Often kids mean well with their interactions with your dog (or other dogs) but they can do things – like hugging – that can cause dogs to feel uncomfortable. A lesson for parents of a kids and a dog: please teach your children this important relationship building lesson – DO NOT HUG YOUR FAMILY DOG. It is not only about dog bite prevention, but also about helping to strengthen your dog’s relationship with your children in the long term. [Read more…] about Parents, Please Teach Kids, Do Not Hug Your Family Dog
dog enrichment
Explaining Extinction In Dog Training
Meet Cody. An almost one year old havanese who mastered the art of barking at, pawing (and scratching), and jumping on his human mom (I will refer to those behaviors as needs seeking behaviors) to get anything he wants in life. He used those behaviors frequently to get treats, attention, play interaction with his mom (or other people), or the opportunity to go outside. It was making life with him pretty intolerable. In this post, I talk about extinction in dog training and why just ignoring your dog is not the most effective way to stop unwanted behavior. [Read more…] about Explaining Extinction In Dog Training
Stuffing a Quizl Dog Enrichment Toy
As a dog and puppy enrichment toy, the West Paws Quizl can keep your pet busy for awhile. Like stuffing a Kong dog toy, you can stuff the Quizl with soft food and then freeze it for dog enrichment. In the large size, try stuffing a carrot or other vegetable or a string cheese down the center.
More Dog And Puppy Enrichment Ideas
Dog and puppy enrichment is so important to not only their quality of life, but also to your helping them get their mental and physical stimulation needs met in positive ways. Plus, when your dog or puppy is busy working on an enrichment activity, that is time that he is not practicing being a ‘naughty dog’ – that is, if you are providing the activity that is acceptable to you. [Read more…] about More Dog And Puppy Enrichment Ideas
How To Stuff A Kong
There are a number of reasons why giving your dog a stuffed Kong, West Paw Toppl Toy, or other similar product can be good for your dog…and for you. [Read more…] about How To Stuff A Kong
Dawson Searches For His Meal
Instead of feeding him from his bowl, I often feed Dawson either through games, toys, activities or training. As you can see in this video, I think he enjoys this dog scent game a lot. If he didn’t I know I would need to change what I am doing or how I am doing it. This is a very easy activity. Simply find all kinds of containers and little bowls, put food underneath them, and let your dog have fun finding everything. You see I also have Dawson sit and wait to be released. That is an fun way to strengthen your stay. [Read more…] about Dawson Searches For His Meal