Bark-Talk Dog Training

25/01/2025

Body Language Is Communication!

I often (maybe too often!) speak of learning to read your dog's body language. It's a critical part of how they communicate with us. While they're experts at interpreting our body language: shifting or a change in our body position, facial expression, or tone of voice, we're pretty much oblivious and totally unaware of what our dogs might be telling us. This can lead to injuries to people and other dogs.

Most frequently, bites and/or dog fights stem from fear/anxiety. If a dog is aggressive or extremely fearful, we usually know. But what about if your dog is slightly anxious or fearful? If your dog's tail is wagging does that mean all is OK? No! Not necessarily. Learning to recognize and read your dog's (or a strange dog that might approach you) body language is critical in keeping you, your family and your dog safe.

What to look for:
Body: Full body crouched down low with ears flattened and tail hanging low. The tail might still wag but that doesn't mean that the dog is comfortable.
-If a dog is lying down with his legs out to the side and he seems totally relaxed, he usually is! Note- if he's sleeping soundly be careful not to surprise him and wake him suddenly out of a deep sleep if you don't really know the dog.
-If he's sitting more upright it might just mean that he's more alert and aware of his surroundings and all the activity. But, if it looks like he's stiff ad trying to make himself appear larger it could mean he's anxious and unsure.
Tail: A happy dog's tail is usually up and wagging. A dog with a tail that's slightly tucked, held lower, or really between his legs even though the tail might be wagging, shouldn't be approached. He's telling you he's uncomfortable.
Mouth: Panting can be an indicator of anxiety if they're not really hot or haven't just run around. Licking lips and yawning are also ways that dogs try to self soothe and they can be signs of stress.
Ears: If his ears are pointing forward or they're relaxed and just hanging down, ,he's panting with a relaxed tongue, his body is relaxed and his tail is wagging loosely- he's relaxed and happy,
-If the ears are stiff/alert with a stiffer, forward leaning body your dog might be focused on something that might cause aggression.
-If the ears are really flat back on the head and not relaxed at all it might mean the dog is really afraid. Be careful or don't approach at all.
Eyes: If your dog is giving you the "side-eye"...looking sideways and showing the whites of the eyes it means he's uncomfortable and maybe afraid.

It's a good idea to always watch children, strangers, and other dogs around your dog especially if he's new to the family and you don't really know his personality. They may not interpret your dog's signals that he's anxious and things could escalate.

19/01/2025

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Don’t blame them—train them! Celebrate International Train Your Dog Month by focusing on effective, positive training methods that strengthen the bond between you and your best friend.

Remember, our canine companions thrive when given clear guidance and consistent support, which is why training should never feel like a punishment—it’s an opportunity to learn and grow together. Train Your Dog Month was launched by APDT International in 2010 and has since become a powerful movement promoting dog-friendly, science-based training techniques and responsible pet ownership.

Join the celebration, advocate for positive, professional training methods, and help spread the word: Don’t blame them—train them! Visit trainyourdogmonth.com for resources, tips, and ways to get involved this month and beyond. Together, let’s make every day a step toward happier dogs and happier families!

11/01/2025

YIP OF THE WEEK:

I hope everyone had a happy holiday season. Thoughts go out to all those facing the devastating fires in California.

It's the start of a new year- a time when many people get new dogs. What are some of the most important things to do and teach when you get a new, adorable puppy? (This also applies to a new rescue that might be a little older) Getting a new dog requires A LOT of work. It's like having a new baby in the family...Stay calm, patient, and consistent.

-Train, train, train! Not only does it help build the bond and trust between you and your dog, it also provides mental exercise which is essential for your dog's well being. You are your dog's mentor. The one who advocates for him at all times. Force-free, fear free, pain-free training builds trust. Keep treats around and catch them being good. Treat or playtime with a special toy to reinforce that behavior. Keep it fun!
-Socialize your dog. Expose him to the world so it doesn't become a scary place. Different places, people, sounds, surfaces, animals, noises. But don't overwhelm them. Instead, stay at a distance where your dog remains calm and can observe and experience all the goings-on around them. Feed high value treats and talk in a happy calm voice about what you see!
-Housetrain! It's a learning process that might take a few months to be completely done. Every dog and situation is different.
-Manage the situation! Think about what your needs are and the dog's needs are. How is your house set up? Kids, other animals, work schedules, etc...Use baby gates, tethers, leashes, exercise pens and always supervise!
-Physical AND mental exercise is critically important. A tired dog is happier and will be less destructive, anxious, hyper.
-Your new dog might already have some issues that might come up such as not liking to be pet in certain places (backside, paws), not doing well in the car, being overly anxious and afraid. Work with a trainer or work with your dog to introduce things gradually. Be calm and patient.

Most importantly, have fun and give lots of praise and snuggles!

22/12/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:
Staying Safe Over the Holidays...

This time of year can be particularly busy and stressful for you and your dog. If you're having family or friends visit, having a party or will be in and out a lot, you might need to monitor your dog a little more closely than usual to ensure he doesn't get out, eat something he shouldn't, get frightened or overwhelmed, etc...

You know your dog best. Is he pretty social? Does he get uncomfortable with noise, crowds, commotion and try to hide? Even if he usually likes people he may be stressed with all that goes on or may feed off your elevated stress level.
-Keep an eye out for counter surfing or eating off a plate/food that's left where it's easily eaten.
-Be aware if you have lit decorative candles that can easily be knocked over by a wagging tail!
-He may topple decorations or the tree if too excited so keep an eye out!
-A lot of kids running around and maybe being loud (being kids) may stress him so give him a break/a safe quiet place to go, if necessary.
-Not all guests are comfortable with dogs so it might be best to keep your dog in another room during a party. If houseguests aren't comfortable with your dog, manage the situation by using a leash while they're with you so he's under control and close to you.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

13/12/2024

Do you have a shy, skittish, nervous or fearful dog?

This can be stressful for both you and your dog.
What are signs that your dog might be uncomfortable? Body language is how your dog communicates so be attentive to the message he's trying to give you:

-Showing the whites of his eyes or averting his gaze. He does this when he wants to disengage from the situation....leave me alone please.
-Yawning, panting, and licking their lips are all things your dog might do to calm themselves and to let you know they're not comfortable. It's a common way dogs respond to stress.
-Tucking their tail and maybe cowering. If your dog is very fearful and does this, consider it a warning and don't let kids or strangers approach. Your dog is telling you he's VERY uncomfortable and nervous.

What to do? Our dogs rely on us to keep them safe and happy. So don't get annoyed if your dog becomes stressed. They're not doing it on purpose or to irritate you or to be disrespectful.

-Most importantly, stay calm and try to keep your home environment as calm as possible if you have a nervous dog.
-Don't raise your voice.
-Don't pull on the leash. ....These two things will make him more anxious since he'll interpret it as his owner being anxious and therefore, he'll pick up on it and become more stressed.
-Create distance from whatever is causing the anxiety. Don't force your dog towards the "thing" that's scary. (It's called flooding...don't do it!) Stay calm. Let him be a dog and just sniff and experience the world at a safe distance from the thing that upsets him.
-If it's really bad or just in certain situations like thunderstorms or fireworks you can try a thunder shirt or something that swaddles him tightly, play classical music in the house, or try calming chews.

08/12/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

What to do when your dog has an upset stomach...

It's often suggested that when your dog has GI issues to feed them plain chicken and white rice. It won't hurt your dog but it's not always the best solution.
-If you introduce your dog to a different food, something they're not used to eating, it might cause more stomach upset if your dog is sensitive to changes in their diet.
-You might also end up having a problem getting your dog to go back to their regular diet. That yummy chicken and rice is so much more exciting and appealing!

If the issues (vomiting and/or diarrhea) go on for more than a few days your dog can develop dehydration. Also, if it's non-stop or if it's bloody, the best thing is to check with your vet to get your dog the proper treatment.

29/11/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:
Hope all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Coming and Going...how to best leave and return to your dog.

You may feel guilty or sad when leaving your dog even if it's only for a short period of time. So you make a big thing of it...Petting, acting sad or upset through your verbalizations or actions. Your dog "reads" your body language and emotions. You're conveying the message to your dog that separations (even short ones) cause pain and are a negative experience. It may lead to separation anxiety in your dog. A better way is to just be matter of fact. A quick pet, "see you in a bit" . Don't make it a big deal.

On the other hand, when returning, a happy tone of voice and lots a petting is a good thing. (Don't go overboard to the point where your dog is jumping on you) These positive interactions have been shown to decrease cortisol (stress) and increase positive, calm, bonding and loving behavior.

11/11/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

It's getting to be a busy time of year and your dog is seemingly always underfoot! Even thought you love him dearly, it can get to be annoying. What to do? Teach a solid go to your spot, place, bed, mat....Call it what you want, but be consistent. It's a useful cue to use when you're busy or distracted, your dog is in your office and you have work to do or calls to make, or at night if you want your dog to sleep on his bed, not yours!

Teach it in a room that's near you (usually the family room or kitchen area) to start, then you can have multiple "places" around the house.

Going to your place doesn't mean to just go there - It means lay down there and stay. Therefore, once they get the idea of going to their place/mat they then should learn a solid "stay".

Start by teaching with the bed close to you and then gradually increase the distance between you and the bed/mat.

01/11/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Is Your Dog Resource Guarding?

Often we adopt a dog that's a little older and may have some "baggage"...negative experiences in puppyhood or with a previous owner. If a dog is insecure and timid he'll need a lot of patience, loving and understanding. What often happens, is that after a few weeks with you the dog settles in a suddenly you notice growling, snarling or snapping if you get near their food, a special toy or maybe their bed. Where'd that come from??? It doesn't mean the dog is trying to control you. It stems from fear, anxiety, worry, and not being clear what your expectations are - how to behave. So the dog instinctually looks after themselves and behaves like a dog.

What to do? MANAGE the situation! Pay close attention to the things that provoke him to have this reaction.
- If it's food, place the dish out of the way of traffic (people and other animals) in a quiet corner. Pick it up immediately when finished.
- If the problem is the toys, remove the ones that are causing the problem (not when he's in the room!) until he's calmer and more used to you and your routine.
-Exercise! Physical AND mental.
-Train! Training will build your bond, get him more comfortable with you, calm him and teach him self control. Teach look, sit, down...and ask for them when feeding or playing /giving him a toy. If he doesn't do it, "oh well" and walk away. Missing a meal won't be the end of the world but doing this helps him learn your clear expectations.

If your dog has a more severe problem, talk to your vet. Medication may be necessary. Or, find a trainer/behavioralist that might be able to help.

NEVER let children interact unsupervised with a dog that guards!

26/10/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Dogs communicate through body language and through vocalizations. We need to learn to understand both to have better communication and a better understanding of our dogs.

Let's talk about how they talk to us:
Your dog may bark, howl, whine, bay, whimper, or growl. They all mean different things that your dog is trying to tell you.

-Barking: Dog barking is a common stressor for a lot of dog owners. But it usually is your dog trying to tell you something in their "language". They bark to alert you to someone or something is approaching. It might be a person or another dog outside, or a deer, or a squirrel, on and on. The dog is doing his job. It can be incredibly annoying but you can train your dog to look, alert you, and calm down.
A dog may also bark when left alone or bored. It stems from distress/anxiety from being left.
If your dog comes up to you and just barks at you, he's demanding your attention. Responding to this type of barking will make it worse so just walk away and ignore.

-Baying: Not all dogs bay (or not very often). But if you have a hound, you are probably very familiar with your dog baying. It's a long bark and the dog usually bays if after something - on a scent and searching for prey. Sometimes, your dog may bay at what he considers might be an intruder or something he's unsure of.

-Howling: This is usually more high pitched than baying. Some dogs howl if they're anxious or distressed or sometimes they just howl at the sound of a siren!

-A yelp may indicate that your dog's in pain. A yelp when dogs are playing a yelp is his way of saying "ouch" .

-A whimper is usually not as sharp as a yelp. It may indicate excitement...when he's sees a dog friend or when you first come home, for example.

-Whining usually indicates some anxiety. He may have to go out or isn't comfortable in a situation.

-Growling is the most serious form of communication. Don't ignore a growl and don't ever punish a growl! It's your dog's way of telling you he's uncomfortable with a situation. Try to figure out why your dog is growling.
Your dog may often growl when playing with you or another dog. This is fine as long as his body language shows he's calm and having fun. Generally speaking, the lower the growl, the more serious he is. If your dog is playing, the growl is usually higher pitched. If a dog feels threatened (and a bite may quickly follow) the growl may be deep and slow.

19/10/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:
How Do I Improve My Dog's Behavior?...
He doesn't listen, jumps, has accidents in the house, eats food from the table or counter, and on and on.....

That's just your dog being a dog. It's my belief that getting your dog and household to a place of calmness and sanity comes from a combination of positive reinforcement training AND management.

MANAGE THE SITUATION! You'll frequently hear me say this when training. Think for a moment-what unwanted behavior is happening and why? For instance, if your dog is chewing your good sneakers or eating the food left on the counter - don't leave things around until your dog is at a place where he won't grab things (if ever). And make sure you give him his own things to chew. If he drinks out of the toilet, close the seat!
Management means controlling the environment so you're not reinforcing behaviors you don't want. If your dog runs to the door, jumps and barks each time someone rings the bell, manage the situation by using gates or a leash or a really good "place" and "stay" cue.

TRAINING builds a bond and trust between you and your dog which leads to him wanting to be with you and please you. It also is an important form of mental exercise which helps calm and tire your dog. Be clear with realistic expectations (desired behavior) and how you ask your dog for what you want. Be consistent and reward your dog (treats or praise) for the desired behavior. Use your training to "rephrase" the problem. (Your dog is jumping, barking, etc...stay calm and ask for an alternative behavior (sit, place) and reward so that it becomes the default behavior.)

11/10/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Do you have a new dog? Or thinking of getting one?

Shelter and rescue dogs, in particular, often require quite a bit of time to decompress and settle in. Depending on their history, they are often untrained and extremely anxious with no manners. Not a clue of how to behave and what's expected in your home. So, it's critical that you give them whatever time and space they need. Be gentle, calm and supportive. Try to manage each situation as it arises without getting stressed or angry. Your dog will feed off that and get even more nervous or anxious.

It's often overwhelming for a rescue or new little puppy when you bring them home. Manage your space with gates or pens so the dog can't get into things you don't want. They know nothing about the "world". Take things slowly. Gently encourage behaviors you want and reinforce with treats and/or praise. And lots of loving!

06/10/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Does your dog bark or pull when another dog approaches, if he sees a squirrel (or deer), of children run by or a cyclist goes by? Training teaches self control where your dog learns to refer to you and control their impulses. It takes consistency and patience and it's taught just like any other cues we teach in training. Training builds the bond between you and your dog so that he looks to you for direction...."are we good?"/"am I doing ok?". The focus is on you, not whatever is out there that may grab his attention.

So, just pulling back on a leash or raising your voice doesn't work. Teaching and training does....Ask for what you want. Your dog wants to please you so try to avoid a struggle where you're trying to dominate or get your dog to submit. If your dog is over-stimulated, stay calm and try to create distance or ask for a sit (maybe rather than a down) or have him look at you as you keep walking past the distraction.

It's hard, but try to stay calm and quiet. Your dog "reads" you and if you become more excited and louder, he'll play off that and his excitement will increase. Calmly ask for the behavior you want.

This isn't something you can get overnight. It takes a lot of time and practice. Start in an area that's distraction free. Keep your dog on a loose leash and just watch the world go by. Do this for 10-15 minutes a few times a day if possible. Start with just standing nicely, then maybe a sit and then maybe laying down calmly. Then gradually, change locations...You can start at your home, then maybe go somewhere in the neighborhood or to a friend's house, then to a park, shopping center, etc....

27/09/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Thinking of getting a new puppy/dog? Things to consider...

-Shelter or breeder? Shelters have a lot of choice - breeds, mixes, ages, size...etc. Breeders- do some research to make sure they're reputable/responsible. A good breeder will help and guide you in choosing the best puppy for your you and your family.
-Breed: Do your research about breeds and behaviors. A very active dog may not mix with a family with small children of if you don't have the capability/desire to play and/or walk frequently. A breeder and shelter employee should help steer you.
-You may want to bring a knowledgeable friend with you if you're unsure or if this is your first adoption.
-A shelter and maybe a breeder usually does a behavioral assessment on their dogs and can help with your decision for a good fit. Please don't just choose the one that's cutest or you feel sorry for. This is a decision that will bring the dog into your home for 10 years or more.

Behaviors to look for:
-Does he play with you? Some dogs are timid and may not play. That's ok but depending on your family situation, a timid dog may require a calmer house and more motivation to train. If he plays and follows you around with a toy, does he get over excited and start jumping, nipping and not settle once you stop? If he doesn't stop or mouths you, bites clothes, etc...you may want to avoid him unless you have a lot of knowledge/experience with dogs.
-If you show a treat, can you get him to sit? Once he gets it, does he repeat the behavior?
-When you first meet, does he approach you or hide/move away? I more fearful dog that may have issues or not be well socialized isn't a show stopper. Just may not be right for you if you haven't worked with a shy dog before.
-Try gently petting the dog all over. Does he let you touch his head/face, ears, paws (front and back), tail, hind legs, chest, stomach?
-Does he come to you and snuggle? Or does he resist a gentle cuddle?
-Bring the kids and dog "sibling" with you. If the dog is reluctant to engage it may not be the right fit. With the you want a dog that will bond and love not just tolerate kids that may be noisy, active, etc. If you bring a dog to meet, the meeting should be happy on both ends.

Don't rush into your decision. As mentioned above, this is a long term decision for your family and the dog. Do your research.

18/08/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:
Dog Adolescence....

One of the life stages our dogs go through is adolescence - depending on the dog it usually starts between 6-12 months and lasts until 18-24 months.

Adolescent dogs, like children, may start to test boundaries and display more independence in order to explore the world and learn on their own. They also, like people, may have questionable judgement and impulse control during this stage and become more easily distracted.

Be patient and maintain your warm, supportive and trusting relationship as well as sticking to a consistent schedule, rules and direction. They may need even more of your time and attention at this stage (depending on the dog and behaviors) in order to guide them through. Stay positive!

11/08/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Is it possible to walk/exercise your dog too much? Obviously, yes. Too much can lead to health issues and/or injury. So how do you know how much to walk your dog? It depends on the age, breed of dog and weight/health.

Also, if it's very hot, it's better to walk your dog first thing in the morning, in the evening, or on shaded paths. You may want to have water with you so they don't become dehydrated.
Be aware of the 3-5 second rule...If you cant keep your hand down on the pavement for that amount of time, it's too hot for your dog to walk without injuring their paw pads. If it's very cold, be aware of ice that can cut paw pads or slipping. If you do walk a lot, check your dog's paws on a regular basis for any cracking or extreme redness/soreness.

Be particularly careful when walking your puppy since their bones and joints are still developing and too much walking or rough play can lead to injury. If they don't want to slow down, you may want to make sure the time is limited.

Your dog will tell you if it's too much. You know your dog. Watch body language...If he really slows down, sits or lies down, starts limping and/or is panting very heavily it's time to go home even if you want to keep going!

04/08/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:

Resource guarding. It's not uncommon. It shouldn't be ignored because it could get worse.
What is resource guarding? Does your dog growl at you or even snap if you come near him when he's grabbed a sock, has a special toy or when he's eating? That's resource guarding...

It's not something to laugh at or ignore. It's your dog's way of warning you to back off. He's afraid of you or another dog taking his "stuff". All dog's can and will bite if provoked enough. Believe the warning.

So what do you do?
-Never punish your dog for growling. Recognize that it's his way of telling you he's not comfortable with something and punishing may make him more stressed and uncomfortable so that he may bite rather than giving a warning growl.
-If your dog lowers his head near a toy or while eating, or starts eating really fast when you approach, that's guarding. Don't try to approach or pet him while eating and definitely don't stick your hands near his bowl!

You can start by feeding a handful of food at a time by hand if you trust that he'll take it gently. Or, place a handful of food in his bowl and step away. Let him eat that and repeat until he's eaten his full meal. After doing this for a few weeks, your dog should let you approach and actually be happy with it!
If your dog guards his food from other dogs, make sure you feed them in separate rooms. You can get them used to eating together by having them sit near you (but not right next to each other). Give the non guarding dog a treat then give your guarding dog a treat. Keep repeating for a few days as they get closer to one another.

If your dog guards an object how do you manage the situation?
-put it away for a while.
-play with other toys/objects that he'll bring to you and give them to you. When he does, give him a treat. Eventually, re-introduce the special object and exchange with a very high value treat.

It's a process. Take it slow. Your dog (hopefully) will learn you're not a threat and will accept you being close .

19/07/2024

YIP OF THE WEEK:
Tips to make the most of your walk with your dog...

Your daily walks with your dog give you special time together. It's time to enjoy and relax! It's an opportunity to build a stronger bond and to get to know/understand one another better. To get the most out of your walks:

-Please no phone calls! Attention should be between you and your dog. You're reading his body language and he's responding to you. It's a real give and take where he tells you his needs and you communicate yours.
-Take your time. Let your dog discover the world by sniffing. This tires him out and decreases anxiety. So if you're used to walking 15 mins (always feeling stressed), try to do 20 relaxing minutes!
-If your dog isn't happy greeting other people or dogs on the walk, don't force it.
-Try to do 3-4 walks a day if you can of 15-20 minutes. Change it up and go different routes through the neighborhood or go to a park and explore!
Have fun!