Free Puppy Socialization Class this coming Saturday at Jupiter dog beach, 10am
GOT PUPPY? then you need to join The DogSmith at Jupiter Dog Beach this coming Saturday April 24th at 10am. for A FREE puppy Social. It is for puppies aged up to 6 months and we will be having fun and an informal discussion on bite inhibition, crate training, house breaking. And all things puppy. Every one who attends gets a doggie information pack that includes Free sample of Life's Abundance dog food, free puppy socialization work book and other information.
Please go on line to www.dogsmith.com to register or call Rachel Williams on her cell 561-271-3033 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 561-271-3033 end_of_the_skype_highlighting for more information.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Free Puppy Socialization Class this coming Saturday at Jupiter dog beach, 10am
GOT PUPPY? then you need to join The DogSmith at Jupiter Dog Beach this coming Saturday April 24th at 10am. for A FREE puppy Social. It is for puppies aged up to 6 months and we will be having fun and an informal discussion on bite inhibition, crate training, house breaking. And all things puppy. Every one who attends gets a doggie information pack that includes Free sample of Life's Abundance dog food, free puppy socialization work book and other information.
Please go on line to www.dogsmith.com to register or call Rachel Williams on her cell 561-271-3033 for more information.
Please go on line to www.dogsmith.com to register or call Rachel Williams on her cell 561-271-3033 for more information.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
What Is A Dog Training Professional
Posted on April 8, 2010 by DogSmith
The dictionary would have us understand professional to mean “Engaging in a given activity as a source of livelihood or as a career” but in terms of Dog Training what does this actually mean?
Dog Trainers like other areas of the Pet Industry, such as food and nutrition are not meticulously regulated. This has left the dog training industry with practicing professionals operating at extreme ends of the professional spectrum. One end of this spectrum has professionals operating as trainers who are qualified through their commitment and passion for animals through years of animal involvement. At the other end of the spectrum are the animal behaviorists, those dedicated through education to understanding animal behavior as a science an important part of animal psychology.
Canine behaviorists unlike many Dog Trainers can not only help you teach your dog a few commands but can actually help you modify unwanted behaviors such as aggression, anxiety issues and phobias. Training skills are one of the many tools found in the behaviorist repertoire of skills. Canine behaviorists unlike many trainers do not work with predefined recipes but are able to select from many areas of learning theory to address each dog and its unique behavioral challenges.
So how do you choose a trainer for Fido? An internet search will inundate you with organizations, clubs, on line experts all promising you success in training Fido and making him the perfect family companion. Well there are several highly reputable professional organizations with extensive member directories. These organizations have ridged codes of conduct for professional members. They list member’s qualifications and areas of expertise making your search easier.
The American Pet Dog Trainers Association APDT.com, there vision is “All dogs are effectively trained through dog-friendly techniques and therefore are lifelong companions in a relationship based on mutual trust and respect.
The National Association of Pet Dog Trainers NADOI, NADOI.org states in their code of ethics for members “Always will I advocate training by such methods that will keep the best interest of the dog, the handler, and the fancy in mind”.
The DogSmith®, a national dog training franchise that has a rigid code of conduct, and all the DogSmiths are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and work within that code of conduct too.
DogSmith Certified Dog Trainers are a competent body of professionals. Competence is the most ethical obligation a professional has in their field of expertise. To be competent means the professional is knowledgeable, is schooled in the theory and research of their industry and has the necessary skills to actually apply that field of knowledge to a working situation with their clients. Within the companion animal training and behavior field “necessary skills” refers to the professional’s interviewing skills, their ability to use functional assessment procedures to determine the most appropriate behavior change program required and technical skills, their ability to use appropriate behavior change interventions (Welfel 2009).
Competence is the measure of actual professional performance, not the level and amount of education an individual has. Like in all professions it is unlikely that one companion animal trainer or behavior analyst will be competent across all their industry interventions. The services offered by a companion animal trainer or behavior professional are referred to as their “scope of practice”. DogSmiths as competent professionals only work within the boundaries of their knowledge and skill body.
Professionals recognize that it is the right and responsibility of every individual to advance their welfare. Clients have freedom of choice and do this voluntarily when they have adequate disclosure of information regarding the services to be provided and an appropriate understanding of the circumstances and the expected results. Clients have ethical and legal rights to this information when embarking on a professional relationship with a companion animal trainer or behavior professional (Welfel 2009).
DogSmiths acknowledge that clients in the companion animal behavior consulting and training relationship have the full responsibility for their animals. Professionals must fully disclose all aspects of the professional client relationship in terms of confidentiality, role of each partner in the relationship, the cost of services, payment methods, cancellation and reimbursement terms and liability and indemnity policies (O’Heare 2009).
DogSmith professionals are diligent and focus their attention on the needs of the client. DogSmith companion animal trainers and behavior professionals consider the client to also include the animal. The pet dog is the vulnerable component in the consultation process as they cannot offer informed consent and the priority is always on using non invasive and non intrusive interventions that are successful. The DogSmith is always concerned with the animal’s welfare, the behavior change methods to be employed and the parameters of confidentiality and privilege relating to local and state animal controls, ordinances and laws (O’Heare 2009).
Each of these organizations will help you to find a dog trainer, or canine behaviorist that will meet the needs of you and your pet, humanely, safely and conducted by a Professional who not only engages in the activity as a source of income but one who has you and your pets best interests at heart. There are members of these associations in most geographical areas. So having made the responsible decision to train you dog, spend some time to select the right trainer, one who has a mandate of ‘do no harm, seek to do good”
To find a local DogSmith in your area go to www.dogsmith.com or call Rachel Williams owner of DogSmith Palm Beach County, 561-271-3033
Posted on April 8, 2010 by DogSmith
The dictionary would have us understand professional to mean “Engaging in a given activity as a source of livelihood or as a career” but in terms of Dog Training what does this actually mean?
Dog Trainers like other areas of the Pet Industry, such as food and nutrition are not meticulously regulated. This has left the dog training industry with practicing professionals operating at extreme ends of the professional spectrum. One end of this spectrum has professionals operating as trainers who are qualified through their commitment and passion for animals through years of animal involvement. At the other end of the spectrum are the animal behaviorists, those dedicated through education to understanding animal behavior as a science an important part of animal psychology.
Canine behaviorists unlike many Dog Trainers can not only help you teach your dog a few commands but can actually help you modify unwanted behaviors such as aggression, anxiety issues and phobias. Training skills are one of the many tools found in the behaviorist repertoire of skills. Canine behaviorists unlike many trainers do not work with predefined recipes but are able to select from many areas of learning theory to address each dog and its unique behavioral challenges.
So how do you choose a trainer for Fido? An internet search will inundate you with organizations, clubs, on line experts all promising you success in training Fido and making him the perfect family companion. Well there are several highly reputable professional organizations with extensive member directories. These organizations have ridged codes of conduct for professional members. They list member’s qualifications and areas of expertise making your search easier.
The American Pet Dog Trainers Association APDT.com, there vision is “All dogs are effectively trained through dog-friendly techniques and therefore are lifelong companions in a relationship based on mutual trust and respect.
The National Association of Pet Dog Trainers NADOI, NADOI.org states in their code of ethics for members “Always will I advocate training by such methods that will keep the best interest of the dog, the handler, and the fancy in mind”.
The DogSmith®, a national dog training franchise that has a rigid code of conduct, and all the DogSmiths are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and work within that code of conduct too.
DogSmith Certified Dog Trainers are a competent body of professionals. Competence is the most ethical obligation a professional has in their field of expertise. To be competent means the professional is knowledgeable, is schooled in the theory and research of their industry and has the necessary skills to actually apply that field of knowledge to a working situation with their clients. Within the companion animal training and behavior field “necessary skills” refers to the professional’s interviewing skills, their ability to use functional assessment procedures to determine the most appropriate behavior change program required and technical skills, their ability to use appropriate behavior change interventions (Welfel 2009).
Competence is the measure of actual professional performance, not the level and amount of education an individual has. Like in all professions it is unlikely that one companion animal trainer or behavior analyst will be competent across all their industry interventions. The services offered by a companion animal trainer or behavior professional are referred to as their “scope of practice”. DogSmiths as competent professionals only work within the boundaries of their knowledge and skill body.
Professionals recognize that it is the right and responsibility of every individual to advance their welfare. Clients have freedom of choice and do this voluntarily when they have adequate disclosure of information regarding the services to be provided and an appropriate understanding of the circumstances and the expected results. Clients have ethical and legal rights to this information when embarking on a professional relationship with a companion animal trainer or behavior professional (Welfel 2009).
DogSmiths acknowledge that clients in the companion animal behavior consulting and training relationship have the full responsibility for their animals. Professionals must fully disclose all aspects of the professional client relationship in terms of confidentiality, role of each partner in the relationship, the cost of services, payment methods, cancellation and reimbursement terms and liability and indemnity policies (O’Heare 2009).
DogSmith professionals are diligent and focus their attention on the needs of the client. DogSmith companion animal trainers and behavior professionals consider the client to also include the animal. The pet dog is the vulnerable component in the consultation process as they cannot offer informed consent and the priority is always on using non invasive and non intrusive interventions that are successful. The DogSmith is always concerned with the animal’s welfare, the behavior change methods to be employed and the parameters of confidentiality and privilege relating to local and state animal controls, ordinances and laws (O’Heare 2009).
Each of these organizations will help you to find a dog trainer, or canine behaviorist that will meet the needs of you and your pet, humanely, safely and conducted by a Professional who not only engages in the activity as a source of income but one who has you and your pets best interests at heart. There are members of these associations in most geographical areas. So having made the responsible decision to train you dog, spend some time to select the right trainer, one who has a mandate of ‘do no harm, seek to do good”
To find a local DogSmith in your area go to www.dogsmith.com or call Rachel Williams owner of DogSmith Palm Beach County, 561-271-3033
Be The Benevolent Leader Your Dog Deserves – Dispelling The Alpha Myth
Posted on April 9, 2010 by DogSmith
It is first important to understand some basics of canine social systems. Dogs live in social groups and they establish a social structure, called a hierarchy, within the group. This hierarchy or “pecking order” serves to maintain order, reduce conflict, and promote cooperation among pack members. This social order must be established and maintained with a minimum of combat in order to prevent pack members from being injured. This is accomplished by a variety of subtle signals and ritualized behaviors such as vocalizations, body postures and maneuvers, and eye contact. Without a hierarchy, these social cues are not respected and full-scale fighting results. A position within the hierarchy will be established by each member of the group, based on the outcomes of the interactions between it and other pack members. The more dominant animals can control access to valued items such as food, den sites, and mates. For domestic dogs, valued items might be food, toys, sleeping or resting places, and attention from the owner
There are several models of dog hierarchies.
- A Despotic hierarchy which is a single individual who is dominant over the rest of the group.
- A linear hierarchy where there is a clear pecking order
- Triangular hierarchy which is unstable as there is no dog in charge
However, the hierarchies are not set in stone and can vary based on the day of the week, male or female and whether there are puppies. Females tend to have their own hierarchy and on some days they will decide that they will impose their leadership over the males in the pack, sound familiar! Hierarchies also change based on the individual dogs preferences. We never know what a dog is thinking but we do know from their actions what their preferences are based on where they choose to rest, the toy they choose to play with or the person they choose to offer their attention too.
Many of us were raised on the myth that we have to be the Alpha and at the top of the hierarchy and to a certain extent, yes, we do. The misunderstanding is how we do this and what actually being Alpha means. I have often been asked this type of question in the context of “I need to be at the top of the pecking order”. Unbeknown to students or dog class members who say this, it actually generates a small internal chuckle as there is much more knowledge about chicken pecking orders than dog dominance models. There have in fact been hundreds of studies done on chickens and there complicated “pecking orders” within their social groups. The research is fascinating to read and I find it amazing that there has been very little empirical research done on dog social groups and their hierarchy considering many more of us own dogs than chickens.
Previous assumptions on dog social hierarchies and dominance models were developed from short term studies of wolf packs in the 1940s. These studies were a great start but did not recognize that wolves are distant cousins of dogs. Hundreds of years ago dogs and wolves took different forks in the evolutionary road and have adapted to different environments. The wolf adapted to the wild and the dog to a life of domestication. Because of this dogs and wolves are very different animals living to different social rules in different environments.
Dr. Ian Dunbar spent nine years studying the social behavior of dogs during a 30 year study performed by Dr Frank Beach at Yale and UC Berkeley. Specific focus was devoted to the social behaviors of a beagle dog pack. In short the findings of this research showed that male dogs have a rigid hierarchy, females have a hierarchy too but with much more variation and when the two are mixed together the males try to follow the structure, often with difficulty, as the females create their own rules depending on how they feel on any given day. Within this social structure it was found that puppies have a “puppy license”. They get away with almost everything until they are about four months of age when it is quickly revoked. Most importantly to pet dog owners, the study showed that there is no physical domination, top ranking dogs accomplish things using psychological harassment, ritual behaviors that the pack responds too. Most alpha dogs rule benevolently and because they are so confident in their position there is no need to fight or squabble. In fact the squabbling and scrapping is done by the middle ranked animals that are insecure and want to advance over other middle ranked animals.
So Alpha means to control the resources, something we can all do with our pet dogs without using physical corrections, alpha rolls or verbal abuse. Take your dog to training and using positive methods you can establish yourself as the alpha. Apply the NILFF mantra (nothing in life for free). Have your dog work for their treats, their dinner, and their toys confirming once again that you control the resources. Reward all the wonderful things your dog does and not only will you assert yourself as alpha you will develop a trusting bond with your dog that will ensure you have a well balanced social order where everyone feels secure, trusted and happy.
To learn more about canine hierarchies or how to be a benevolent leader of your canine pack contact NikiTudge@Dogsmith.com or visit http://www.Dogsmith.com to find your local DogSmith who can help you become the benevolent leader your dog deserves. If you cannot find a DogSmith, then why not become one. Open a DogSmith Franchise in your area.
Rachel Williams is the owner of DogSmith Palm beach County, call 561-271-3033.
Posted on April 9, 2010 by DogSmith
It is first important to understand some basics of canine social systems. Dogs live in social groups and they establish a social structure, called a hierarchy, within the group. This hierarchy or “pecking order” serves to maintain order, reduce conflict, and promote cooperation among pack members. This social order must be established and maintained with a minimum of combat in order to prevent pack members from being injured. This is accomplished by a variety of subtle signals and ritualized behaviors such as vocalizations, body postures and maneuvers, and eye contact. Without a hierarchy, these social cues are not respected and full-scale fighting results. A position within the hierarchy will be established by each member of the group, based on the outcomes of the interactions between it and other pack members. The more dominant animals can control access to valued items such as food, den sites, and mates. For domestic dogs, valued items might be food, toys, sleeping or resting places, and attention from the owner
There are several models of dog hierarchies.
- A Despotic hierarchy which is a single individual who is dominant over the rest of the group.
- A linear hierarchy where there is a clear pecking order
- Triangular hierarchy which is unstable as there is no dog in charge
However, the hierarchies are not set in stone and can vary based on the day of the week, male or female and whether there are puppies. Females tend to have their own hierarchy and on some days they will decide that they will impose their leadership over the males in the pack, sound familiar! Hierarchies also change based on the individual dogs preferences. We never know what a dog is thinking but we do know from their actions what their preferences are based on where they choose to rest, the toy they choose to play with or the person they choose to offer their attention too.
Many of us were raised on the myth that we have to be the Alpha and at the top of the hierarchy and to a certain extent, yes, we do. The misunderstanding is how we do this and what actually being Alpha means. I have often been asked this type of question in the context of “I need to be at the top of the pecking order”. Unbeknown to students or dog class members who say this, it actually generates a small internal chuckle as there is much more knowledge about chicken pecking orders than dog dominance models. There have in fact been hundreds of studies done on chickens and there complicated “pecking orders” within their social groups. The research is fascinating to read and I find it amazing that there has been very little empirical research done on dog social groups and their hierarchy considering many more of us own dogs than chickens.
Previous assumptions on dog social hierarchies and dominance models were developed from short term studies of wolf packs in the 1940s. These studies were a great start but did not recognize that wolves are distant cousins of dogs. Hundreds of years ago dogs and wolves took different forks in the evolutionary road and have adapted to different environments. The wolf adapted to the wild and the dog to a life of domestication. Because of this dogs and wolves are very different animals living to different social rules in different environments.
Dr. Ian Dunbar spent nine years studying the social behavior of dogs during a 30 year study performed by Dr Frank Beach at Yale and UC Berkeley. Specific focus was devoted to the social behaviors of a beagle dog pack. In short the findings of this research showed that male dogs have a rigid hierarchy, females have a hierarchy too but with much more variation and when the two are mixed together the males try to follow the structure, often with difficulty, as the females create their own rules depending on how they feel on any given day. Within this social structure it was found that puppies have a “puppy license”. They get away with almost everything until they are about four months of age when it is quickly revoked. Most importantly to pet dog owners, the study showed that there is no physical domination, top ranking dogs accomplish things using psychological harassment, ritual behaviors that the pack responds too. Most alpha dogs rule benevolently and because they are so confident in their position there is no need to fight or squabble. In fact the squabbling and scrapping is done by the middle ranked animals that are insecure and want to advance over other middle ranked animals.
So Alpha means to control the resources, something we can all do with our pet dogs without using physical corrections, alpha rolls or verbal abuse. Take your dog to training and using positive methods you can establish yourself as the alpha. Apply the NILFF mantra (nothing in life for free). Have your dog work for their treats, their dinner, and their toys confirming once again that you control the resources. Reward all the wonderful things your dog does and not only will you assert yourself as alpha you will develop a trusting bond with your dog that will ensure you have a well balanced social order where everyone feels secure, trusted and happy.
To learn more about canine hierarchies or how to be a benevolent leader of your canine pack contact NikiTudge@Dogsmith.com or visit http://www.Dogsmith.com to find your local DogSmith who can help you become the benevolent leader your dog deserves. If you cannot find a DogSmith, then why not become one. Open a DogSmith Franchise in your area.
Rachel Williams is the owner of DogSmith Palm beach County, call 561-271-3033.
The AVSAB Position Paper on Puppy Socialization
Posted on April 11, 2010 by DogSmith
The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life.
During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing overstimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated. Because the first three months are the period when sociability outweighs fear, this is the primary window of opportunity for puppies to adapt to new people, animals, and experiences. Incomplete or improper socialization during this important time can increase the risk of behavioral problems later in life including fear, avoidance, and/or aggression.
Behavioral problems are the greatest threat to the owner-dog bond. In fact, behavioral problems are the number one cause of relinquishment to shelters.3 Behavioral issues, not infectious diseases, are the number one cause of death for dogs under three years of age. While puppies’ immune systems are still developing during these early months, the combination of maternal immunity, primary vaccination, and appropriate care makes the risk of infection relatively small compared to the chance of death from a behavior problem.
Veterinarians specializing in behavior recommend that owners take advantage of every safe opportunity to expose young puppies to the great variety of stimuli that they will experience in their lives. Enrolling in puppy classes prior to three months of age can be an excellent means of improving training, strengthening the human-animal bond, and socializing puppies in an environment where risk of illness can be minimized.
The Process of Socialization: Puppies should be handled from birth, learning to accept manipulation of all body parts. Every effort should be made to expose them to as many different people, well-socialized animals, situations, places, etc. as possible. Puppies should be encouraged to explore, investigate, and manipulate their environments. Interactive toys and games, a variety of surfaces, tunnels, steps, chutes, and other stimuli can enrich the puppy’s environment. Puppies should accompany their breeders/owners on as many car trips as possible. These exposures should continue into adulthood to maintain an outgoing and sociable dog. Puppy socialization classes can offer a safe and organized means of socializing puppies and more quickly improve their responsiveness to commands. Each puppy should have age appropriate vaccinations and be disease and parasite free before entering the class.
Where possible, classes should be held on surfaces that are easily cleaned and disinfected (e.g. indoor environments) . Visits to dog parks or other areas that are not sanitized and/or are highly trafficked by dogs of unknown vaccination or disease status should be avoided. Classes and at-home training should be based on positive reinforcement with frequent rewards praise, petting, play and/or treats. Positive and consistent training is associated with fewer behavioral problems and greater obedience than methods that involve punishment and/or encourage human dominance.4,5,6
Time must be scheduled for puppies to play alone with their favorite toys (such as stuffed food toys) or take naps in safe places such as crates or puppy pens. This teaches puppies to amuse themselves, and may help to prevent problems of over attachment to the owners. Continuing to offer dogs a wide variety of experiences during their first year of life is also helpful in preventing separation-related behavior.7 Proper confinement training using pens or crates helps to ensure that puppies have safe and secure places for rest and confinement. Puppies that are used to being crated will be less stressed if they must be hospitalized or be confined for travel by plane or car. Crates should serve as comfort or play areas.
Early and adequate socialization and programs of positive training can go a long way to preventing behavior problems and improving bonding between humans and dogs. While the first three months is the most important socialization period in a puppy’s life, owners of puppies that have passed this milestone are strongly encouraged to continue to socialize their puppies to as many people, pets, and locations as is practical. However, owners of puppies displaying fear should seek veterinary guidance.
In general puppies can start as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first de-worming, and should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.
References: 1. Serpell J, Jagoe JA. Early experience and the development of behaviour. In Serpell J (ed). The Domestic Dog, p.82-102, Cambridge University Press 1995 2. Freedman DG, King JA, Elliot O. 1961. Critical periods in the social development of the dog. Science, 133, 1016-1017 3. Miller DM, Stats SR, Partlo BS, et al. Factors associated with the decision to surrender a pet to an animal shelter. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:738- 742 4. Duxbury MM, Jackson JA, Line SW, Anderson RK. Evaluation of association between retention in the home and attendance at puppy socialization classes. JAVMA, 223 (1), 2003, 61-66 5. Eskeland GE, Tillung RH, Bakken M. The effect of punishment, rewards, control and attitude in obedience and problem behaviors in dogs. Proceedings IVBM 2007;103-104. 6. Hilby EF, Rooney NJ, Bradshaw JWS. Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare. Animal Welfare 2004;13: 63-69. 7. Bradshaw JW, McPherson JA, Casey RA, Larter LS. Aetiology of separation-related behavior in domestic dogs. Vet Record 2002;191:43- 46.
Visit www.DogSmith.com to find a safe and well run puppy class near you. Or call Rachel Williams, DogSmith Palm Beach County, on 561-271-3033.
Posted on April 11, 2010 by DogSmith
The primary and most important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life.
During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing overstimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated. Because the first three months are the period when sociability outweighs fear, this is the primary window of opportunity for puppies to adapt to new people, animals, and experiences. Incomplete or improper socialization during this important time can increase the risk of behavioral problems later in life including fear, avoidance, and/or aggression.
Behavioral problems are the greatest threat to the owner-dog bond. In fact, behavioral problems are the number one cause of relinquishment to shelters.3 Behavioral issues, not infectious diseases, are the number one cause of death for dogs under three years of age. While puppies’ immune systems are still developing during these early months, the combination of maternal immunity, primary vaccination, and appropriate care makes the risk of infection relatively small compared to the chance of death from a behavior problem.
Veterinarians specializing in behavior recommend that owners take advantage of every safe opportunity to expose young puppies to the great variety of stimuli that they will experience in their lives. Enrolling in puppy classes prior to three months of age can be an excellent means of improving training, strengthening the human-animal bond, and socializing puppies in an environment where risk of illness can be minimized.
The Process of Socialization: Puppies should be handled from birth, learning to accept manipulation of all body parts. Every effort should be made to expose them to as many different people, well-socialized animals, situations, places, etc. as possible. Puppies should be encouraged to explore, investigate, and manipulate their environments. Interactive toys and games, a variety of surfaces, tunnels, steps, chutes, and other stimuli can enrich the puppy’s environment. Puppies should accompany their breeders/owners on as many car trips as possible. These exposures should continue into adulthood to maintain an outgoing and sociable dog. Puppy socialization classes can offer a safe and organized means of socializing puppies and more quickly improve their responsiveness to commands. Each puppy should have age appropriate vaccinations and be disease and parasite free before entering the class.
Where possible, classes should be held on surfaces that are easily cleaned and disinfected (e.g. indoor environments) . Visits to dog parks or other areas that are not sanitized and/or are highly trafficked by dogs of unknown vaccination or disease status should be avoided. Classes and at-home training should be based on positive reinforcement with frequent rewards praise, petting, play and/or treats. Positive and consistent training is associated with fewer behavioral problems and greater obedience than methods that involve punishment and/or encourage human dominance.4,5,6
Time must be scheduled for puppies to play alone with their favorite toys (such as stuffed food toys) or take naps in safe places such as crates or puppy pens. This teaches puppies to amuse themselves, and may help to prevent problems of over attachment to the owners. Continuing to offer dogs a wide variety of experiences during their first year of life is also helpful in preventing separation-related behavior.7 Proper confinement training using pens or crates helps to ensure that puppies have safe and secure places for rest and confinement. Puppies that are used to being crated will be less stressed if they must be hospitalized or be confined for travel by plane or car. Crates should serve as comfort or play areas.
Early and adequate socialization and programs of positive training can go a long way to preventing behavior problems and improving bonding between humans and dogs. While the first three months is the most important socialization period in a puppy’s life, owners of puppies that have passed this milestone are strongly encouraged to continue to socialize their puppies to as many people, pets, and locations as is practical. However, owners of puppies displaying fear should seek veterinary guidance.
In general puppies can start as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first de-worming, and should be kept up-to-date on vaccines throughout the class.
References: 1. Serpell J, Jagoe JA. Early experience and the development of behaviour. In Serpell J (ed). The Domestic Dog, p.82-102, Cambridge University Press 1995 2. Freedman DG, King JA, Elliot O. 1961. Critical periods in the social development of the dog. Science, 133, 1016-1017 3. Miller DM, Stats SR, Partlo BS, et al. Factors associated with the decision to surrender a pet to an animal shelter. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:738- 742 4. Duxbury MM, Jackson JA, Line SW, Anderson RK. Evaluation of association between retention in the home and attendance at puppy socialization classes. JAVMA, 223 (1), 2003, 61-66 5. Eskeland GE, Tillung RH, Bakken M. The effect of punishment, rewards, control and attitude in obedience and problem behaviors in dogs. Proceedings IVBM 2007;103-104. 6. Hilby EF, Rooney NJ, Bradshaw JWS. Dog training methods: their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare. Animal Welfare 2004;13: 63-69. 7. Bradshaw JW, McPherson JA, Casey RA, Larter LS. Aetiology of separation-related behavior in domestic dogs. Vet Record 2002;191:43- 46.
Visit www.DogSmith.com to find a safe and well run puppy class near you. Or call Rachel Williams, DogSmith Palm Beach County, on 561-271-3033.
Common Household Chemicals That Can Be Dangerous To Your Pet
Posted on April 12, 2010 by DogSmith
Many commonly used products found in our homes that we use everyday can pose a serious threat to the health of our pets. By nature, animals are very curious, especially puppies and kittens who use their mouths to discover the world. As responsible pet owners, it is up to us to be aware of harmful chemicals and take measures to make them inaccessible to our pets. In addition, you should always check product labels and consult with your veterinarian before applying any over-the-counter product to your pet. Some of the more commonly found dangers include chemicals used for flea and fly control, insecticides, automobile antifreeze, rodent poisons and even some household glues.
Permethrin is a common chemical approved for topical use as flea control and large animal fly control. It is also used for insect control on crops, ornamental plants and human use. Permethrin can be found in shampoos, dips, foggers, spot-on treatments and various sprays for animal use. Cats are extremely susceptible to permethrin toxicity because their liver can’t efficiently metabolize the chemical and some dogs may be sensitive as well. Toxicity may occur from an application of a spot-on treatment or if the cat actively grooms, or comes in close physical contact with a dog that has been recently treated. The severity of the reaction can vary with each animal. Signs to look for include muscle tremors, seizures, excess salivation, depression, vomiting, anorexia, and even death.
Organophosphates include a widely distributed group of chemicals used to control a variety of insects on crops, lawns, plants, several species of animals, and around our homes. Organophosphates can also be found as the primary chemical in flea collars. Toxic effects can be seen following direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of fumes. Signs to look for include muscle tremors (especially along the back, neck and top of head), weakness, depression, and seizures. Some toxic signs may not be seen for up to 18-20 days after exposure. Organophosphates can appear on product labels as Chlorpyrifos, Disulfoton or Rabon.
Ethylene Glycol, commonly known as Antifreeze, can be extremely toxic if ingested by your pet. Because of its sweet smell and taste, pets are naturally attracted to antifreeze. In dogs ingesting as little as 1 ½ teaspoons per pound of body weight, and ½ teaspoon per pound of body weight in cats, can be lethal. Effects of the toxin include vomiting, depression, weakness, and rapid breathing and can be observed with in the first few hours after ingestion. This is followed by complete kidney failure within 2 days. If ingestion is suspected, get to a veterinarian immediately! Treatment can be successful if responded to quickly.
Rodenticides, or various rat poisons can all be deadly to your pet. There are many different types of rat poison and each product will affect your pet differently. If you suspect that your pet has come in contact with any form of rat poison take the poison packaging with you to your veterinarian (not just a sample of the bait). Products such as D-con, Warf, and Prolin are anticoagulants which result in internal bleeding. Brands such as Trounce, Assault, and Vengeance cause fluid to build up around the brain and commercial products such as Quintox, Rampage, and Hyperkill result in complete kidney failure. Regardless of the product, immediate action and treatment is necessary to limit the damage caused by these toxins. If you need to use rodenticides in your home, consult your veterinarian in order to select one that is safest for use around your pet.
Some glues, such as Gorilla Glue, expand greatly once ingested and require surgical removal. Just one ounce of glue may expand to the size of a basketball! Therefore, always keep pets away from any area where you are using glue.
The most important rule of thumb when dealing with any chemical around your pets is this: If you’re not sure about the safety of the ingredients of any product you may be using on or around your pets, consult with your veterinarian before using. Taking simple steps, such as storing household chemical products in secure areas and in properly marked containers, will significantly reduce the chance that your pet will come in contact with a toxic substance.
Posted on April 12, 2010 by DogSmith
Many commonly used products found in our homes that we use everyday can pose a serious threat to the health of our pets. By nature, animals are very curious, especially puppies and kittens who use their mouths to discover the world. As responsible pet owners, it is up to us to be aware of harmful chemicals and take measures to make them inaccessible to our pets. In addition, you should always check product labels and consult with your veterinarian before applying any over-the-counter product to your pet. Some of the more commonly found dangers include chemicals used for flea and fly control, insecticides, automobile antifreeze, rodent poisons and even some household glues.
Permethrin is a common chemical approved for topical use as flea control and large animal fly control. It is also used for insect control on crops, ornamental plants and human use. Permethrin can be found in shampoos, dips, foggers, spot-on treatments and various sprays for animal use. Cats are extremely susceptible to permethrin toxicity because their liver can’t efficiently metabolize the chemical and some dogs may be sensitive as well. Toxicity may occur from an application of a spot-on treatment or if the cat actively grooms, or comes in close physical contact with a dog that has been recently treated. The severity of the reaction can vary with each animal. Signs to look for include muscle tremors, seizures, excess salivation, depression, vomiting, anorexia, and even death.
Organophosphates include a widely distributed group of chemicals used to control a variety of insects on crops, lawns, plants, several species of animals, and around our homes. Organophosphates can also be found as the primary chemical in flea collars. Toxic effects can be seen following direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of fumes. Signs to look for include muscle tremors (especially along the back, neck and top of head), weakness, depression, and seizures. Some toxic signs may not be seen for up to 18-20 days after exposure. Organophosphates can appear on product labels as Chlorpyrifos, Disulfoton or Rabon.
Ethylene Glycol, commonly known as Antifreeze, can be extremely toxic if ingested by your pet. Because of its sweet smell and taste, pets are naturally attracted to antifreeze. In dogs ingesting as little as 1 ½ teaspoons per pound of body weight, and ½ teaspoon per pound of body weight in cats, can be lethal. Effects of the toxin include vomiting, depression, weakness, and rapid breathing and can be observed with in the first few hours after ingestion. This is followed by complete kidney failure within 2 days. If ingestion is suspected, get to a veterinarian immediately! Treatment can be successful if responded to quickly.
Rodenticides, or various rat poisons can all be deadly to your pet. There are many different types of rat poison and each product will affect your pet differently. If you suspect that your pet has come in contact with any form of rat poison take the poison packaging with you to your veterinarian (not just a sample of the bait). Products such as D-con, Warf, and Prolin are anticoagulants which result in internal bleeding. Brands such as Trounce, Assault, and Vengeance cause fluid to build up around the brain and commercial products such as Quintox, Rampage, and Hyperkill result in complete kidney failure. Regardless of the product, immediate action and treatment is necessary to limit the damage caused by these toxins. If you need to use rodenticides in your home, consult your veterinarian in order to select one that is safest for use around your pet.
Some glues, such as Gorilla Glue, expand greatly once ingested and require surgical removal. Just one ounce of glue may expand to the size of a basketball! Therefore, always keep pets away from any area where you are using glue.
The most important rule of thumb when dealing with any chemical around your pets is this: If you’re not sure about the safety of the ingredients of any product you may be using on or around your pets, consult with your veterinarian before using. Taking simple steps, such as storing household chemical products in secure areas and in properly marked containers, will significantly reduce the chance that your pet will come in contact with a toxic substance.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Annual Pet Examinations: Are they necessary?
Many pet owners underestimate the importance of an annual physical exam because their pet seems healthy. Annual exams provide an opportunity to prevent diseases, detect them early, or even avoid them altogether. Many diseases and ailments such as heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes are not often evident in early stages. Your veterinarian can conduct a comprehensive exam that includes a lab analysis, heart check, and dental exam to ensure top physical shape and optimum health for years to come.
Dogs age more rapidly than humans. In one calendar year the average dog can physically age 5-10 years in comparison. Medically, many changes can take place in that time. Once a dog reaches 8 years old it is considered to be geriatric. At this time, it is important to consider performing a “Senior Wellness Profile” which provides a more thorough work-up on major body systems such as the heart, liver, and kidneys as problems such as organ failure or cancer may develop and progress quickly if not detected. Many problems owners commonly assume are “old age changes” may actually be signs of underlying disease and can be very treatable.
What does a physical exam include? Your veterinarian has special training and experience in detecting subtle illness in pets and will conduct a very thorough “nose to toes” exam. Listening to the heart your vet can detect murmurs. Increased lung sounds may indicate early illness. Abdominal palpation may reveal pain in certain areas or abnormal size and shape of various organs or even tumors. Evaluating joint mobility may reveal arthritis. Checking out the eyes can detect early signs of cataracts or other ocular problems. Ears may be in need of cleaning or medication. Dental disease may be detected as well as signs of allergies or skin problems during a routine exam. It’s easier for someone who doesn’t see your pet every day to detect lumps and bumps that you may not have noticed. Comparing annual weights as well can determine if your dog is heading down the path to obesity or is slowly losing weight due to a latent illness or disease.
Annual examinations also give you an opportunity to talk to your Vet about training, hygiene, nutrition, and any other questions you may have. A few simple hygiene tasks added to your daily schedule can be very beneficial to your pet’s quality of life and feeding a proper diet rates as one of the most important considerations in health maintenance. Obedience training is important for your pet's health because behavioral problems account for more deaths in dogs than any known disease. In fact, a well-trained and obedient dog is more likely to live to a ripe old age than a poorly trained one. Contact your local DogSmith at www.DogSmith.com for information on training your dog. for more information on pet nutrition go to www.superior-dog-food.com
© 2010 B Jordan CVT, CDT The DogSmith To contact Bethany via email Bjordan@DogSmith.com
You can reach Niki Tudge the DogSmith Founder via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or to learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com
Dogs age more rapidly than humans. In one calendar year the average dog can physically age 5-10 years in comparison. Medically, many changes can take place in that time. Once a dog reaches 8 years old it is considered to be geriatric. At this time, it is important to consider performing a “Senior Wellness Profile” which provides a more thorough work-up on major body systems such as the heart, liver, and kidneys as problems such as organ failure or cancer may develop and progress quickly if not detected. Many problems owners commonly assume are “old age changes” may actually be signs of underlying disease and can be very treatable.
What does a physical exam include? Your veterinarian has special training and experience in detecting subtle illness in pets and will conduct a very thorough “nose to toes” exam. Listening to the heart your vet can detect murmurs. Increased lung sounds may indicate early illness. Abdominal palpation may reveal pain in certain areas or abnormal size and shape of various organs or even tumors. Evaluating joint mobility may reveal arthritis. Checking out the eyes can detect early signs of cataracts or other ocular problems. Ears may be in need of cleaning or medication. Dental disease may be detected as well as signs of allergies or skin problems during a routine exam. It’s easier for someone who doesn’t see your pet every day to detect lumps and bumps that you may not have noticed. Comparing annual weights as well can determine if your dog is heading down the path to obesity or is slowly losing weight due to a latent illness or disease.
Annual examinations also give you an opportunity to talk to your Vet about training, hygiene, nutrition, and any other questions you may have. A few simple hygiene tasks added to your daily schedule can be very beneficial to your pet’s quality of life and feeding a proper diet rates as one of the most important considerations in health maintenance. Obedience training is important for your pet's health because behavioral problems account for more deaths in dogs than any known disease. In fact, a well-trained and obedient dog is more likely to live to a ripe old age than a poorly trained one. Contact your local DogSmith at www.DogSmith.com for information on training your dog. for more information on pet nutrition go to www.superior-dog-food.com
© 2010 B Jordan CVT, CDT The DogSmith To contact Bethany via email Bjordan@DogSmith.com
You can reach Niki Tudge the DogSmith Founder via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or to learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com
People food is not only bad for your pet, it could be toxic!
Because we love our pets, we often want to show our love by sharing our food with them. But did you know that some of your favorite foods can actually be harmful to your furry friends?
Chocolate Coffee and Sodas
Chocolate, coffee, and sodas contain a chemical called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao plants. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines, can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. It is important to note that dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate, and baking chocolate is the most dangerous. The possibility of a reaction can occur, in a 10 pound dog, with as little as 1.5 ounces of milk chocolate, 0.6 ounces of dark chocolate, and 0.2 ounces of baking chocolate.
Grapes and Raisins
Eating grapes has proven to cause sudden kidney failure in pets. The actual chemical ingredient causing the toxic reaction is unknown and the amount required to cause a problem could be a small serving to a few ounces or pounds. Since they are dried, raisins contain a higher concentration of toxins. An animal that has eaten grapes or raisins may be vomiting, having diarrhea, and be hyperactive within the first 24 hours. Later, they may experience loss of appetite, and depression. Additionally the dog’s abdomen may be in pain, the dog may stop drinking and urinating. Ultimately, the kidneys fail, and without aggressive treatment, many dogs may die.
Onions
Onions are very common in the food we eat and are often included in a variety of processed foods, including baby food. Onions contain the chemical Sodium n-Proplylthiosulfate which has toxic effects in dogs causing a form of anemia where the red blood cells are unable to function properly to carry oxygen throughout the body. It is unclear just how much of the chemical contained in onions will cause anemia, so it is best to avoid giving onions to pets altogether. It is important to note that onion powder contains a more concentrated amount of Sodium n-Proplylthiosulfate, therefore products such as Funions are more dangerous than the actual onion. Signs of onion poisoning in dogs includes general weakness, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, depression, blood in the urine, and jaundice appearance as a yellowing of tissues such as eyes, gums and skin.
Bread Dough
Bread dough containing yeast poses a hazard to pets who consume it in large quantities. The risks to pets are two-fold. The first risk is that the dough may continue to rise in the stomach after ingestion causing an intestinal blockage or rupturing the stomach. Secondly, the action of the yeast will ferment sugars, creating a secondary problem of ethanol (alcohol) poisoning in the animal. Early signs of ingestion may include repeated non-productive attempts to vomit, abdominal distention, and depression. As alcohol intoxication develops, the animal becomes weak and disoriented. Eventually, depression, coma, low body temperature, seizures or death may be seen.
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and toothpastes. This sweetener is popular in human products due to its natural ability to decrease dental disease, but can have very negative effects if ingested by pets. Humans only absorb a certain percentage of Xylitol. However, in dogs it triggers significant insulin release, which then lowers the blood sugar to dangerous levels. A relatively new discovery in the danger of Xylitol from the ASPCA NAPPC database since 2003, reveals that eleven dogs that consumed products containing Xylitol developed liver failure. A 22 pound dog can be affected by ingesting only 3-4 pieces of gum containing the sweetener. Initial signs of toxic ingestion include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to extreme lethargy and seizures and liver failure can be indicated within a few days.
There are also many other types of human food that can be dangerous to your pet such as macadamia nuts, avocado, and moldy leftovers. Be sure to check with your veterinarian for healthy options you can both enjoy safely before sharing your favorite snacks with your best friend.
Watch a great FREE DVD on what and how you should feed your pet so you can ensure they get the best and most complete nutrition without damage or obesity. Visit www.superior-dog-food.com
B Jordan CVT, CDT © 2010
Bethany Jordan is the owner of The DogSmith Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama. You can reach Bethany at Bjordan@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com
Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise. CPDT, E-Nadoi, CBC, AABP- PDT, DIP. ABT, Pet Care Services CPCT, CAPCT, AKC “CGC” Evaluator
You can reach Niki via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com
To learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com
Chocolate Coffee and Sodas
Chocolate, coffee, and sodas contain a chemical called methylxanthines, which are found in cacao plants. When ingested by pets, methylxanthines, can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. It is important to note that dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate, and baking chocolate is the most dangerous. The possibility of a reaction can occur, in a 10 pound dog, with as little as 1.5 ounces of milk chocolate, 0.6 ounces of dark chocolate, and 0.2 ounces of baking chocolate.
Grapes and Raisins
Eating grapes has proven to cause sudden kidney failure in pets. The actual chemical ingredient causing the toxic reaction is unknown and the amount required to cause a problem could be a small serving to a few ounces or pounds. Since they are dried, raisins contain a higher concentration of toxins. An animal that has eaten grapes or raisins may be vomiting, having diarrhea, and be hyperactive within the first 24 hours. Later, they may experience loss of appetite, and depression. Additionally the dog’s abdomen may be in pain, the dog may stop drinking and urinating. Ultimately, the kidneys fail, and without aggressive treatment, many dogs may die.
Onions
Onions are very common in the food we eat and are often included in a variety of processed foods, including baby food. Onions contain the chemical Sodium n-Proplylthiosulfate which has toxic effects in dogs causing a form of anemia where the red blood cells are unable to function properly to carry oxygen throughout the body. It is unclear just how much of the chemical contained in onions will cause anemia, so it is best to avoid giving onions to pets altogether. It is important to note that onion powder contains a more concentrated amount of Sodium n-Proplylthiosulfate, therefore products such as Funions are more dangerous than the actual onion. Signs of onion poisoning in dogs includes general weakness, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, depression, blood in the urine, and jaundice appearance as a yellowing of tissues such as eyes, gums and skin.
Bread Dough
Bread dough containing yeast poses a hazard to pets who consume it in large quantities. The risks to pets are two-fold. The first risk is that the dough may continue to rise in the stomach after ingestion causing an intestinal blockage or rupturing the stomach. Secondly, the action of the yeast will ferment sugars, creating a secondary problem of ethanol (alcohol) poisoning in the animal. Early signs of ingestion may include repeated non-productive attempts to vomit, abdominal distention, and depression. As alcohol intoxication develops, the animal becomes weak and disoriented. Eventually, depression, coma, low body temperature, seizures or death may be seen.
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and toothpastes. This sweetener is popular in human products due to its natural ability to decrease dental disease, but can have very negative effects if ingested by pets. Humans only absorb a certain percentage of Xylitol. However, in dogs it triggers significant insulin release, which then lowers the blood sugar to dangerous levels. A relatively new discovery in the danger of Xylitol from the ASPCA NAPPC database since 2003, reveals that eleven dogs that consumed products containing Xylitol developed liver failure. A 22 pound dog can be affected by ingesting only 3-4 pieces of gum containing the sweetener. Initial signs of toxic ingestion include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination. Signs can progress to extreme lethargy and seizures and liver failure can be indicated within a few days.
There are also many other types of human food that can be dangerous to your pet such as macadamia nuts, avocado, and moldy leftovers. Be sure to check with your veterinarian for healthy options you can both enjoy safely before sharing your favorite snacks with your best friend.
Watch a great FREE DVD on what and how you should feed your pet so you can ensure they get the best and most complete nutrition without damage or obesity. Visit www.superior-dog-food.com
B Jordan CVT, CDT © 2010
Bethany Jordan is the owner of The DogSmith Florida Panhandle and Southern Alabama. You can reach Bethany at Bjordan@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com
Niki Tudge is the owner and founder of The DogSmith, America’s Dog Training, Dog Walking and Pet Care Franchise. CPDT, E-Nadoi, CBC, AABP- PDT, DIP. ABT, Pet Care Services CPCT, CAPCT, AKC “CGC” Evaluator
You can reach Niki via email at NikiTudge@DogSmith.com or www.DogSmith.com
To learn more about joining the DogSmith visit http://www.DogSmith.com
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Take the Choke Out Of Walking Your Dog on A Leash
I have been thinking lately about the practice of using choke collars and jerking the lead as a “correction” that many people still use when training and handling their dog. The most common ‘use’ of the ‘jerk’ correction I have noticed is when a dog owner wants their dog to ‘heel’. Over the years, I have witnessed many dog handlers telling their dog ‘heel’ as they have issued a big leash correction. And usually the result of this ‘correction’ is frustrating to the dog owner as the dog pulls even harder against the leash. ‘Heel’ is supposed to be the cue for walk in the appropriate place. Think about it. If you were constantly jerked, pulled or tugged when you were next to, slightly in front of, or behind your owner, would you choose to be in a ‘heel’ position or would you forge ahead or fall behind to escape or evade any future corrections. If I had experienced a correction like that while hearing the cue ‘heel’ I would also want to head for the hills when I heard that word. Inadvertently sometimes the ‘heel’ cue becomes a warning signal to the dog that a correction is coming and thus the cue evokes a ‘move away behavior’ from the owner.
It is far more pleasant and effective for a dog to learn appropriate leash manners when they are taught where to walk nicely in relation to their walking partner rather than being corrected for getting it wrong. If the dog is reinforced for correct placement and pace then they will no longer forge ahead or lag behind. A dog training ‘cue’ should be music to the ears of a dog. A dog who has been trained using effective, efficient and pleasant methods will happily respond to a ‘cue’ and training your dog will be a more pleasant experience for all. So let’s take the ‘choke’ out of training and replace it with clear concise instructions that builds your dog’s behavior repertoire, sets your dog up for success and rewards them when they get it right. This is a far more pleasant situation for both owner and dog. In addition to being an ineffective training method, there are real health concerns when a dog’s head is jerked around.
Karen Overall (MA, VMD, PhD, DACVB, Clinical Behavioral Medicine for small Animals) says “In a retrospective study on spinal pain, injury or changes in dogs conducted in Sweden, Hallgreen (1992) found that 91% of dogs with cervical anomalies experienced harsh jerks on a leash or had a long history of pulling on the lead. The use of choke collars was also over represented in this group. This strongly suggests that leash corrections are potentially injurious”
Robin Walker (BVetMed MRCVs) says “In 30 years of practice (including 22 as a veterinary advisor to a police dog section) I have seen numerous severely sprained necks, cases of fainting, transient foreleg paralysis and hind leg ataxia after robust use of the choke chain. In the 1970’s, when the practice of slamming the dog sideways with a jerk that brought the foreparts clear off the ground and two or three feet towards the handler became popular, the resulting painful condition was known as “Woodhouse neck” in this practice. Some of these cases exhibited misalignment of cervical vertebrae on radiographs. It suggested that an existing spondylopathy renders these dogs more vulnerable to injury. My ophthalmology colleagues have decided views on the relation between compression of the neck, intraocular pressure disturbances and damage to the cervical sympathetic nerve chain resulting in Horner’s syndrome. I personally have seen a case of swollen eyes with petechial scleral haemorrhage and a number of temporarily voiceless dogs.”
To learn the steps and mechanics of teaching your dog to ‘walk nicely’ or to ‘heel,’ contact your local DogSmith. Your local DogSmith will take you through the stages of a) teaching your dog to stand while on a leash without pulling and lunging, b) teaching you the ‘walk nicely’ behavior in steps so you build on a solid foundation, and c) of introducing you to some great management tools to use while you teach your dog new and acceptable behaviors allowing you to walk and exercise your dog without reinforcing the old and unacceptable behaviors. Visit www.DogSmith.com or Rachel Williams your Palm Beach DogSmith. 561-271-3033.
It is far more pleasant and effective for a dog to learn appropriate leash manners when they are taught where to walk nicely in relation to their walking partner rather than being corrected for getting it wrong. If the dog is reinforced for correct placement and pace then they will no longer forge ahead or lag behind. A dog training ‘cue’ should be music to the ears of a dog. A dog who has been trained using effective, efficient and pleasant methods will happily respond to a ‘cue’ and training your dog will be a more pleasant experience for all. So let’s take the ‘choke’ out of training and replace it with clear concise instructions that builds your dog’s behavior repertoire, sets your dog up for success and rewards them when they get it right. This is a far more pleasant situation for both owner and dog. In addition to being an ineffective training method, there are real health concerns when a dog’s head is jerked around.
Karen Overall (MA, VMD, PhD, DACVB, Clinical Behavioral Medicine for small Animals) says “In a retrospective study on spinal pain, injury or changes in dogs conducted in Sweden, Hallgreen (1992) found that 91% of dogs with cervical anomalies experienced harsh jerks on a leash or had a long history of pulling on the lead. The use of choke collars was also over represented in this group. This strongly suggests that leash corrections are potentially injurious”
Robin Walker (BVetMed MRCVs) says “In 30 years of practice (including 22 as a veterinary advisor to a police dog section) I have seen numerous severely sprained necks, cases of fainting, transient foreleg paralysis and hind leg ataxia after robust use of the choke chain. In the 1970’s, when the practice of slamming the dog sideways with a jerk that brought the foreparts clear off the ground and two or three feet towards the handler became popular, the resulting painful condition was known as “Woodhouse neck” in this practice. Some of these cases exhibited misalignment of cervical vertebrae on radiographs. It suggested that an existing spondylopathy renders these dogs more vulnerable to injury. My ophthalmology colleagues have decided views on the relation between compression of the neck, intraocular pressure disturbances and damage to the cervical sympathetic nerve chain resulting in Horner’s syndrome. I personally have seen a case of swollen eyes with petechial scleral haemorrhage and a number of temporarily voiceless dogs.”
To learn the steps and mechanics of teaching your dog to ‘walk nicely’ or to ‘heel,’ contact your local DogSmith. Your local DogSmith will take you through the stages of a) teaching your dog to stand while on a leash without pulling and lunging, b) teaching you the ‘walk nicely’ behavior in steps so you build on a solid foundation, and c) of introducing you to some great management tools to use while you teach your dog new and acceptable behaviors allowing you to walk and exercise your dog without reinforcing the old and unacceptable behaviors. Visit www.DogSmith.com or Rachel Williams your Palm Beach DogSmith. 561-271-3033.
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