The One Year Old Dog Can You Get Past This Destructive Stage Part 1

My son was at a birthday party recently when one of the moms wanted to know if she could ask me a dog question. (This happens quite often actually. Once someone finds out that I train dogs, they almost always want to ask my advice... which Im happy to give.)

She wanted to know what to do about a dog that was starting to chew things up. My question was, "Is your dog a year old?" She looked surprised and said yes. 

I cant tell you how many times I am contacted by owners of a one year old dog (or close to a year old). Just when people think they are past the crazy puppyhood stage and their dog is in his or her now mostly grown body and therefore must surely be starting to act like an adult dog, whamo! Surprise! Your couch is gone! Your new shoes are in shreds. Your sprinkler system is in pieces. You have a new hole to China in your backyard. Your remote control has been molded into a new shape by canine teeth. I mean, cmon, a remote control? How could a dog possibly find that tasty?

One of the first things I tell people who own a young puppy, like 4-5 months old, is that the stage they are in is called the teething stage... goodbye sharp puppy teeth (yay!), hello dull adult teeth (yay... for the moment!). But this is NOT the worst stage. This is NOT the chewing, destructive stage. Save that for the one year old dog. 

Ever been to an animal shelter? Ever looked into the eyes of the eternally hopeful, wondering what they did wrong, why their families abandoned them? Ever noticed that the vast majority of those dogs are around 1-2 years old? Most people dont realize how destructive dogs can be at that age and simply put, they are unwilling to accept it or do anything to help solve the problem. Bye bye, Fido! You ate our kitchen cabinets and now you can be someone elses problem... and thats if youre lucky enough to get out of the shelter.

The most important thing to realize is that almost all dogs will chew and be destructive. (I mean, there are web sites dedicated to Dog Shaming so you know if you own a destructive dog, its not just you!) But it wont last forever! There is a light at the end of the tunnel! And although you may not be able to bi-pass this stage completely, you can get past it with minimal damage if you do the right things. 

To find out how you can survive this stage, stay tuned for Part 2 of this blog. 

Read More..

What Im watching this week

I love YouTube. I find so much great training stuff on there. (cough cough KikoPup cough) It is also a great place for watching funny videos when you are bored or need a pick me up. This week I have been watching some of the Crufts dog show in England. Specifically the Freestyle videos. Check it out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ecq_71rymGc&feature=related



And:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=853bJhFBXIQ



Most of the dogs I love dont place well but I dont care. It is a blast to watch regardless. Im not sure I will ever be at the stage to do a full routine like this but I am having fun teaching Jenny some of the moves for freestyle. It is basically stringing tricks and skills together and adding music. Since she loves to train it is a fun way for us to work together.
*
Training tricks is a great way to really hone communication between each other. It requires you to sometimes think outside the box. When I was just starting in training I didnt value tricks very much. Now I try to teach all dogs some tricks. Things like ringing a bell, (can be used for a dog to ask to go out to potty) fetch, (a great way to exercise a dog when a walk isnt possible) and sit pretty (perfect for a shelter dog to grab some attention) all have value beyond the actual trick. It teaches the dog how to work with a person as a team member. It keeps training fun. It looks like fun and games because it is. Try teaching those dogs by using corrections and see what happens. Do you want to show off how smart your dog is? Teach them a cool trick and all your friends will be impressed. For some shelter dogs a trick can be a lifesaver. Tricks arent just for kids anymore!

Read More..

Thank You Social Media Making it easier to find this dog trainer

Wow, after wrapping up my Social Media Marketing class last night at UCSB extension with the Wild Web Women, I realized that I now have so many social media platforms, that I was starting to become a bit scatter-brained. So, since my new round of dog training classes is beginning this Sunday April 19th, I thought, what a great time to put together a list of how to find me! So, here it is! I took liberty of adding Ponchos info too...he likes to make himself available also. 

Official IC Website: http://inquisitivecanine.com/

• For information on services, schedules, events, where to contact us, FAQ’s. 
  
• A little about Joan and the Inquisitive Canine, our approach, methodology. 

Joan’s Blog: http://dogtrainingventura.blogspot.com/ 

• For dog training tips (from the human perspective)
  
• Information on upcoming events, including those outside the Inquisitive Canine
  
• Commentary on the latest and greatest social topics
  
• An all around fun place to share with the community
  
• The perfect place for friends, clients, and the general public to make comments! 
  
• A great place to send questions! 

Poncho’s Blog: http://ponchosprose.blogspot.com/ 

• Poncho’s own dog training tips (from the dogs perspective) 
  
• Information on events at the Inquisitive Canine, and those elsewhere
  
• Commentary on the latest and greatest social topics.
  
• The perfect place for friends (human and dog) to make comments or send questions. 
  

Noozhawk Advice Column: http://www.noozhawk.com/joan_mayer/

• Dog training and behavior advice column written by both Joan & Poncho the dog
  
• Another great place for you or your dog to send in questions.

Facebook: 

• Joan’s  FB homepage: the place where I’m more of a “dog mom” 
  
• The Inquisitive Canine Group page: for IC students, great place to “meet” other dog folks, have discussions, or set up doggy play dates. 
  
• Poncho the Dog Fan Page: I’m his #1 fan and want to share that. 

Twitter:

• Joan’s: http://twitter.com/joanthedogcoach 
  
• Poncho: http://twitter.com/timeline/home

Flickr:

• http://www.flickr.com/people/joanthedogcoach/ 
  

Read More..

This Ventura Dog Trainer Takes Her Own Advice

For the past month or so this Ventura dog trainer has been spending more time training her own dog Poncho to "run" while on leash, versus sniffing/marking/shuffling along... I know he is a dog, and dogs enjoy doing those things. I would never ever want to deny Poncho his normal doggy-like behaviors, but I also want him to get some exercise - outside of the yard - that doesnt involve fetching his toys and going nuts when the mail-truck comes by...(yep, that behavior is a tough one, and another post...) 

My hubby (Ponchos rockin "Disneyland" dad) takes him out all the time here in Ventura, but he allows Poncho does whatever he wants...again, no real "training" involved. So how can I expect Poncho to know what to do when neither of us has ever taught him.... So I did, and I have to say, its been going great! Being a runner myself, its been very rewarding for me... were working up to a 5K to run together...if we can find a course that allows dogs... Santa Barbara is usually good for this...Ill have to check with the Santa Barbara Running Club. 

Anyway, I had realized that Poncho wasnt great at running on leash, because hes never been trained to do so! I always tell my students, "if your dog isnt performing a certain behavior, ask yourself Have I ever taught them? " Duh! Hello? No, I havent taught him! Maybe I should!!! Poncho loves when I listen to what I tell my own manners class students... And so I have, and were progressing quite nicely. 

This is how Ive done it:

• Reward what I want: in this case, its "running" next to me. 
• "Click and treat" for "running" motion. 
• Feed for position: provide the reward with him still next to me, not falling back behind me or crossing in front of me. 
• Use high value rewards: chicken, leftover grilled sirloin. Only when hes in running mode. 
• Use kibble for walking but moving forward...
• Allow sniff breaks here and there (so I can rest)... 

If you ever want to join me and Poncho, weve mostly been going to Kimball Park here in Ventura because there are very few interruptions and loose dogs. Ill be the one rewarding my dog for running - cheering him on and handing out goodies - sort of like the aid stations at races, but instead of Gatorade and energy gels, I hand out chicken... Geez, I hope they have meat at the races... muffin crumbs work too. 

Read More..

All choked up over this question

I was having a discussion on the use of choke chains with dogs - and the question came up about using them on stronger dogs, especially Pit Bull Terriers. Let me say this first: 1) I love Pit Bulls. 2) I am NOT breed biased. Doggy DNA is doggy DNA - they all have the propensity to act like dogs whether they be a teacup chihuahua or an american pit bull terrier. The difference is obvious when it comes to the injury itself, and in that: size does matter... This is what I told my friend who asked the innocent question of using them on APBTs (she lives in a big big city with APBTs everywhere...and she doesnt own a dog herself...its okay, shes still really cool)... Anyway, this was my answer for her:

but what if you have a pitbull in brooklyn (there are millions!)? just askin.. > Are you kidding? Please allow me to pass on some info: "all" animals learn the same way- So, if you have a 6 8" athletic boxer, or a 3 tall little girl, a lion, a tiger, a bear, a fish, a hamster, cat, or Pit Bull Terrier - all will learn the same way - The way that humans use choke chains for training places them (the collars) under the "Learning by Consequence" path - Based on the consequences of the animals own behavior you can either give them something they want, or take it away - or you can give them something they dont want, or remove it, or prevent it from happening. (BF Skinner come to mind here?) Anyway, the more *humane* techniques are: give something they want, or take it away - like sports (three strikes, penalty box, and that whole deal)... Dog sits = he gets a treat and gets to say *hi* to person - Dog jumps up = dog doesnt get treat and doesnt get to say hello to person. 

Choke chains, prong collars, squirt bottles, jerking the collar (collar corrections), electronic shock collars, citronella collars - all of these *positive punishment* techniques are threats, considered abusive, and only motivate the dog out of pain and fear! Plus, they only focus in on what you DONT WANT, not what you do want... If you were involved with someone that walked around with a belt in their hand, ready to hit you with it if you did something THEY didnt like, and only paid attention when you were doing something *wrong* (only in their eyes mind you - could be a normal behavior of yours...) how long would you stay with this person? 

As I mentioned above choke chains (and the like) are used for the purpose of "Consequence Learning". However, both types of learning are taking place at the same time (the "emotional" learning by association path), and thus creates a main reason for dog aggression to start - but thats a different email (post)...Ill let you digest this one first. 

This is just some of the info I talk about in my classes and workshops here in Ventura... you to can learn more about this path of learning, and well as the other - stronger path... You and your dog will love it! 

Read More..

Food Stuffing Type Dog Toys What the heck do I do with this thing

You may have purchased one of those great interactive food stuffing toys for your dog, right? Maybe one of those red cone-shaped ones from the Kong Company? And you put some of your dogs kibble with a little peanut butter in it, gave it to him or her, and left it at that. But what now? What else can you do with it? OMG theres just SO much! As a matter of fact, I teach an entire class on stuffing food toys, and other types of "enrichment" at my inquisitive canine studio. 

I love feeding my own dog Poncho out of these, and other "interactive" food toys. He enjoys eating his meals out of them as well - I can tell because he goes into his "whirling dervish" mode every time I get one out of the freezer...yes, the freezer - hes at what I call "University Level". Pre-school would be dry kibble topped off with a little wet food. 

The Kong Company is nice enough to supply you with lots of tips and advice on great ways to use your dogs Kong toys. For me, I like coming up with my own "recipes" (okay, I think of them more of concoctions) with anything and everything that is either leftover from me and my hubby, or whatever I find in the fridge that needs to be eaten. 

Because the Kongs are relatively small on the inside, you arent able to put an entire meal in just one. So, like we humans have sets of dishes, I have purchased a few Kongs of the same size and consider them Ponchos "dishes". I might just give him one, along with his other favorite food toy the Tricky Treat Ball. And of course he gets his veggies in his bowl - there are some veggies in his Kong mixture, but most of them end up in his bowl...I think the veggies are the only thing Ill feed him from his bowl. 

Okay, so what all do I put in it? And how do I do it? Simple...for the easiest "recipe" I combine the following ingredients*:

• Kibble (high quality like Solid Gold or Wellness)
• Canned wet food (high quality like Solid Gold or Wellness)
• Leftover veggies: canned pumpkin, zucchini, asparagus, bell peppers, carrots, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, summer squash etc...and anything else that might be around that he likes.
• Fruit: apples, pears, berries (or whatever is around that he likes)
• Grains: leftover brown rice, whole wheat pasta, couscous, quinoa, sweet and regular potatoes...and anything else leftover that he likes. 
• Meat: scraps of whatever we have leftover
• Dairy: plain non-fat yoghurt

I mix it all together, making sure there is enough kibble (which has many of Ponchos doggy specific required nutrients) and wet stuff to make it the consistency of a human type chicken salad. I add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out a bit. Then, I cover and refrigerate it overnight. This way, the kibble soaks up the water from the veggies etc...makes it a little stiffer, for easier stuffing. 

Now Im ready to prepare Ponchos meals. I take one of his Kong toys, and using a small fork or spoon, I fill it tightly with his "casserole". I then wrap it in plastic wrap, and put it in the freezer. This way, I can make a whole bunch of them, and keep them for when I need them. When theyre frozen, it takes him longer to go through one...instead of gulping down a meal in 10 seconds!

If youre just starting out, youll want to have your dog go through all the "stages" - beginners level (pre-school) to "University". If you start with a more difficult level, your dog might get frustrated and not want anything to do with it. Making it easy gets him or her conditioned to loving their Kong. They begin to associate the toy with more excitement than just the food itself. Its a fun game for them - plus again, this action taps into their predatory drive, and gives them something to do! 

Here are some "level of difficulty" suggestions, which are based upon how quickly your dog can get the food out:

1. Beginner: dry kibble (can add in some dry treats to make it extra tasty and enticing), top off hole with wet food.
2. Intermediate I: mix kibble with a little wet food, add any leftovers you want, loosely pack it - you still want to make it easy for food to come out. 
3. Intermediate II: kibble, wet food, any leftovers you want to add, pack it tight. 
4. Advanced: Freeze it! Initially you can thaw it partially before giving it to your dog, so as not to make it too difficult. 

Remember: there are some foods that are not healthy or safe for your dog - check with your vet if you are unsure. If youre dog has never had a Kong, its best to supervise until you know he or she know how to "use it". 

Read More..

Reasons Why This Ventura Dog Trainer Loves Her Private Training Clients

I just had one of those awesome private dog training clients today! The kind that just makes me love my profession even more than I already do. The reason I love going to "work" (Really? This is "work"?), even on a Saturday afternoon. 

This very nice couple recently adopted an adult dog from a California Animal Shelter. Just like my own Poncho the Dog, this dog came with a few "issues" - but hey, come on, we ALL come with "issues" right? We all bring some sort of baggage into each and every one of our relationships. Anyway, this dog, who was very sweet, did have a few things these nice dog folks wanted to help "fix". How great is that? Not only do they adopt an adult dog, but they take one with "special needs", and then want to try and help this sweet pooch work through them. Talk about selfless. 

The other nice thing? The gentleman was concerned when he came to todays session. He had admitted that he was thinking that I, this certified pet dog trainer, was going to give him the same information that he had kept hearing elsewhere. Either by other trainers, or books, or other people. And that the training steps were going to be complicated, or not make much sense. 

Well, it seems he was pleasantly surprised! He told me that not only did the info I shared make sense to him but that the training steps were simple, and easy for him to use in his already busy daily life. He also confirmed what I was saying made perfect sense! Now theyre so excited about wanting to work with their dog, that theyre motivated enough so they can come to some of my upcoming dog training classes and workshops. 

Wow! How is that for positively reinforcing?! (I mean for me!) Quite a rewarding afternoon for yours truly. Cant wait to see them out in public practicing those newly acquired skills! 

Read More..

The 12th Annual Pooch Parade Doggone Fun Outing This Sunday!

Summer is in full swing and what better way to get those tails waggin’ than enjoying a fun-filled day of activities and treats for the whole family to support a good cause and celebrate all things dog. This Sunday, July 19, the Ventura County non-profit group Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.) is hosting the Annual Fundraising Dog Walk and Pet Expo at San Buenaventura State Beach Park  in beautiful Ventura, California.

We hope you will join us this weekend for some doggone fun – Poncho and I would love it if you’d stop by our Inquisitive Canine booth so we could personally thank you for letting us be a part of your lives. Plus it’s the paw-sitively perfect way to spend the day with your canine (and human) family and friends. 

This Sunday will be the BIG unveiling of my new PAWsitively rewarding dog training card game! Its called "Out of the Box Dog Training Game" and I have to admit, it is a fun way to train with your dog! 

This years theme is: “Wags For Wellness: Protect, Prevent, Provide” and I have to say, the C.A.R.L. group has stood by their word. For over 12 years the volunteer-run non-profit organization has placed over 3,000 abandoned, relinquished and homeless dogs in pre-screened loving and secure homes.

At this dog-friendly festival, you can dress your dog up (you know you want to!) and then enter him or her in one or more of the many contests and competitions! Don’t feel like being part of the show? Then you can sit back and watch others partake in the competitions or watch those participating in doggy demonstrations such as Agility and Flying Frisbees. 

After showing off your dog’s loose leash walking skills in the parade, be sure to reward him/her with a tour around the Pet Expo  You and your dog will have an array of pet-related exhibits and vendors to choose from, as well as the silent auction that will have many items to tempt you (which may not be such a bad thing since proceeds go to a good cause!).

Love dogs but don’t have one of your own right now? Thinking about adopting or fostering a dog? C.A.R.L., as well as other rescue groups, will be on hand to introduce you to shelter dogs looking for loving homes.

Event Details:

• Registration begins 8:30 - 10:00 AM
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 4 PM
• Warm-up stretch starts 9:30 AM
• 3-mile Walk begins at 10:00 AM!
• Cost: $40.00 to enter Parade, Walk, Contests, Competitions.
• FREE: to observe, walk around, visit vendors and shop, and have fun!

For additional information, please check the Canine Adoption and Rescue League Pooch Parade website!

For all of you dog lovers out there that aren’t in this area, this is the perfect time to check your own community for pet-related fundraising events. Maybe your own local shelter is having it’s own Pooch (or kitty) event where you can go with your own dog, adopt a new dog, or volunteer to help animals in need. 

We had such a great time last year, and are looking forward to enjoying ourselves again this year! 

Read More..

This dog trainer is such a hypocrite!

Im talking about me folks. The patient dog trainer and human-dog relationship coach... the one who is able to fix everyones elses issues with their own dogs... Yep, Im the hypocrite. Making a public announcement and apology for everyone to hear. Ready? Okay...here goes...

Im a barker!!! Thats right - ME! I bark...sometimes way too much. Now, you wouldnt think so. After all, Im not a dog (Im trying to forget what they called me in high school, but thats another story...) But it occurred to me as I was driving around town, Poncho in the backseat, tucked in his car seat all safe and sound... and being quiet as could be. Ive trained him pretty well - just like I help others in my dog training classes at The Inquisitive Canine. Once in a while I have to "go back to kindergarten" and remind him with some rewards for being quiet (and a time out if hes barking too much)... But this time it was all my fault. Me, the dog trainer, the one who teaches dogs to be quiet...I was the one being loud and obnoxious - "barking" at all those drivers on the road either causing traffic jams, not paying attention to everything around them... "HEY! The lights green! For gosh sakes hang up the phone and pay attention!!!" "And YOU! If you want to change lanes, then signal! They dont design cars with turn signals for nothing!" "And hey you, driving is a privilege not a right! Obey the laws like everyone else!" Wow...listen to me Im barking again. 

Poncho...my sweet boy. Mama is sorry. Ive been barking in the car too. And youve been so kind as to not give me a time-out! Next time, instead of me barking, Ill redirect my energy and reward you for being quiet... Extra treats for you - and some "pet therapy" for me. 

Read More..

Impulse Control Issues this dog trainer has them too

Okay, so my lovely sidekick Poncho has totally busted me! He was just posting one of his great answers he adapted from our Noozhawk advice column, and mentioned the "Sees" incident, so I guess I need to come clean. 

Yes, I admit it, similar to dogs and counter-surfing, I have impulse control issues too... Although, Ive been able to restrain myself most of the time, once in awhile, my morals breakdown...as both my husband and dog have pointed out. 

We were out and about on my husbands birthday - enjoying our time in Santa Barbara (Poncho wrote about this too), and I thought Id stop for a Sees lollipop on our way home - this is my dessert...they last longer and taste good. I know, it was my hubbys birthday, but he wanted to be nice...and didnt mind stopping. 

Now, just to make it clear, my husband doesnt like chocolate - or any candy for that matter. I know, at first I thought this was weird, but then I realized "more for me!" Anything he gets, he gives to me... Yea!!! 

If youve ever been to Sees you know they give out samples - wow! Talk about positive reinforcement!!! HELLO??? How great is that!? And how smart are they!!! The perfect positive association, right? No wonder they do so well! 

Anyway, I only buy the lollipops, nothing else, although my favorite treat there is the chocolate covered ginger...and hey Ill eat most every sample they give me - I dont though, not usually. But that day, yes, that day was different. Celebrating birthdays, outings to Santa Barbara, ran a lot over the weekend...I deserved it gosh darn-it. So I lied! Yes, me, the always responsible, always truthful, lied! 

They were giving away the chocolate covered vanilla cream, which I took ever so easily, AND asked for a sample of the ginger...my favorite - saying it was for my husband who was outside with Poncho! OMG I totally used him as my excuse knowing full well that he wasnt going to taste one miniscule drop! 

This wasnt pre-mediated... just impulsive on my part. I was going to wait until after dinner...but lo and behold there was a traffic jam, so to help with my mood in the car, I ate them...both of them! Once again, impulsive behavior... And ya know what? They were great! Totally hit the spot! It was worth every impulsive act, every lie, and every calorie!

Impulsive? Yes. Normal behaviors of humans? For many of us, yes. So there ya go Poncho, I confessed. As Ponchos dad has pointed out, my morals finally broke down... I guess we all have our moments...at least no one got hurt. 

Read More..

Now THIS is a dog who enjoys a snow day!

Read More..

Could this be the next horse for me

Meet "Steel Lass," a retired 12 year old thoroughbred racehorse. 

Jake (also very enthused about horses) made this video, which shows Steel probably enjoyed running on a muddy track ;) It starts AFTER she rolled in the big puddle, and shows how much fun she has playing in it:

Read More..

This Dog Trainer Needs to Refine Her Skills

Okay, before you start saying "What? Huh? What do you mean?" Im talking specifically about refining my mini-golf skills, not my skills as a dog trainer - I already do that everyday.

Whatever your "skill" is, whether it be dog training, wood carving, snow-boarding, or miniature golf, if you want to do well at something, or achieve the goals youve set for yourself, then you need to practice, practice, and practice again. Remember the old adage, "If you dont use it, you lose it." Well I was living proof of that today...dog training every day, mini-golf, uh, not so much. 

I cant recall the last time I played miniature golf - its been years, I know that. Well, my good friends, (Wild-Web-Women Lorrie Thomas, Emilia Doerr, Nicki Gauthier, and Pamela Sherman) came south from Santa Barbara today to celebrate Emilias BIG 3-0 B-Day at Golf n Stuff here in Ventura. It was a great time! I think I shot about 100 over par...but hey, it was about having fun, not scoring...good thing because Lorrie even mentioned how it had been so long since she used a pencil and paper (versus computer) that she wasnt sure how the scoring was done, so we decided not to...thank goodness. I think she and I both tried to cheat at some point, and couldnt even pull that off! Duh! 

Anyway, having the club in my hand just reminded me how not keeping up with any skill can make you forget... however, the good thing is that it started to come back towards the back nine. So I know that if I stuck with it, Id probably do better each time. 

Mini-golf isnt as important to me as some of the skills I teach my dog training clients. I explain that taking one class is great to get started, but it certainly doesnt stop there. Of course they dont have to continue taking classes forever, I dont like to add that type of pressure in. But lets face it, "life is training". We humans go through 12+ years just to graduate high school, then onto college or some type of training to get a job... then as we get older we might go back to school for some reason or another - career change or just for fun...Regardless, obtaining skills takes practice! 

So, if youve already taken your dog to a dog training class, go practice those behaviors. If you havent, think about signing up at the inquisitive canine... Or, teach them how to golf! Poncho would have been able to retrieve our golfballs today when we accidentally hit them into the brush - good think Lorrie enjoyed the rock-climbing. 

Read More..

No gel for this dog!

Lets face it, if dogs were out in the wild, doing all their doggy things in their doggy world, calling their "hair-dresser" would not be on their "to do" list. HOWEVER, since they do live in our human world, "bath time" is indeed something that does becomes part of their routine - for some more often than others.

Youve heard me say that many times we (us and our dogs) learn the same way. We enjoy similar things and situations, some things and situations more than others. Well, were really not that much different!  This is a little list I came up with regarding "grooming" for humans:

• Soaking in a hot tub...(many reasons we enjoy that) while making the tub experience fun: rubber duckies, boats, and SO many other toys...not just for kids, right? Bubble bath... hello? I had Mr. Bubble as a kid...too much fun!
• Candles and/or other types of mood lighting
• Aromatherapy including oils and/or incense to help stimulate the senses
• "Spa Day"
• Pedicures, manicures, etc... 
• Hair salons...and going every few months, right? 

So why should we make bathing and grooming any less fun for our pets than we do for ourselves? I know I have it easy compared to others... I have Poncho a small, single-coated dog that is very food and toy motivated. But, that doesnt mean you cant make bathing and grooming any less fun and rewarding for your own dog. Remember, just by pairing the event with something your dog already likes will teach your dog to like that event... Which brings me to the video below. 

Note: sorry about the poor video-camera action - its difficult to dry Poncho with one hand. I would normally use my other hand to towel him or rub his fur to help dry it more quickly... but I had to play "videographer" too :-) The tripod should be delivered next week ;-) 

If you dont groom your own dog, and you have someone else doing it for you, you might want to ask the person what steps they take to make it more "fun" for your dog...Who knows, they might make it so great youll want to switch hair-dressers too :-) 

Read More..

This Inquisitive Canine Now Soaring Proudly With NOOZHAWK!

Wow! Talk about exciting and completely positively rewarding! My rambling, opinionated, common sense,  and dare I say slightly smart-aleck mouth (and fingers) has proven to be an advantage once again! Yep, thats right! Im expanding outside the world of blogging and adding the very informative, local, online news Web site Noozhawk to my ventures - in a new column called "Ask the Trainer"...

Since a young girl my mother had encouraged me to speak up, take risks, take a chance (as long as I was safe - nothing crazy or illegal mind you), and "go for it". She would say "Whats the worst that could happen, someone might say no?" Well, I admit it sort of backfired in junior high when I asked a boy to a dance, but finally, after all these years, it worked for me! Someone said "yes"!

It all started when the very smart, business savvy, and open-minded Chris Donahue first made contact with me... Although he had called to inquire about something unrelated, I decided to take a chance and ask if he and the publisher/owner of Noozhawk Bill Macfayden, would be interested in a "dog behavior advice column"? Id always wanted to take the Q&A moments from my everyday dog trainer/coach life, and put it out there for the whole world to see. 

Along with my moms voice in my head, there were Lorrie Thomass and Emilia Doerrs voices in my head too... theyve encouraged me to "own my expertise" and "sell it!" - talk about great Web Marketing Therapy! 

So thanks to all of them, and my desire to share my advice and opinions with the world, I am now the proud writer of the Noozhawk pet column "Ask the Trainer"! The column will run on Fridays and repeat Saturdays. If you have any specific training and behavior questions about your dog, or a dog you know, or a dog youre thinking of getting, please feel free to write to me - your question just might end up on Noozhawk! 

Wishing you all the self confidence you need to own your expertise, in whatever you do! 

Read More..

Lots of yummies for this little trick or treater!

Poor Poncho. He is the best ever! How many dogs would allow their nails to be trimmed, then follow it up by being dressed up for Halloween - as a food item no less! Too cute... check it out>>>>

I did make it "fun" for him though. For nail trimming he got leftover rice cake crumbles (he loves em), with mixed in lamb jerky. For the "lobster" outfit he got the same treats, plus some "ball time", which he finds very rewarding. 

See? Just goes to show you 1) you can train a dog to like anything (almost) 2) you can use many things besides food to reward your dogs great behavior! 

Happy and safe Halloween, from me and my sidekick Poncho! AKA: my "rock lobster" 

Read More..

This is pretty cool

Read More..

Dog Training Tips Really Not In This Dog Trainers Opinion

There are a lot of great dog training tips out there - really. I provide many myself, as you probably already know, on this dog training ventura blog as well as the Noozhawk dog behavior advice column Poncho and I write for. Although Im a certified dog trainer, and one that prefers practicing more of a science-based methodology, I ask you, please, be a critical thinker when it comes to adhering to some of these "tips". Mine included! 

Some of the ones Ive seen out there just amaze me! Do people really believe some of this stuff? These are just a few that I came across:

• "Do not tell your dog “it’s okay” or “don’t worry” while they are acting fearful or aggressive. Showing affection to your dog in those states will reinforce the behavior you do not want. The dog reads your affection as praise and believes that’s the behavior you want."

• "Grabbing the scruff of your dog can help him calm down. That is how mothers carry their puppies after they are born. However, you cannot be angry when you do it or your dog will pick up on your energy and fight it."
  
• "Dog training classes aren’t necessary. Classes only benefit the dog in the aspect of socialization and very basic obedience. You don’t need to pay money for this. The time is better spent out on a walk."

• "Be the first to walk out the door. Pack leaders are ALWAYS the first through passageways."

OH MY GOODNESS! Really??? Yikes! Just like the "Lose 10 pounds in one day." It sounds like its time for a "dog-training-bust-a-myth" moment...at least in my opinion. 

First off, when Im scared, if my husband consoles me Im certainly not going to want to perform that scared behavior more. If anything, itll help me relax, and may even help build my confidence, which would come in handy if I were ever in that situation again. 

For example, when it comes to flying Im not real keen on the take-off and landing part. He knows this. So whenever we fly together he takes my hand during both these times and talks to me in soothing voice - he doesnt yell at me or ignore me. Geez, if he did that Id hate take-off and landing even more! Nope, he does show affection - and ya know what? This makes me love him even more! 

As for the other examples of "tips" that I mention above, let me just say:

1. Im pretty darn sure our dogs know were not dogs or wolves, and that grabbing their scruff doesnt make them think we are, nor do I believe my own dog Poncho, or any dog would "feel calm" if I were to grab him by his scruff. If anything, I would think Poncho would be reacting out of fear from me grabbing him in such a manner - which I would never do. 
2. Dog training classes "arent necessary"??? Its all about finding the right class. One that is educational, fun and rewarding for both the dog and their humans. Even if youre not taking one of my manners classes at the inquisitive canine studio, or at Ventura College Community Education, there are still plenty of fun dog training classes out there! It sounds to me this person found classes very punishing...too bad, maybe they will want to attend one of mine. 
3. I dont care who goes through the doorway or "passages" first. I do like to set boundaries, but Im not a complete control freak. Ill ask for a sit, or four-on-the-floor before giving the release cue to "go on". Shoot, sometimes life is really exciting and our dogs want to get there first! Just like us humans and getting in line at the movies, or concert, or roller-coaster! Its called "impulse control" - dogs dont have much, which is why its important to teach them such exercises....Hmm, maybe those dog training classes are important. I teach many of these behaviors in my own dog training classes. 

As Ive said before, dogs (like all animals) do what works! They perform whichever behaviors gets them more of what they want, to keep themselves safe, and to prevent from getting hurt, or avoiding anything that would cause them fear, pain, or death. Duh. 

So before you start listening to tons of advice out there, please, be a critical thinker. If you dont feel comfortable doing something, dont. Or at least ask questions. Education is good! Knowledge is even better! 

Read More..

Stop Puppy Whining This Is How !

Separation or Confinement puppy whining, crying & howling
Puppies will whine & cry when separated from their owners & left alone, for the first time. The puppy is afraid they is being abandoned by his pack & is sounding the alarm so that they can be rescued. This is most common when a puppy is confined to a tiny space or to a crate. This is perfectly normal dog behavior. But sometimes the sounds are so hideous & loud it scares us & they fear for the puppys well-being. Every puppy I have put in a crate for the first time has screamed to high heaven! So what ought to you do?

Be pro-active in training your puppy to accept isolation & privacy. Accustom your puppy to being left by herself, even in the event you are home. This will prevent separation anxiety & all the issues that accompany it.

In lots of cases, putting a treat or toy in the crate or pen with the puppy before closing the door will help condition the puppy that it is a fun place to be.
Start off by putting the puppy in the confined area (crate, exercise pen) for a short time period. If they starts whining or crying when you leave, dont rush back to let him out or reassure him. In the event you do, the puppy will soon learn that they can control you together with his whining. However, whining, crying & barking continues then they probably is not yet comfortable in his confinement area. Spend a tiny more time with him there. Then when you leave, if they continues whining or howling, give him a loud & stern NO! After they has been calm for a few moments, return & praise him lavishly. Practice leaving & returning several times so they becomes accustomed to your departures & realizes that you are not abandoning him forever. They will see that you will return & there is nothing to worry about. Practice leaving him for longer & longer periods of time.

Puppy Whining & Crying Donts
-Do not give in & reward your puppy for whining.
-Do not hesitate to appropriately reprimand unnecessary whining.
-Do not let your puppy feel abandoned.
-Do not let your puppy soil her crate.

Puppy Whining & Crying Dos
-After being confined to a crate, or pen for some time, always give your puppy the benefit of the doubt. When they begins whining, wait for a short pause in the whining, then immediately take her to her toilet area.
-Make sure your puppy is comfortable. Is your puppy hungry, thirsty, hot or chilled?
-When you know that all of your puppys physical needs are met & you have taken the time to accustom her to isolation, then teach her that whining is unacceptable.

Excessive or Demand Whining & Barking
The reason excessive whining continues is because the dog has learned that whining, crying or barking gets whatever they desires - attention, food, affection. Often what starts out as a demand whining soon becomes an unconscious whining habit..

Day-to-Day Whining
It is vital to understand that sometimes your puppy will whine & vocalize for no apparent reason - from our point of view! They can only wonder what is up with our dog. However, most times our puppy whines for a lovely reason. My puppy whines at the front room window because he is looking for her playmate to come over to our house. This is acceptable, for definite, but within limits. If he whines excessively, he is told to cease. My puppy whines & barks if her treat infested "Have-A-Ball" toy gets stuck in a place where he cannot access it - OK - I am outa my stool to help her get it out - not a controversy - I Love My Puppy! Before you reprimand your puppy for whining, barking & howling, try to receive a handle on why! Perhaps you can fix it!

Health Considerations & Whining
Unusual whining or whining that starts suddenly when it never existed before may be your dogs way of telling you that something is wrong. See your veterinarian right away to be definite no health issues exist.

If your dog is whining or howling when you are at home, either for attention or out of habit, the first step in stopping this is to provide your dog with every day routines of play, exercise & training. Often these special times of undivided attention will cease the dog from whining the remainder of the day. Secondly, pay attention to your dog only when they is calm. Ignore him whenever they begins demanding your attention by whining. Each time you give in to your dogs whining demands, you are training him to continue whining. In case you need a few moments of peace, you can teach the dog to be calm on request. Gently ask your dog to Stop Whining. If they ignores you & continues whining, immediately shout a loud, STOP WHINING!. After a few repetitions, the dog will get the idea & obey the first gentle request of Stop Whining, than get scolded.

So? Ready to get rid of that puppy whining you keep having? give this puppy training a try and the puppy whining will be gone before you know it ^_^

Read More..

This Dog Trainer Can Trust Her Own Dog and the Dog Training

We had a little incident at our home this evening. Yep, I admit, this dog trainer isnt perfect and neither are the rest of the humans in the household. However, Poncho, my inquisitive canine and trusty dog behavior advice column sidekick seemed to be spot on tonight, (although I admit my fast twitch muscle fibers were working well).

What was the issue? We had a cookie malfunction: my darling husband was carrying a cookie and half of it fell out of his hand and flew across the slippery hardwood floor like a hockey puck on the way to the goal. Needless to say, Poncho McQuikie pants was right on its tail!

I was in the other room, watching the whole thing go down, envisioning Poncho consume his entire caloric intake for the week in one bite, but before his soft warm fuzzy lips wrapped themselves around the delectable molasses chew from Trader Joes, I yelled out "Leave it!" as I was flying out of the chair and across the room, while reaching in and grabbing the mouthwatering morsel up off the floor...AND BY GOLLY PONCHO THE DOG DID IT! Poncho actually backed away from it even BEFORE my hand was near it! I was so shocked I did the happy dance, said he was a good boy, then broke off a tiny, Poncho-sized piece for his reward of leaving it alone!

The "Leave it!" behavior is one of the basic cues I teach in many of my dog training classes here in Ventura. And I guess all the practice with him as my demo dog has paid off! During this more emotional time, I allowed all the training practice to kick in and lo and behold it worked! One of my dog training class mantras is "Train it before you need it!" or "Dont wait to need a behavior to train a behavior!" I always hope I never have to use this type of cue (usually indicates danger), but its nice to know I have it in my arsenal just in case there is a cookie incident.

Another point I make in my dog training classes is the concept of "trust". The use of food in dog training helps dogs develop trust between themselves and whomever is working with them, or with other humans. For owners, they need to trust that their dogs are actually going to perform the behaviors they are being taught. I guess Im the prime example of that!

Thank you my darling inquisitive canine Poncho! I hope I wont need to use that cue again, but its nice to know youre paying attention and that I can trust you know youre stuff - and the cues! What a good boy you are!

Read More..