MindFul Mutts

20/06/2024

It can be hard to let go of the way others perceive us. Hard to brush off an unkind comment.

So much of our anxiety around our dog’s behaviour comes from the judgments of others and what society expects from us.

Letting go is easier said than done. But you show up every day for your dog, make a difference to their life. And set an example to those watching. Even if they aren’t ready to see it yet.

20/06/2024

If you asked me to name the single most important thing you can do for your dog, it would be this.

Keep your dog feeling safe.

This is not to be confused with your dog being safe, or whether or not you think your dog is safe. This is about keeping your dog *feeling* safe. Which means identifying what your dog finds stressful or scary by learning how to observe and read their body language to recognize when, where, and under what circumstances they feel uncomfortable, and doing whatever you can to avoid those situations.

This can mean that your dog never visits another dog park.

This can mean that even though it’s a beautiful Sunday and you’d love to have brunch on a patio of your favorite restaurant with your dog, your dog stays home.

This can mean that you politely (or not) decline requests to pet your dog.

This can mean that when children come over your house, your dog is in another room with a yummy Kong.

This can mean that you walk your dog during quiet times of the day.

This can mean that you drive your dog to walk them in a different area.

Whatever it means for you and your dog, keep your dog feeling safe.

You are your dog’s best and only advocate. You are what stands between them and the rest of the world, a world where dogs are set up to fail every day with often heartbreaking consequences. This doesn’t mean that we don’t also actively and *humanely* work to help our dogs feel more comfortable and confident in this world, but it does mean that until they do, WE HAVE TO KEEP THEM FEELING SAFE.

Our dogs are relying on us, it’s our job to have their backs.

20/06/2024

Something everyone should know👇

We should always avoid putting dogs in uncomfortable situations. Regardless of whether they're muzzled or not.

Just because a muzzle negates the risk to others, doesn’t mean that it changes the way our dogs FEEL!

It’s so important to treat your dog as you would if there was still a high risk of injury to another being because in doing so you will be more likely to keep your dog out of situations you know they’re unlikely to be able to cope with.

👉 Your dog will still be uncomfortable with dogs even if they're muzzled.

👉 With a muzzle on, your dog will still be uncomfortable at the vet.

👉 If your dog was so fearful they tried to bite your neighbour before, they still might try with a muzzle on.

A muzzle is a MANAGEMENT TOOL that keeps dogs and others safe, but a muzzle alone doesn’t create emotional change. 💕

Putting on a muzzle doesn't mean we can throw everything at our dogs that we couldn't before, just because the risk to others is lower. We help our dogs grow in confidence and feel safe, not them. We do it with good management, great, ethical training, and considering whether our dogs will enjoy our situations.

Let me know if you agree! 💗

14/06/2024

To Neuter Or Not?
Castrating male dogs, also known as neutering, is a common surgical procedure that involves the removal of the testicles.

Here are some key points to consider very carefully before neutering.

Population Control: Helps reduce the number of unwanted puppies. An important consideration when there are so many unwanted dogs in this country.
Behavioural Benefits: Can sometimes reduce aggressive behaviour, roaming, and marking territory.
Health Benefits: Can lower the risk of certain cancers (testicular and prostate cancer) but in general these cancers are seen in senior dogs.

What is the best age to neuter? Many vets are still recommending neutering around 6-9 months of age, which is during adolescence however more recent studies indicate that this procedure should be delayed until the dogs growth plates are closed and they are fully mature both physically and emotionally before neutering. Dogs go through several stages of psychological sensitivity known as critical periods before the age of 18 months. If they are neutered in one of these sensitive periods the potential trauma of the surgery, fear and pain can have a lifelong impact on their confidence.

Understanding the behavioural effects of castration is essential, particularly if your dog has any signs of anxiety.

Pros: Reduction in aggression and dominance-related behaviour towards other male dogs - Studies indicate that castration can reduce certain types of aggression, especially those related to dominance fighting or competition with other males. Testosterone plays a significant role in such behaviours, and its reduction can lead to decreased aggression. In addition some neutered dogs can become defensive or aggressive towards intact male dogs so you need to manage your male dog carefully in this time of rampant hormones.
Less Distracted by scent and other dogs - some owners find it hard to train and manage an entire male dog as they are distracted by scent.
Decrease in roaming - Castrated dogs are less likely to try to escape or roam in search of a mate, which reduces the risk of getting lost or involved in accidents .
Reduction in scent marking behaviour - Castration can significantly decrease urine marking, which some owners might find beneficial.
Lower Incidence of some health issues - Castration eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and can reduce the risk of prostate problems .
These benefits are often a compelling reason for many owners to choose to neuter
However there are disadvantages to castration.

Cons:
Potential for increased anxiety and fearfulness - Some studies suggest that castration can lead to an increase in anxiety and fear-related behaviours in certain dogs . This could be due to the reduction of testosterone, which plays a role in confidence and social interactions.
Changes in energy levels and weight gain - Castrated dogs may experience a decrease in metabolism, leading to potential weight gain if their diet is not adjusted accordingly . This can result in obesity and associated health problems like diabetes and joint issues.
Alteration in Play Behaviour - Some research indicates that castrated dogs may show a decrease in certain types of vigorous play behaviour.
An increase in the potential for cruciate ligament injuries - early castration affects how the bones develop which can be implicated in other injuries

It is important to consider these facts very carefully before diving into castrating your male dog.
There is also now chemical castration which is an implant that is inserted under the skin of the dogs scruff and which lasts 3-6 months. Chemical castration is often used by breeders to prevent their dogs fertilising others by mistake as well as for other reasons. Chemical castration is a useful tool that can be used to assess a dog to see if castration would be behaviourally beneficial. There are some initial side effects including a potential increase in aggression for a period of time until the hormones settle down, but in my experience - as long as the dog is managed carefully during this window it can be a useful assessment tool . After all - once they are surgically removed, you can’t stick them back on!

Speak to your vet and a certified behaviourist if you are unsure or if your dog is demonstrating any signs of anxiety or aggression.

14/06/2024

Ethology,Neuroscience,Applied Animal Behaviour,Sentient,Sentient beings,Emotions,Animal Welfare,Dog,Cat,Training,Dog behaviour,Cat behaviour,Animal behaviour,Animal rights,Enrichment,Agility,Dog agility,Cat toys,Dog toys,Animals,Behaviour courses,Behaviour problems,Naughty dog,Naughty cat

14/06/2024

🐾Although dogs descend from a common ancestor with wolves, they have undergone millennia of domestication and genetic engineering, resulting in distinct differences from their wild counterparts. Despite this misconceptions about canine behaviour persist, perpetuating unrealistic expectations and outdated training methods.

Such myths revolve around the idea of dogs as inherently naughty, stubborn, and trying to be the leader of the pack, requiring punishment for correction [1]. The original study of wolves and behaviour was conducted in 1947 by Rudolph Schenkel, who claimed that wolves hold a social position, the pack is controlled by a dominant male and female; and wolves fought within each other to establish top rank. This was disproved by Dr. Mech in 2000 [2].

The world evolves constantly yet the human race is still stuck on this notion. Qualified dog trainers and behaviourists are not trying to convince you that the world is flat, we are simply trying to improve your relationship with your dog without the use of outdated training mythology.

In reality; natural wolf groups function as family units, with parents as caregivers. Communication within the wolf group relies heavily on subtle cues, such as body language and facial expressions, rather than overt displays of aggression and dominance.

Despite scientific advancements debunking the alpha dog theory, some trainers continue to perpetuate these myths, advocating for dominance-based techniques. However, the lack of regulation in the industry allows such outdated practices to persist.

Understanding dogs requires acknowledging their individuality and respecting their preferences. Effective training involves environmental management, systematic desensitisation, and counter-conditioning, with the use of positive reinforcement; which helps dogs understand desired behaviours without resorting to punitive measures [3]. Embracing modern, evidence-based methods can build healthier, more respectful relationships with our canine companions.

Television also plays a significant role.

TV networks air shows for ratings, promoting trainers whose methods align with the dominance theory. Unfortunately, these methods often rely on coercion and correction, leading dogs to comply out of fear, NOT out of genuine willingness and understanding.

Dominance, often mistaken for a personality trait, is instead a survival response rooted in anxiety and fear. Moreover, punishing a dog for undesirable behaviour doesn't effectively communicate what you want them to do instead. Behaviours stem from emotions, and punishment fails to address these emotional struggles.

Supporting your dog through their emotional struggles can effectively improve their behaviour over time[ 4]. It’s understandable that people use inappropriate methods and techniques as they are desperate and don’t know how else to manage the problems they are facing with their dog.

Today, qualified professionals understand that the relationship between dogs and humans isn't about asserting social rank. Instead, it's about creating an environment where the dog feels safe and supported. This involves managing their surroundings to prevent situations where they might struggle or fail, and consistently rewarding behaviours we want to encourage.

[1] 2008, Position Statement on the Use of Dominance Theory in Behavior Modification of Animals, AVSAB, https://avsab.org/.../Dominance_Position_Statement...

[2]Mech, L. David. 1999. Alpha status, dominance, and division of labor in wolf packs. Canadian Journal of Zoology 77:1196-1203.
Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Home Page. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/2000/alstat/alstat.htm
(Version 16MAY2000).

[3] Herron M, Shofer S, Reisner I, 2009, Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 117, Issues 1–2, Pages 47-54

[4] Herron M, Shofer F, Reisner I, 2009, Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors, Applied Animal Behavior Science, Volume 117, Issue-12, https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S0168159108003717...

05/06/2024

🤌🏽

23/05/2024

23/04/2024

03/04/2024

Ethology,Neuroscience,Applied Animal Behaviour,Sentient,Sentient beings,Emotions,Animal Welfare,Dog,Cat,Training,Dog behaviour,Cat behaviour,Animal behaviour,Animal rights,Enrichment,Agility,Dog agility,Cat toys,Dog toys,Animals,Behaviour courses,Behaviour problems,Naughty dog,Naughty cat

16/03/2024

There’s a derogatory term thrown at reward based trainers from the balanced and compulsion trainers.
They call us “Cookie Tossers” because they think all we do is toss treats at the dog! They also say we call ourselves Purely Positive. This is all a load of baloney of course, designed to dismiss and diminish our skills as force free trainers.

None of us can hand on heart say we are ‘purely positive’ because at the end of the day we have to have some form of control over our dogs for their safety and management reasons. We can’t just let dogs do whatever they want, whenever they want, wherever they want. That would be dangerous and irresponsible ownership.
We have to use collars and leads, gates, and restrictions to keep them safe.

Being Positive in our training modal does NOT mean we are Permissive. We don’t just throw treats at dogs.
Dogs need clarity in our communication with them
Dogs need to know where they stand
Just like any good relationship there is trust, cooperation and boundaries
An Inconsistent relationship with your dog can lead to insecurity and the dog making poor decisions.
Be kind to your dog, there’s no need to use pain or fear to train them - be Positive- but at the same time be consistent and reliable.
Enjoy your dog 🩵

13/03/2024

Using punishment as a method to change behavior has been widely debated in dog training and behavior.

Punishment is avoided by educated professionals in all fields because of its limitations and negative effects.

Here are fasons, grounded in scientific research, why it is NOT advisable to use punishment to change behavior:

1️⃣ Negative Emotional Effects
Punishment can lead to negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, and resentment towards a guardian. These emotions can damage the relationship between the punisher and the individual being punished, leading to a lack of trust and open communication (Skinner, 1953).

2️⃣ Does Not Teach Behaviors
Punishment often fails to teach or reinforce the desired behavior. While it might stop the unwanted behavior temporarily, it does not provide a model for positive behavior nor does it teach the individual what they should do instead (Kazdin, 1987).

3️⃣ May Increase Aggression
Research has shown that the use of physical punishment can increase aggression in children (and dogs). Studies suggest that children who are physically punished are more likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors towards others because they learn to use aggression as a means to solve conflicts (Gershoff, 2002).

4️⃣ Increased Abusive Outcomes
You may have been told that corrections are not abusive, but d punishment is being used with a vulnerable being. Distinguishing between "acceptable" punishment and abuse can be highly subjective and lead to harmful outcomes for the individual being punished (Straus, 2000).

5️⃣ Psychological Damage and Reduced Self-Esteem
Punishment, particularly when harsh and frequent, can lead to psychological damage, including increased anxiety, depression, and a lack of confidence. The more punishment used on a dog, the more likely they are to experience pessimistic outlooks (Casey et al., 2021)

Regardless of what you have heard positive reinforcement CAN and IS used to change behavior - and it is the safest, kindest approach.

When working with a qualified educated professional like myself, I'm going to teach you how to avoid punishment - not how to do it "the right way" - because I know there is no right way.

13/03/2024

13/03/2024

We're starting a new series called expectation vs reality. Every Wednesday we'll post a common expectation we hear of, and tell you what we should adjust to.
The biggest issue I find with the majority of clients is that we have unrealistic expectations of our dogs. Hopefully by identifying these expectations, we can start becoming more realistic with our expectations and it will help us see our dogs for the beautiful beings they are, instead of naughty, stubborn, dominant etc.

First up!

Obedience!

Manners are beautiful and should definitely be taught, but dogs who listen to every single thing a person says, just isn't normal.

08/03/2024

GOING BEYOND FIGHT OR FLIGHT - THE FIDGET/FOOL RESPONSE IN DOGS

We speak a lot about Flight or Flight responses in dog. But so many dogs exhibit fool around or fidget responses and we misinterpret their behaviour as play as opposed to discomfort, stress or fear.

When dogs are in uncomfortable or stressful situations, they may engage in behaviours that may seem out place or odd. It’s a similar reaction to coping mechanisms seen by some people who joke around inappropriately. They do it because they are feeling self conscious, shy or uncomfortable.

In dogs, the fool/fidget response includes acting silly such as jumping around, performing play bows, playing and acting over the top when they are feeling stressed. For instance, a dog at the vet’s office who starts rolling on the ground or bites the leash in play, may be trying to transfer the focus off of one situation and onto another. It's their attempt at making an inappropriate joke to lessen the tension or divert focus from them.

When dogs behave this way, their stress is often clear but it’s not as straightforward as a dog who is showing his teeth or growling. Some dogs are labeled just as playful, acting silly, or worse, they are reprimanded for being stubborn.

Next time your dog is acting 'silly', step back and think about it. Are there certain situations that brings out these behaviours? Could it be stress and he is trying to tell you that he is uncomfortable with the situation or what you are asking of him? Like getting into a car or putting on his jersey or putting on his harness?

It's not funny so instead of making videos of it while giggling, pay attention to your pup. Also stop saying that your balanced trainer said it's ok. Your pet is asking for help so please show up for him.

The fidget/fool behaviours can be misinterpreted as play or silliness but it's actually a stress response!

Edit - I am not referring to the daily FRAPS or Zoomies here as thats not a stress response but a sign of excess energy...if your dog does it after a stressful event or in a certain environment or situation only, then it could be a stress response. This will be coupled with other appeasement signals like yawning, lip licking, looking away, etc. The bottom line is - pay attention your dog's body language and emotions!

08/03/2024

🙏🏻

I know who I would be more impressed by!

07/03/2024

Of course my mind went to dogs,
And the way they are treated today.

Like people were decades ago,
Threats and an absence of play.

But science is trotting along,
We know now to sing an empathy song.

And hurting dogs, like hurting kids is just poo,
So if you do that, I’m talking to you.

Get yourself on a decent course, you’re behind,
Times have changed since threats were the norm.

I dread to think of the dogs lives you’ve defined,
Not learning some more is bad form.

07/03/2024

International team decodes intricate dance of dopamine and serotonin in human brains, shedding light on social decisions. In a study published in Nature Human Behavior, scientists delve into the world of chemical neuromodulators in the human brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin, to reveal t

04/03/2024

Quando capiremo questa realtà?

Sono un cane del 21° secolo.

-Sono un Malinois.
Sovradotato tra i cani, brillo in tutte le discipline e sono sempre pronto a lavorare.
Oggi mi chiedono di rilassarmi sul divano tutto il giorno tutti i giorni.

-Sono un Akita Inu.
I miei antenati sono stati selezionati per la lotta tra cani.
Oggi mi chiedono di essere tollerante e mi si rimprovera la mia reattività quando uno di loro si avvicina a me.

-Sono un Beagle.
Quando inseguivo la mia preda, davo voce, così i cacciatori potevano seguirmi.
Oggi mi si mette un collare elettrico per stare zitto, e vorremmo che tornassi al richiamo con uno schiocco di dita.

-Sono uno Yorkshire Terrier.
Ero un terrificante cacciatore di ratti nelle miniere inglesi.
Oggi si pensa che non sia in grado di usare le mie zampe e mi tengono sempre tra le braccia.

-Sono un Labrador Retriever.
La mia visione della felicità è un tuffo in uno stagno per riportare al mio padrone l'anatra a cui ha sparato.
Oggi ci siamo dimenticati che sono un cane da movimento e grandi corse, sono grasso e devo fare la tata dei bambini.

-Sono un Jack Russel.
Sono in grado di affrontare una volpe un tasso e un ratto più grande di me nella sua tana.
Oggi mi rimproverano per il mio maledetto carattere e vorrebbero trasformarmi in un cane da salotto.

-Sono un Husky Siberiano.
Ho conosciuto i grandi spazi della Russia settentrionale, dove potevo trainare slitte a velocità impressionante.
Oggi ho come solo orizzonte solo le pareti del giardino, e per sola occupazione i buchi che scavo nel terreno.

-Sono un Border Collie.
Sono fatto per lavorare otto ore al giorno, e sono un artista inconfondibile del lavoro con il gregge.
Oggi sono arrabbiati con me perché, per mancanza di pecore, cerco di controllare biciclette, auto, bambini di casa e tutto ciò che è in movimento.

Io sono...
Sono un cane del 21° secolo.
Sono bello, sono allerta, sono ubbidiente, sto in una borsa...
ma sono anche un individuo che ha bisogno di esprimere i propri istinti, e non sono adatto alla vita sedentaria che vorresti farmi condurre.
Passare otto ore al giorno da solo in giardino, vederti un po' la sera quando torni a casa e avere diritto solo a una piccola passeggiata igienica mi renderà profondamente infelice.
Lo esprimerò abbaiando durante tutto il giorno, trasformando il tuo giardino in un campo minato, facendo i miei bisogni dentro casa, essendo ingestibile le rare volte che mi ritroverò fuori e, a volte, passando le mie giornate affondato sul mio cuscino.
Penserai allora che sono felice di poter godere di tutta questa comodità mentre vai a lavorare: in realtà sarò in esaurimento, perché questo male non è appannaggio dell'umano ma anche del cane del 21° secolo.
Se ti piaccio, se mi sogni da sempre, se i miei bellissimi occhi azzurri o il mio look da atleta mi fanno desiderare, ma non puoi regalarmi una vera vita da cani, una vita che vale davvero la pena di essere vissuta, e se non puoi offrirmi il lavoro che i miei geni chiedono, allora rinuncia a me.
Se ti piace il mio aspetto ma non sei disposto ad accettare i miei tratti di carattere derivati da una rigorosa selezione genetica e pensi di poterli cambiare con la tua unica buona volontà, allora rinuncia a me.
Sono un cane del 21° secolo, sì,ma in fondo a me, dorme ancora colui che combatteva, colui che cacciava, colui che tirava slitte, colui che guidava un gregge.
E prima o poi, nel bene o nel male, si sveglierà.
E allora cosa farai?
Mi cederai?
Mi abbandonerai?
O mi sopprimerai?

01/03/2024

Small dogs can have a really tough time of it. Because they are small they are not always respected and listened to as much as larger breeds. Because they are small enough to be easily manhandled, the same amount of time is not always put into their training and ensuring that they are comfortable with what is going on around them.

Is it then any wonder that they become scared and vocal about their fear and wish to be left alone?

To read more, have a look at this article I wrote: https://www.goodguardianship.com/post/in-support-of-little-dogs

16/02/2024

All Behaviours are performed in attempt for an animal to feel better.

13/02/2024

Hot topic:

Why positive reinforcement might not always work for you:

A lot people have said, I have tried that method before, but it didn't work for me.

Positive reinforcement works for everyone and all species. But there is a trick to it and the infographic below can help you figure out why that method didn't work for you in the past.

12/02/2024

don’t know how it got like that. that’s weird. maybe a different day?

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12/02/2024

gotta do what you gotta do 🫡

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07/02/2024

Ever wondered what your canine companion is trying to tell you? It’s never too late to embark on the journey into the fascinating world of dog body language!​

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Understanding dog body language goes beyond being a pet guardian—it's a universal skill that benefits everyone. Dogs primarily communicate with humans through their body language so knowing the signals helps decipher their needs, emotions, and intentions.​

Recognizing stress or discomfort signals can prevent unwanted incidents and ensure the safety of both dogs and people.​

By responding appropriately to a dog's body language, you foster trust and strengthen your bond with them. It's the foundation of a harmonious relationship.​

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Whether you're a pet guardian or animal professional, understanding dog body language contributes to a safer and more compassionate community.​

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In this wonderful graphic created by the great Lili Chin from www.doggiedrawings.net you can get some idea of what your dog is trying to say. You can also learn more about the language of dogs by enrolling for our DogWise course. Email us at [email protected] for more information.

01/02/2024

29/01/2024

Just Meerkat’ing around 😉

29/01/2024

Extending our hand to a dog's face is stressful for them, not to mention rude. We can seem like giants looming over them. They don't need to sniff our hands - they can sniff our shoes or clothes to gather information about us.

Sniffing (information gathering) is not an invitation to touch them either...how would you like it if the person you were asking directions from suddenly touched you? Eeeeeckkkk....I would freak out!

If they want us to touch them, they will paw us or nose us...these are clear consent signals for touch. Sniffing is NOT consent for touching.

Rather:
1. stand still and let the dog come and sniff you if they want to
2. keep our hands to ourselves (mind our own business😉)
3. doing as little as possible puts little pressure on the dog and hence the less threatening we seem
4. wait for consent cues before petting them
5. Don't pet their head - this is intimidating for most dogs
6. Touch them, if there is consent, for 3 seconds or 3 strokes on the chest or back. Stop and wait for more consent.

My 9 year old niece understands these principles clearly...as adults, we can understand this if we try, no matter how old are habits are or how we were brought up to engage with dogs...😉

29/01/2024

Friday enrichment treat - boiled egg served with the shell. Eggs are a great protein source so my dogs eat this about 2-3x a week with the shells which are a great source of calcium. They love it❤️

Watch the video in the comments of Ari eating her egg👇