Dream Weaver Dog Training

18/07/2022

“HEATSTROKE IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY”

I’m compelled to keep posting this. I’ve learned of a number of dogs that have died of heatstroke in the recent heatwave.

If you see a horse or person or dog with heatstroke, then cool them down by hosing/spraying water from the outside or house water supply (usually 10-20°C). It doesn't have to be ice-cold to be effective as long as you put a lot on. You may well save a life!

And yes, I know there is a lot of advice about cooling horses, dogs and people which goes against aggressive cooling and advises ice packs in the groin or armpit and using tepid water! It's outdated and ineffective and if you follow it your horse/dog/person is more likely to suffer permanent injury or worse!

If you don't believe me, then listen to the people who do this for a living with people...

"Active cooling via Cold Water Immersion (CWI) is now the standard of care and should be done immediately. This is a Grade IA recommendation.5 The patient should be immersed in ice water 1 to 3°C." http://www.emdocs.net/heat-related-illness-how-to-cool-em-and-what-to-do-after/

24/06/2022

If your pup alligator rolls when you try to look at their feet, call me.

10/05/2022

26/03/2022

When rescues refuse to receive help from breeders for fear of supporting something they don't believe in, the animals lose.

When breeders refuse to help rescues for fear of retribution, the animals lose.

Working together is the ONLY ANSWER to the question: "How do we fix this?"

18/03/2022

How the Kong ball was invented.

The Kong toy was invented by accident more than 40 years ago when Joe Markham needed a way to prevent his German Shepherd Fritz from biting on rocks and sticks. Fritz, who Markham adopted as a shelter dog, had worn down his teeth to one-third of the size they should have been.

He was working on his vehicle and tossed an axle stop with an attached bracket on the ground. His dog got hold of it and loved it. He was playing with it joyously, much to Markham’s amusement.

He said to his friend, “What do you think of my new dog toy?”

His friend replied, “Actually, it’s not too pretty. It looks like an earplug from King Kong.”

And the Kong toy was born.

03/03/2022

For those of us who feed our dogs peanut butter, please be careful! 🥜🥜

Xylitol is toxic to dogs.

It can be found in many peanut butter brands.

This toxic ingredient is now being labelled as 'Birch Sugar'

Always remember to double check food labels!

03/03/2022

sent in by Destiny Lynette Jackson!

24/02/2022

22/02/2022

Not GSD specific, because everyone deserves a healthy dog.

OFA is one of many beneficial organizations, and this post delivers the information beautifully. Please take a moment to read!

One of our bare minimum requirements for our breeding program is health testing our dogs. For us and many other responsible breeders this means more than routine vet clearances for breeding.

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is an organization that evaluates and maintains an online database of genetic health testing for dogs. This online database is not only a tool for potential puppy buyers to ensure their breeder is doing right by their dogs, but it's also a great resource for breeders to track the health of their lines and to make informed breeding decisions.

Recommended genetic testing for each breed is determined by the parent club for that breed. So for Dalmatians, the Dalmatian Club of America (DCA). Once a dog has completed the recommended health screenings they will earn a Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) Number. It's important to note however that a CHIC number is still awarded if the dog has failing results, so breeders and buyers should always look up the results for themselves.

For Dalmatians, the required testing is
- BAER Hearing Test
- OFA Evaluation for Hip Dysplasia
And of one the following:
- OFA Thryroid Evaluation
- ACVO Eye Exam

Breeders may choose to do other genetic screenings as well, but these tests are the bare minimum required by DCA.

Searches can be done on the OFA website by typing in the dogs registered name, registration number, or CHIC number if one has been issued.

22/02/2022

This is very true, you loose nothing from gaining knowledge.

If you are looking to add to your family, asking trainers or breeders about their views may prove very valuable. I am always happy to help where I can. If I can't, I might know someone!

Be honest about your life style, and don't be afraid to ask questions. You are looking for your companion of 12 + years! Choose wisely

15/02/2022

Your dog is not a robot, and they don't come pre-programmed to do all the things us humans want them to be able to do.

Just like you had to learn about the world around you and how to exist within it, so do dogs!

Set your dog up for success by teaching them the skills they need to be able to meet your expectations.

08/02/2022

When a puppy owner shows you enrichment done right 💪🏻

All dogs are smart creatures, that like us require stimulation. And all creatures, like ourselves are powered by food. Take food, make it fun, and you will have a very happy dog indeed!

01/02/2022

Beautiful illustration

29/01/2022

Looking for a way to entertain your pup who seems to have endless energy? Feel free to reach out!

I am constantly on the hunt for ways to entertain my smarties. I would love the opportunity to share them with you!

08/01/2022

The man who rears a dog must complete what the breeder began: the breeder can indeed lay the foundations of a good and serviceable dog, but the trainer must see to it that he brings to their highest possible development the physical and mental foundations already laid, and thus his is the more grateful task.
~Max Von Stephanitz

10/12/2021

Most problems with horses have nothing to do with the horses themselves, they stem from the ignorance of the rider.

Folks shoe their horses wrongly, saddle their horses improperly, feed them poorly and then complain they were sold a half lame sway back ill-tempered hack.

And so goes the same song and dance with dogs.

I am heavily interested and involved with studying dog nutrition and mental stimulation. I adore hearing from my previous people, and am more than happy to discuss any dog related questions you may have. Let's talk dog!

04/12/2021

Let's talk about discipline positively. A lot of people think positive reinforcement is all hug and kisses and treats with no discipline. But what is discipline?

"Discipline is the suppression of base desires, and is usually understood to be synonymous with restraint and self-control. Self-discipline is to some extent a substitute for motivation."

It doesn't mean punishment. And there is plenty of discipline in positive reinforcement.

For instance, you're not getting the reward, until you do what I ask you to do. That might mean sit before a treat, or wait before running out the door.

When the dog does what you ask it to do, then you reward them. But you need to be firm and strict. If your dog doesn't sit for you when you ask, and you give them the treat anyway, you are reinforcing the behavior. You need to be strict, or your dog will take advantage of it. That is discipline without using force.

11/11/2021

Happy Veterans Day!

I just have to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to those who have the courage to fight for our country!

17/10/2021

I received the sweetest update yesterday from Oscar and Olive's family.

They were in our Board and Train program, and used to check out completely when together. Now they are superstars together or apart!

So thankful to have been trusted with these sweet pups! I am happy they are living as well behaved members of their family!

14/10/2021

Nail trims are one of the most important, yet an often over looked necessity when owning dogs.

The key to good structure, and comfort starts at the paws. Properly cared for dog paws can help increase traction on slippery floors, reducing the chances of more injuries than I can count. Short nails means the toe bones are in the proper place, and comfortable. No splayed feet, etc.

Dogs accepting nail trims peacefully also reduces harm done to either themselves (ex pulling away and them getting quicked) or people such as their groomer, vet or even yourself depending on who's trimming!

I strongly urge everyone to take a few moments to teach their pups the importance of nail trims!

11/10/2021

Remember Angel?

Her lovely family sends me these updates on miss Angel. These letters mean so very much to me. I love hearing how my previous students are doing!

09/10/2021

https://youtu.be/fNVA1ThaP-8

Before I head out to walk Bellamy, l'll leave this little video from the wonderful Ian Dunbar. Grab a coffee, relax and enjoy talking dog!

In this video, dog training expert Ian Dunbar explains how to make the most of our dog walking time. He explains why our walks need quality over quantity.Dr ...

09/10/2021

Is Balogna the best? Bellamy seems to think so!

Little sessions like these are common for our Board and Train curriculum. Bellamy has learned his manners quickly!

He is a master at place, and his leash manners have been improving steadily. We are about to start field trips!

He plays nicely with our other puppies, and shows beautiful sociability when it comes to people. He has another week of training before he goes home, and I know he will make me proud!

06/10/2021

Bellamy is quickly becoming a pro at place! He has been doing very well in our Board and Train program. He settled in quickly, and went right to learning!

Place is perfect for moments when you may need your pup to park it. This can safely allow your dog to still be a part of the family, but remain well behaved and calm in the face of distractions.

I use place mainly when I need my dog to settle out of the way, but don't see the need to crate them. E.X include eating dinner, people coming into the house, or the dog is getting rowdy and needs to settle. Place is very useful, and dogs love it. I like to have special bones/chews ready, so Place is a really fun spot to be.

There are multiple dogs, as well as a cat to keep Bellamy on his toes. Yet I have gotten to the point where I can drop his leash and he will self correct with minimal to no encouragement.

Very smart boy, I look forward to our next session!

03/10/2021

Welcome Bellamy to the DWDT family!

Bellamy is here for our Board and Train, he will learn all kinds of useful manners during his stay. First behaviors I like to teach are simple, but so important for a strong foundation.

He is currently learning to respond to his name with attention, sit when he wants to be pet, and wait at the door.

This young pup keeps us smiling all day. He is so peppy, happy and sweet. We are excited to share his journey with everyone!