Reliable Rover

19/08/2024

👤You are human. You are doing your best. Make sure to take care of yourself. Preserve your relationship with your dog. Maintain a good relationship with the training process. I give you permission to take time for yourself and do what’s best for you and your dog.

🤭I know what you’re thinking. You must think I am insane for giving you permission when you ultimately have control in your own life. However, I know that pressures to train your dog can pile up and make you feel like you aren’t doing enough, like you are a bad dog parent, like you have failed, like your dog is just not trained enough. I am here to tell you that it is okay if you don’t have it all figured out, or if you get frustrated and want to quit sometimes.

😮‍💨I want you to step back and take a breath. Look into your dog’s eyes and remember why you got this puppy, this dog, this animal, that is going to be a wonderful companion for so many years to come.

🤯We, and our dogs, have emotions. We have feelings. We have struggles. We have pains. Not every single day is going to be a good one. There are many stressors we deal with in daily life as humans, separate from our pups. For your pup, they deal with many stressors themselves. Some days it is really extremely hard for us to bring ourselves to train, or it may be hard for our dog to focus and want to engage with us or training. I want you to know that on these days it is completely okay to take breaks and do something other than train with your dog. You can simply lay in bed with them and cuddle, if you both want that. Both of you can take a nice, long, and slow walk in a quiet area. A game of fetch in the park can be a nice time as well. There are many options. You may not get any training done, but you will continue creating an even better relationship with your dog while doing something you both will enjoy much more at that moment.

🐕You are going to have your dog for 10, 15, maybe 20 years, or more. You have plenty of time to train. The training part is a journey together with your dog. If there are days that you or they aren’t feeling up to training because of whatever reason, that is completely okay. Your dog does need to know basics, so make sure you find a right balance for you and your pup. Just please don’t overdo it.

☝️When you do those training sessions, make sure that you keep them short. You want to keep them 3 to 5 minutes long per session. This will be a lot more manageable for you and your pooch. A lot of little sessions, with a lot of repetitions practiced in each one, will build solid behaviors. Long and drawn out sessions will likely exhaust you and your dog, which can also lead to frustrations.

🫂Just please remember that you are only human. You are living with an animal who loves you and, while they may frustrate you at times, only want to have fun with you. Make this life fun with your pup. Take a day off from training sometimes. Do things that are fun with your dog. Practice self care. Build a solid relationship. Find the perfect balance that is right for you and your dog. Don’t overdo it. I give you permission.

04/08/2024

🐾 Understanding Resource Guarding in Dogs: Natural, but Needs Attention 🐶

Resource guarding is a common behavior in our canine companions, but it's one we need to address. 📢

What is it? Think of it as your dog's way of saying "This is mine!" 🦴🍖 It can range from mild unease to more serious reactions.

Why it matters:

Ensures household harmony 🏠
Prevents potential incidents 🚫
Strengthens your bond with your pet ❤️

How to help:
1️⃣ Teach "drop it" and "leave it" commands
2️⃣ Use positive reinforcement techniques
3️⃣ Practice patience and consistency

Remember: Every dog is unique. If you're facing challenges, don't hesitate to consult a professional trainer. 🏆

Let's work together to create a safe, happy environment for our furry friends! 🐕‍🦺💪

Please reach out if you are dealing with an issue like this! You can DM me here, or reach out at 318-532-7531.

08/07/2024

Building a Strong Bond with Your Dog: Lessons from Dragon Riders

Ever wondered what it would be like to have a connection as powerful as the one between dragon riders and their dragons in Game of Thrones? While we can't breathe fire or soar through the skies, the bond between a dog and their human can be just as magical and profound.

Just as Daenerys Targaryen nurtured her relationship with Drogon through trust, respect, and understanding, you too can forge an unbreakable bond with your furry friend. Here's how:

Communication is key: Dragon riders don't speak Valyrian to their dragons for nothing! Consistent, clear communication with your dog builds trust and understanding. Use a mix of verbal cues, hand signals, and body language.

Quality time together: Aegon and Sunfyre didn't become best friends overnight. Spend dedicated time with your dog daily, whether it's training, playing, or simply cuddling.

Respect boundaries: Even Caraxes needed some alone time! Learn to read your dog's body language and respect their need for space when they show signs of stress or fatigue.

Positive reinforcement: Dragons respond to their riders' emotions. Similarly, dogs thrive on positive feedback. Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and affection.

Shared adventures: Rhaenyra and Syrax didn't just hang out in the castle. Take your dog on new adventures to build confidence and strengthen your bond.

Trust-building exercises: Try activities that require mutual trust and communication, like agility courses or scent work. These can be as thrilling as a dragon ride (well, almost)!

Empathy and patience: Understanding your dog's needs and emotions is crucial. Be patient as you both learn and grow together.

Remember, the strength of your bond can impact your dog's behavior, happiness, and overall well-being. A well-nurtured relationship leads to a more obedient, confident, and joyful companion.

So, while you may not have a fire-breathing dragon, your loyal companion can be just as extraordinary. Invest in your relationship, and you'll have a friend as devoted as any dragon in the Seven Kingdoms!

21/06/2024

🐾 Already Have a Dog and Thinking About Adding Another Pup to Your Household? 🐶

Before you dive in, let's ask some questions:
✅ Space & Resources: Got room for zoomies and budget for double the kibble?
✅ Time & Energy: Ready for twice the walks, training, and belly rubs?
✅ Current Canine: Is your dog a social butterfly or a lone wolf?
✅ Household Harmony: Is everyone on board for more barks, wagging tails, and everything else that comes with a new companion?

Remember:
❌ A new pup won't magically fix existing doggy dilemmas
❌ Two dogs = double the responsibility (as well as fun!)
❌ Training and patience are key for a peaceful household

But if you're prepared for the challenge and your heart has room for more love...

Go ahead and embark on this amazing and worthwhile journey! 🎉

Every dog adds a unique flavor to the family dynamic. Enjoy the chaos, cuddles, and endless memories!

Need help deciding or preparing? Let's chat! You can dm me here, or you can reach out to me at 318-532-7531📞🐾

20/06/2024

📣 New services are here at Reliable Rover!

🏡 Private in-home lessons: I come to you and work with your family and dog on issues you are encountering with your dog.

🌞 Day Training: I take your dog for an hour for 3 days a week and train them for you! Follow-up sessions with you and videos of the training sessions as well!

🌐 Virtual Consultations or Privates: If you are sick, your dog is more comfortable at home, or another reason, we can meet via Zoom and I can teach your family on how to work with your dog.

🧍🏻‍♂️I am a dog trainer with over a decade of experience and can help with common dog issues such as nipping, leash walking, basic obedience, and more. I can also help with reactivity, aggression, and more.

📨 DM for more information.

20/06/2024

"DROP IT!!!"

As dog owners, we've all been there - your pup has something in their mouth that could be dangerous if swallowed, and you're frantically trying to pry it out of their jaws. Cue the game of chase around the living room as your dog thinks you're playing and you're desperately trying to prevent an unexpected trip to the vet. Afterwards, you're exhausted.

🙌 This scenario can be avoided by teaching your dog the incredibly useful "Drop It" command. Not only will it save you from many potential hazards, but it's also a great way to reinforce your leadership and build a positive relationship with your furry friend.

✨ Why "Drop It" is a Must-Know Command:

🚨 Safety First - Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and sometimes they can pick up harmful objects like toxic foods, sharp items, or even animal droppings. "Drop It" allows you to immediately remove these dangers.

🛑 No More Tug-of-War - Whether it's your favorite slipper or an important document, "Drop It" prevents your dog from damaging or consuming items they shouldn't have.

🤝 Builds Trust - Through positive reinforcement training, your dog learns to trust you and that giving up an object won't result in punishment.

🎉 Teaching "Drop It" is relatively simple and can be a fun training session for both you and your dog. With patience, consistency, and plenty of high-value treats, your pup will soon understand that "Drop It" means they'll get something even better in return for letting go of that tempting item.

💯 Don't let your dog's curious nature put their safety at risk. Invest the time in teaching "Drop It," and you'll have a well-mannered pup who knows when to let go, keeping both of you happy and worry-free.

If you'd like to teach your dog this cue, or other really important behaviors, you can DM me here or at 318-532-7531. Let's turn your pup into the most Reliable Rover in the neighborhood.

19/06/2024

🐕 It's me, Sugar, here to share some pawsome tips for keeping cool and entertained on those hot summer days! ☀️

You know how us pups love to play and run around, but when the heat is scorching, we gotta find ways to have fun indoors. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

🧩 Puzzle time! Dad hides my favorite treats around the house in containers, and I get to sniff them out. It's like a giant nose game! Nosework is a great way to really get me tired! 🦴

🎾 Indoor fetch is the best! We clear a room, and Dad tosses a soft toy for me to chase. So much fun without getting all sweaty! 🏐

📖 I'm a smart cookie, so Dad teaches me new tricks. Sit, stay, roll over – you name it, I can learn it! It keeps my mind sharp and my body moving. I always love learning new things, from Obedience to Tricks and beyond! 🐕‍🦺

💦 Sometimes Bobby takes me to the beach, and I get to splash around and cool off. Just make sure to check the temperature of the pavement and sand! Burnt paws never feel nice! 🚰

🍦 My absolute favorite is when Dad freezes peanut butter or yogurt in a Kong toy or on a lick mat. It's like a giant, long-lasting pup-sicle! Yum! 😋

So there you have it, guys! Plenty of ways to stay cool, busy, and happy when it's too hot to play like you normally would. Just don't forget to hydrate and take more frequent breaks. Safety comes first, and make sure that no matter what, you know the signs of heatstroke if you take your play outdoors. I would avoid outside during really hot times, though. Better to be safe I always say! 🐕

19/06/2024

🐕 Bella here to give you some tips for the rising temps!

☀️Heat Alert for Pup Parents!☀️

🌞 As temperatures soar, our furry friends are at a higher risk of heat stroke - a dangerous condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly. Let's spread awareness and keep our beloved pups safe!

🚩Signs of Heat Stroke:

🚨Excessive panting
🚨Bright red gums/tongue
🚨Lethargy
🚨Vomiting
🚨Glazed eyes
🚨Rapid heartbeat

🐾Prevention Tips:🐾

🐶Never leave your dog in a parked car
🐶Exercise during cooler hours
🐶Provide plenty of fresh, cool water
🐶Apply cool water to their paws/ears
🐶Offer frozen treats or dog-safe popsicles
🐶Know when to keep them inside

☝️ If you suspect heat stroke, move your dog to a cool area and call your vet and take them to a vet office immediately. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to this life-threatening condition.

♻️ Share this post to help raise awareness and keep our furry family members safe during the dog days of summer! 🐶☀️

17/06/2024

Say hi to this adorable little lady - Maya the Shih Tzu mix! Those big eyes and floppy ears just melt me. 🐕

But you know what's even cuter than Maya? A well-trained pup who pays attention to you! Okay, but you have to admit not much is cuter than her. Teaching your furry friend to focus on you from an early age, or early on in training, is a game-changer in the world of dog training. 🐾

Imagine this: You're out on a walk, and your pooch spots a squirrel from afar. With good attention training, a simple "Puppy, watch me" will have their eyes locked on you, ignoring all those tempting distractions. Remember to train it in easy environments and build up the amount of distractions over time! A squirrel really is pretty tempting! 🦫

It's not just about preventing chaos on walks, though. A dog that knows how to give you their undivided attention is a dog that's ready to learn. Want to teach your pup to shake paws, roll over, or even do your taxes? (Okay, maybe not that last one.) Having them focus on you makes every training session a hundred times easier. 🐩

Plus, let's be real – there's nothing quite like having those big puppy dog eyes looking up at you, hanging on your every word. It's like having a little fur-buddy who actually listens when you speak! Kind of a nice change of pace, am I right? 🥺

So, do yourself (and Maya) a favor – start working on that attention from day one. Trust me, you'll be grateful when you have a well-behaved, attentive pup who's ready to take on the world (or at least the squirrels in the park). Just look at that face – how could you say no to those ears? 🦊

Maya rocked her first session today and I'm so excited to help her and her mom conquer their goals of taking calmer walks around the neighborhood! Sometimes Maya gets too overexuberant when she sees people and dogs that she really likes.

Great job Maya! The training journey with her continues! 🐶

If you're interested in training, please reach out here or at 318-532-7531. We can turn your adorable pup into a Reliable Rover in no time. 🤩

23/03/2024

26/02/2024

Meet Pax. Pax is a 4 month old Doberman who is seeing me for leash training and other general obedience. Today was his first day of school and he wanted to look nice.

His first lesson went like a charm and he's an intelligent dude. Looking forward to working more with him and his dad. There will be videos to come! Great job today dude.

26/02/2024

You control so much of your dog's life. Give them some control once in awhile and the benefits will be enormous.

Shake it…shake it off…

A recent study by two researchers in France looked at sniffing, pulse rate, and leash length on walks. Sixty-one dogs were taken on three separate walks, five minutes each walk, once with a 1.5m leash, once with a 5m leash, and once without a leash at all (walk order was randomized for each dog). Off-leash dogs sniffed the most, more than 3x as long as the dogs on short leashes. Dogs on long leashes spent nearly as much time as unleashed dogs sniffing, almost 3x as long as dogs on short leashes.

This study also found that sniffing resulted in lowered pulse rates, and the more intensely they sniffed, the more their pulse rates lowered. Pulse rate was also lowered when dogs “shook off” during walks on all leash lengths. The “shake off” behavior was often seen when the dog’s pulse rate was particularly high.

Read more about it below!

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1HX77kp2HBDiTxmq/?mibextid=Le6z7H

https://www.tuftsyourdog.com/everydaydogcare/giving-your-dog-time-to-sniff-on-walks-will-literally-soothe-his-heart/

What else can we learn about dogs from their walking behavior? Take your best friend on a Sniffari and see what you observe!

25/02/2024

📣 New services are here! More info to come!

🏡 Private in-home lessons: I come to you and work with your family and dog on issues you are encountering with your dog.

🌞 Day Training: I take your dog for an hour for 3 days a week and train them for you! Follow up sessions with you and videos of the training sessions as well!

🌐 Virtual Consultations or Privates: If you are sick, your dog is more comfortable at home, or another reason, we can meet via Zoom and I can teach your family on how to work with your dog.

🧍🏻‍♂️I am a dog trainer of 10 years and can help with common dog issues such as nipping, leash walking, basic obedience, and more. I can also help with reactivity and aggression.

More info to come soon!