Animal Lover Extraordinaire (2024)

07/11/2024

Your Wednesday Information

The Leash Matters – When To Use What Type
By: Kristina Lotz

October 14, 2024

Why did you choose the leash you did? Maybe based on color or because a friend or trainer recommended it? Many of us don’t take a lot of time thinking about the leash. We just fasten the nearest one to our dog’s collar and go. But the leash is very important. It keeps your dog under control and affects your safety, your dog’s, and that of other animals or people nearby.

So next time you reach for the leash, stop and think about where you are going and what you are doing, then choose the leash that best fits. It’s like choosing shoes – you wouldn’t wear high heels to hike or track cleats to the mall.

Traditional 4 to 6 Foot Leads
These leashes come in almost every type of material you can imagine, from chain to cotton. Material is more of a personal preference than anything – but if your dog likes to chew on leashes, a chain or paracord may be best. Parcord is also nice if you are looking for something light weight for a smaller dog.

Whether you choose 4 or 6-foot really depends on the size of your dog – a tiny Chihuahua may need a 6’ leash so it reaches him comfortable from your arm height. 4′ also gives you more control so if you are in a busy area, you may prefer the shorter leash so you dog stays closer.

These leashes are best any time you are in public. They keep your dog fairly close to you and helps you keep control of your dog, which includes keeping them from greeting other dogs and people. Because they are shorter in length, they are less likely to get tangled in a bike, skateboarder or pedestrian.

Long Lines
Long lines can be made in almost any length, with standard being 10’, 15’, 20’ or 50’. They are usually cotton or nylon and can be flat or round. I find the flat are easier to hang onto than the round. For smaller dogs, you may have to make one by buying some small gauge cord and attaching a snap – most of the commercial long lines are heavy with big snaps that would be cumbersome for a tiny pup.

While great for training, they pose real risks when out in public. You cannot reel your dog in very quickly if something happens and they are 30 feet from you. On the other hand, at least you can pull them back you if necessary, unlike a retractable leash. So, between the two, long lines are a better choice for practicing your stays and recalls in public or open areas

Be sure to keep your hand on your long line. If your dog bolts, you will not be quick enough to reach for it or step on it. Also beware of rope burns. Wearing gloves while walking a dog on a lead line is a good idea, if that rope gets pulled through your hand, it will burn!

Retractable Leashes
Retractable leashes are great for giving a dog freedom. Most extend around 20’, more or less. The biggest drawback is you cannot reel your dog in, you have to wait for them to come toward you. This can cause a lot of problems in public areas if your dog is headed toward traffic, an unfriendly dog, or is getting tangled in bikes, people, etc. For this reason, they are not a good leash for your neighborhood walks.

They are great for hikes up in the mountain, or in fields, where you know you can safely give your dog freedom and it’s okay if they only come back when they want to and/or your dog has a solid recall. Even here, be sure you know the area and that it’s safe for your dog to wander – i.e. no poisonous plants, hidden holes or cliffs, hunters that may mistake your dog for wildlife, etc.

Specialty Leads
There are a number of specialty leads that can help make your life easier with your dog. Here are some of the most popular:

Hands-free leashes are great for walking around town when you know you may be carrying groceries, running, or training and need both hands free. Not recommended if you have bad hips or back. Can also be dangerous if you have a large dog that bolts.

Double-handle leashes are an amazing invention. Sometimes called a “traffic leash,” they have a second handle close to where they attach to your dog’s collar. This allows you to have rapid control of your dog when needed. It’s very handy for urban walking in big, crowded cities and for dogs that may be reactive or overly friendly.

Dual leashes are made for walking two dogs at once. They make your life easier because you only have one handle. But if your dogs are not properly leash trained, you may find yourself and your dogs in a tangled mess. Use them only with dogs that walk nice on leashes and are similar in speed and stride. Imagine walking a 9-month-old puppy that’s attached to an arthritic 15-year-old—the senior dog would not be happy.

Choosing the Right Leash for Every Adventure
Selecting the right leash for your dog is essential to ensuring both your safety and your dog’s well-being. Just like wearing the appropriate shoes for different activities, the right leash can make all the difference in your dog’s comfort and control, depending on where you’re going or what you’re doing. Coastal Pet Products, Inc. offers a wide variety of leashes that can suit your every need, making it easy to find the perfect one for your dog. They even offer personalized options bearing your dog’s name and phone number to help keep them safe when lost or in an emergency.

07/11/2024

Your Tuesday Information

The Top 5 Reasons Dogs End Up At The Vet–And How To Prevent It
By: Karen Tietjen

September 26, 2016

You take your pooch for her annual check-up, but some ailments warrant more than just a once-yearly vet visit. According to a pet insurance company and an Ontario-based vet, we’ve compiled some of the most common reasons pets go to the doctor.

Life is certainly unpredictable, but the more you know, the more you can try to do to prevent certain health issues from happening–and possibly, from happening again! Luckily, pet insurance, like coverage offered by Lemonade, can help take the bite out of costly, unexpected vet bills.

1. Bad Breath / Teeth Issues

“Brushing teeth is great and you should start your pet when they are young to at least get them used to the idea and the feeling,” Dr. Llera writes on the OSPCA blog. “You’ll want to use an enzymatic pet toothpaste since human toothpaste can damage the enamel of your pets’ teeth.”

He adds, “When it comes to dental cleanings, it can be expensive because your pet needs an anesthetic. It’s better to have a prophylactic [disease-preventative] cleaning done before the teeth get so bad that extractions are required.”

Insurance has several options when it comes to taking care of your pet’s teeth. Plus, you can also choose to dental illness add-on, which can help cover treatments, medications, and procedures related to dental illnesses, like periodontal disease and gingivitis.

2. Limping

Of course, this can happen when your energetic dog has an accidental tumble at the dog park, but older arthritic dogs can also develop a limp.

“As pets live longer, we are seeing more cases of arthritis but you can help by starting a glucosamine supplement,” says Dr. Llera. “Other medications, along with keeping them at a good body weight, can also help alleviate discomfort.”

He also adds that the culprit could be a torn ACL, so if the limp lasts more than a day, consult with your vet. In the meantime, don’t let your dog run free, which could cause even more damage.

3. Urinary Issues

“Females are prone to infections whereas males suffer more problems from bladder crystals or stones,” Dr. Llera says. “To help reduce this risk, it’s always a great idea to keep your pet at an ideal body weight as obesity has been shown to make these problems worse.”

4. Gastro-Intestinal Problems

While the occasional upset tummy happens to all of us, Dr. Llera explains that you should not wait several days to see your vet if your dog is consistently vomiting, has diarrhea, or isn’t eating.

“If you ever see blood in the stool or vomit, they should be seen right away,” he says. “Bottom line, if they still won’t eat, are lethargic, vomiting or having diarrhea for more than 24 hours, then it’s time for a check up.”

Insurance base accident and illness policy can help pay for expensive vet bills from services like diagnostics, procedures, and medications if your pet isn’t feeling well or ate something they shouldn’t have.

5. Vaccines

While it’s very important to keep your pup up-to-date with his shots, Dr. Llera explains that routine vet visits are even more pertinent in regard to your pup’s continued health.

“I want to stress that vaccines are important but not the most important part of these visits,” he says. “The actual examination is the most critical part of the visit as it allows us to assess your pet’s total body health and possibly find problems before they become more serious. It also gives us a chance to discuss the things you should be watching for especially as your pet gets older.”

Have you taken your pooch to the vet for any of these reasons?

Over the course of your pup’s life, they are bound to end up at the vet for a whole host of reasons. Whether it’s to stay healthy, prevent disease, or treat them after an unexpected accident or illness. Pet insurance can help take some of the financial burdens of expensive vet bills off your shoulders, so you can focus on what matters most—cuddles, treats, and belly rubs.

07/11/2024

Your Monday Information

What Is A Holistic Vet And Should You Schedule An Appointment?
By: Amber King
December 14, 2023

As an advocate for your dog’s health and happiness, your decisions for her care will have a great impact on her life. You choose what to put in her bowl and how much she exercises, but even the best pup parent can’t do it all.

It’s important to have a vet you can trust and rely on. You have a lot of options, and one of those options is to choose a holistic vet. While most veterinary offices fall under the category of “conventional,” holistic vets are becoming more popular. You owe it to your dog to find out exactly what holistic means and decide if it’s something that could benefit her well-being.

What Exactly is a Holistic Vet?

Holistic veterinary science refers to treating the body as a whole rather than splicing health conditions into individual symptoms. Instead of treating a dog with anti-diarrhea medicine, for example, a holistic vet will look at the underlying problem causing the diarrhea. They’ll suggest a treatment plan that focuses on solving that big issue and take into account what’s happening in the dog’s entire body, not just the digestive tract. Emotional well-being, environmental changes, and overall health are all taken into account.

While the idea of holistic healing isn’t new, it still suffers from general misunderstandings. People think the word holistic is synonymous with alternative, all-natural, and unproven. While it’s true most holistic vets will suggest homeopathic or naturopathic treatments before anything else, holistic does not mean anti-medicine. A holistic vet’s goal is to find a course of treatment that is the most beneficial for overall health. If a conventional drug best meets that requirement, a holistic vet will recommend it. They will also, however, typically suggest more natural paths to support overall health as non-invasively as possible. Lifestyle changes, diet changes, and exercise plans are commonly suggested to bring about overall healing. In general, holistic vets are open-minded to all types of treatment. They prescribe based on what’s best for a patient’s comprehensive and long-term health.

More About Common Treatments
In addition to FDA-approved drugs and modern surgeries, holistic vets rely on all forms of therapies and treatments to heal their patients. They take into account everything we’ve learned from ancient techniques along with the latest advancements in veterinary science and technology. Here are a few examples of treatments a holistic vet is likely to recommend.

Chiropractic
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment technique based on proper alignment of the spinal cord and the spine’s relationship to the nervous system. People visit the chiropractor when they’re recovering from car accidents, sports injuries, and when they’re simply feeling stiff and uncomfortable. It can be equally effective for pets.

Herbal Medicine
Before the technology of modern pharmaceuticals, people relied on natural substances like herbs, flowers, and other plants to treat specific maladies. There are countless different herbs, and each one contains different combinations of vitamins, minerals, and other components used in broad-spectrum healing. American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association lists Western herbs, Ayurverdic herbs from India, and traditional Chinese herbs as go-to treatments for everything from arthritis in senior dogs to cancer. In some cases, herbal medicines are used to allow for lower doses of pharmaceutical drugs that come with harmful side effects.

Nutritional Therapy
Holistic vets believe diet is one of the most important factors of a dog’s health. They guide pet owners on what kinds of foods are species appropriate and how to make sure dogs receive all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Health conditions can often be treated by filling in dietary gaps, and good nutrition is also used as a preventative measure to maintain long-term health.

What to Expect at a Holistic Vet Appointment
Like any other vet appointment, your first visit to a holistic vet will start with an overview of your dog’s health, history, and lifestyle. The vet will perform a thorough examination likely listening to your dog’s heart, inspecting her skin for bumps and lumps, and looking into her eyes, ears, and mouth. They might also draw blood for testing or ask you to bring in a stool or urine sample. You’ll have the opportunity to talk about your concerns and ask specific questions. Overall, a visit to a holistic vet isn’t much different than to a “regular” vet.

The main difference you’ll notice is a holistic vet will ask more questions about your dog’s emotional well-being. They want a well-rounded picture of your dog’s health. That image includes any stress, fear, or anxiety she might be feeling. As a result, you’ll most likely talk to your holistic vet a lot more than you would with a traditional vet. It’ll be an open discussion where they want to know everything you can tell them about your dog.

Afterward, they’ll explain their evaluation and recommendations. Any diagnosis they make will come from the same tests and knowledge any other vet would use. They’ll draw on all aspects of veterinary science and holistic healing to offer a treatment path that gently nurtures your dog’s individual health.

What Kind of Conditions Do Holistic Vets Treat?
It’s impossible to list every health condition holistic vets regularly treat. Regardless of diagnosis, a holistic vet will work with a pet parent to develop a treatment plan that causes the least amount of negative side effects while improving the patient’s overall quality of life. Here are a few of the most common ailments successfully treated with holistic methods.

Digestive Issues
While conventional approaches to digestive issues like irritable bowel disease, colitis, and pancreatitis include a string of corticosteroid and immunosuppressive drugs to bring relief from symptoms, a holistic approach focuses on the underlying cause. Depending on a dog’s diagnosis, a holistic vet will work to resolve gastrointestinal imbalances through a custom diet. Digestive enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics, and other nutrients might be suggested.

Chronic Joint Issues
Osteoarthritis is a common condition found in senior dogs, and even many younger dogs. There’s also hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia to watch out for. According to Holistic Pet Info, supplements including glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are go-to holistic treatments for canine joint pain. The goal is to improve cartilage and reduce inflammation without putting the dog in danger of drug-related side effects. Other treatments like acupuncture and massage are also good for pain relief.

Cancer
There are few things more devastating than a cancer diagnosis. When it’s your dog, deciding on a treatment path is especially difficult. Chemotherapy and radiation are usually the recommended actions, but it isn’t always an option. As with people, chemotherapy causes serious side effects in dogs, and it can often diminish a pet’s quality of life.

Holistic vets offer ways to fight the disease, but they typically prioritize quality of life. Dogs Naturally lists supplements and nutritional changes as being important tools in fighting cancer. In cases where the dog is healthy enough for chemotherapy, a holistic vet will offer advice on natural substances and treatments to reduce side effects. H**p oil, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and reiki are all options.

Should You Schedule an Appointment?
As the person who knows your dog best, you’re the only one who can make decisions for her health. Veterinarians can give advice and recommendations, but it’s ultimately up to you. Both traditional vets and holistic vets have the same goal in mind. They each want to help your dog live a healthy life. Many pet owners turn toward holistic healing methods when they’re concerned about quality of life with chronic and long-term conditions. It’s also valued as a type of lifelong preventative healthcare.

If you’re interested in learning more abut the benefits of holistic healthcare for your pet, start with finding the right vet. Look for a holistic vet who has experience and training in specific treatments like herbal medicines, nutrition, and homeopathy. There is no special license that makes a vet a holistic vet. You want someone, however, with specialized training in addition to the required vet school. Go to your first appointment with an open mind and remember to ask questions. Your dog is relying on you to make the right decisions. Exploring all your options is the best way forward.

07/11/2024

Your Friday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Incorporating gentle stretching and passive range-of-motion exercises can help maintain your dog's joint flexibility and muscle strength.

30/10/2024

I hope you all have a safe Halloween and remember spooky noises and weird looking costumes can scare your pets.
Keep them safe

29/10/2024

Your Thursday Information

Give the gift of a healthy gut

Bone Broth: This gut-soothing powerhouse supports the integrity of your dog’s gut lining, making it easier to digest food while keeping hydration levels up. Bone broth also enhances gut flora, helping prevent stomach issues before they even start.

Digestive Enzymes: Food can be tricky to digest, especially during transitions. These enzymes break down proteins, carbs, and fats efficiently, ensuring your dog gets the maximum benefit from every meal.

Pumpkin: Packed with fiber, pumpkin is a natural stool regulator, helping to firm up loose stools while easing tummy discomfort.

Prebiotics & Postbiotics: Think of them as the backbone of your dog’s gut health. Prebiotics fuel the good bacteria, while postbiotics keep the gut lining strong and inflammation-free, helping your dog feel their best every day.

Credits to I Love dogs.

29/10/2024

Your Wednesday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training exercises, and interactive play keeps the brain engaged and helps prevent cognitive decline. On through puzzle toys, training exercises, and interactive play keeps the brain engaged and helps prevent cognitive decline.

29/10/2024

Your Tuesday Information

8 Common Dangers To Watch Out For When Walking Your Dog

By: Amber King

August 3, 2023

Whether it’s long treks through the neighborhood or short strolls in the park, walking the dog is a part of every pup parent’s routine. It’s good for your health and happiness, and it’s probably your dog’s favorite part of the day. You should enjoy the opportunity to bond with your favorite furry family member, but as your dog’s protector, it’s your job to be on the lookout for potential threats. Unexpected hazards lurk near suburban sidewalks, rural country roads, and city streets. As long as you’re aware of these eight dangers, you and your pup can walk with confidence.

#1 – Litter
Candy wrappers, fast food containers, illegal substances—there’s no telling what kind of trash and debris you’ll find discarded during your walk. Dogs are scavengers by nature, so don’t be surprised when your pup pulls on the leash to get a taste of whatever they can find near the road .

If you walk through a park, there’s the added danger of your dog sniffing out things like discarded chicken bones, grease from a grill, or unidentifiable scraps of someone’s picnic. All of these things can make your dog sick or get stuck in their throat. Always scan the ground for harmful litter, and it’s also a good idea to teach your dog the “leave it” and “drop it” commands in case they see something before you do.

#2 – Dog P**p
Responsible pet parents always bend down to pick up the p**p, but unfortunately, not everyone is as considerate. Eating p**p is a relatively normal behavior for dogs, but eating random f***s found near the sidewalk is a serious health hazard. Dogs end up ingesting p**p that’s riddled with parasites and diseases.

If your pup has a penchant for eating p**p, you’ll have to be on high alert when walking in neighborhoods and parks with a lot of canine visitors. Dogs that already consider p**p to be an acceptable treat won’t hesitate to sniff it out and take a bite. Pay attention to the ground while you’re walking so you can steer your p**p eater away from unsanitary sidewalk snacks.

#3 – Sun
You love your long summer walks, but too much sunshine can be a bad thing. Dogs get sunburn just like humans do, but few people take the time to apply doggy sunscreen. Dogs with light fur and pink skin are most at risk, and it’s important to apply a dog-friendly sunscreen to areas where their fur is thin. A lot of dogs end up with bright red snouts because of too much time in the sun.

Besides sunburn, there’s also the risk of your dog burning their paw pads on hot pavement. A good rule to follow is if the ground is too hot for you to walk barefoot, it’s too hot for your dog. A third sun-related concern is heatstroke. Your dog loves exercising, but they’re also wearing a fur coat in the middle of summer. They’re more susceptible to heat than you are, and if they get too hot, their life is in danger. It’s best to walk your dog early in the morning and in the evening when the summer sun isn’t as intense.

#4 – Water
Your pup thinks puddles, ponds, and creeks are great places to quench their thirst, but vets advise against it. ASPCA warns pet owners that stagnant water sources are often breeding grounds for mosquitoes that transmit heartworm. Seemingly clean water can also contain harmful parasites like giardia and bacterial diseases like leptospirosis.

If it rained recently, there’s also the chance of puddles containing harmful chemicals from pesticides washing off nearby lawns or manure from neighboring farms. To be safe, don’t let your dog drink from random water sources. It’s a better plan to either carry your own water supply or wait until you get home to let your dog drink.

#5 – Pesticides and Rodenticides
Pesticides are common in almost all areas where humans live. They’re good at keeping bugs out of yards, agricultural fields, flower gardens, and buildings, but they’re not safe for pets. If your dog rolls around on a recently treated lawn, they expose themselves to harmful chemicals. Most public parks and sidewalks are safe, but you can’t always tell which patches of grass are safe and which are covered in chemicals. If you’re not sure, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Besides pesticides, dogs also get sick from poison set out to kill mice and rats. These usually look like blocks of bait put out near building foundations and under bushes. If your dog gets into one, take them to the vet right away.

#6 – Wild Animals
Depending on where you live, you could encounter anything from squirrels to black bears while walking down your road. No matter the animal—or the size of their teeth—it’s important for you and your dog to respect local wildlife. Dogs with high prey drives will want to chase every furry critter they see, and it’s your job to hold the leash tight (or better yet, use these tips to control their predatory instincts), to keep both your dog and their quarry safe.

For small dogs, there’s also the added risk of wild animal attacks. Small dogs are seen as easy targets, and hungry predators have been known to stalk small dogs on walks. Large birds of prey, coyotes, and mountain lions are all wild animals worth worrying about. You can help protect your pup by outfitting them with a Predator Vest that both deters attacks and protects against bites.

#7 – Toxic Plants
There’s a long list of plants that are toxic to dogs. If your pup is the kind that likes to stop and sniff the flowers, they could accidentally (or on purpose) ingest a poisonous plant while out on a walk. The best protection plan is to familiarize yourself with common plants that grow in your area that are also dangerous for dogs. Tulips, lilies, azaleas, sago palms, and hydrangeas are only a few examples.

#8 – Unleashed Pets
There are too many variables to account for when you see an unleashed dog on your walk. There’s the chance the dog is friendly and wanting to politely say hello, but don’t rule out the possibility that they’re aggressive toward other dogs or people. And even if your dog generally likes other canines, being leashed while a strange dog approaches them could make them feel threatened.

Regardless of who starts it, breaking up a dog fight on the side of the road is not how you want to spend your walk. Stay alert during your walk and turn the other way if you see an unleashed pet. If you’re concerned for the other dog’s well-being, go home to drop off your pet before you move in to help a potential stray.

29/10/2024

Your Monday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Thousands of dogs die from heatstroke each year. Is your dog one of the most at-risk
Although it is now fall, this information is an asset for the warm climates all year.

7 Dog Breeds That Are At Risk in The Summer Sun
Justin Palmer

June 29, 2023

With summer approaching, it’s time to talk about heat stroke. Since dogs can’t sweat, the only way they can reduce their body temperature is by panting. Any dog can overheat and suffer from heat stroke, but some dog breeds are far more likely than others to have a difficult time regulating their body temperature. Here are 7 breeds that don’t do well in the heat.

#1 – English Bulldog

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds are the most prone to heat stroke since they have narrowed nostrils and airways, and Bulldogs are the flattest-faced of all. They have a difficult time breathing when they overexert themselves, especially in the heat, and are highly susceptible to heat stroke. Try walking them in the mornings and evenings during the warmer months.

#2 – Chow Chow

Chows have an extremely thick coat that can cause them to overheat, especially if it isn’t kept brushed out. Some Chow owners choose to shave their dog in the summer, but this is damaging to the coat and allows the sun to hit the dog’s skin directly. Keep them well-brushed out so cool air can reach the dog’s skin.

#3 – Pug

This snub-nosed breed is prone to obesity, which makes it even more difficult for them to breathe and cool down. Black Pugs are especially prone to heat stroke. Don’t let them run around too much in the heat of the day.

#4 – Alaskan Malamute

These dogs were bred to pull sleds in the Arctic. Their thick coat is perfect for keeping them warm in the winter, but it can keep them a little too warm in the summer. Keep them brushed out and try to exercise them mostly in the mornings and evenings.

#5 – Boxer

Boxers have so much energy that they may not stop playing long enough to drink water and cool down. Their shorter muzzles also make it more difficult to breathe. Force them to take breaks if they’re playing outside and avoid letting them run around outside too much during the hottest part of the day.

#6 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Their short muzzles make it hard to breathe, and they’re another breed prone to obesity. Manage their weight and avoid letting them run around in the heat.

#7 – Pomeranian

These little dogs have a thick coat and a short muzzle, which can lead to overheating. Just like the Chow, shaving their thick coat can ruin it and won’t reduce overheating. Be sure to keep the thick undercoat brushed and limit long walks to morning and evening hours.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion, a precursor to heat stroke, can include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, rapid panting, and the inside of the ears turning red. Get your dog inside quickly and offer fresh (but not cold) water. Dampen the skin with lukewarm water and allow it to air-dry. You should follow up with the vet to ensure no permanent damage occurred.

Heat stroke can be deadly, but it is preventable. Always be mindful of the temperature when your dog is playing outside and NEVER leave them in a car unattended, even for just a few minutes.

21/10/2024

Your Friday Information

Introduction to 10 Essential Dog Commands

By: Scott H
May 16, 2024

Training your dog is not just about teaching them tricks; it’s about creating a bond of understanding and respect between you and your furry friend. Mastering basic commands is crucial for every dog owner, ensuring a well-behaved pet and a safe environment. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 essential commands that every dog should know, provide tips and techniques for successful training, and discuss how online dog training courses can be a valuable resource.

1. Command: Sit
The Foundation of Dog Training – “Sit” is often the first command taught in dog training classes. It is a fundamental skill that promotes calmness and readiness to receive further instructions. Training your dog to sit is typically straightforward and serves as a stepping stone to more complex commands.

2. Command: Focus

Gaining Your Dog’s Attention – Also known as “watch,” “watch me,” or “look,” the focus command is vital for gaining your dog’s undivided attention. Achieving this can make all the difference in effective communication and training, especially in distracting environments.

3. Command: Down
Teaching Relaxation – The “down” command, which some owners simplify to “lay” or “on the belly,” is essential for encouraging a relaxed state. It is particularly useful in situations where “sit” might not provide enough stability or calm.

4. Command: Stay
Mastering Patience – “Stay” is a command that challenges many dogs, especially those with less patience. Teaching your dog to stay put until you release them is crucial for safety and is an excellent exercise in self-control.

5. Command: Leave It
Avoiding Unwanted Behaviors – This command is crucial for teaching dogs to avoid non-toys, such as slippers or dangerous objects. “Leave it” helps maintain safe boundaries and is useful during walks to prevent aggression or unwanted interactions.

6. Command: Drop It
Releasing Objects – When “Leave It” fails, “Drop It” takes over. This command is essential for situations where your dog picks up something harmful or forbidden. It ensures your dog can be directed to release items without confrontation.

7. Command: Off
Maintaining Boundaries – The “off” command is useful for teaching dogs not to jump on furniture or people. It establishes clear boundaries about where a dog can and cannot be.

8. Command: Move
Asserting Leadership – Teaching your dog to move on command reinforces that humans lead the way. This command helps manage dogs with dominant tendencies and ensures they respect personal space.

9. Command: Come
Ensuring Reliability – The “come” command is perhaps one of the most important for safety reasons. It ensures that your dog returns to you reliably, regardless of the distractions.

10. Command: To Your Spot
Providing a Safe Haven – Whether it’s a crate, bed, or a designated blanket, teaching your dog to go to their spot can significantly ease stressful situations. This command is especially useful when you need to ensure your dog stays out of trouble or feels secure.

Online Training Courses: A Modern Solution for Dog Training
Online dog training courses offer flexible, comprehensive solutions for busy pet owners. They provide access to expert advice and structured training routines that you can follow from the comfort of your home. These courses often include video tutorials, which can be particularly helpful for visual learners and for demonstrating techniques like timing and tone of command.

Animal Lover Extraordinaire

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