Vom Roten Wald German Shepherds

06/25/2024

Tips on Fireworks and dogs from Gun Dog Supply Company:
The volume and brightness of fireworks are just too much for most dogs. Their ears are about four times more sensitive to sound than ours, so you can imagine how loud and upsetting fireworks are to them.
Before the Fireworks Begin:
• Talk to your neighbors and ask them to give you a call before they set off fireworks
• Walk your dog beforehand because it might be a while before it's safe for them to go back outside
• If possible, bring your dog inside to a closed-off interior room
• Feed your dogs ahead of time; anxious dogs are often too upset to eat
• Fill up their water bowl, as anxious dogs pant more and become thirsty
• Make sure you have a safe and comfortable place for them to be while the fireworks are going on
• Close windows and blinds in order to block the bright lights from startling your dog
(I start diffusing Young Living essential oils ahead. Anyone of the oils in the picture can help. I can send you details on them if you like. Your dog will sense the soothing effects of the oils. They will associate the smell to calmness and when diffusing them during fireworks, they are comfortable and will be calmer. One of my friends here in Fremont, diffuses Peace and Calming and her dogs sleep through the fireworks.)
Should your dog get out and run away this Independence Day, it is vital that they have an ID plate on their collar. That way when they are found, folks can contact you. (I would also suggest getting a microchip if your dog doesn't have one)
During the Fireworks:
• Have a TV, radio, or white-noise maker to drown out the sound of the fireworks
• Distract your dog with their favorite toy or bone
• Reward good, calm behavior
• Comfort and reassure your dog that everything is all right
• Act normal and don't react negatively to the fireworks; dogs can pick up on behavioral cues
• Don't make your dog "face their fears" -- this will only frighten them more
• If you need to go outside, make sure your dog is secure before opening the door
Remember it is harder to fix a gun-shy or noise-sensitive dog than it is to prevent it.

05/04/2024

Good to know, just in case.

04/21/2024

Lexi is looking for a great home that is going to love her forever. She is house trained and trained in basic obedience. PM for more info!

04/21/2024

Bo enjoys his exceptional chiropractic care with Dr. Wong!

12/11/2023

Words of Mike Sweeney, USCA Nationals champion.

I’ve had the privilege to work with dozens of training groups and hundreds of handlers in 2022. Observations of common themes I see.

1. This sport is not about who trains the most but who trains the most clever. IGP isn’t like shooting free throws or going to the gym. Dogs can take weeks/months off of formal training. The important part is that you are training smart when you do. “Reps don’t equal success” or “No training is better than bad training”.

2. This is a 3 phase sport. People freak out about a small pulse on the sleeve or leaking in secondary, yet the dog doesn’t know how to retrieve a dumbbell or track 50 paces.

3. Everyone wants fighting from their dog in protection. But the points are in the guarding, gripping, and outing.

4. Handlers push puppies too much. Not giving them a chance to grow up but instead racing for a BH. When puppies have a bad day, week, or month they are ready to wash them.

5. Handlers aren’t reading the rule book. This is a sport so know the rules, know what you are chasing, know what to do when things go wrong.

6. Not all dogs can make a V performance. Most were born genetically possible and then receive top training. There is nothing wrong with an SG score!

7. Handlers should also watch routines with an emphasis on the handlers. Watch the best handlers (posture, movement, timing) and also watch handlers with less experience (see where they loose points).

8. Train with the purpose of moving forward. I don’t mean rush but I see dogs that spend years on a back tie. Have goals and work with people that help you take the next step. Don’t fall into “paralysis by analysis”.

9. Be honest with your dog and your training. Try and earn the points you are capable of, don’t chase 300.
Training and trial prep are two very different things. People forget to show the dog the trial picture. (Outing the dumbbell, shut downs, long attack..).

10. Remember to enjoy your dog and the sport.

12/08/2023

Tim Cutterson is a world class trainer. He has won three National Championships. Follow his page!

Professional dog trainer, specializing in high drive, precision training.
3-time National champion