example:

Barking at the doorbell (alerting behaviour).

Digging in the garden (a natural outlet for energy or instinct).

Jumping up on people (a friendly greeting).

While these behaviours can be annoying, they are not inherently harmful to the dog. They are simply expressions of natural dog behaviour. Problem behaviours can often be managed through training, where the dog learns to adopt more acceptable behaviours in specific situations.

It’s important to remember that dogs will always resort to doing dog behaviour because they are dogs, and these actions are natural and enjoyable to them. What is a problem for us may not be a problem for the dog at all.

Behaviour Problem

A behaviour problem, however, typically indicates that something deeper is going on emotionally or psychologically with the dog. These behaviours can be distressing for both the dog and the people involved. Examples include:

Severe separation anxiety (the dog becomes highly stressed when left alone).

Aggression towards people or other dogs (often a response to fear or anxiety).

Compulsive behaviours, like excessive licking or tail chasing.

Behaviour problems are not simply annoying; they reflect underlying emotional or psychological issues that the dog may be struggling with. These situations usually require a more intensive approach, such as behavioural modification, which focuses on addressing the root cause of the behaviour. This could involve understanding the dog’s anxiety, fear, or frustration, and using specific techniques to help them cope and manage these feelings.

Why It Matters

Understanding whether you are dealing with a problem behaviour or a behaviour problem helps you choose the most appropriate approach. For problem behaviours, training can often guide the dog’s actions and help them learn alternative behaviours. For behaviour problems, deeper emotional intervention through behavioural modification is usually necessary.

By recognising these distinctions, you can take the right steps to help your dog feel more comfortable and secure in their environment, improving both their well-being and your relationship.

Do you have a dog that’s showing a problem behaviour or a behaviour problem? Let’s discuss the best way to approach it!

15/12/2024

Sleep and relaxation are often overlooked but vital components of your dog’s overall enrichment amd well-being. While physical exercise and mental stimulation are essential, quality rest is equally critical for your dog’s health and happiness. Dogs typically need 12–14 hours of sleep each day, with puppies, senior dogs, and certain breeds requiring even more.

Why Sleep Matters for Dogs

Cognitive Benefits: Sleep helps dogs process and retain what they’ve learned, particularly after training sessions.

Emotional Well-being: Rest helps regulate mood and reduce stress, making dogs calmer and more balanced.

Physical Recovery: Quality sleep is essential for immune function, cellular repair, and overall recovery.

Relaxation as Enrichment

Relaxation isn’t just about sleep—it’s also about giving your dog opportunities to wind down and recharge. Calming activities like sniffing walks, puzzle toys, or simply resting in a peaceful spot allow dogs to reset mentally and physically. Incorporating these moments into their daily routine supports their long-term well-being.

How to Support Rest and Relaxation

Provide a comfortable, quiet sleeping space.

Stick to a predictable routine for exercise, meals, and sleep.

Encourage calming behaviours with cues like "settle" or "relax."

Offer enrichment activities like scent-based games to help them transition to rest.

By prioritising rest and downtime as part of your dog’s enrichment, you’re helping them stay healthier, happier, and more fulfilled.

13/12/2024

Recently, I was speaking with a colleague who had worked with me throughout Craven’s entire life. They’ve heard about so much of our journey together and said something that truly resonated. They told me I had done so well advocating for Craven—standing by him when he was sick, searching for answers, and being there for him in the everyday moments. They reminded me how much I fought for him and how beautifully I stood by his side, encouraging me to be proud of all that I did.

Hearing those words brought me a sense of relief and a small bit of happiness amidst my grief. It reminded me that, no matter how difficult things became, I had always been there for Craven in the way he needed most.

Advocating for our dogs isn’t just about the big, life-changing moments. It’s also in the small, everyday actions. It’s saying, “Don’t touch my dog,” when they need space. It’s noticing when something feels off and not stopping until someone listens. It’s standing up for their needs, comfort, and wellbeing in a world that doesn’t always understand them.

Being Craven’s advocate was both my responsibility and my privilege. He deserved that, and hearing someone acknowledge my efforts brought me comfort.

To everyone reading this: never underestimate the power of being your dog’s advocate. In the small, quiet moments or the most challenging times, you are their voice, protector, and greatest supporter. When you look back, those moments will bring you peace—even through the hardest times.

What’s one way you’ve advocated for your dog recently? Let’s celebrate those moments together.

13/12/2024

If you could grant your dog one wish this Christmas, what would it be?

Imagine you had a magic wand – no limits, no constraints. Endless adventures? A lifetime of belly rubs and treats? A particular product? A fancy coat? A life full of happiness?

This season, let’s take a moment to dream for them and cherish the little things that make their tails wag. What’s your Christmas wish for your dog?

12/12/2024

Box of Surprises for Canine Enrichment

Looking for a budget-friendly way to entertain your dog? A Box of Surprises is a simple yet exciting activity that taps into your dog’s curiosity and problem-solving skills!

How Does It Work?

A Box of Surprises is exactly what it sounds like: a box filled with layers of goodies and challenges for your dog to explore.

Benefits:

Encourages natural behaviours: Dogs love to sniff, paw, and dig! This activity lets them safely channel those instincts.

Mental stimulation: Figuring out how to get to the hidden treats keeps their mind sharp.

Eco-friendly fun: Reuse items from around the house.

What You’ll Need:

A cardboard box (size depending on your dog)

Treats or kibble

Crumpled paper, toilet rolls, or small fabric scraps to act as fillers.

Optional: safe toys, frozen treats, or puzzles for added layers

How to Set It Up:

1. Scatter a few treats or kibble in the box.

2. Fill the box with crumpled paper, toilet roll tubes, or other fillers, hiding more treats throughout.

3. Close the box or leave it open for easy access.

4. Supervise your dog while they explore, sniff, and paw through the box to find the hidden treasures.

Pro Tip:

If your dog tends to eat things they shouldn’t, use only dog-safe materials and keep a close eye on them.

Your recycling bin is full of useful items for your box of surprises.

This is a great rainy-day activity and can be adapted to suit dogs of all ages and abilities. What would you put in your dog’s Box of Surprises? Let us know in the comments!

11/12/2024

It’s easy to become fixated on shaping your dog into what you might consider the "perfect" companion. But don’t lose sight of the fact that they are already perfect just as they are—simply for being themselves.

Training and development are valuable for improving skills and addressing challenges, but these should always be approached as a way to strengthen your bond, not as a pursuit of flawlessness. Celebrate your dog’s individuality, quirks, and all the things that make them unique.

Work on smoothing the rough edges and refining behaviours, but remember: your dog doesn’t need to be perfect to be loved—they’re already perfect to you.

10/12/2024

Behavioural Modification vs. Training: Understanding the Differences

When working with dogs, it’s important to understand the difference between training and behavioural modification—as well as training issues and behavioural problems. These terms describe different challenges and approaches, and recognising the distinction can help you better support your dog’s needs.

What is Training?

Training is about teaching your dog specific skills or cues using positive reinforcement. It focuses on building desirable behaviours and practising them in various situations.

A training issue occurs when a dog hasn’t yet learned a specific skill or struggles to perform it consistently. This is not due to emotional distress or fear but rather a lack of understanding or practice.

Examples of Training Issues:

A dog who doesn’t come when called because they haven’t been trained in distracting environments.

A puppy who pulls on the lead because they don’t yet understand how to walk nicely.

Training is effective for confident, motivated dogs who are ready to learn and practice new skills.

What is Behavioural Modification?

Behavioural modification addresses the why behind unwanted behaviours. It focuses on changing a dog’s emotional responses to specific triggers, such as fear, anxiety, or frustration.

A behavioural problem arises when a dog’s unwanted behaviour is driven by underlying emotions or unmet needs. These issues often result from fear, past experiences, or a lack of appropriate coping strategies.

Examples of Behavioural Issues:

A dog who barks or growls at visitors due to fear.

A dog who destroys furniture when left alone because of separation anxiety.

Behavioural modification works to change how a dog feels about a situation, not just how they behave.

Sometimes, the two approaches go hand-in-hand. For example, a dog who reacts to other dogs on walks may need behavioural modification to reduce their fear or frustration, alongside training to teach focus cues or calm walking behaviours.

When to Seek Help

If your dog struggles with fear, aggression, or anxiety, consulting a professional who specialises in behavioural modification can be invaluable. For general training challenges, a positive reinforcement trainer can help you build skills and confidence.

09/12/2024

"I loved you all of your life, and I will miss you for the rest of mine."

This sentiment captures the essence of what it means to lose a beloved companion. Whether they walked beside us on four paws, fluttered in a cage, or swam silently in a tank, their presence wove itself into our daily lives, creating a bond deeper than words.

When we share our lives with an animal, we love them fiercely, knowing their time with us is fleeting. We cherish the way they greet us with joy, the quiet comfort of their presence, and the moments that seem ordinary but become the memories we hold closest. Their lives may be shorter than ours, but their impact is immeasurable.

Grieving the loss of a pet is not "just" grief. It is the loss of unconditional love, of a routine built around another life, and of a presence that knew us in ways no one else could. It is the weight of silence where their voice or movement once filled the air.

As we navigate the emptiness, let us honour their memory by cherishing the love they gave us and allowing it to guide how we live the rest of our lives. Grief is the echo of love, a testament to the bond we shared.

For those who may not understand, remember this: the depth of our grief reflects the depth of our connection. There is no shame in mourning a soul who gave so much and asked for so little.

To all who are missing a companion today, take comfort in knowing that while they may no longer be by your side, they will always live on in your heart. Their life was a gift, and your love for them is their lasting legacy.

Hold onto the joy they brought you, and know that your memories will keep them alive in the moments you need them most.

08/12/2024

Want to make snack time more engaging and enriching for your dog? Try a tasting platter! This creative activity offers variety, encourages your dog to make choices, and provides mental stimulation.

What is a Dog Tasting Platter?

A tasting platter is a selection of small portions of safe, dog-friendly foods presented on one large plate or tray. It’s a fun way for your dog to explore new tastes and textures while slowing down their eating and boosting their confidence.

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

1. Encourages Choice-Making:

Presenting a variety of foods allows your dog to decide what to eat first, empowering them to make choices.

This simple decision-making process can build confidence, especially in shy or hesitant dogs.

2. Boosts Confidence:

Trying new foods and exploring textures can help your dog feel more secure and adventurous.

Completing the platter reinforces positive experiences, giving your dog a sense of accomplishment.

3. Slows Down Eating:

Unlike a regular bowl of food, a tasting platter encourages your dog to pause and investigate each item.

This slower pace can reduce the risk of gulping or overeating, making mealtimes more mindful.

How to Make a Tasting Platter:

1. Select a Large Plate or Tray: Use one with enough space to separate the foods.

2. Choose Safe and Varied Foods: Include a mix of:

Crunchy: Carrot sticks, apple slices (no seeds)

Soft: Boiled chicken, cooked sweet potato

Creamy: Plain yoghurt (unsweetened and unflavoured), dog-safe peanut butter (no xylitol)

Savoury: Cheese cubes (in moderation), cooked fish

3. Encourage Exploration: Place the platter on the floor and let your dog decide where to start.

Why It’s Worth Trying:

Mental Stimulation: Sniffing and investigating the platter keeps your dog’s brain active.

Safe Experimentation: Introduces new foods in a controlled, low-pressure way.

Improves Mealtime Habits: Encourages slower eating and greater focus.

Tasting platters turn a simple snack into an exciting enrichment activity that’s great for your dog’s body and mind. What foods would your dog love to try? Share your ideas below!

04/12/2024

Why scatterfeeding could be your dog’s favourite activity....

Have you heard of scatterfeeding? It’s a simple and enriching activity that provides both mental and physical stimulation for your dog. Here’s a breakdown of what scatterfeeding is, what you’ll need, and why it’s such a beneficial practice.

What Is Scatterfeeding?

Scatterfeeding involves spreading your dog’s food or treats across a specific area—your garden, a mat, or even a room indoors. Your dog uses their nose to find and eat the food, mimicking natural foraging behaviours.

What Do You Need?

Your Dog’s Food: This could be kibble, treats, or even small pieces of fresh food.

A Safe Area: Ensure the space is free of hazards.

Optional Tools: A snuffle mat, which is designed to mimic grass or foliage, can also be used indoors.

Benefits of Scatterfeeding

1. Mental Stimulation: Using their nose to forage engages your dog’s brain, providing mental enrichment that can help prevent boredom.

2. Physical Exercise: Scatterfeeding encourages gentle movement, especially for dogs that might not be able to engage in vigorous activity.

3. Anxiety Reduction: The slow and focused activity of sniffing helps calm your dog and can reduce anxiety or stress.

4. Natural Behaviours: Foraging taps into your dog’s instincts, allowing them to engage in an activity they find inherently rewarding.

5. Encourages Relaxation: Sniffing is a calming activity for dogs, often leading to relaxation post-activity.

6. Slows Down Fast Eaters: For dogs that tend to gulp their food, scatterfeeding forces them to eat more slowly, which can reduce the risk of digestive issues.

7. Accessible for All Dogs: From puppies to senior dogs, scatterfeeding is a versatile activity that can be tailored to suit any dog’s needs.

How to Get Started

Start with a small, contained area and gradually increase the challenge by spreading the food further apart or in more complex environments. Indoors, a snuffle mat or even a folded towel can provide a good start. Outdoors, you can scatter food across the lawn for a more natural experience.

Whether you’re looking to reduce your dog’s anxiety, keep them entertained, or simply add variety to their routine, scatterfeeding is a low-cost, effective, and enjoyable way to support their well-being.

Have you tried scatterfeeding with your dog? Share your experiences below!

03/12/2024

When it comes to working with dogs and their people, I believe training and mental health go hand in hand. Every dog and handler is unique, shaped by their individual experiences, challenges, and emotions. By considering both physical behaviour and mental well-being, we can build deeper, more effective relationships.

Dogs, like us, have emotional needs. Stress, fear, frustration, or anxiety can significantly impact their behaviour, just as our own mental state influences how we respond to them. A reactive dog isn’t “bad”; they’re likely overwhelmed and need guidance to feel safe. Similarly, an exhausted or stressed handler may struggle to communicate effectively, creating a cycle of frustration for both.

But here’s something we sometimes forget: dogs are inherently joyful creatures. They remind us to live in the moment and find happiness in the little things—a walk, a game, a cuddle. Training and living with a dog shouldn’t have to be stressful. Yet, so often, there’s immense pressure to be perfect, to have the “perfect dog.” The truth is, there’s no such thing as perfection. Progress, connection, and mutual enjoyment are what really matter.

In my training, I focus on creating an environment where both dogs and humans feel supported and can rediscover the joy of working together. For dogs, this means recognising their stress signals, celebrating their successes, and encouraging behaviours they feel confident about. For handlers, it’s about letting go of the pressure, embracing imperfection, and focusing on the unique bond they share with their dog.

Why does this matter? Because progress comes from connection, not perfection. When we approach training with kindness and curiosity, we open the door to a partnership that’s as rewarding as it is effective.

So, take a breath, have fun, and celebrate the wins—big or small. Training isn’t about having a flawless dog; it’s about growing together and enjoying the journey.

What brings you and your dog the most joy? Let’s share and support each other in this journey!

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Blooper reel I hate filming myself, which is probably why I have stacks of courses and qualifications 99% finished. But in the interest of pushing myself, I attempted to film some things with Krueger and Myers. I absolutely hate how I look and sound, I am sitting weirdly, and clearly, I put zero thought into my outfit. Add to that the Nightmares were super excited being in a new place, which led to constant excitement. Anyway, here is a blooper real. Nightmare On Pointer Street

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Please don't touch my dog. You don't know if they are anxious or uncomfortable. They are my dog, and you need permission from me and my dog before you can pat them. #handoffmydog #dogs #dogbehaviour #dogsofaotearoa #dogsofnewzealand #newzealand #donttouchmydog

I have been working with Craven around using an automatic feeder to ensure he gets his medication every 8 hours. His medication is put into a freeze dried treat so there is no moisture to degrade it before he eats it. He has had loads of practice eating his medication treat from hand. This was the first step because loads of dogs will avoid eating anything when they think there is something foreign in it. Putting it into a feeder is a bit different again. For the last week, we have been working on getting Craven use to the feeder, the sight of it, the noise it makes, and the fact that it pops open. Once he was happily eating out of it, he had it in his crate set to pop open within a few minutes. On Monday we started having it with him during the day. Unfortunately, he knocked it over and it didn't open because of his super squishy bed. With a few adjustments, we now have it figured out. Currently it is on an angle to prevent it being flipped and I will add some padding on the lid to prevent the bang on the crate but otherwise I am pretty happy. Craven can have his meds as required even when I am not here. Here is today's video of Craven medicating himself.

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We use scientifically based positive reinforcement training methods to help you teach your to become a confident canine. Techniques used are force free, low stress, and help to strengthen the relationship you have with you dog.

Confident Canines offers one on one training and behaviour modification sessions in your home. Puppy classes and other group classes are offered as required. In addition to helping you train your dog we also run classes in person first aid class as well as providing online classes in various aspects of dog husbandry. Well versed in behaviour adjustment, puppy development and cooperative care.

The Active Outlet, Confident Canines’ online store is place to buy environmental enrichment toys, training tools, and sports gear. New Zealand Stockists of Dog Copenhagen, BUMAS, Howling Dog Alaska, and Kickbike. We have a wide range of Kong products and other quality toys.

Lucy has a BSc in Psychology and Zoology, Diploma of Veterinary Nursing, and a Diploma in Applied Science. She has complete various online training courses in animal behaviour and training.

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