Dog Behavior Blog

What To Do With A Pulling Dog

Training your dog not to pull on a leash is a common goal for many dog owners. Pulling can be uncomfortable for the owner and make walks unpleasant. In a pulling contest, the dog usually wins. But with patience and consistency, you can teach your dog to walk calmly on a leash.

Here are some steps you can follow to train your dog not to pull on a leash:

1. Use the right equipment: Choose a comfortable, properly fitting harness and a leash that is the right length for your dog's size. For most dogs, a 6 foot leash usually works well. Pick a leash that is comfortable for your hand and comfortable for the dog.
2. Start with rewards: Reinforce good behavior by giving your dog treats and praise when he is walking calmly on a leash. Praise usually works better than treats, because with treats, dogs can sometimes learn to refuse to do anything unless they receive a treat.
3. Avoid pulling: If your dog begins to pull, stop walking and stand still until she calms down and comes back to you. Then continue walking and reward your dog for walking calmly.
4. Practice: Consistent training is the key to success. Practice short walks several times a day, gradually increasing the length of the walks as your dog improves.
5. Change direction: If your dog begins to pull, change direction abruptly. This will disrupt the pulling behavior and encourage your dog to pay attention to you.
6. Incorporate commands: Teach your dog to respond to commands like "heel" or "come." Use these commands during walks to help redirect your dog's focus to you and encourage good behavior.
7. Be patient: Training takes time and patience. It's important to avoid punishment and stay positive and encouraging during the training process.

With consistency and patience, you can teach your dog to walk calmly on a leash. This will make walks more enjoyable for both you and your dog friend. Remember, positive reinforcement and consistency are key to success.

 

Dog Behaviors That You Should Address Quickly

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a guest post by Mike Powell.

Mike loves dogs a lot. His dogs are part of his family, and his love for his buddies extended by knowing more about them. He is writing about dogs on his blog https://www.dogembassy.com. All of Mike's dogs are adopted, though they have different behaviors, Mike was able to treat each of them equally well.

Does your dog chew everything? Jump on guests? Growl often? Here are 5 dog behaviors that you should address quickly to nurture a happy dog and, in turn, a happy family.

For many of us dog parents, our pups are like our kids. We adore them, we cuddle them, we feed them off our own plate… But sometimes, we let them get away with (almost) murder, simply because we can’t bear to discipline them.

Here are 5 dog behaviors that you should address quickly to make sure they don’t get out of hand and become a bigger problem!

Aggression 

This is especially common in rescue dogs, but can pop up in others too. Typically, dogs display aggression when they feel threatened, but in some cases, it can go too far.

If your pooch is showing their teeth to every person who walks in the door, trying to protect you when there’s no need for protection, or guarding his food, it’s best to sort out this problem before someone gets bitten, or your dog gets hurt.

Solution: Check with your vet to rule out medical conditions. Working with a trainer is advisable, and use positive reinforcement instead of punishment to guide your dog towards better behaviors.

Excessive Chewing

While this may be annoying for pet parents who find themselves with a mangled table leg and half a pair of Guccis, excessive chewing can be a sign of anxiety. Chewing is an almost hypnotic calming action.

Some causes of stress could be separation anxiety, thunder, a change of environment, or nervousness about other animals. Of course, boredom could be another factor that leads to gnawing.

Solution: Get your dog their own chew toy to be their stress reliever. If you spot her chewing on something she shouldn’t be, replace it with her toy and give positive reinforcement when she switches.

Begging

This is a learned behavior that we taught them! Don’t be fooled into thinking that NOT giving them food means they’ll feel unloved - there are plenty more opportunities to love them that won’t be reinforcing bad behavior. Feeding your dog at the same time that you eat dinner could help.

Solution: Practice self-discipline! As hard as it may be, ignore your dog’s whines and redirect him to a spot away from the table. Give him positive reinforcement if he waits patiently by giving him a dog treat once you’re finished your meal - only if he’s truly been a good boy, though!

Separation Anxiety

You may never see the real effects of separation anxiety on your dog, but if you have an inkling that it’s a problem, it needs to be addressed immediately for the welfare of your pup.

If you are leaving or returning, don’t make a big deal out of it and act as normal. This will prevent your dog from exciting more and escalating anxiety!

Solution: Leave your dog with a chew toy to help calm their anxiety. Leave the radio on if you can. Give your dog something that smells like you to cuddle with.

Jumping on Guests

Often, this is simply a sign of excitement and love. It can be a problem for elderly guests and children, though, especially if you have a big dog!

Solution: Train your dog by turning away when he jumps on you. Teach him to sit, and only give him attention and love when he does. This will train him into displaying positive behavior in order to get the reward - love, and pats. Encourage guests to treat your dog the same way.

Conclusion

If you spot any sign of dog behaviors you should address quickly, don’t wait! You’ll have a happier dog and a happier family once these things have been sorted out. Remember - coming at these issues from a place of love is the best way forward.

How to Help Soothe and Embolden Your Nervous Dog

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a guest post by Beatrix Potter.

Not only is she an avid writer at Academized.com and Professional Essay Writing Service writing services, but Beatrix Potter also enjoys writing about dogs and their health. This makes her passionate about sharing her knowledge with other avid writers and dog lovers. She also serves the community by providing tutoring services at Custom Essay website.

 

Have you ever wondered why some dogs run in fear from a vacuum while others chase it like they are best friends? The reality is, just like people, dogs develop behaviors and personalities similar to the way people do. They see the world and how it interacts, and then they develop a curiosity or fear for certain things. Because highly nervous dogs have developed nerves as a behavioral trait, there are quite a few ways you can help direct them into feeling more secure.

The precaution I would give before attempting any of these practices is to keep in mind that this is a process. You want to be patient and understanding. If you push your dog too far, you may worsen their behavior instead of improving it. Take it one day at a time. The goal is to have your dog trust you more than it fears other things.

Bring it Back to the Basics

Like I said earlier, this is a process, and so your first step should always be to start with something simple. For some, you can work on behavior training on a short walk, with other more nervous dogs, you may want to practice simple commands in an area that the dog is comfortable. This will build a bond between you and your dog that is crucial to the trusting process of building their confidence.

If you are taking a walk, take note of the things that spook your dog and as you embark on the journey be prepared to train as you go. If cars turning onto your neighborhood set your dog off, try to see the vehicle coming first, and before the vehicle reaches you, work on commands like “sit” or “look at me” rewarded with treats. This will distract the dog and establish trust with you and the passing car.

Try Something New

Once you can get your dog to obey basic commands and have confidence in your guidance, you will want to move on to something a little scarier and a newer. Taking them to the pet store, vet, or dog park are great places to introduce them to an array of fears that need to be addressed. While there focus on things that distract them and show them, they have nothing to be concerned about.

Remember, at this stage, not to force them into situations that terrify them and cause them to revert to erratic or aggressive tendencies. There is no point in this process where you release them in a room filled with running vacuums or mailmen, hoping you will scare the nerves out of them. Instead this is where you put the built trust to the test and gauge where they are at in the process.

Encourage Safety but Not Reckless Fear

Most nervous pets have the same tendency as small children. When they feel threatened or worried, they will revert to hiding behind you for protection and comfort. Instead of forcing them out from behind you and breaking that bond of trust they have with you, teach them to feel soothed and safe in this position. This command is often referred to as “get behind.” When your dog starts to show signs of nervousness and fright, use this command to have them move somewhere, they feel safe. Here they can relax while you demonstrate how safe the environment truly is.

The biggest take away here is that you have to be ready to be patient and work with your individual dog’s needs. To build confidence in them, you must be willing to take longer walks than usual and guide them to a place that feels secure. It may sound like a lot of work, but it all becomes worth it when you can do everyday activities without worrying about how your dog is going to respond. The hard work leads to comfort and a bond that cannot be bought.

Is Your Dog Addicted to Human Food? 4 Tricks to Help Them Eat Right

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a guest post by Meghan Belnap.

Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise. Meghan finds happiness in researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.

 

Giving your dog human food can cause gastrointestinal and other health problems that could make your canine pal sick. If you’re in the habit of giving your dog human food, your pet may have become addicted to this way of eating, and taking steps now to change these behaviors can be highly beneficial for your dog’s health. Here are a few smart tricks to get your dog to eat right.

Only Provide Food in a Dog Bowl

Your dog should only be eating out of a bowl that’s specifically designated for dog food. Feeding your dog by hand can encourage bad behaviors and may lead your dog to wanting your own food more often. Resisting the temptation to handfeed even when your dog is begging for it can instill better habits and train your dog to eat only from their designated food bowl.

Make Dog Food More Appetizing

Dog food isn’t always the most appetizing for dogs, and you can make your pet’s food tastier with a few simple tricks. Adding a low-sodium broth to a bowl of dry dog food can enhance the aroma and make your dog want to eat it more. Dog food toppers for picky eaters can also be great, and you can choose from options that have duck, turkey and chicken liver flavors that are especially appealing for dogs.

Don’t Leave Human Food Sitting Around

Any food that you want to save as leftovers or discard should not be left sitting out for your dog to possibly eat. Leaving food on the counter for a prolonged period may give your dog an opportunity to try to snatch a bite. It’s also a good idea to sweep your kitchen floor and vacuum your carpets regularly to eliminate any traces of human food that might tempt your dog.

Investigate Possible Medical Problems

If your dog is still refusing to eat the right food and will only eat when human food is handfed by you, there may be an underlying health problem. In addition to stomach ailments, there could be liver or kidney problems that are decreasing your dog’s appetite. Certain infections and cancers can also contribute to poor eating habits. It’s best to take your dog to a vet so that the appropriate tests can be conducted to determine if any medical issues that interfere with eating are present.

Getting your dog to eat right can be accomplished with some persistence and a willingness on your part to undo your dog’s learned pattern of behavior. Weaning your dog off people food will help your canine companion live a healthier and potentially longer life.

How To Safely Introduce A New Dog To Your Home If You've Got A Cat

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a guest post by Emily Parker, Catological.com

If your household contains a cat as a part of the family, you know the many joys you are already experiencing. From having Fluffy curl up in your lap to watching her chase a favorite toy around the room, cats bring a special element of happiness to our lives.

 

However, if you've decided to make your life even better by adding a dog to the family, there are some details you'll want to consider before doing so. While many times cats and dogs get along just fine, there are always some basic rules to keep in mind when bringing a dog into what has previously been an all-kitty household.

 

To make sure your kitty and the new dog that walks through the door grow to become best friends, here is the best way to ensure the introduction is a safe one.

Make Sure Everyone is Healthy

Even though the dog you get from a local shelter, pet store, or breeder should already be up-to-date on its vaccinations and other health procedures, it's always a good idea to make sure it's in good health before introducing it to your cat. Schedule a visit with your veterinarian, where it can receive a detailed physical exam.

 

And make sure to do the same for your kitty. By making sure no undetected physical problems exist with either animal, you'll gain peace of mind, while helping to get things off to a good start. They aren’t going to be able to get along well if they’re struggling with their own pain or discomfort!

Match Their Personalities

If you want the best results as quickly as possible, always try to match the personalities of your dog and cat. For example, if you have a cat that prides itself on being laid-back, try to get a dog that is also relaxed and carefree. While each individual dog and cat is unique, certain breeds are generally more well suited for each other.

 

Of course, it's good to get a dog that has been around cats in the past, if possible. Chances are, if it has already been socialized to cats and has exhibited an ability to get along with them, your chances of building a beautiful canine-feline friendship will increase dramatically.

Know Each Other's Scent

To get both pets used to each other, let them have something that has the other's scent on it.

 

For example, take a towel or blanket, rub it on one animal, and then give it to the other to inspect.

 

By doing this for both pets, they will be able to learn the other's scent, thereby making them more comfortable with the new smells in the house.

Isolate One Pet

 

When you bring home your new dog, it's a good idea to put it in a separate room initially, though you may decide to do so for your cat, instead, since it won’t mind being cooped up so much.

 

Of course, give it plenty of creature comforts, such as a comfy bed, food and water, doggy treats, and some new toys. This will give the dog a chance to calm down, while at the same time start to adjust to the many new sights, smells, and sounds it will encounter.

 

Whether you use a spare bedroom, utility room, or other room, make sure to eventually set up a baby gate, or leave the door cracked open just enough, to let doggy and kitty see and sniff one another.

Give Your Dog Obedience Training

One of the best ways to increase the likelihood of a successful introduction is to have your dog complete obedience training.

 

By doing so, it will be able to respond to such commands as "sit," "stay," "no," and others you may need along the way.

 

While many people choose to have obedience training done by certified instructors in a class environment, it's possible to accomplish this yourself if you prefer.

 

However, be prepared to have plenty of patience, and always use positive reinforcement, which should include encouraging words and lots of yummy treats for a job well-done.

Always Supervise Initial Introductions

When it comes to animals, don't take anything for granted, even if you feel completely confident your cat and dog will like one another. Therefore, at the first introduction and several subsequent ones thereafter, always stay in the room and supervise their interactions.

 

Along with this, always keep your dog on a short leash, which will enable you to quickly pull it to you in the event a problem occurs.

 

 As it is with people who meet someone new for the first time, expect your pets to be a bit nervous. Because of this, there may be some initial hissing, growling, and swatting of the paws.

 

However, if it starts to escalate, it's best to end the session for now. After all, one swipe from a dog's paw or a kitty's claw can cause potentially serious injuries, so always err on the side of caution.

Give Your Kitty an Escape Plan

Whatever part of your home you decide to use for these meetings, always make sure your kitty has an escape route it can easily use if needed. Examples of this would be a high shelf it could jump up on, a nearby table, or a bookcase that would allow it to get away from the dog if it gets too nervous or feels threatened.

 

By doing this one simple thing, you will automatically have your cat more relaxed, making the introduction much easier than you may have anticipated.

Puppies and Kittens

If your resident cat happens to be a kitten or a young cat that's only one or two years old, consider getting a puppy rather than a dog that's already full-grown. In doing so, both animals will be close in age and energy levels, which could bode well when it comes time for them to meet one another.

 

Since puppies and kittens are always ready to play, you may find yourself having two whirlwinds running through the house together, quickly discovering just how dynamic a duo they can be once they join forces. They will both get to grow up with one another, giving each a best friend they can count on for perhaps a decade or more.

Talk to a Behaviorist

If you have tried and tried to get Fluffy and Fido to like one another but it just isn't coming together as you expected, seek some professional advice rather than simply give up.

 

 In today's world, animal behaviorists and psychologists are more and more common, and can often provide excellent advice if needed. If you feel this may be necessary, start by speaking to your veterinarian. More than likely, they will be able to recommend a behaviorist or psychologist from whom you can seek suggestions.

 

So rather than give up and return your dog to the shelter or pet store, don't be afraid to seek out professional help when trying to convince your dog and cat that they really do like one another.

Don't Rush Things

Above all, don't feel as if you need to rush things with your cat and dog. Since all animals are different, you as well as your pets will know when things have progressed to the point of everyone feeling good about the new living arrangements. 

Are Dogs Good For Your Health?

The other day, I was having a conversation with a friend about the joys of having a dog. I mentioned that it is great to have someone to talk to who doesn't talk back, it is great to have someone who greets you enthusiastically when you come home, someone who cuddles up to you, someone who gives you boundless love, someone who feels good to pet and stroke. And it's great to take your dog out for a walk on a sunny day and enjoy nature.

Yes, my friend said, but look at the other side. Dogs need to go to the vet, and that takes time and money. Dogs need to be fed, once again taking time and money. Dogs need to be trained (time and money again). Dogs can pee and poop in the house, often choosing an expensive rug rather than a tile floor that would be easy to clean up. And, if you go away for an extended period of time, you need to find a dog sitter or a kennel (more money). On balance, my friend said, dogs require a lot of your time and a lot of your money.

So why have a dog?

Other than the sheer joy of having a loving and faithful friend, dogs are increasing shown as being good for people's health. Yes, some people are allergic to dog hair and dander. But studies are showing that just petting a dog can lower a person's blood pressure. And having to take the dog out on a walk gives a person a chance to get some exercise, something they might not have done without a dog. Recent studies have shown that when people are sick or if they are in the hospital, they get better quicker if they have a dog at home. 

Here is a link to a web page that talks about the health benefits of pets in more detail.

https://www.positivehealthwellness.com/fitness/need-know-pets-improving-health/

Clearly, there are time and money constraints in having a dog. But if you like animals, the joys and benefits can outweigh the disadvantages.

Con Slobodchikoff

Dog Behavior Problems: Why, What and How to Solve Them!

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a guest post by Tom Clarke of Greyhounds as Pets:

We all love our pets but sometimes there can be a few behavioral issues along the way. This infographic from GAP NSW has some great solutions to common problems. Let’s start things off with barking. All dogs bark on occasion of course but sometimes it can get a bit out of hand and obedience training can help fix things if your dog regularly barks out of frustration.

Another common issue is separation anxiety and many dogs struggle with this when they’re young particularly. However, you can train your dog to keep calm when you leave the house. Initially, you can try leaving them alone for say 10 minutes and come back. When they realise that you will return and that you’re not gone forever, you can slowly increase the time spent away from your pooch!

Of course, occasionally dog owners have to deal with more serious issues such as biting. Any dog can bite when they feel seriously threatened, but if you socialise them early there should be absolutely no problems. Teach them to feel relaxed around people at a young age. Find out more info about how you can solve common issues with your four-legged friend below!

An infographic by the team at Greyhounds as Pets

Canine Fitness: Health Benefits of Dog Exercise

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a three part series by Tom Melby,  owner and director of an animal shearing equipment company called Clippers Ireland. Tom was gracious enough to let Dog Behavior Blog reprint the infographics that he developed about Canine Fitness. This is Part 1 of three parts. Here is what Tom writes:

Today, there are lots of new forms of exercise for dogs. There is now an exercise routine for every dog, no matter their size, age or breed! Your treasured pooch can now partake in flyball, surfing, canicross, swimming and agility competitions.

Not only does exercise bring you and your dog closer together (which allows you both to build trust) it is also critical for good health. Additionally, exercise has also been shown to minimise dogs’ attention seeking behaviours. As well as this, it also helps to keep your dog at a healthy weight.

If you don’t have the time to start a new doggie sport with your four legged friend, why not play some fun indoor exercises such as fetch, tug of war or hide and seek? Getting your loyal companion to run up and down the stairs is a simple yet effective way to get your dog much needed exercise without having to leave the house.

Clippers Ireland have designed this brilliant infographic that outlines some creative doggie exercises that we can try out. For all the details on creative canine fitness, let’s check out the below infographic! 

Canine Fitness: Different Sports For Dogs

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a three part series by Tom Melby,  owner and director of an animal shearing equipment company called Clippers Ireland. Tom was gracious enough to let Dog Behavior Blog reprint the infographics that he developed about Canine Fitness. This is Part 2 of three parts. Here is what Tom writes:

Today, there are lots of new forms of exercise for dogs. There is now an exercise routine for every dog, no matter their size, age or breed! Your treasured pooch can now partake in flyball, surfing, canicross, swimming and agility competitions.

Not only does exercise bring you and your dog closer together (which allows you both to build trust) it is also critical for good health. Additionally, exercise has also been shown to minimise dogs’ attention seeking behaviours. As well as this, it also helps to keep your dog at a healthy weight.

If you don’t have the time to start a new doggie sport with your four legged friend, why not play some fun indoor exercises such as fetch, tug of war or hide and seek? Getting your loyal companion to run up and down the stairs is a simple yet effective way to get your dog much needed exercise without having to leave the house.

Clippers Ireland have designed this brilliant infographic that outlines some creative doggie exercises that we can try out. For all the details on creative canine fitness, let’s check out the below infographic! 

Canine Fitness: Different Exercise For Different Breeds

Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a three part series by Tom Melby,  owner and director of an animal shearing equipment company called Clippers Ireland. Tom was gracious enough to let Dog Behavior Blog reprint the infographics that he developed about Canine Fitness. This is Part 3 of three parts. Here is what Tom writes:

Today, there are lots of new forms of exercise for dogs. There is now an exercise routine for every dog, no matter their size, age or breed! Your treasured pooch can now partake in flyball, surfing, canicross, swimming and agility competitions.

Not only does exercise bring you and your dog closer together (which allows you both to build trust) it is also critical for good health. Additionally, exercise has also been shown to minimise dogs’ attention seeking behaviours. As well as this, it also helps to keep your dog at a healthy weight.

If you don’t have the time to start a new doggie sport with your four legged friend, why not play some fun indoor exercises such as fetch, tug of war or hide and seek? Getting your loyal companion to run up and down the stairs is a simple yet effective way to get your dog much needed exercise without having to leave the house.

Clippers Ireland have designed this brilliant infographic that outlines some creative doggie exercises that we can try out. For all the details on creative canine fitness, let’s check out the below infographic!