The term Pit Bull is used to describe a group of dogs that are no particular breed at all. Generally including the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier and similar looking dogs, the term often has negative connotations amongst many other dog owners and none dog owners.
Friday, November 13, 2015
Thursday, November 12, 2015
An in Depth Look at Hip Dysplasia in Canines and It's Implications
Here we take a more in depth look into the dreaded disease known as hip dysplasia. What it is, what it isn't and what can be done is addressed. Knowing your options is power and can make the prognosis for your pup a bit brighter.
10 Healthy Ingredients to Add to Your Dog's Food
I've seen so many lists of "human foods for dogs" on the internet that I don't agree with, so I decided to make my own list. Many of these lists suggest various forms of dairy - yogurt, cheese, cheese wiz, ice cream. Milk past infancy is unnecessary and unnatural for dogs, as is milk from another species.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Why Should I Use Frontline Plus?
Frontline Plus has emerged as one of the most dependable flea and tick preventative products available in the market for dogs and cats. Let us look at some of the reasons that make this ingenious product highly effective against fleas and ticks.
What Are the Most Dangerous Breeds of Dogs?
Are overly aggressive dogs the product of their environment or is it simply in the nature of dangerous breeds of dogs to be violent? Well, the answer is not a simple one, it's both yes and no. Many extremely aggressive dog breeds have earned their dangerous reputations due to their apparent predisposition to violence and aggression. However, there is also merit in looking at the nurture of puppies who eventually grow into vicious dogs. Who are these overly aggressive canines?
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Selecting The Best Horse Bedding
Horse health is important. Horse bedding is an important aspect in your horse's health. Here we look at this important topic and look at the considerations you need to make when selecting the best horse bedding for your animals.
Monday, November 9, 2015
Hank & Vegas, Pit Bulls (8 m/o & 10 y/o), 9th Ave &...
Hank & Vegas, Pit Bulls (8 m/o & 10 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA • “He’s always following her around. She shows him the ropes.”
–
For more from SF and the signing at @greenapplebooks , visit http://ift.tt/206Fugd
Grandniece of Pope Francis Reunited With Stolen Dog
A dog that had been stolen from Pope Francis’ grandniece, has been found and the two have a happy reunion.
Read more
Read more
Murphy, Bernese Mountain Dog (5 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way,...
Murphy, Bernese Mountain Dog (5 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA
Murphy, Bernese Mountain Dog (5 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way,...
Murphy, Bernese Mountain Dog (5 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA
Classical Music Is Now Being Used To Calm Dogs–With Proven Results!
Advertisement
Have you ever stopped and wondered if your dog may not like your choice in music? Or, better still, that there may be music out there that would calm him down, and even make training easier?
Over the years, researchers have done just that. And, thanks to them, we know have the answers to these questions, which could change your dog’s life (for the better) and may even help you with training.
Lisa Spector is co-founder of Through a Dog’s Ear, an animal music program created by BARD (BioAcoustic Research & Development) to provide audio programs specifically for the health, well-being and longevity of animals.
Spector’s credentials include being a graduate of Juilliard and an award-winning concert pianist. In addition, she is a canine music expert, agility enthusiast and a former puppy raiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind. While developing their music, Spector and her co-founder Joshua Leeds, consulted with veterinarians, animal behaviorists and trainers.
Currently, Spector runs a shelter program, “Music in Shelters,” where she donated CDs of herself piano that are now being played in over 1,500 shelters worldwide. She told iHeartDogs.com:
“The donated music is helping increase adoption rates in over 1,500 shelters worldwide for several reasons. One is that it helps keeps dogs quiet. The peaceful environment encourages visitors to stay longer and then adoption rates increase. It’s also sent home with dogs with behavioral challenges. Trainers often work with new adoptees – using the music to ensure their new home is their forever home.”
Watch the below video of her CD in action at the Sante Fe Animal Shelter:
We interviewed Spector to learn more about music for dogs and its applications for pet parents.
What made you get involved in music for dogs?
LS: I’ve always been a dog lover, and in 2003 I was a volunteer puppy raiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Professionally, I was performing as a concert pianist and owned a music school. As a teacher, I went to a seminar taught by sound researcher Joshua Leeds and learned about the principles of psychoacoustics – the study of how sound and music affects the human nervous system. I learned how to calm and focus a class of 4-year-olds in 30 seconds flat with the right prescription of music. I also noticed that this same music had a profound effect at calming my rambunctious Guide Dog pup. I went back to Joshua and asked if he’d ever considered creating music for our beloved 4-legged friends.
We then discovered that a little bit of research had been done on the topic by Irish behaviorist Deborah Wells. But, there was much more to be done. A veterinary neurologist took interest in our idea and ran a clinical research testing over 150 dogs with four hours of classical music we had recorded, including the slowed down, simplified psychoacoustic arrangements we had created. In summary:
- In the kennel environment, over 70 percent of the dogs became calmer with the simplified, 50-60 beats per minute (bpm) — both solo piano and trio music.
- In the home environment, the solo piano at 50-60 bpm showed an average of 85 percent becoming calm, and over half the dogs went to sleep.
This lead to the launch of our first recording in 2008 by Through a Dog’s Ear… Music to Calm Your Canine Companion Vol. 1. It includes the slowed down simplified classical arrangements discussed here.
Cyrus hugging his iCalm, a portable device that plays calming music for dogs
Can you explain Dr. Alfred Tomatis’s research, which you also used while developing your music?
LS: Dr. Alfred Tomatis (1920-2001) was an internationally known ear, nose, and throat doctor, and inventor. His alternative medicine theories of hearing and listening are known as the Tomatis Method. His work is used in neurodevelopment clinics world-wide for the treatment of autism, dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, etc.
He believed that sound is a nutrient; we can either ‘charge’ or ‘discharge’ the nervous system with sound. Tomatis-inspired techniques – using high or low tones, fast or slow tempos, and easily identified patterns – informs the recordings of Through a Dog’s (and Cat’s) Ear.
What makes the music for dogs different from other music?
LS: We make three changes to classical music:
- Slowed down tempos to 50 to 60 (bpm) beats per minute
- Lowered frequencies that calm the canine nervous system
- Simplified patterns that take listeners from active listening to passive hearing
We use piano as it’s a solo instrument with easily includes low frequencies that help calm the canine nervous system.
In summary, through the use of tone, tempo, and pattern identification, we are able to speed up or slow down primary pulse systems of the mammalian body (rain waves, heart rate, and breath). This is especially useful for canine and feline anxiety reduction.
Anything you stay away from (noises dog’s don’t like)?
LS: We stay away from high frequency ranges that charge or excite the canine nervous system.
Do you think there are other uses for music for dogs other than calming and separation anxiety? For example they say classical music helps people study…do you think having music on while training a dog could help them focus?
LS: In our original testing, we actually tested music designed for mind alert/ body relaxed (for humans). We had thought that would be most effective in the training environment. However, trainers tell us over and over that the simplified psychoacoustic arrangements are so effective at helping dogs focus. And then training is so much easier. They love to play it during classes, because calm gets transferred down the other end of the leash and it also calms the people as well. That is particularly helpful in a classroom with reactive dogs, since dogs pick up our energy so quickly.
The iCalmDog
When I worked at a doggy daycare, I saw firsthand the affect of music on dogs. It was interesting to see a room of 30-40 barking crazy dogs get quiet when the rock, rap, even pop music was switched to a CD similar to Through A Dog’s Ears.
So, now that you are completely convinced that your dog needs calming music in his life (and you should be!), you maybe wondering how you can take that music with you on the road, for say, training at a park? Or maybe at the vet’s office (another place of high anxiety)?
Through a Dog’s Ear just launched their new iCalmDog 2.0, which is a portable music device for your dog!
People enjoy their music on their mobile devices,” says Spector, “Now, there is a way for Buster to carry his clinically tested calming canine tunes with him to the vet, groomer, dog sitter, etc. People are telling us that their dogs are so happy to have their own iPawd.”
Where to Find Music For Dogs
There are several CDs created for different listening situations. You find them all on the Through A Dog’s Ear website.
This Touching Adoption Story Will Warm Your Heart
This touching adoption story is sure to warm your heart, and possibly put a tear in your eye. Either way, it's a beautiful story of undying love.
Read more
Read more
Dog Survives Almost Fatal Fall in Construction Site
Firefighters were called to a construction site to save a stray who fell off a ledge and almost lost his life.
Read more
Read more
Remy, Labradoodle (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San...
Remy, Labradoodle (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA • “He loves to tuck his nose under your arm and cuddle.”
Remy, Labradoodle (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San...
Remy, Labradoodle (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA • “He loves to tuck his nose under your arm and cuddle.”
Raising and Showing Blue Ribbon Cattle
A guide on how to develop and raise livestock for the show ring. Presented are a few steps on how to select and train winning show cattle.
Shelter Dog Tells Rescuers Foster Home Is His Forever Home
Hank escaped his long term foster home and traveled during two days to get back where he belonged. His first foster home.
Read more
Read more
Army Specialist gives his sons a special surprise
U.S. Army Specialist Medina returns home to his family and gives his boys each a surprise they will always remember.
Charlie, Pomeranian/Terrier mix (8 y/o) – Available for adoption...
Charlie, Pomeranian/Terrier mix (8 y/o) – Available for adoption from @muttvillesf
Charlie, Pomeranian/Terrier mix (8 y/o) – Available for adoption...
Charlie, Pomeranian/Terrier mix (8 y/o) – Available for adoption from @muttvillesf
Can Cats Live Without Humans?
With the bond between cats and humans lasting through thousands of years, it is no wonder that our furry feline friends have become the most popular pet throughout Europe and the US. However, recent studies have shown that unlike dogs, cats do not actually need humans to feel safe or even to survive. Even domesticated cats which live with us from birth and have no experience in the wild feel very independent in life and can look after themselves without looking to their human companions for help.
I totes sorted through your tote
Come from grocery shopping close to home, found this mess in my living room.
Daughter surprised by Navy dad during special assembly
Zoey receives a special surprise homecoming visit from her dad serving overseas in the Navy.
Solving the Age Old Issue of Who Your Dog Loves More
This video delves into that timeless, age old question of who it is in the family that your dog loves most.
Read more
Read more
Dog Found Standing Guard over Body of Fallen Friend
This sweet dog was found standing guard over the body of his fallen friend that was hit by a vehicle and died on the side of the road.
Read more
Read more
Kitchen Crisis
I was reaching for the pan of leftovers on the gas stove and got my paw stuck in the grate. I panicked and flung it around the Kitchen= 3 dents in fridge, 1 in granite counter, 1 in wood floor.
Airman returns home from deployment to meet newborn niece
One anxious family member holds her child and a sign that says “I’ve been waiting my whole life to meet my Auntie M.” They all wait for their airman to come walking down the corridor and hold up their signs, making sounds of joy as she approaches.
Brie, Boston Terrier (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San...
Brie, Boston Terrier (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA • “She pees when guys pet her.”
Brie, Boston Terrier (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San...
Brie, Boston Terrier (3 y/o), 9th Ave & Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA • “She pees when guys pet her.”
Monster Attempts To Kill Dog, But A Shocking Twist Of Fate Finds Her A Forever Home
Advertisement
We want to warn you, what you are about to read might make you angry inside, but we PROMISE there is a very happy ending that will turn your anger into happiness very quickly. Diamond Owens is NOT a nice person, she is someone who committed an unspeakable act, BUT karma was there to swiftly serve her with a healthy dose of justice.
After she claims her dog “had to go” for “biting her boyfriend several times,” Diamond disposed of the dog like a piece of trash–IN THE DUMPSTER–just outside of her apartment complex in Copley, Ohio. But that’s not before she tried to break it’s neck to kill it. In her mind the dog needed to be euthanized, but she “didn’t have the money to do it” so she did something only a monster could do.
BUT, what she didn’t know, the tiny less than one year old Chihuahua was still breathing, clinging onto life when a maintenance worker discovered her. She was taken to a local animal hospital to receive veterinary care, and this is when one police officer, Chris Santimarino, instantly fell in love with this sweet little dog who looked like she’d never even hurt a fly.
“She’s smiling, she does that, and now… she’s a part of our family.”
Just as the old saying goes, one person’s trash may be another one’s treasure. Owens received 180 days in jail, and will have felony animal abuse charges on her permanent record for the rest of her life. (But if you ask me, that’s simply not enough for what she’s done!!)
We are SO THANKFUL that little Honey is getting to spread her sweetness in a loving home, just like she deserves. And as you can see, a dog’s gentle and kind spirit will never be broken–no matter what!!
LIttle Girl Now Able To Walk Thanks To Her “Great” Service Dog
Advertisement
Meet Bella and George: a sweet little girl and her giant Great Dane. Bella and George do everything together, forming an immediate bond from the time they first met last year. Bella, 11, was diagnosed with Morquio Syndrome at age 2.5, an extremely rare disease that attacks her bones and makes it difficult for her to walk unsupported. Until she met George, her service dog, she was forced to use crutches or even a wheelchair to get around, but neither felt like the perfect fit. She wanted to be like every other little girl at school, and now that she has this dog in her life he’s helping her do just that. George was the answer Bella needed, and now her days of sadness are filled with endless happiness.
At 43 pounds, and a whopping 131 pounds, this giant dog is proving he’s really more than just a “Great” Dane, he’s one little girl’s dream come true.
Thanks to the Service Dog Project who specifically train Great Danes as mobility service dogs, Bella was able to meet George who changed her life in ways she never thought possible. We know that George has found himself a best friend for life, and proves that he’s really much more than just a “Great” Dane. Share this heartwarming story with your friends. 
“Whiskers In Wonderland” event Sat., Nov. 14 and Sun., Nov. 15 in Manhattan
Nearly 200 cats, kittens and rabbits will be available for adoption on Sat., Nov. 14 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun., Nov. 15 from noon to 5 p.m. at the 6th annual “Whiskers in Wonderland” at Petco Union Square, 860 Broadway, Manhattan.
Other scheduled activities will include face painting for children, pet product giveaways and live music.
Among the shelters and rescue groups presenting animals for adoption are: Animal Care Centers of NYC, Animal Rescue Fund, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, K9Kastle, Kittykind, Lindas Cat Assistance, NYC Metro Rabbit and Sean Casey Animal Rescue.
Information: 212-252-2350.
27 Bunnies That Will Cure Any Case of the Mondays
Still recovering from the weekend? These bunnies will make sure you start your week off on the right foot. Fuzzy, spotted,...
The post 27 Bunnies That Will Cure Any Case of the Mondays appeared first on DogVacay Official Blog.
Holiday Bargain!
WOOF, first in the Birdie and Bowser series, is at $2.99 on Kindle at the moment. You can find that under the sofa cushions. Also a few M&M’s? Possibly.
Sunday, November 8, 2015
How to Prepare Your Dog for Your Newborn Baby
If you are like much of the population, your four-legged friend is your first "baby." Many people worry needlessly about how their dog will handle a baby in their life. Many owners think of getting rid of the family pets because of fears that they will harm the baby. Please do not do this unless there is no other option. Most dogs, when treated and trained properly, can handle life with a newborn very well.
Children and pets make wonderful companions when raised properly together and taught how to behave with each other. Children that grow up in a home with pets learn respect and love for animals, and more importantly, respect for life. As the children grow older they can learn responsibility by helping to care for the animals. Animals enrich our and our children's lives beyond belief.
Having a baby can cause problems for both humans and dogs, as the dog tends to be treated differently, and because of this, may act differently. Some owners baby the dog more, causing the dog to become spoiled and hard to handle. Other owners get over-stressed and punish the dog for normal, curious behavior toward the baby. Often our pets are the center of our world, our "babies" if you would, and can get "jealous" if not equipped to handle losing that status to the new baby. If you are willing to make the time and effort to prepare your pets for the new arrival, everyone can live in harmony.
Sometimes the dogs become overprotective of the baby. Many owners enjoy and even prefer the dog being a guard for the baby. While it is normal for the dog to become protective of the baby, it is dangerous for the dog to become overprotective and not let anyone near the baby. All of the above scenarios can lead to the dog being kicked out of the house!
As you are making preparations to bring home baby, you need to prepare your dog(s) for the same in advance if possible. While most dogs will be very gentle with the baby, many dogs do not see babies as humans because of their size, smell, and the strange noises they make. By taking the time to give your dog some extra love and attention he should be fine and not turn to bad behavior to get your attention. You need to prepare and educate your dog for what lies ahead. This will ensure that they are ready and willing to accept the new family member with open and loving paws.
Using calming remedies (herbs, aromatherapy, oils) and or prescription medications are also an option to help facilitate a better behaved dog. You can talk to your veterinarian to inquire about these products and the implications associated with their use. I am a believer in the holistic approach whenever possible, instead of using drugs.
Please, please always be aware that your dog is an animal and animals can bite or do harm to a baby, intentionally or unintentionally. No matter how well-behaved or loving your dog is NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE WITH YOUR BABY! I cannot stress this enough. Accidents can happen. You do not want to harm your baby or have to get rid of your dog because of an unfortunate, and possibly avoidable, incident.
If you are unsure that your dog will accept your new baby, please seek the advice of a professional trainer or behaviorist before making any decisions.
Believe it or not, your behavior with, and toward your dog matters. It can make or break your dog's acceptance of and respect for your baby. If you act like a leader, you will be treated like a leader. You want your dog to respect every human being in your household, including your baby. You must teach your dog respect for the baby. This will make life easier for all those involved.
Be firm but fair-
Do not let your dog get away with things, but don't be a drill sergeant either! Try to make any corrections as gentle as possible, but make sure they are effective. Try to have fun with your dog and the training - you both need to enjoy it or neither one will want to continue!
Your tone of voice matters-
DO NOT YELL at your dog! Convey the meaning of the command through the tone of voice - match your voice to what you are telling your dog. Commands should be short and succinct, in a low, almost growling voice. Your voice should not get higher as you give the command. Do not sing to your dog or ask the dog a question! You will not get the answer you want! When giving praise, sound like you mean it! It should be the opposite of a command - higher pitched and enthusiastic. If your dog gets overly excited when you praise him, tone it down a bit and speak softly. Your dog will still understand that he is doing a good job, but he will be less likely to jump around and be crazy.
Be calm and assertive-
Our dogs feed off of our energies and emotions. This affects their behaviors and reactions. If we are relaxed and confident, our dogs will feel the same, and know that we are LEADING them, and they do not have to lead us.
Use a crate-
If your dog does not already use a crate, now is the time to start. A crate is not cruel, it can actually be a wonderful and safe place for your dog. Confining your dog at certain times, such as for sleep or times when you cannot supervise, is no different than putting your baby in its crib for the same. It is actually very easy to teach your dog to accept being in the crate. Most people think that a dog who has not used a crate before will have a hard time, but that is not usually true. My two older dogs started using the crate when they were 7 and 8 years old, about the time my son started crawling and exploring on his own. This allowed me to know that both my child and my dogs were safe and nothing bad could happen. Your child can be hurt by your dog as easy as your child could hurt your dog. The problem lies in the fact that if the dog makes even the slightest threat to your baby or even inadvertently hurts your baby, it is your dog's fault. It is not fair to the dog for something like that to happen because you were not supervising the two together at all times!
Eliminate bad manners-
Bad manners cannot be accepted as they can be dangerous to a new baby and a new mom. Jumping and nipping are behaviors that need to be stopped right away. Stealing and rough-play also need to be nipped in the bud immediately.
Teach your dog how to be calm and gentle, by praising and treating this behavior.
Working commands into everyday life and play makes listening easy and normal for your dog. It becomes natural to the dog and it is less-likely that your dog will be out-of-control. It is also good for you too, as it makes sure that you are training your dog everyday, making you the leader - not the follower.
Exercise is key for good behavior-
As I stated earlier in the guide, exercise is imperative for your dog. This ensures that your dog will be better behaved because it doesn't have the energy to misbehave! Regular walks are important. If you do not have the time to walk for miles, using a doggie backpack can make a short walk seem like a long walk for your dog. A dog backpack immediately puts your dog into work mode, which will help to tire her brain. If you evenly balance some weight on each side, such as water bottles, it will further the amount of physical energy that is expended by your dog. Teaching your dog to walk nicely next to the stroller is also important. It is very difficult and dangerous to have a dog pulling and out of control while trying to maneuver a stroller. If you plan to use a baby carrier, sling, backpack or car seat your dog needs to behave on the leash and walk with you, not pull you. It is a good idea to practice with the equipment before baby comes (use a doll in place of the baby) so that you can work out any kinks or problems.
Have regular obedience sessions with your dog so that she does not forget her commands and remembers that she has to listen at all times. This also helps to tire her brain! Try to work the commands into everyday life so that it becomes second nature to her.
Is your dog allowed on your furniture?-
If your dog is currently allowed on the furniture you may want to reconsider this as your baby will likely be on the furniture a lot. Dog hair and dirt can irritate your baby. You also don't want to have to constantly clean up after the dog. Your dog could also inadvertently injure the baby jumping up on the furniture or repositioning himself. It's best to restrict access to the furniture so that problems do not occur.
Time-out for your dog-
Be sure you give your dog time away from the baby to settle. Time outs are an effective tool to allow your dog to keep its sanity and also for when they are doing something wrong.
Your new schedule and your dog-
It is time to readjust the dog's schedule to acquaint her with the upcoming changes. Think realistically about the time you will have for the dog for things such as walks, feeding, potty breaks, play and attention. Try to keep the schedule consistent for your dog so that she does not feel unnecessary stress from the changes that are happening before your baby arrives. Having as little disruptions as possible will help to accomplish this goal. Once your dog feels secure and is used to the new routine, try to start having slight variations in your daily happenings. When your baby arrives things do not always go as planned. You can have every intention of staying on schedule and inevitably something will change that schedule! Babies do not follow schedules! Do try to stay on schedule, when possible, so that your dog is allowed some semblance of a routine. Dogs feel safety when the rules and routines stay the same.
Pay less attention to your dog-
It is now time to teach the dog to expect less attention from you in one sitting. Once the baby arrives you will not have the same amount of quality time to spend with your dog, but it is still essential to make time for your dog. Schedule regular 5 to 10 minute sessions each day where you pay full attention to your dog. You can do things such as play, grooming, petting or just talk to your dog. This allows your dog to understand that he is still an important part of your life. You need to teach the dog that this time may be with or without the baby. This is also a good time for you to relax and unwind as pets are very therapeutic. Be aware that if you have more than one pet, each will need individual attention if possible. You can also give the pack the attention at the same time, providing they get along, or allow them to play together to burn energy.
Your dog needs to be calm and balanced-
You need to make sure that your dog is calm and balanced before baby comes into the house. It is very important for your dog to learn how to be calm so that he does not hurt you or the baby. Your dog needs to be balanced so that he does not stress needlessly and act out inappropriately. If your dog is not calm and balanced there are ways to help you accomplish this. Training and exercise are good places to start to achieve a calm and balanced dog. If these do not work your dog may have something wrong with him, such as a mental or physical problem. Consult with your vet and local canine behaviorist or trainer. They should be able to steer you in the right direction. They can help advise you of the route you should take, whether behavior modification, medication, or holistic remedies.
Is your dog gentle?-
Teaching your dog how to be gentle is extremely important so that he will not inadvertently hurt the baby. Many dogs use their teeth too much and need to be taught the proper way to use their mouths - without the teeth!
Does your dog jump?-
If your dog is a jumper, teaching proper greetings will help to curb this problem. It is vital that your dog can see people without jumping or getting overly excited. When the baby comes home there will probably be lots of people visiting and he will need to be on his best behavior. It also facilitates the proper, gentle behavior your dog should have around the baby.
How will my dog handle the baby being rough with her?-
Teaching your dog what to physically expect from your baby is extremely important so that she is able to cope with and know what to do when baby pulls, hits or pushes her. Infants and children are not necessarily gentle by nature, and have to be taught how to be so. Your dog also needs to learn how to deal with these behaviors from his small leaders. Start to gently handle your dog in a rougher fashion while praising good behavior and gently, if possible, correcting inappropriate behavior such as nipping or mouthing. Children tend to pet roughly, pull ears and tails, put their hands in the dog's face and touch sensitive areas on the dog. You need to mimic these behaviors in order to teach your dog what to expect and how to deal with it appropriately. Make it a daily habit to have time on the floor with your dog touching every part of his body in a loving fashion. This is good because it allows the dog to accept touch in areas that it may not want touched. It also teaches the dog to be gentle while on the floor and to be submissive to you and your baby. Do this slowly and your dog will understand
Obedience training your dog-
Your dog needs to be obedience trained and have basic manners. I suggest that you enroll in a training class if you can. Check your local training clubs, or facilities, for classes and make sure to observe a class so that you can see how they train. Make sure that you are comfortable with their techniques and the instructors. If you are not allowed to observe a class, please look elsewhere. Trainers who are legitimate should have no problem with this and encourage you to do so.
The following are some basic commands and actions that your dog should be able to do to ensure that he will listen and be under control:
- Walk nicely on a leash
- Sit
- Down
- Stay
- Leave-it
- NO
- Understand boundaries
- Quiet
- Attention/Look
- Drop-it
- Go to Your Spot/Place
Teaching the dog to respond to hand signals will also be beneficial. A sleeping baby is less likely to get woken up if you are not talking.
It is also a good idea to teach your dog to accept wearing a leash - in and out of the house. This ensures that you have control over your dog and tends to help make the dog better behaved. Most towns and cities have leash laws so it is imperative that your dog get used to the leash. You should also walk your dog everyday. This gives your dog mental stimulation, as well as physical exercise, which helps to tire them out, thus making them less likely to get into trouble and an overall better behaved dog.
Spot, Go To Your Spot!-
The "Go to Your Spot" command is a great command to have in your arsenal for a well-behaved dog. You can use this exercise to allow your dog to be with you and not underfoot, or keep your dog at a distance and still know where he is and what he's doing. It teaches your dog to go lie down on a rug or blanket and stay until released.
Long down stays are important in general, whether or not he is "in a spot", because they help you to maintain control over your dog. By your dog having to work for you, it facilitates a relationship in which you are dominant (in charge or the alpha figure) in your and your dog's mind.
Teach your dog what he can chew on-
All dogs chew. Each has a specific reason for it, and has a physical need to chew. They need to chew to exercise their jaws as well as to let out pent up frustrations. Excessive chewing can also be a breed trait. To help avoid problems, do not set yourself up for failure.
Soiling in the house-
If your dog has an accident in the house, or is not housetrained, you need to clean it properly to avoid further "accidents" or remarking of the same areas and to maintain a sanitary environment. Dog feces can contain parasites and other unwanted disease. Giardia, E-Coli, other worms and parasites are sometimes present in the feces and many are transferrable to humans.
Use high-value treats-
Use treats of high value - treats your dog loves and doesn't normally get - when dealing with new baby sights, sounds and scents. This tells your dog that these are good things, and that he should like them and associate them with rewards, instead of feeling malice or fear towards them. Make sure to keep the treats special, and only use them for the purposes of getting your pup familiar with what the new baby will be like.
The health and cleanliness of your dog is vital-
It is essential that your dog has a clean bill of health and is clean before you bring your baby home. Take your dog to the vet for a check-up to make sure that he has no health problems as these can cause unwanted behaviors in your dog that will interfere with his life with your baby. Make sure that he is up-to-date on all shots, or that his titer levels are good, and that he is worm-free.
The next thing you need to make sure of is that you bathe your dog or have him groomed BEFORE the baby comes home. If your dog sheds, it is a good idea to start a de-shedding program, such as regular grooming and adding a product such as Linatone (which you can obtain at your local pet store, online or at some groomers) which has a special combination of oils to help the skin and coat. Be careful not to over-bathe your dog as this can cause skin problems in many dogs. Make sure that he has no fleas or ticks as this is unsanitary and can expose your baby to health problems. It also creates problems as you will not have much time to bathe him once the baby is around. Using special flea and tick medication will help to ensure that he remains flea-less and tick-less.
Start teaching your dog to accept his paws and body wiped when he comes in from outside will aid in reducing the amount of dirt he tracks in the house. It also reduces the chance that your dog will carry in something that will cause an allergic reaction in you or your baby
Also, make sure to vacuum or sweep regularly as dog hair accumulates fast. This is especially important once your baby starts to crawl or be on the ground a lot, unless of course you want the baby to be a human Swiffer!
Carry a doll-
The idea of carrying around a doll (preferably one that cries) may seem silly, but it is a very good way to get your dog used to an addition to the family. Everything is different with a baby. Holding a baby changes your posture, and your mannerisms, so your dog needs to be comfortable and accepting of this. The dog also needs to follow commands and be obedient when you have the baby or the baby is out and about. Using a doll while practicing everyday commands will help your dog respond better when the baby arrives. Take the dog for walks, play with the dog, and all the normal things you do with your dog with and without the baby equipment and doll.
Baby sounds-
Getting your dog used the sounds of a baby is also a good idea. This allows your dog to familiarize herself with the alien noises that it may not have heard before so that it is not a surprise when baby comes home. Things like crying, gurgling, yelling/screaming, and baby babble are not necessarily normal for a dog to hear. There are many cds and tapes that you can purchase for this purpose. Start the volume low and expose your dog for short periods of time at first. Gradually increase the volume and amount of time you play the sounds. Try to play the recording everyday until the baby arrives.
Real babies and children-
Another good idea is to expose your dog to the real thing - real babies and children. If you have friends or relatives who have babies you can ask if they will allow your dog to listen in or even record them for you. You can visit places like parks, if your dog is well-behaved, so your dog can hear all of the noises children make. Make sure to start this away from your house so that your dog does not feel threatened in her own territory. The next step is to expose your dog in your yard, and then in your house. Make this a gradual process so your dog can slowly accept it.
Baby smells-
The smells of a baby are often unfamiliar to a dog. Slowly start to get your dog used to these new smells by using the products you will use on your baby, such as baby oil, powder, baby wash and diaper cream. Putting these products on baby blankets and baby clothes will also help. If you have friends or relatives that have babies, ask to borrow used and unwashed blankets and burp cloths so that the dog can get accustomed to the real smells of a baby.
The Nursery-
Setting up the nursery allows your dog to become acquainted with changes in the house. It allows your dog to become comfortable with the sights and sounds associated with baby equipment, thus avoiding shock when baby arrives.
If you don't want your pup in the nursery you need to start restricting access now. Keeping the door shut or a baby gate in the doorway helps to achieve this. Your dog will not feel left out or anxious about no longer being allowed in that room. Another good idea is to put a dog bed outside of the nursery so that your dog is still close to you, but not in the room. He will not feel banished, but will feel more included. Spend time in the room without your pooch so he understands that this will be normal, and that it is no longer his territory. As he starts to understand that the room is no longer his, he will accept it and be less likely to try to get in there when the baby comes home. This also helps to keep the room clean and free of dog hair and dirt. You will have more than enough to clean in the nursery as it is!
If you plan to allow your dog in the nursery start to teach the proper behaviors as soon as possible. Train her to be calm in there and not to jump up on the furniture and baby equipment. It is also a good idea to teach her to do down-stays when in the nursery so that she is allowed to be with you and the baby, but is out of the way and behaving. You may also want to have a bed or rug in there that your dog is allowed to lay on (remove it when you and the dog are not in the room). When the baby starts to crawl and move about you may want to limit the amount of time the dog spends in there and never leave the baby alone with the dog.
Baby's things are off-limits-
Make sure to constantly reinforce that the baby's things are not the dog's things. Even though you may have practiced this before the baby came home, dogs do need reminders.
It is important to dispose of dirty diapers properly to ensure that your dog does not get them. Dogs love things that have human waste on them, such as dirty diapers and feminine products. Keep these products out of reach as they will make an awful mess and are very unhealthy for your dog to ingest. They have chemicals that are not good for your dog and can cause blockages. Besides, the consuming of human waste can also make your dog sick (and have disgusting breath!).
Teach your dog to leave baby blankets alone and not to lay or step on them. Lay them on the furniture and the floor to teach your dog that they are off limits. If your dog tries to walk or lay on them use a firm "NO" and redirect your dog to a proper spot and have him lay down. When your dog avoids these on his own, praise him for his good behavior with a treat or petting and he will understand that these items are not something to go near. You want to prevent possible injuries to your baby from your dog while baby is lying on or hiding under the blankets (as often babies do!).
Teach your dog which toys belong to him-
It is recommended to teach your dog what toys are his and what toys are the baby's before baby arrives so that you will not have problems after. This is also a good idea because you can purchase toys similar to what your baby will have and not worry about using baby's actual toys for these exercises. An easy way to do this is to use peanut butter (or something like it such as cream cheese or cheese spread) and bitter apple (you can purchase this online or at pet stores). Put bitter apple on the baby's toys and peanut butter on the dog's toys. Before you give your dog the choice about which toys he wants, take a little bitter apple on your finger and wipe it around in your dog's mouth. This will help your dog to immediately identify the nasty taste on the baby toys. If you do not do this the bitter apple often dilutes and the dog will be able to get the baby's toys because the taste is bearable. Make sure to have some treats ready to reward your dog when he chooses his toys over baby's. Put the dog's leash on and you are ready to begin. Put the "marked" toys on the floor and let your dog decide which toys he prefers. If he still tries to take the baby toys, tell him "no, leave-it", and if necessary pull him away with the leash with a quick jerking motion. Do not try to hurt the dog, just give a quick correction as you repeat "no, leave-it". When your dog does "leave" the baby toys alone, praise and treat. You can also teach the dog the concepts of "Mine", "Baby's" and "Yours" by adding these phrases to the training sessions. When the dog goes for his toys you can say, "Good! Yours!" When the dog goes for the baby's toys say, "No, Leave-it, Baby's". You can use the same principle as used for the baby's toys when the dog goes for something that is yours by substituting "Mine" in place of "Baby's."
Please remember that if you leave your baby's toys lying around your dog will most likely try to steal them. The temptation is too much for her to handle and she probably will fail. Do not set her up for failure! Try to get toys for the dog that are not like the baby's - no stuffed animals and things that rattle. There are plenty of good dog toys that are very different from baby toys. Lastly, only keep a few of the dog's toys out at a time. This will avoid her falling prey to the syndrome of "everything within my reach is mine!" If she understands that the three toys on the ground are hers, she will be less apt to take things she shouldn't.
If you follow the guidelines set forth in this article you should be able to accustom your dog to your newborn without much difficulty. Remember, when in doubt, always consult a professional trainer!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)