January 18, 2009
Once your dog has learned the “Sit” command. Natural progression tells you to teach him to “Stay”. This command is extremely useful in many circumstances, including preventing your dog from getting into all kinds of trouble. According to Dr. Rolan Tripp, D.V.M, some compelling reasons for you to teach your dog this command include:
· Giving your dog good street manners, such as stopping and sitting at curbs;
· Keeping him from begging by putting him in a “sit-stay” or “down-stay” during meals;
· Subduing aggression by putting him in a “down-stay” any time he acts dominant;
· Keeping him out of harm’s way in an emergency, if you suddenly have to turn your attention elsewhere.
Other examples are when at home someone rings the doorbell and you let visitors into your home, or outdoors when your dog might want to chase something it is interested in.
Ok, now that you’re convinced that you need to teach your dog the “Stay” command, here’s how:
First, ask your dog to sit in front of you. Then, place your open hand in front of your dog’s face as if you are telling him to stop, but instead give the command, “Stay”. Count to 3 and then reward your dog with praise and a treat. Repeat this process while slowing increasing the amount of time you wait before praising your dog.
Once your dog can hold a Stay while you count to ten, then increase the difficulty by taking a few steps backward. If your dog continues to successfully hold the “sit”, then continue to slowly increase the difficulty by stepping further away. However, during this phase of the training, do not let your dog’s sight. This will come in Part 2, to follow soon.
Other Helpful tips:
- Don’t teach too much at one time and overload your dog. On the first day, practice with your dog for just 5 – 10 minutes. Make sure that your dog is having fun, and you should be having fun, too. If your dog is not having fun, you should end the exercise and try again at another time.
- As always, end every session on a positive note.
- Practice this command often – even if you feel your dog has fully mastered it.
- Eventually try to phase out the food reward in exchange for lavish praise.
- Gently praise your dog periodically during the stay to let him know he's on the right track. If you just reprimand him for breaking the stay, he won't want to follow the command. If you praise him two or three times before he breaks the stay and only reprimand after breaking it, he'll learn that staying is good and breaking the stay is bad. And that's exactly what you want him to think.
- Use reprimands only after your dog can hold the Stay for at least 30 seconds.
- Pay attention to your dog. You never want to set your dog up for failure. If you don’t pay attention while your dog is staying, he won’t pay attention to your command. Watch for signs that he is ready to break the Stay and cut the exercise short, if necessary. Your focus should be on rewarding your dog for good responses, not punishing him for mistakes.
- Don’t use the stay command more than 5 times per day. For training to be effective it needs to be fun for your dog – don’t abuse your power.
Check back for the next blog entry in this series: TEACHING BASIC COMMANDS - ("STAY") – Part 2.
More Cold Weather Tips: Keep Your Pet Safe from Electric Shock
January 13, 2009On the news this morning, I saw that the forecast for this Thursday night is 10 degrees. That's right, TEN DEGREES!!! My first thought was, "We live in the south, it's not suppose to get that cold here!" My second thought was about an article on the ASPCA website that I read recently, offering advice to individuals who are still brave enough to take their dogs out for brisk walks during these frigid temperatures.
Often storms this time of year bring snow and ice, which can damage power lines. The danger of stray voltage on city streets can turn a simple stroll into a devastating event for your four-legged loved ones. Most common in northern climates and urban areas, stray voltage occurs when dormant utilities leak excess electricity. Combined with wet streets and salt-based ice melts, this current can shock, injure or even prove fatal for those in its path.
“Since salt used to treat icy streets is a great conductor of electricity,” says Dr. Louise Murray, ASPCA Director of Medicine and author of Vet Confidential, “the risk of shock from stray voltage is that much higher during the winter months.” The ASPCA offers the following tips to help you avoid potentially hazardous areas, and advice on what to do if your pet has suffered an electrical shock:
Keep your dog away from metal fixtures, such as lampposts, grates or manhole covers. While these spots may be your pet’s favorite place to relieve himself, they may also conduct hazardous electricity.
Your dog's snazzy, rubber rain boots may look good, but they won't protect your pooch from a strong current. Don’t depend on them to keep your pet safe. Some boots—those with metal studs, for example—may even make the situation worse.
Observe your dog’s behavior. Is he skittish, frightened, angry or upset for no apparent reason? These sudden behavioral changes could be an indication of electric shock.
If your dog is incapacitated due to shock, don’t try to touch or move him without protective gear. Your pooch may pass the current to you, rendering you both incapable of seeking help. Instead, call your local fire department immediately.
For more information about keeping your pet safe during the winter months, check out the Top Ten Cold Weather Tips entry in this blog.
Helping Shelter Animals
January 9, 2008I recently read an article about this non-profit organization in California called "Operation Blankets of Love" that collects blankets for homeless animals in shelters. The article talked about the many shelters that are in desperate need right now of blankets as the weather continues to drop. Animals in shelters are often in cages with concrete floors. Blankets can give the animals warm and comfy bedding to help them feel more secure and less isolated.
This started me thinking about the animal shelters here in Memphis. I wondered whether they also have this need. So, I called many of them and asked. The answer was always the same - "YES, we are in dire need!".
So, I went to the local fabric store and learned that it currently costs $4 for one yard of fleece (the perfect size for a dog blanket) and $2 for 1/2 a yard of fleece (the perfect size for a cat blanket). Since no sewing is required (you simply even up the edges with scissors), this seemed like a great option. I spread the word and received many generous donations. A friend and I plan to begin making and delivering the blankets this following week. You can't imagine how good it feels to know you're helping poor, innocent creatures in need. Or maybe you can imagine it. Or, maybe, you can do more than imagine. Maybe you can help, too.
With the current economic situation, shelters all over the country are in crisis. Many families are no longer able to care for their four-legged friends and have had to hand them over to a shelter. It sounds unfathomable and drastic, but it's true--shelters all over have reached and surpassed their occupancy levels and are facing numbers the likes of which they've never seen before. With such overcrowding, shelters lack the funds and materials, such as blankets, that are so desperately needed.
If you would like to donate blankets or money to help me in my efforts for Memphis-area shelters, please contact me at SweetSamuraiKennels@gmail.com. To find animal shelters in your area, click on this link: www.petfinder.com/shelters.html. Call and ask them how you can help. Your furry friends will thank you.
Petition To Keep Michael Vick From NFL
January 2, 2008
(Info taken from the petition site)
Michael Vick has openly admitted to the fighting, torture, and murder of many pit bulls on his land in Virginia. These dogs were not only fought but murdered in some of the most brutal ways-beating, drowning, hanging, and even electrocution.
For the horrible crimes that Michael Vick has committed, he was sentenced to a mere 23 months in prison, and now his lawyers are announcing that he should be out of prison and in a halfway house by Jan. 20, 2009.
This petition is to encourage the NFL to not reinstate Michael Vick into the NFL EVER! As we all know, famous athletes are supposed to be role models, setting a good example for America and its youth. Michael Vick should never be allowed to play professional football again.
If you agree with this, please sign the petition. http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/stop-NFL-from-reinstating-MichaelVick
For more information on how the dogs lives have been affected please visit http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/02/07/vick.dogs.rehab/index.html
(Info taken from the petition site)
Michael Vick has openly admitted to the fighting, torture, and murder of many pit bulls on his land in Virginia. These dogs were not only fought but murdered in some of the most brutal ways-beating, drowning, hanging, and even electrocution.
For the horrible crimes that Michael Vick has committed, he was sentenced to a mere 23 months in prison, and now his lawyers are announcing that he should be out of prison and in a halfway house by Jan. 20, 2009.
This petition is to encourage the NFL to not reinstate Michael Vick into the NFL EVER! As we all know, famous athletes are supposed to be role models, setting a good example for America and its youth. Michael Vick should never be allowed to play professional football again.
If you agree with this, please sign the petition. http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/stop-NFL-from-reinstating-MichaelVick
For more information on how the dogs lives have been affected please visit http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/02/07/vick.dogs.rehab/index.html
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
January 1, 2009This morning, I came across this helpful and interesting article* by Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, regarding new year's resolution for your pets called "Tips for enhancing animals' lives and our own".
I am not typically one for making New Year's resolutions -- too much stress and expectation! But I do enjoy the feeling of a "fresh start" and the refocusing that the new year brings. Here are some ideas and tips to hopefully enhance the health and add some fun to your pets' lives.
It is the start of a new year, and people's thoughts often turn to diet and exercise, making up for holiday indulgences. Pets also suffer from overeating and lack of exercise. But there are more things to consider than diet and exercise when it comes to being a good pet owner and animal lover. Here, in no particular order, are 10 tips to a healthier lifestyle for animals in need and our own pets.
Exercise
Regular exercise has the obvious health benefits, but it also is a great time to bond with our pets. A simple daily walk helps a dog learn proper manners, provides some good quality time, and does wonders for the human counterpart, too! Keeping pets at the proper body weight reduces the risk of heart and joint problems, diabetes, and a host of other poor health conditions.
Health Check Up
A regular visit to your veterinarian is the best way to stay ahead of potential problems. Annual examinations of teeth, heart/lungs, and body condition overall will be less costly than waiting for a problem to develop and your pet suffering needlessly from complications of preventable problems. Having a good "baseline" of information about your pet also gives the veterinarian something to compare against and determine exactly what is wrong when something isn't quite right with your pet.
Good Nutrition
Like humans, pets who eat poor quality food just don't have the health reserves than those that a good balanced diet. Poor skin, hair coat, muscle tone, and obesity problems can be a result of a poor diet. Also, pets are not humans -- a diet rich in table scraps is not a healthy one, and can lead to problems such as obesity and pancreatitis.
Good Grooming
No one wants to be around a stinky pet. Regular grooming -- bathing, toe nail clips, brushing out coat, parasite control -- not only make the pet more pleasing to be around, it is much healthier for the pet! For skin and coat problems that don't resolve with regular grooming, please see your veterinarian -- there may be an underlying medical condition affecting the skin, coat, or toenails.
Safety
Keeping pets safe is something most pet owners take for granted. However, take a moment to assess the toxic chemicals used in your house and yard. Are they necessary? Are all safety precautions followed? Where are household chemicals stored? Can your pet access these items? If toxins such as rodent poisons are used, can your pet access the rodents? Think too about enclosures for pets -- is the fencing secure? Can your pet get caught or hooked up on the fence, a tree, etc. and choke or be stuck out in the weather when you are away?
Information
Being informed is the best way to keep track of our pet's health and well being. If possible, keep a medical log of your pet's vet visits, medications, special needs, etc. to help keep track of your pet's medical history. Knowing what is normal and not normal for your particular pet will assist your vet figure out what is wrong in the case of illness. The Internet is a wealth of information, but caution is advised when seeking out a diagnosis or medical assistance via the web. Just as in real life, there is good information and bad information out there. The only way to get an answer/diagnosis is through a thorough physical examination, review of medical history, and possible lab work performed by your veterinarian.
Love & Attention
This is probably obvious, but too many pets are left outside in all kinds of weather, with very little human contact. Same goes for inside pets -- those who are largely ignored for lack of time and busy human schedules. Take the time to focus on your pets and create/nourish that human-animal bond!
Volunteer
There are thousands upon thousands of animals in need of help each day. This concept can be overwhelming for many people. Every little bit helps, though. Financial donations, donations of supplies or your time to a local shelter or rescue group is always appreciated, and real live animals are being helped by your generosity.
Maintenance
This refers to the more "unpleasant" aspects of pet care -- the litter box scooping, yard clean up, cage cleaning, and fish tank maintenance. A clean environment for our pets is a healthy one! Poor sanitation can lead to behavior problems (i.e. litter box avoidance) and health problems such as skin infections and the spread of communicable diseases.
Be a Voice
Speak up when you notice neglected or abused pets in your neighborhood. This isn't pleasant, but if you can help even one animal escape a painful life, it is worth it. Shelters and rescue groups will thank you and most will accept an anonymous tip to help animals in need.
*This article courtesy of About.com
The Truth about Poinsettias and Mistletoe
December 22, 2008
American mistletoe (Phoradendron serotinum) is the most common species of mistletoe recognized as a symbol of the holiday season. It is actually a parasitic plant which lives off of a variety of different tree species, and can be found throughout the United States.
With Christmas just around the corner, I thought addressing traditional holiday plants might be appropriate. I'm sure we've all heard about the potential poisoning dangers that poinsettias hold for pets. However, they may not be quite as dangerous as first thought, according to the ASPCA:
Poins
ettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are part of a family of plants known as spurges. During the 1820s Joel Robert Poinsett, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico at the time, first brought poinsettias to the U.S. from a Mexican city he had visited. It was during the early part of the 20th century that the myth of the plant's toxicity began when the two-year-old child of a U.S. Army officer was alleged to have become ill and died from consuming a poinsettia leaf.
ettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima) are part of a family of plants known as spurges. During the 1820s Joel Robert Poinsett, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico at the time, first brought poinsettias to the U.S. from a Mexican city he had visited. It was during the early part of the 20th century that the myth of the plant's toxicity began when the two-year-old child of a U.S. Army officer was alleged to have become ill and died from consuming a poinsettia leaf.As a result of this rumor, the toxic potential of poinsettia has become highly exaggerated. In reality, poinsettia ingestions typically produce only mild to moderate gastrointestinal tract irritation, which may include drooling, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Therefore, while keeping this plant out of the reach of your pet to avoid stomach upset is still a good idea, pet owners need not fear the poinsettia and banish it from their homes for fear of a fatal exposure.
On the other hand, mistletoe, another popular yuletide decorative plant, can be extremely toxic to pets if eaten, according to the ASPCA:
American mistletoe (Phoradendron serotinum) is the most common species of mistletoe recognized as a symbol of the holiday season. It is actually a parasitic plant which lives off of a variety of different tree species, and can be found throughout the United States.If ingested in large enough quantities, mistletoe has the potential to produce gastrointestinal irritation, excessive thirst and urination, incoordination, a drop in blood pressure and heart rate, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing, seizures, coma and even death. According to ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center data, however, most animal ingestions involve small quantities—not more than the amount found in a sprig or two—and typically result in mild stomach upset that resolves with little to no treatment.
If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, contact the Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your local emergency vet.
The pictures listed in this entry are courtesy of BarfBlog and Wikimedia.
FDA Issues Warning About Chicken Jerky Products for Dogs
December 19, 2008
The following was posted today on FDA's website (http://www.fda.gov/cvm/CVM_Updates/ComplaintsChicJerky.htm):
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to caution consumers of a potential association between the development of illness in dogs and the consumption of chicken jerky products also described as chicken tenders, strips or treats. FDA continues to receive complaints of dogs experiencing illness that their owners or veterinarians associate with consumption of chicken jerky products. The chicken jerky products are imported to the U.S. from China. FDA issued a cautionary warning to consumers in September 2007.
Australian news organizations report the University of Sydney is also investigating an association between illness in dogs and the consumption of chicken jerky in Australia. At least one firm in Australia has recalled their chicken jerky product and the recall notification stated the chicken jerky product was manufactured in China.
FDA believes the continued trend of consumer complaints coupled with the information obtained from Australia warrants an additional reminder and animal health notification.
Chicken jerky products should not be substituted for a balanced diet and are intended to be used occasionally and in small quantities. Owners of small dogs must be especially careful to limit the amount of these products.
FDA, in addition to several veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the U.S, is working to determine why these products are associated with illness in dogs. To date, scientists have not been able to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses. FDA has conducted extensive chemical and microbial testing but has not identified any contaminant.
FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch their dogs closely for any or all of the following signs which may occur within hours to days of feeding the product: decreased appetite, although some may continue to consume the treats to the exclusion of other foods; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; and increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If the dog shows any of these signs, stop feeding the chicken jerky product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most dogs appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved dogs that have died.
The FDA continues to actively investigate the problem. Many of the illnesses reported may be the result of causes other than eating chicken jerky. Veterinarians and consumers alike should report cases of animal illness associated with pet foods to the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html in their state.
The following was posted today on FDA's website (http://www.fda.gov/cvm/CVM_Updates/ComplaintsChicJerky.htm):
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to caution consumers of a potential association between the development of illness in dogs and the consumption of chicken jerky products also described as chicken tenders, strips or treats. FDA continues to receive complaints of dogs experiencing illness that their owners or veterinarians associate with consumption of chicken jerky products. The chicken jerky products are imported to the U.S. from China. FDA issued a cautionary warning to consumers in September 2007.
Australian news organizations report the University of Sydney is also investigating an association between illness in dogs and the consumption of chicken jerky in Australia. At least one firm in Australia has recalled their chicken jerky product and the recall notification stated the chicken jerky product was manufactured in China.
FDA believes the continued trend of consumer complaints coupled with the information obtained from Australia warrants an additional reminder and animal health notification.
Chicken jerky products should not be substituted for a balanced diet and are intended to be used occasionally and in small quantities. Owners of small dogs must be especially careful to limit the amount of these products.
FDA, in addition to several veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the U.S, is working to determine why these products are associated with illness in dogs. To date, scientists have not been able to determine a definitive cause for the reported illnesses. FDA has conducted extensive chemical and microbial testing but has not identified any contaminant.
FDA is advising consumers who choose to feed their dogs chicken jerky products to watch their dogs closely for any or all of the following signs which may occur within hours to days of feeding the product: decreased appetite, although some may continue to consume the treats to the exclusion of other foods; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; and increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If the dog shows any of these signs, stop feeding the chicken jerky product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours. Blood tests may indicate kidney failure (increased urea nitrogen and creatinine). Urine tests may indicate Fanconi syndrome (increased glucose). Although most dogs appear to recover, some reports to the FDA have involved dogs that have died.
The FDA continues to actively investigate the problem. Many of the illnesses reported may be the result of causes other than eating chicken jerky. Veterinarians and consumers alike should report cases of animal illness associated with pet foods to the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator http://www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html in their state.
TEACHING BASIC COMMANDS - Entry #2 ("Sit")
Written December 8, 2008Studies have shown that dogs can start learning basic commands as young as 8 weeks of age. However, puppies, like small children, have a short attention span. Because of this, it is best to teach commands in five - ten minute training sessions, two - three times per day, until your puppy fully understands and carries out the command you give. The use of positive reinforcement with a tasty treat will help your puppy learn quickly. From young to old, all dogs will be eager to work if the reward is enticing.
When training all ages of dogs, always remember - PATIENCE IS THE KEY. If your dog senses your frustration, he will also become frustrated. At all times, keep a positive attitude. Scolding your dog will only turn your dog off to the fun of these exercises. If you keep learning fun for your dog, he will be eager to learn everything you are willing to teach.
The “Sit” command is, without a doubt, the most practical command you can teach your dog. Additionally, “Sit” is a kind of gateway to other basic, but important commands you will want to teach your dog in the future, such as “Stay”, “Down” and “Come”.
Begin the training in a quiet environment, where your dog is less likely to be distracted. If your dog is very easily distracted by noises or smells, training indoors may be best. Now, face your dog and show him that you have a treat in your hand. Let him smell it and even lick it to let him know that a tasty goodie is in store for him.
Next, slowly move the treat just above his head so that he can barely reach it without lifting his front feet from the floor. Hold the treat directly above his head, just above his eyes, however, be sure not to hold the treat so high that your dog may be tempted to jump for it.
Now, say “Sit”. If your dog does sit, give him the treat and praise him excitedly. If he doesn’t sit immediately, wait 3 seconds and say “Sit” again. Repeat this process until your dog sits. As long as you continue to hold the treat in the correct position over your dog’s head, he will eventually sit, as he will get tired of looking up at such a hard angle.
If your pooch is a little hard-headed, and you have repeated the process in the above paragraph ten times with no result, gently touch your dog’s rump, lightly push for encouragement and repeat the command only once. Don’t push hard, as this can cause joint problems in the future. If the little guy still doesn’t sit, calmly stop the session, pet him a little on the head, and put the treat away for 3 or 4 minutes. Then try again. Don’t get frustrated. Remember - PATIENCE IS KEY! As with anything you teach your dog, always end your training sessions on a positive note. The more successful your dog feels, the more rewarding it will be for both of you.
Every time your dog does sit after you give the command, give the treat immediately and praise him excitedly. He will start to realize that when he’s standing, nothing happens, but when his little butt hits the floor, he gets the treat and everyone is happy!
Practice this command two - three times per day for about a week. Practice in other parts of the house and outside (i.e., in the garage or on the sidewalk). Once your dog has fully mastered this so that he responds every time regardless of the distractions around him, it’s time he learns to obey even if his only reward is your excited praise, rather than a treat. You may not always have a treat on you when you need your dog to sit. Gradually wean off the treats so that he gets them only every second or third time, always substituting lots of excited praise for the treat.
Once you are confident that your little dog has fully learned “Sit“, you are ready to teach your dog the “Stay” command.
Dangers to your Pets During the Christmas Holidays
Written December 2, 2008
Ah, yes, it's definitely the most wonderful time of the year! Have you bought your favorite pooch's present yet? There are less than 30 shopping days until Christmas. And with Christmas just around the corner, the ASPCA has compiled a list of the most common holiday hazards to your pets:
- Christmas tree water, which may contain fertilizers and bacteria that can upset the stomach if ingested
- Electrical cords
- Ribbons or tinsel, which can become lodged in the intestines and cause intestinal obstruction—this most often occurs with kittens
- Batteries
- Glass ornaments
- Of course, there are usually a lot of delicious goodies floating around during the holidays, too—be sure to keep human treats inaccessible to your pets.
OK, now that you have taken all precautions to keep your furry loved-ones safe this Christmas, you have more time to focus on more fun things.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!
Ah, yes, it's definitely the most wonderful time of the year! Have you bought your favorite pooch's present yet? There are less than 30 shopping days until Christmas. And with Christmas just around the corner, the ASPCA has compiled a list of the most common holiday hazards to your pets:
- Christmas tree water, which may contain fertilizers and bacteria that can upset the stomach if ingested
- Electrical cords
- Ribbons or tinsel, which can become lodged in the intestines and cause intestinal obstruction—this most often occurs with kittens
- Batteries
- Glass ornaments
- Of course, there are usually a lot of delicious goodies floating around during the holidays, too—be sure to keep human treats inaccessible to your pets.
OK, now that you have taken all precautions to keep your furry loved-ones safe this Christmas, you have more time to focus on more fun things.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!
TEACHING BASIC COMMANDS - Entry #1 ("LEAVE IT")
Written November, 2008
So, you have a new puppy. Or, maybe your puppy is not so much new, as it is just new to you . Whether your puppy is 8 weeks old, 8 months old or 8 years old, it is never too late to start teaching the little guy manners and basic commands. After all, it’s proven that practicing positive reinforcement training with your dog helps establish trust, as well as encourages strong bonds between you and your pooch.
Sami was 10 months old when we enrolled him in PetSmart’s Beginner Training class. We actually didn’t enroll him simply to learn the basic commands, which can be taught at home. We enrolled him because we realized the importance of continual socialization with other dogs and people. Sami can be a little “sensitive”. At times, it can be easy to hurt his feelings. If he gets into trouble and we correct him sternly, he immediately wants to make up. If we refuse to make up with him, he will sulk in a corner until we show him that he is forgiven. A perfect example of Sami’s sensitivity occurred during his obedience classes.
The command "Leave It" can be useful in a variety of ways. The command is typically used to tell your dog that he is to leave something alone - whether a piece of food you dropped on the floor while cooking, or another dog you and your dog happen to encounter while walking down the street. The command can also be used to distract your dog from doing what he is about to do. In other words, say your dog is about to potty in your flower bed, and you can tell this is about to happen by the way he is sniffing around your flowers. A stern "Leave It", should tell your pooch that this is not acceptable and he will walk away, looking for another spot to do his business.
Sami’s obedience teacher decided it was time to teach him the “Leave It” command. This is taught by sitting on the floor and placing a treat on the floor beside you. When your dog goes for the treat, you cover it up with your left hand to prevent him from getting it and sternly say “LEAVE IT”. Meanwhile, you are holding a second treat in your right hand, of which your dog is unaware. Repeat this process until eventually your dog will stop trying to get the treat when your left hand is not covering it. Once your dog no longer attempts to grab the treat on the floor and you no longer have to cover it with your left hand, reward your dog with the treat you’ve been holding in your right hand. Then remove the first treat from the floor and put it away. This method also works with other items that typically entice your dog, such as a favorite toy. It is extremely important to remember that you should NEVER reward your dog with the treat or item that you are using as bait on the floor. ONLY reward your dog with the treat that you have been hiding in your right hand.
Anyway, back to my Sami story. All of the dog owners in our obedience class were sitting in chairs, in a big circle, around the room. The obedience teacher was sitting in the floor in the middle of the room and called Sami over to her. I let go of Sami’s leash so he could meet her, while I stayed seated in my chair at the edge of the circle. The teacher proceeded to use the method above to teach Sami the “Leave It” command. However, the moment she sternly used the words “Leave It”, Sami immediately ran back to me, jumped in my lap with his back facing the teacher. He then turned his head around to look at her with a pouty face, as if he were telling me, “that mean lady over there yelled at me . . .” Everyone in the class, including the teacher thought this was adorable. Unfortunately, Sami refused to practice this command for the remainder of the class. Nevertheless, even with that minor setback, Sami passed the class with flying colors. I can honestly say that he learned his commands much quicker than his classmates. Michael and I were both extremely proud.
In each blog entry of the “Teaching Basic Commands” series, I will explain how to teach your dog various basic commands, such as “Leave It“ (as discussed in this entry), “Sit“, “Lay Down“, “Stay“, etc. It is important to remember that you should never punish your dog while teaching a command. Rather, you should use positive reinforcement by rewarding wanted behavior. If you have any questions regarding these training techniques or the positive reinforcement training method, please feel free to e-mail me at SweetSamuraiKennels@gmail.com.
So, you have a new puppy. Or, maybe your puppy is not so much new, as it is just new to you . Whether your puppy is 8 weeks old, 8 months old or 8 years old, it is never too late to start teaching the little guy manners and basic commands. After all, it’s proven that practicing positive reinforcement training with your dog helps establish trust, as well as encourages strong bonds between you and your pooch.
Sami was 10 months old when we enrolled him in PetSmart’s Beginner Training class. We actually didn’t enroll him simply to learn the basic commands, which can be taught at home. We enrolled him because we realized the importance of continual socialization with other dogs and people. Sami can be a little “sensitive”. At times, it can be easy to hurt his feelings. If he gets into trouble and we correct him sternly, he immediately wants to make up. If we refuse to make up with him, he will sulk in a corner until we show him that he is forgiven. A perfect example of Sami’s sensitivity occurred during his obedience classes.
The command "Leave It" can be useful in a variety of ways. The command is typically used to tell your dog that he is to leave something alone - whether a piece of food you dropped on the floor while cooking, or another dog you and your dog happen to encounter while walking down the street. The command can also be used to distract your dog from doing what he is about to do. In other words, say your dog is about to potty in your flower bed, and you can tell this is about to happen by the way he is sniffing around your flowers. A stern "Leave It", should tell your pooch that this is not acceptable and he will walk away, looking for another spot to do his business.
Sami’s obedience teacher decided it was time to teach him the “Leave It” command. This is taught by sitting on the floor and placing a treat on the floor beside you. When your dog goes for the treat, you cover it up with your left hand to prevent him from getting it and sternly say “LEAVE IT”. Meanwhile, you are holding a second treat in your right hand, of which your dog is unaware. Repeat this process until eventually your dog will stop trying to get the treat when your left hand is not covering it. Once your dog no longer attempts to grab the treat on the floor and you no longer have to cover it with your left hand, reward your dog with the treat you’ve been holding in your right hand. Then remove the first treat from the floor and put it away. This method also works with other items that typically entice your dog, such as a favorite toy. It is extremely important to remember that you should NEVER reward your dog with the treat or item that you are using as bait on the floor. ONLY reward your dog with the treat that you have been hiding in your right hand.
Anyway, back to my Sami story. All of the dog owners in our obedience class were sitting in chairs, in a big circle, around the room. The obedience teacher was sitting in the floor in the middle of the room and called Sami over to her. I let go of Sami’s leash so he could meet her, while I stayed seated in my chair at the edge of the circle. The teacher proceeded to use the method above to teach Sami the “Leave It” command. However, the moment she sternly used the words “Leave It”, Sami immediately ran back to me, jumped in my lap with his back facing the teacher. He then turned his head around to look at her with a pouty face, as if he were telling me, “that mean lady over there yelled at me . . .” Everyone in the class, including the teacher thought this was adorable. Unfortunately, Sami refused to practice this command for the remainder of the class. Nevertheless, even with that minor setback, Sami passed the class with flying colors. I can honestly say that he learned his commands much quicker than his classmates. Michael and I were both extremely proud.
In each blog entry of the “Teaching Basic Commands” series, I will explain how to teach your dog various basic commands, such as “Leave It“ (as discussed in this entry), “Sit“, “Lay Down“, “Stay“, etc. It is important to remember that you should never punish your dog while teaching a command. Rather, you should use positive reinforcement by rewarding wanted behavior. If you have any questions regarding these training techniques or the positive reinforcement training method, please feel free to e-mail me at SweetSamuraiKennels@gmail.com.
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