Back to School for Bowser, too!

We’ve seen a lot of puppies this summer and with families in back to school mode, it’s a good time to remember that your pup needs an education, too. 

Many of our team members are able to help you with the basics-potty training, crate training, chewing nipping, and many behavior problems,  however puppies (and all dogs) need to understand the basics to be good citizens and, if not happy to meet people, how to at least tolerate us two legged creatures. 

Below are some of the services used by many of our clients:

The Whole Pup:  http://www.thewholepup.com/

Academy of Canine Behavior:  http://www.aocb.com/training/classes

Gentle Paws Dog Training:  http://www.gentlepawsdogtraining.com/

Some other tips that help pups get started on the right feet!  (and remember these things should be done by as many members of the household as possible)

·         Buy your puppy lots of toys!  Reward good behavior with play time (instead of food) and you’ll have a healthier puppy for a lifetime.

·         Speaking of food-using treats for training is very helpful.  Just remember that they don’t need a whole calorie packed dog cookie.  Breaking them into smaller chunks doesn’t bother them at all!

·         Remember to get your puppy starting with a collar, harness and leash as young as possible (please remember that pinch type collars are not recommended except for the most extreme problems)

·         Handle their feet-bottom, top and between toes, and trim their nails frequently to get them used to it.

·         Look at your puppies mouth and teeth, they need to understand that fingers in their mouth is something they should expect (be careful with those pointy baby teeth!)-this will help you as they get older if they ever need medication and it helps us when we check them for oral disease.

·         Bring them by the vet clinic, even if just to weigh them-this helps reduce their fear doctor visits!

·         Consider Crate Training your puppy!  A crate is just like an indoor dog house and becomes your puppy’s own space.  It helps potty training, chewing problems and gives you peace of mind that your pup is safe while you’re away from home.

·         Using an appropriate tone of voice can make a big difference-we usually use a higher pitch tone when we say something like ‘Let’s go for a Walk’.  Usually they’ll understand one word…such as walk, but it’s also the tone that sends the message that they get to do something fun!  Scolding with a higher pitch tone simply confuses them.

·         Teach children to follow all of the above (age appropriate of course)

Following a few simple rules can reduce the stress and frustration that can sometime occur and make their adjustment to your family smoother!