Animal Lover Extraordinaire (2024)

27/11/2024

Your Thursday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Diet plays a key role in overall health, including ear health. Some dogs are prone to food allergies, which can manifest as ear infections.

27/11/2024

Your Wednesday Information

Addison’s Disease in Dogs: Understanding & Managing The Condition
By: Dina Fantegrossi

May 24, 2024

Addison’s Disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, is a serious but manageable condition affecting dogs. This endocrine disorder arises when the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate amounts of essential hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are crucial for maintaining a dog’s metabolic functions and electrolyte balance. Recognizing the symptoms, diagnosing the disease promptly, and understanding treatment options can help dog owners manage this condition effectively, ensuring a good quality of life for their furry companions.

Understanding Addison’s Disease
Addison’s Disease occurs when the adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, are damaged or dysfunctional. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing several hormones, including cortisol, which helps the body respond to stress, and aldosterone, which regulates sodium and potassium levels in the blood. When these hormones are deficient, a dog can experience a range of symptoms, some of which can be life-threatening if not addressed.

There are two primary forms of Addison’s Disease in dogs:

Primary Addison’s Disease: This is the most common form and usually results from an autoimmune response where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the adrenal glands.
Secondary Addison’s Disease: This less common form occurs when there is an issue with the pituitary gland, which fails to signal the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.

Are Some Breeds More Prone to Develop Addison’s Disease?
While this condition can affect any dog, it is more commonly diagnosed in specific breeds. This predisposition is likely due to genetic factors that make these breeds more susceptible to the autoimmune response that typically causes Addison’s Disease. The breeds most commonly associated with a higher risk of developing Addison’s Disease include:

Standard Poodles: This breed is one of the most frequently diagnosed with Addison’s Disease. The genetic predisposition in Standard Poodles suggests a strong hereditary component.
Bearded Collies: Known for their intelligence and herding abilities, Bearded Collies also have a higher incidence of Addison’s Disease.
Portuguese Water Dogs: This breed, known for their working ability in water, is also at a higher risk.
West Highland White Terriers: Commonly referred to as Westies, these small, energetic dogs can also be affected.
Great Danes: Despite their large size, Great Danes have a notable predisposition to Addison’s Disease.
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers: This breed is also among those more frequently diagnosed with the condition.
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers: This breed, known for their hunting skills, is another at-risk group.
Labrador Retrievers: While less common than some other breeds, Labrador Retrievers can also develop Addison’s Disease.
Leonbergers: This giant breed is also predisposed to the disease.
Gender and Age Factors
In addition to breed predispositions, Addison’s Disease is more commonly diagnosed in female dogs than in males. The condition is often detected in young to middle-aged dogs, typically between the ages of 4 and 7 years. However, it can occur in dogs of any age.

Importance of Awareness
For owners of breeds predisposed to Addison’s Disease, awareness of the condition is crucial. Knowing the symptoms and being vigilant about any changes in their dog’s health can lead to earlier detection and treatment. Regular veterinary check-ups and discussions about breed-specific health risks can also aid in managing the condition effectively.

While genetic predisposition plays a significant role, not all dogs within these breeds will develop Addison’s Disease. However, understanding the risks can help dog owners take proactive measures in monitoring and maintaining their pet’s health.

Symptoms of Addison’s Disease
The symptoms of Addison’s Disease can be varied and often resemble those of other medical conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Common symptoms include:

Lethargy and weakness
Vomiting and diarrhea
Weight loss
Dehydration
Increased thirst and urination
Low heart rate
Abdominal pain
Shaking or muscle tremors

In severe cases, a dog may experience an Addisonian crisis, a medical emergency characterized by sudden collapse, severe vomiting and diarrhea, and shock. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial in such cases.

Diagnosing Addison’s Disease
Diagnosing Addison’s Disease typically involves a combination of clinical signs, history, and specific diagnostic tests. Veterinarians often perform the following:

Blood Tests: Basic blood work can reveal electrolyte imbalances, such as high potassium and low sodium levels, which are indicative of Addison’s Disease.
ACTH Stimulation Test: This definitive test measures the adrenal glands’ ability to produce cortisol. Blood samples are taken before and after an injection of synthetic ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), and cortisol levels are measured. In dogs with Addison’s Disease, cortisol levels will remain low.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test may be used to detect changes in heart rhythm caused by electrolyte imbalances.
Imaging: Ultrasound or X-rays can help identify adrenal gland abnormalities or other potential causes of the symptoms.

Treatment and Management
Once diagnosed, Addison’s Disease can be managed effectively with a combination of medications and lifestyle adjustments. Treatment generally involves hormone replacement therapy and regular monitoring.

Hormone Replacement:
Corticosteroids: Dogs with Addison’s Disease often require daily or periodic administration of corticosteroids like prednisone to replace the deficient cortisol.
Mineralocorticoids: Medications such as fludrocortisone or injectable desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP) are used to manage aldosterone levels, ensuring proper electrolyte balance.
Monitoring: Regular veterinary visits are essential to monitor the dog’s electrolyte levels and adjust medication dosages as needed. Blood tests are typically performed every few months.
Diet and Hydration: Ensuring a balanced diet and adequate hydration is crucial. Some dogs may benefit from a diet formulated for managing endocrine disorders.

Can Addison’s Disease Be Prevented?
Currently, there is no known way to prevent Addison’s Disease, particularly because the primary form is often due to an autoimmune response. However, early detection and management can prevent severe complications. Dog owners should be vigilant in recognizing symptoms and seek veterinary care promptly if they suspect their dog is unwell.

Tips for Dog Parents
Managing a dog with Addison’s Disease requires dedication and awareness. Here are some tips for dog owners:

Consistent Medication: Administer medications precisely as prescribed by the veterinarian. Missing doses can lead to severe health issues.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule and keep all veterinary appointments to monitor the dog’s condition and adjust treatments as necessary.
Emergency Preparedness: Know the signs of an Addisonian crisis and have an emergency plan in place. Keep contact information for an emergency veterinary clinic readily available.
Stress Management: Minimize stress in the dog’s environment, as stress can exacerbate symptoms. Provide a calm and stable routine.
Education: Learn as much as possible about Addison’s Disease to better understand the condition and manage it effectively.

While Addison’s Disease in dogs is a serious condition, it is manageable with proper veterinary care and diligent management by the owner. Recognizing the signs, obtaining a timely diagnosis, and adhering to a treatment regimen can help affected dogs lead happy, healthy lives. With ongoing research and advancements in veterinary medicine, the outlook for dogs with Addison’s Disease continues to improve, offering hope and reassurance to dog owners facing this challenge.

27/11/2024

Your Tuesday Information

The 4 Most Common Causes For Ear Infections In Dogs
By: Jennifer Nelson

January 3, 2023

Have you ever wondered why some dogs seem to be prone to ear infections? Ear infections are a common affliction among our beloved canine companions, causing discomfort and concern for both pets and their owners alike. While these infections can stem from various sources, understanding the primary reasons behind their development is crucial for prevention and effective treatment.

1. Moisture Buildup
When water gets trapped in the ear canal, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, or yeast to multiply, causing pain, inflammation, and discharge. Due to the structure of a dog’s ear, any dog that swims or gets bathed frequently has the potential to develop an ear infection, but breeds with droopy ears or hair that grows in the ear canal are more likely to have water that’s trapped long enough to cause infections.

2. Foreign Bodies or Parasites
Objects like grass seeds, small plant material, or parasites such as mites can find their way into a dog’s ear canal. These foreign bodies can irritate the ear, causing inflammation and infection if not promptly addressed.

3. Allergies
Allergic reactions to certain foods, pollens, or dust mites can trigger inflammation in the ear canals, making your dog more susceptible to infections. If your pooch is prone to ear infections and skin conditions like hot spots (red, itchy spots on their skin caused by infections), it’s worth a trip to your vet’s office to discuss possible food and environmental allergies.

4. Breed
Labs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dachshunds, Poodles, Shih Tzus, and Schnauzers top the list of dog breeds most prone to ear infections due to their ear structure, the hair that grows in their ears, and/or their propensity for swimming. But they aren’t the only ones. Find out if your dog is at risk for ear infections.

If you suspect your dog might have an ear infection, the best course of action is to take them to the vet for a diagnosis. Different causes require different treatments and only a vet can tell whether an infection is caused by bacteria, yeast, or mites.

27/11/2024

Your Monday Information

Here’s the magic in each scoop

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

22/11/2024

Your Friday Information

Reminder of foods NOT TO GIVE YOUR PETS.

20/11/2024

Your Thursday Information

45 States Have No Laws Protecting Pets Chained Outside in the Freezing Cold

by: Care2 Team

It's always terrible to see a dog chained up outside for long periods, but that's especially true during extreme weather like the freezing winter months. It turns out this country has a hodge-podge of laws that do not address this common form of animal abuse adequately at all!

Sign on if you want every single state to have a law prohibiting chaining dogs outside with specific language about harsh weather like cold winter months.

Of the 50 states, only 5 (Texas, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Louisiana) have weather-specific language in their anti-tethering laws. Another 18 have specifications for how to tether or how long is not OK (usually longer than 10-hour stints) and California is the only state to be fully anti-tethering. Of the states that have any laws about how to tether a dog, only a handful say a person could face anything more than a small fine for violating the law.

But the truth is, no dog should be tethered outdoors for extended periods, ever, especially not when it's freezing cold out!

Even breeds that are more suited to winter conditions cannot be safely tethered outdoors for extended periods. They have no way to escape if something bad happens. like a natural disaster or violence from a stranger or another animal. Tethering can also lead to dogs getting tangled up and stuck in their chains, and often they don't have food or water within their reach for long periods of times.

Some dogs are even left where they are vulnerable to animal attacks with no way to defend themselves. Some animals are even chained so tightly that they can't even walk around at all and when they try, they choke themselves over and over again in exasperation.

All of these risks become more deadly when extreme hot or cold is involved. Dogs notoriously have trouble cooling down in heat and there's no telling how many dogs get frostbite, hypothermia or even die while tethered outside in the cold.https://www.thepetitionsite.com/930/851/136/?TAP=1736&source_id=112024IHDDaily_ChainedOutside&_kx=VwMn6W69R4KmS-lNLGPoTbKie8ZHZSAp6gw47J0wO5Q.Mk2CiK

18/11/2024

Your Wednesday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

"Organic" indicates the crop was grown on land free of chemicals, artificial fertilizers, genetic modification, and pesticides.

18/11/2024

Your Tuesday

Information Western Medicine VS. Homeopathic and Holistic – What’s Best for Your Dog?

By: Scott H
July 6, 2024

There are more choices than ever when it comes to treating whatever ails your dog. One of the biggest questions is whether you should seek alternate forms of treatment that may diverge from what is thought of as traditional or “Western” medicine.

In the debate between the two, who wins?

Homeopathic and Holistic Medicine
The first problem with these terms is that there is no clear definition of their meaning, what they involve, or the methods used by different vets. Diane Monsein Levitan, VMD, Diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, has received worldwide recognition as the founder and first owner of the Center for Specialized Veterinary Care and The Compassionate Care Center.

“Holistic can mean different things to different people and even to veterinarians,” Dr. Levitan says. “What is considered ‘holistic’ and what is Eastern medicine? What training do pet owners expect or understand? What training do holistic practitioners have? Do they need special training or credentials to call themselves holistic? Who should you go to?”

“Some pet owners turn to what they believe is ‘holistic’ when other traditional remedies have not worked. Some vets offering holistic medicines/treatments offer pet owners hope rather than helping pets. It is unlikely that 2 vets offering ‘holistic care’ will be trained the same or will offer the same treatments. Oftentimes, bottles of medications are not labeled with ingredients other than ‘liver support,’ so working with a traditional vet may be difficult since they would not be able to predict drug/treatment compatibility.”

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) appears to have no credentials for homeopathic and holistic specialists. In 2013, the AVMA adopted a policy (which is now being called a consideration) that “homeopathy is an ineffective practice and that its use as a veterinary therapy be discouraged” (www.avma.org). But, as Dr. Levitan points out, the AVMA does not define what it sees as homeopathic treatments.

Instead, the AVMA’s only policy page on alternative medicines is short and vague:

The AVMA believes that all aspects of veterinary medicine should be held to the same standards, including complementary, alternative, and integrative veterinary medicine and non-traditional or other novel approaches.

The foremost objectives in veterinary medicine are the health and welfare of the patient.
Diagnosis and treatment should be based on sound, accepted principles of veterinary medicine and the veterinarian’s medical judgment.
Veterinarians should have the requisite knowledge and skills for every treatment modality they consider using.
A valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship must exist.
Owner consent should be obtained prior to initiating treatment.
Medical records should include outcomes of treatment.
Veterinarians should be aware of and abide by local, state, and federal statutes.

Another main problem can come from the clients, not necessarily the doctors, or their lack of knowledge. Sometimes, dog owners will refuse any type of treatment except what they consider to be holistic or homeopathic. This can be a major problem if the ailment is just not treatable by alternative medicine.

For example, Dr. Jeff Levy, an NYC veterinarian, answered a house call involving a dog with a broken back; he couldn’t move at all. The family wanted to use a holistic approach, combining homeopathy and acupuncture. “I affirmed their philosophy but recommended adding an orthopedist to the treatment team. With medication and acupuncture, the dog recovered completely.”

Western Medicine
Traditional or Western medicine is considered the “norm” when it comes to medicine on this side of the globe. We are all brought up on it—going to our family doctors and taking over-the-counter drugs when something hurts. It’s worked for decades, so many feel why mess with what works?

For starters, people are starting to think all those chemicals and drugs are not the best for you (or your dog). As we learn about alternative forms of healing from around the world that have fewer side effects but work just as well, dog owners are starting to look toward those.

Some people like the idea of “home remedies” and doing something to help their pets themselves rather than just giving them a pill every day.

But a warm and fuzzy feeling is not enough for some, who are still wary about all these holistic approaches. After all, if all these organic and natural stuff works, why were drugs created in the first place?

As you can see, the battle can go back and forth endlessly.

A Combined Approach
The answer might be not one or the other but both.

Dr. Jeff Levy is a well-respected NYC-based Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist (CVA). He’s trained in canine rehabilitation, and his practice consists of in-home traditional and holistic treatments for pets in New York City. He is a recipient of the 2006 Merit Award of the NYC Veterinary Medical Society, The Deans’ Pegasus Award from his Alma Mater, The Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and he was nominated for a Congressional Fellowship Program. Dr. Levy provides acupuncture treatments and veterinary medical care to his many animal patients through his local house-call practice.

Dr. Levy, obviously, believes in the power of combining all our knowledge to give pets the best treatment possible.

“Complementary medicine combines techniques of Western diagnostics, pharmacological and surgical intervention, as well as technological advances; with the humanistic approach associated with various alternative modalities such as acupuncture, homeopathy, herbology, chiropractic, and energy work. Integrating various modalities based on patient needs is the way to go,” Dr. Levy explains.

But, mainly, it’s a balance, they say.

“We see a balance of both and cover treatments in both categories,” says Dr. Denise Petryk, DVM and Director of Veterinary Services at Trupanion. “Holistic care isn’t necessarily a replacement for ‘traditional’ care—they often complement each other. The recent emphasis on holistic veterinary care in Western society has only provided more options for pet owners across North America.”

So who wins? Our pets, and we do. Why? Because it amounts to choices and chances. The more choices may mean, the better our chances are of keeping our pets healthier and living longer than ever before.

18/11/2024

Your Monday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

A holistic diet means feeding fresh food over processed food and avoiding foods with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and colorings.

16/11/2024

Your Friday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Always safely restrain your dog during car travel. This means using a secure seatbelt, harness, or carrier.

12/11/2024

Your Thursday Information

Ask A Vet: Can My Dog Get Alzheimer’s Disease?
By: Dr. Kathryn Primm

June 11, 2023

As our society ages and Baby Boomers reach their senior years, everyone is more likely to be touched by Alzheimer’s disease. It seems like everyone knows someone who has been affected by this diagnosis, whether it is a friend or a family member or just someone they know.

According to alz.org, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia affect 1 in 3 human seniors. Our dogs age faster than we do and many people with senior dogs wonder if their dogs can be affected. Of course, the cause in any species is complicated. The actual signs of dementia are related to progressive brain cell failure, but the reason for the cell failure is multi-factorial. Senior dogs can suffer from similar signs as human beings diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, the pathologic changes in the brain are comparable, but it is harder to document their impact in a non verbal species1. We cannot ask our dogs questions to assess their memory.

For dogs, this disorder has been termed Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Dogs suffering from CDS may seem to gradually decline, experiencing disorientation, altered social interactions and changes to sleep patterns.

Not all dogs experience the changes linked to CDS, but up to 74% of dogs may be affected 2. The older dogs get the more likely they will experience signs of CDS with more than 40% of dogs over the age of 14 years showing signs 3. In affected dogs, there is a fairly rapid progression moving from mild impairment to moderate impairment over a 6 month time period 2.

The most commonly reported issues for dogs over 7 years are aggression, barking, separation anxiety, house soiling, destructive behavior, excessive daytime sleeping and noise fears 4. Signs can be subtle at first and dog owners often fail to realize that there are treatments. Early intervention can improvement outcomes and slow the deterioration.

Certainly cognitive decline has been documented in canine patients and there are treatment options. There are special diets designed to keep minds bright and certain dietary supplements, like omega 3 fatty acids and fish oils that have shown promise in slowing the progression of dementia in dogs.

If your senior dog seems to sleep too much, act fearful, disoriented or aggressive, please ask your veterinarian for help. Although this issue is not called Alzheimer’s disease in dogs, cognitive decline is a very real issue for senior dogs and it can be helped. Let your vet help you keep your dog’s golden years shining!

12/11/2024

Your Wednesday Information

5 Signs Your Dog Just Had A Stroke (And What To Do)
By: Dina Fantegrossi

June 12, 2021

Strokes are not as common in dogs as they are in humans, but they can be equally serious and frightening. Unfortunately, recognizing the signs of stroke in dogs can be difficult. Our pups are quite stoic, and without the gift of speech to tell us how they are feeling, diagnosis is challenging.

Below we will discuss the types of stroke, how to recognize the signs in your dog, and what you can do to help them beat the odds.

What Is A Stroke?

According to the American Stroke Association, a stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain gets blocked or ruptures. When oxygenated blood cannot reach the affected area of the brain, cell death can occur.

Strokes often happen suddenly and without warning.

There Are 2 Types Of Stroke In Dogs:

Ischemic Strokes
These strokes occur when blood clots, tumor cells, clumps of platelets, bacteria or parasites obstruct the blood vessels of the brain. This obstruction leads to damage of the brain tissue. Ischemic strokes are more common than hemorrhagic strokes in both dogs and humans.

Hemorrhagic Strokes
In a hemorrhagic stroke, blood vessels rupture, causing bleeding in the brain, swelling, and increased pressure.

Signs Of Stroke In Dogs
As mentioned above, the symptoms of stroke in dogs can be subtle and hard to recognize. There are no warning signs prior to the stroke itself, so dogs often seem to go from perfectly normal to extremely impaired.

Some of the more common signs and symptoms to watch out for include:

1. Acute Weakness
A dog that has suffered a stroke may lose its balance or coordination when walking. They may also experience weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs.

2. Pacing or Circling
Depending on which side of the brain is affected, the dog may circle to one side or turn in the wrong direction when called.

3. Collapse
Lack of blood to some regions of the brain may cause the dog to collapse or even lose consciousness.

3. Facial & Vision Changes
While facial drooping is more common in people with strokes, you may notice your dog’s head is tilting to one side or that their facial expression appears odd. It’s also common for dogs to experience impaired vision or even blindness.

Some dogs have abnormal eye movements from side to side or around in circles. Others may have unusual eye positioning, such as one eye that wanders while the other stays still, or eyes that appear to focus on two different spots.

4. Loss of Bladder and/or Bowel Control
It’s not uncommon for dogs to lose control of their bodily functions during a stroke.

5. Vomiting
Issues with balance and uncontrolled eye movement often cause nausea and vomiting.

Other Conditions Can Mimic The Signs Of Stroke
The major signs of stroke in dogs can also be symptoms of another condition known as Idiopathic Vestibular Disease (IVD).

The vestibular system is made up of delicate structures within the dog’s inner ear that “report” to the brain to maintain balance, coordination, and the position of the head, eyes, and legs. Disruption of this system can cause symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, head tilt, loss of balance, falling or rolling to one side, circling, trouble walking, and abnormal eye movements.

IVD is most common in older dogs and those with chronic ear infections. While it is undoubtedly a nuisance, it is not life-threatening and often resolves on its own. Sadly, many people mistake the signs of IVD for stroke and have their dogs euthanized prematurely.

Syncope – or fainting spells – may also be mistaken for stroke in dogs.

What To Do If You Believe Your Dog Has Had A Stroke
If you suspect your dog has had a stroke, seek veterinary attention immediately. Permanent neurological damage can occur in a short period of time, so you should not delay treatment. In the meantime, keep your dog calm and protect them from falls and injuries that may occur due to disorientation.

When you arrive at the animal hospital, your vet will perform a physical exam and a series of tests to rule out other problems and confirm a stroke. An MRI or CAT scan may be necessary to definitively diagnose a stroke and rule out other brain diseases with similar symptoms.

In addition to blood work, your vet will likely perform a full cardiac workup to determine if the stroke was caused by underlying heart disease. Other tests may include an electrocardiogram, chest X-rays, or a cardiac ultrasound.

Causes Of Stroke In Dogs
Both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are more likely to occur in senior dogs and those with preexisting conditions such as:

Kidney Disease
Cushing’s Disease
Hypertension
Diabetes
Heart Disease
Bleeding Disorders
Hypothyroidism
Cancer
While these conditions certainly increase the risk, 50% of canine strokes have no specific underlying cause.

There are no specific dog breeds that are predisposed to strokes, but certain breeds are prone to the underlying diseases that cause them. For example, King Charles Cavalier Spaniels have a high rate of heart disease, putting them at an increased risk for strokes.

How Serious Are Dog Strokes?
The severity of a stroke depends on the part of the brain affected and how long the brain goes without blood flow. Catastrophic strokes can significantly reduce the quality of life or even be fatal.

On the other hand, not all strokes are life-altering, and many dogs go on to live long, happy lives. Recovery and long-term prognosis depend on:

Type and severity of stroke
Underlying medical conditions
How quickly your dog receives treatment
Supportive care

Is There Anything You Can Do To Prevent Your Dog From Having A Stroke?
Since half of canine strokes have no underlying cause or warning signs, there’s really no way to prevent them. However, keeping your pet healthy can reduce the odds. Feed a balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, and keep up with regular veterinary checkups. As your dog ages, increase the number of vet visits to help diagnose any underlying diseases that may contribute to canine strokes.

Remember, early detection is key: always seek veterinary care at the first sign of a stroke!

12/11/2024

Your Tuesday Information

A Tip From +THE HEALTHY HOUND

Stimulate your dog's mind by letting her choose the route on your next walk. Be sure to allow plenty of sniff-stops!

09/11/2024

Your Monday Information

How To Keep Your Dog From Jumping
By: Erica Presley

October 31, 2024

How to Keep Your Dog from Jumping with SpiritDog Online Dog Training
Dogs love to show affection, and a jump often seems like an enthusiastic hello! But if you’ve experienced muddy paws on your clothes or seen your dog jump up on someone unprepared, you know that this behavior can quickly become a challenge. Thankfully, SpiritDog Online Dog Training offers expert guidance to help you keep your dog from jumping and develop polite greetings instead. Their video training series and online courses walk you through each step, showing how effective communication and a few simple techniques can make a world of difference.

Body Blocking: Dogs often respond to space and body language more than words. By using “body blocking,” you subtly let your dog know when they’re in your personal space. Stand firm, keeping your body aligned in a unified stance (no sudden movements), and lean gently toward your dog. This posture signals that jumping up is not going to be rewarded with attention.
Stay Calm and Composed: Dogs mirror our energy. If we respond to jumping with excitement (like talking to or petting them), they’ll assume jumping is a great way to get your attention. Instead, stay calm, avoid eye contact, and don’t pet them. This shows that jumping up does not equal a rewarding experience.
Reward the Right Behavior: When your dog stops jumping and offers a different behavior, like sitting or standing calmly, then it’s time to acknowledge them! Invite them in by relaxing your stance, crouching down, and giving them gentle praise. This shows your dog that staying calm is what gets them attention—not jumping.

Explore SpiritDog’s Other Online Training Courses
While training to stop jumping is crucial, SpiritDog offers a variety of other courses that address common dog behaviors and help you build a strong foundation with your furry friend. Here are some of the most popular courses available:

Obedience Essentials: Cover the core commands every dog should know, including sit, stay, come, and down.
Leash Reactivity: Ideal for dogs who become overly excited or anxious on walks, this course provides tools to help dogs stay calm around other dogs, people, or new situations.
Recall Mastery: Help your dog master the “come” command, building safety and confidence in off-leash situations.
Separation Anxiety: For dogs who struggle with being alone, SpiritDog’s course guides you in gently building their independence.
Each course is designed to be practical, friendly, and easy to follow from the comfort of your own home—making it easy to fit into your schedule!

The Benefits of Training Your Dog with SpiritDog
Training isn’t just about stopping unwanted behaviors; it’s about enhancing the bond you share with your dog. Here are some top benefits of SpiritDog’s online training approach:

Flexibility: With on-demand videos, you can train at your own pace and revisit lessons whenever you need to.
Positive Reinforcement: SpiritDog’s methods rely on positive reinforcement, which fosters a happier, more engaged pup.
Building Trust and Confidence: Training strengthens the trust between you and your dog, reducing stress for both of you.
Improved Safety: Proper training minimizes risks, ensuring that your dog knows how to behave in a variety of situations.
Strengthening the Bond: SpiritDog’s gentle approach enhances your relationship, creating a connection built on mutual respect and understanding.
online dog training

Frequently Asked Questions About SpiritDog Training
Q: Will my dog really learn from online training?

Absolutely! SpiritDog’s online courses are designed to be user-friendly and are filled with practical examples and real-life scenarios that you can practice at home. Many dog owners report excellent results through online learning because the techniques are easy to follow and are designed for every level of experience.

Q: What if my dog has unique behavioral needs?

SpiritDog has a range of courses to address specific behavioral challenges, from leash reactivity to separation anxiety. You can also explore their specialized training options if your dog has unique needs, ensuring that every training experience is suited to your dog’s personality.

Q: Can multiple family members participate in the training?

Yes, and it’s encouraged! The more consistency your dog experiences, the better. SpiritDog’s courses make it easy for everyone in your household to get involved, so the training becomes a shared, family-centered effort.

Training dog with collar
Ready to Teach Your Dog Polite Manners?
Jumping is just one of the many behaviors that SpiritDog Online Dog Training can help you with. By mastering body language and practicing consistency, you can guide your dog toward calmer, friendlier interactions that respect your space—and theirs. So, if you’re ready to transform your dog’s behavior and bring a sense of peace to your household, explore SpiritDog’s training courses today and enjoy the benefits of a well-trained, happy pup!

Animal Lover Extraordinaire

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