Dog Training in Portland - Off Leash K9 Training

03/29/2025

https://portlandoregondogtrainers.com/how-to-teach-your-puppy-to-down/

03/25/2025

Kugel supervising todays training. 😂😍 🐾

03/25/2025

https://portlandoregondogtrainers.com/training-your-puppy-to-reliably-come-to-you/

03/24/2025

03/23/2025

Sisters Sally and Bailey posing for spring pictures 😍. 🐾

03/22/2025

03/22/2025

https://portlandoregondogtrainers.com/best-dog-breeds-for-beginner-dog-owners/

03/18/2025

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03/15/2025

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03/15/2025

https://portlandoregondogtrainers.com/salmon-poisoning-in-dogs-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/

Salmon poisoning is a potentially fatal condition that affects dogs who consume raw or undercooked salmon, trout, or other fish carrying a parasite called

03/14/2025

Please meet our new arrival to our board and train program, Cane Corso Penny!! 🐾

03/08/2025

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TikTok | Make Your Day

03/07/2025

Skip the Dog Park—Here’s Why

Dog parks seem like a great place for socializing your pup, but they come with risks many owners don’t consider. While some dogs thrive in off-leash environments, others may find them overwhelming, unsafe, or even harmful. Here’s why you might want to skip the dog park and explore safer alternatives.

1. High Risk of Disease and Parasites

Dog parks are breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Many dogs come and go, and not all are up-to-date on vaccinations or parasite prevention. Common illnesses spread at dog parks include kennel cough, giardia, and canine influenza. If your dog has a weaker immune system, they’re especially vulnerable.

2. Unpredictable Dog Behavior

Not every owner is responsible, and not every dog is well-socialized. Even a friendly-looking dog can suddenly become aggressive, leading to fights or injuries. Poor recall training, territorial behavior, and rough play can quickly escalate into dangerous situations.

3. Overwhelming or Stressful for Some Dogs

Dog parks can be loud, chaotic, and overstimulating. If your dog is shy, anxious, or reactive, they may feel stressed rather than enjoy their time. Some dogs even develop fear-based aggression due to negative experiences at the park.

4. Poorly Supervised Play

Many owners treat dog parks as social hour for themselves, not their pets. They get distracted on their phones or in conversation, missing important body language cues that signal discomfort or tension. This lack of supervision can lead to fights or bullying behavior among dogs.

5. Risk of Injury

From rough play to larger dogs accidentally trampling smaller ones, injuries are common. Sprains, broken bones, and even bite wounds can happen in a split second. If your dog is young, elderly, or small, they’re especially at risk.

6. No Control Over Training and Behavior

Dog parks reinforce bad habits, like ignoring recall commands, jumping on strangers, or playing too rough. Your dog may pick up undesirable behaviors from other dogs, making training harder.

Safer Alternatives to Dog Parks

Instead of a chaotic, uncontrolled environment, consider these safer alternatives:
• Leashed Walks: A structured walk provides exercise, mental stimulation, and bonding time with you.
• One-on-One Playdates: Invite a friend with a well-mannered dog for a controlled play session.
• Hiking Trails: Many dog-friendly trails offer a quieter, more enriching experience.
• Fenced Private Dog Fields: Some areas have rentable enclosed spaces where your dog can run freely without unknown dogs.
• Training and Agility Classes: These provide both mental and physical stimulation in a controlled setting.

Final Thoughts

Dog parks aren’t inherently bad, but they’re not the best option for every dog. If your pup enjoys them and you can supervise closely, they can be a fun outing. However, for many dogs, the risks outweigh the rewards. By choosing safer alternatives, you can ensure your dog stays happy, healthy, and stress-free.

Would you skip the dog park? Let me know in the comments! 😃

Contact us for any training needs or tips.

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03/05/2025

Spring Garden Plants Poisonous to Dogs: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Spring is a time of renewal, with gardens bursting into bloom and nature coming alive. However, while these vibrant flowers and plants bring beauty, many common spring garden plants are toxic to dogs. As a responsible pet owner, knowing which plants pose a risk can help prevent accidental poisoning and ensure your furry friend stays safe.

1. Tulips (Tulipa spp.)

Tulips are a garden favorite, but they contain toxic compounds called tulipalin A and B, which are most concentrated in the bulbs. If ingested, tulips can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and even central nervous system depression in severe cases. Keep dogs away from tulip beds, especially when planting new bulbs.

2. Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)

Daffodils, with their bright yellow blooms, are a staple of spring gardens. However, they contain alkaloids that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even more serious symptoms like tremors and cardiac arrhythmias if a large quantity is consumed. The highest toxin concentration is in the bulbs, making them particularly dangerous.

3. Hyacinths (Hyacinthus spp.)

These fragrant flowers are toxic to dogs, particularly the bulbs. Ingestion can lead to intense drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and irritation of the mouth and esophagus. In severe cases, it can cause difficulty breathing.

4. Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

Though small and delicate, this plant is incredibly toxic. It contains cardiac glycosides that affect heart function, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, slow heart rate, and even seizures or death if untreated.

5. Azaleas & Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.)

These popular shrubs contain grayanotoxins, which interfere with nerve and muscle function. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, drooling, and potentially fatal heart arrhythmias.

6. Crocuses (Crocus spp.)

Spring crocuses (Crocus vernus) are mildly irritating, but Autumn Crocuses (Colchicum autumnale) are highly toxic, containing colchicine, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, organ damage, and even death. Be sure to identify the type of crocus before allowing your dog near them.

7. Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

Foxglove is striking in appearance but deadly if consumed. It contains digitalis compounds, which directly affect the heart, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and possibly fatal heart failure.

8. Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)

Commonly known as Lenten Roses, hellebores are toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy. These symptoms can escalate to heart problems in extreme cases.

9. Bluebells (Hyacinthoides spp.)

Bluebells contain toxic glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and disorientation. Ingestion in large amounts may result in heart complications.

10. Irises (Iris spp.)

Irises, particularly their rhizomes (underground stems), contain compounds that cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and abdominal pain. While rarely fatal, ingestion can lead to significant discomfort.

Signs of Plant Poisoning in Dogs

If your dog has eaten a toxic plant, you may notice symptoms such as:

Vomiting or diarrhea

Drooling

Loss of appetite

Lethargy or weakness

Irregular heartbeat

Tremors or seizures

Difficulty breathing

What to Do If Your Dog Ingests a Toxic Plant

Remove any plant material from their mouth and rinse with water.

Contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.

Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).

Monitor your dog’s symptoms and be prepared to take them to an emergency vet if needed.

How to Create a Dog-Safe Garden

To keep your garden pet-friendly, consider planting non-toxic flowers such as:

Sunflowers

Marigolds

Snapdragons

Petunias

Roses

Additionally, use barriers like fencing or raised garden beds to keep your dog away from harmful plants.

Final Thoughts

Spring gardening should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. By being mindful of toxic plants and taking precautions, you can ensure your pet stays safe while still enjoying the beauty of the season. Always supervise your pet in the garden, and when in doubt, opt for dog-friendly plants. If you suspect plant poisoning, seek veterinary care immediately.

By creating a safe outdoor space, you can welcome spring without worry and enjoy the season with your four-legged companion! 🌸🐶

02/25/2025

We adore R***r!
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02/15/2025

First beach trip for Shepador.R***r! 😍😍😍

Call us today and get $150 off any daystay or board and train package!

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