I've finally done it! I've graduated from being on leash all day. My mom finally recognized that I wasn't going outside to bark anymore, and when I do, I always come back inside as soon as she calls me.
So how do I do it? Well, I don't really go outside when that damn neighbor dog is out anymore. She's gotten really obnoxious, barking at me every time I go out, wanting to play. Plus, she looks like Chubbs with less hair. Ugh. Like I need another Chubbs in my life. So I spend the day in the house, sleeping and hanging out with Mom. It's a small house, but I find ways to get time away from Chubbs.
This may sound depressing to some of you, but for me, it isn't. I had to learn that it wasn't my job to guard the property. And, you know what, I'm relieved. I handle things so much better when I'm calm. Just last week, Mom had a visitor, and I didn't even bark at him. As long as I get the appropriate amount of exercise, it's OK for me to spend the day relaxing. My mom has taken to letting me out in the front yard instead of the dog run, where I'd much rather play anyway.
Anyway, I just wanted you all to know that I've finally gotten over the hump. Now, my mom seems to be concocting some new training plan for me. Guess we'll see what she has up her sleeves next. Good luck to all you other dogs with crazy trainer parents!
Love, Muggsy
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
My New Hobby
Well, my not barking at the neighbor training continues. Because I was having trouble listening once I started reacting, I had to start wearing a thin, 4-foot leash so even Dad could handle me when I'm out of control. I recognize that this is a loss of my power, and I have now been avoiding the dog run completely except during training. This may sound sad, but it's not. It's me learning that I can't handle the situation without Mom yet.
There are times when I venture out without her, but most of the time I make the smart decision -- stay inside by the air conditioner. So here's how I'm now spending my afternoons:
Here's wishing you a nice, lazy weekend, like mine. Love, Muggsy
Thursday, August 26, 2010
More Tolerance Toward New Neighbor
As those of you with reactive dogs know, training is a day-by-day situations with progress and setbacks alike. Last week, I was making a lot of progress learning not to bark at Britta. My mom was using a leave it command, and I was going out several times each day where I didn't bark at all.
However, there was a flaw in Mom's training. She didn't teach Dad to participate. Since he wasn't giving me the same commands or rewards, I wasn't listening to him at all. Thus, when she went out of town for four days, the system broke down, and she had to do more training today than she had hoped.
However, you will be pleased to know that I am returning to my old, well-trained self after just a couple of sessions. And now she realizes who really needs to be trained. Sorry, Dad, it's your turn now.
Love, Muggsy
However, there was a flaw in Mom's training. She didn't teach Dad to participate. Since he wasn't giving me the same commands or rewards, I wasn't listening to him at all. Thus, when she went out of town for four days, the system broke down, and she had to do more training today than she had hoped.
However, you will be pleased to know that I am returning to my old, well-trained self after just a couple of sessions. And now she realizes who really needs to be trained. Sorry, Dad, it's your turn now.
Love, Muggsy
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
The New Neighbor
For years, we have lived next door to a calm, older Rottweiler named Sierra. She was a lovely neighbor, never barking or finding another way to annoy us. Unfortunately, she passed a few months ago and was recently replaced by Britta, an 8-month-old Rott who is always trying to play with us. For those of you who don't know me well, I don't like change, and I am not happy with this development. So I have taken to barking at the fence, something I haven't done in years.
Mom says a dog trainer's job is never done, especially with an extra effort dog like me. A famous trainer always says in his seminars that you should never ask clients to do something you aren't willing to do with your own dogs, so Mom has taken to training me. That's right. She's doing all the same things she would tell you to do.
First of all, I'm no longer allowed outside when she's not home. We usually have a doggie door, but now we don't have access to it unless she's around. It's important that reactive dogs not have access to the outside until trained how to calm down. This keeps us from barking all day and annoying the human neighbors.
When she's home, she spends a few minutes outside with me each day, showing what she would like me to do instead of bark. When I run up and down the fence to play with Britta, I get a treat. When I start to bark but look at Mom instead, I get a treat. When I run around barking, she tells me to leave it and then pets me for listening -- but no treat because I barked. She would like me to learn that there are options if I want to be outside.
When she isn't training, I am still allowed outside, but I must come inside as soon as I start barking. Since I like to be outside, I have to learn to stop barking. In addition, she is teaching me what she wants me to do instead, so I have other behaviors to fall back on.
Isn't this exactly what she told you to do? Of course, we are still in week one of training, and I have to remind her to be patient, just like she has to remind you. But we are making progress and will keep you posted on how it turns out.
Love, Muggsy
Mom says a dog trainer's job is never done, especially with an extra effort dog like me. A famous trainer always says in his seminars that you should never ask clients to do something you aren't willing to do with your own dogs, so Mom has taken to training me. That's right. She's doing all the same things she would tell you to do.
First of all, I'm no longer allowed outside when she's not home. We usually have a doggie door, but now we don't have access to it unless she's around. It's important that reactive dogs not have access to the outside until trained how to calm down. This keeps us from barking all day and annoying the human neighbors.
When she's home, she spends a few minutes outside with me each day, showing what she would like me to do instead of bark. When I run up and down the fence to play with Britta, I get a treat. When I start to bark but look at Mom instead, I get a treat. When I run around barking, she tells me to leave it and then pets me for listening -- but no treat because I barked. She would like me to learn that there are options if I want to be outside.
When she isn't training, I am still allowed outside, but I must come inside as soon as I start barking. Since I like to be outside, I have to learn to stop barking. In addition, she is teaching me what she wants me to do instead, so I have other behaviors to fall back on.
Isn't this exactly what she told you to do? Of course, we are still in week one of training, and I have to remind her to be patient, just like she has to remind you. But we are making progress and will keep you posted on how it turns out.
Love, Muggsy
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Agility Is for Big Dogs, Too!
As a semi-awkward Rottweiler-Newfoundland mix, I may not look like the best candidate for agility. However, I mastered the first three levels of alpha agility and was pretty darn good, if I do say so myself.
Agility competitions are typically won by smaller dogs, such as terriers and shelties because they're faster and can rip through the obstacle courses. However, I had an advantage in the early classes: I'm not afraid of anything. So while the terriers were hesitating on the teeter totter (which is exactly like a child's teeter totter but smaller) and the shelties were afraid to run through the tunnels, I was stomping through every obstacle with a gusto. An important part of agility training is how you handle these obstacles. You don't want to drag your dogs across an obstacle they are afraid to do. Instead, use treats and coax them, allowing them to take things at their own pace so they don't feel scared or pressured. Use praise, not punishments, and have fun, even when your dog makes mistakes.
Let me share one of my own, though they were few and far between. I love to chase flies. So one day, we were off leash, and a bee came through my course. A bee! It's like a fly but bigger and louder. Surely, I could catch one of those! So I took off after it like it was a flying steak, tearing off across the field, ignoring my moms calls to return. When I finally did return, I found, much to my delight, that everyone found it hilarious. The trainer just said, "Well, at least we know he can do something fast." Apparently, they were worried I would be slow. Ha! But, no, I didn't catch the bee. Darn wings.
I loved agility because I made new friends, both dogs and humans. When I did a course well, everyone would clap. I loved that. Plus, my mom and I had to learn new skills together, so it was really fun for us to bond in that way. I finally had to stop because I started a new thyroid medication that made me really tired. I didn't have energy for anything. By the time I recovered, I had developed arthritis in my front ankle. And any dog who has an injury should not do agility because the courses are really hard on your joints and stuff.
Anyway, if you are young and healthy and looking for some fun, try agility. I can recommend a great trainer who even laughs when you take a break to chase bees.
Love, Chubbs
Agility competitions are typically won by smaller dogs, such as terriers and shelties because they're faster and can rip through the obstacle courses. However, I had an advantage in the early classes: I'm not afraid of anything. So while the terriers were hesitating on the teeter totter (which is exactly like a child's teeter totter but smaller) and the shelties were afraid to run through the tunnels, I was stomping through every obstacle with a gusto. An important part of agility training is how you handle these obstacles. You don't want to drag your dogs across an obstacle they are afraid to do. Instead, use treats and coax them, allowing them to take things at their own pace so they don't feel scared or pressured. Use praise, not punishments, and have fun, even when your dog makes mistakes.
Let me share one of my own, though they were few and far between. I love to chase flies. So one day, we were off leash, and a bee came through my course. A bee! It's like a fly but bigger and louder. Surely, I could catch one of those! So I took off after it like it was a flying steak, tearing off across the field, ignoring my moms calls to return. When I finally did return, I found, much to my delight, that everyone found it hilarious. The trainer just said, "Well, at least we know he can do something fast." Apparently, they were worried I would be slow. Ha! But, no, I didn't catch the bee. Darn wings.
I loved agility because I made new friends, both dogs and humans. When I did a course well, everyone would clap. I loved that. Plus, my mom and I had to learn new skills together, so it was really fun for us to bond in that way. I finally had to stop because I started a new thyroid medication that made me really tired. I didn't have energy for anything. By the time I recovered, I had developed arthritis in my front ankle. And any dog who has an injury should not do agility because the courses are really hard on your joints and stuff.
Anyway, if you are young and healthy and looking for some fun, try agility. I can recommend a great trainer who even laughs when you take a break to chase bees.
Love, Chubbs
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Dog Beach: Not For Me
As my mom stated on her facebook note about summer activities, the dog beach is not for every dog. I'm one of those dogs. I actually get along fine with most dogs, but I don't like dogs getting too close to my mom, and I don't really like people. This makes me too dangerous to be off-leash in a public area. There's nothing wrong with this. Some people are more social than others. The same is true with dogs. Don't force your dog to be something he's not.
So what can you do if you want to socialize your dog but you don't feel comfortable at dog beach? Make friends with people who have dogs and try to find a good match for your dog. Some dogs get along well with one or two dogs as long as the environment isn't too stressful. Make sure your friends' dogs are calm and well-behaved, similar in age or older and have a similar play style as your dog. Just like my mom said, dogs like bully breeds and labs like to body slam and play rough while dogs like herding dogs are more sensitive and just like to run. If you have a sensitive border collie, don't take him to meet a house full of boxers. He won't have fun.
Try taking the dogs on a walk together first. If your dog really isn't social, you may have to do this several times before you let them meet. Don't let them sniff each other during the walk but let them sniff each other's pee. It seems gross to you, but it's great information for us. Don't force a meeting. Let it happen naturally after several walks.
If things seem to be going well, let them meet in a neutral location, not someone's yard. If you let them meet on leash, keep the leashes loose. Don't pull! If you do, you could start a fight. You can always put them on long lines and let them drag so you can grab them if things get out of control but you aren't complicating the interaction with your human emotions.
Keep early interactions short. If you have five good minutes, don't push it. Try for 10 next time or the time after that. Always try to end on a good note and build from there. Better safe than sorry.
I don't have a lot of dog friends, but I do have some human ones. Maybe socializing your dog just means hanging out with humans or having coffee in a place where you can people watch but not socialize. The same rules apply: keep sessions short, keep them positive and build up from quiet settings to louder ones.
The most important thing to remember is that you have to accept your dog for who he is. If his favorite thing in the world is just to cuddle on the couch with you, that can be your activity. Whatever you do, just have fun!
Love, Muggsy (who is getting ready for his favorite activity -- sleeping next to Mom while she reads)
So what can you do if you want to socialize your dog but you don't feel comfortable at dog beach? Make friends with people who have dogs and try to find a good match for your dog. Some dogs get along well with one or two dogs as long as the environment isn't too stressful. Make sure your friends' dogs are calm and well-behaved, similar in age or older and have a similar play style as your dog. Just like my mom said, dogs like bully breeds and labs like to body slam and play rough while dogs like herding dogs are more sensitive and just like to run. If you have a sensitive border collie, don't take him to meet a house full of boxers. He won't have fun.
Try taking the dogs on a walk together first. If your dog really isn't social, you may have to do this several times before you let them meet. Don't let them sniff each other during the walk but let them sniff each other's pee. It seems gross to you, but it's great information for us. Don't force a meeting. Let it happen naturally after several walks.
If things seem to be going well, let them meet in a neutral location, not someone's yard. If you let them meet on leash, keep the leashes loose. Don't pull! If you do, you could start a fight. You can always put them on long lines and let them drag so you can grab them if things get out of control but you aren't complicating the interaction with your human emotions.
Keep early interactions short. If you have five good minutes, don't push it. Try for 10 next time or the time after that. Always try to end on a good note and build from there. Better safe than sorry.
I don't have a lot of dog friends, but I do have some human ones. Maybe socializing your dog just means hanging out with humans or having coffee in a place where you can people watch but not socialize. The same rules apply: keep sessions short, keep them positive and build up from quiet settings to louder ones.
The most important thing to remember is that you have to accept your dog for who he is. If his favorite thing in the world is just to cuddle on the couch with you, that can be your activity. Whatever you do, just have fun!
Love, Muggsy (who is getting ready for his favorite activity -- sleeping next to Mom while she reads)
Monday, July 5, 2010
All That Loud Banging
Humans have weird holidays. I'm not going to pretend to understand them. To celebrate the independence of your country, you blow things up and make loud noises? Really? I still don't get it, no matter how many times Mom tries to explain it. Is there anyway you can keep it down a little?
No matter how much I bark at you to keep quiet, the Fourth of July is always a tough holiday for me. Those loud noises just won't stop. So my mom had to teach me how to calm down when I hear loud noises. She described how on her facebook page today. Let me tell you this: it works. We used to have to go out of town on the Fourth. Last night, I barked for the first few minutes, and then I calmed down and spent the evening lying next to Mom on the couch.
Sure, I was nervous. Sure, I couldn't go outside by myself. I showed some nervous signals, such as panting and licking. But I didn't bark. And that helps keep the anxious hormones in my body a little bit lower.
When I heard the first loud noise, I admit it, I barked. I always hope you guys will listen. You don't. So my mom gave me the quiet command. I toned it down to whining. She gave me the "say it" command, which means I'm allowed to howl my little heart out. It's better for me than barking because it doesn't release those same angry hormones. Instead, it just sounds like sad wailing. But it always makes me feel better when I'm upset. Then, she rewarded me and told me how good I thought she was. She brought me up on the couch to cuddle with her. Then, she just petted me every time a loud noise made my ears perk. Her giving me love like that was all I needed to stay calm.
See, my mom doesn't subscribe to the "don't comfort your dog" idea, thank goodness. As long as I'm not barking, she'll give me as much attention as I want. So she just tells me to be quiet. Then, she lets me wail. Then, we curl up on the couch and she makes me feel better. I love getting pets and sitting on her lap for hugs when I'm scared. Your dog does, too. So don't get mad at him/her. Comfort! You would want us to do the same for you if you were upset. That's what best friends are for.
Love, Muggsy
No matter how much I bark at you to keep quiet, the Fourth of July is always a tough holiday for me. Those loud noises just won't stop. So my mom had to teach me how to calm down when I hear loud noises. She described how on her facebook page today. Let me tell you this: it works. We used to have to go out of town on the Fourth. Last night, I barked for the first few minutes, and then I calmed down and spent the evening lying next to Mom on the couch.
Sure, I was nervous. Sure, I couldn't go outside by myself. I showed some nervous signals, such as panting and licking. But I didn't bark. And that helps keep the anxious hormones in my body a little bit lower.
When I heard the first loud noise, I admit it, I barked. I always hope you guys will listen. You don't. So my mom gave me the quiet command. I toned it down to whining. She gave me the "say it" command, which means I'm allowed to howl my little heart out. It's better for me than barking because it doesn't release those same angry hormones. Instead, it just sounds like sad wailing. But it always makes me feel better when I'm upset. Then, she rewarded me and told me how good I thought she was. She brought me up on the couch to cuddle with her. Then, she just petted me every time a loud noise made my ears perk. Her giving me love like that was all I needed to stay calm.
See, my mom doesn't subscribe to the "don't comfort your dog" idea, thank goodness. As long as I'm not barking, she'll give me as much attention as I want. So she just tells me to be quiet. Then, she lets me wail. Then, we curl up on the couch and she makes me feel better. I love getting pets and sitting on her lap for hugs when I'm scared. Your dog does, too. So don't get mad at him/her. Comfort! You would want us to do the same for you if you were upset. That's what best friends are for.
Love, Muggsy
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Senior Wellness Exams
Those of you who are friends with my mom probably followed her tumultuous 24 hours where she feared for the life of her favorite son (that's me, really, don't listen to that crazy Muggsy). I hate to admit it, but I'm getting old. I have little gray hairs around my eyes and arthritis in my ankles. And that means that I have to get senior wellness exams. If you have an older dog, which can mean 7 if you have large-breed dogs or 10 for smaller breeds, please take them for their exams. Imagine if you were 63 and didn't go to the doctor for seven years!
Well, I went this week, and I had lost 10 more pounds. I'm down to 65 pounds. For a Rottie-Newfie, that's no good. I tried to convince my mom just to feed me more raw meat, but she thought that sounded suspicious and took me to the vet. There are several things that could cause weight loss and excessive drinking, which are two signs you want to be very wary of in your senior dogs. It can be caused by certain types of cancers, kidney or liver problems, diabetes or thyroid problems.
I already have thyroid problems. I've been on medication for five years. It caused me to put on 10 pounds and become very lethargic initially. Now, I have tons of energy and am shedding pounds like crazy. I was on a diet, but I shouldn't have lost this much. My urinalysis showed that I might have kidney problems, which really upset my mom, but we had to wait until the bloodwork to be sure because all of the problems I'm having could be caused by too much medication, making me hyperthyroid!
The bloodwork came back positive. I had a very high thyroid, but my BUN and creatine levels were normal, indicating normal kidneys. I also had normal liver enzymes and no calcium levels (excess calcium can indicate cancer). Thus, I just have to change my medication. This made my mom, dad and sister very happy and my brother a little disappointed. But, hey, you can't please everyone all the time! So I'm on my new meds now, doing fine. But I never would have known what the problem was if not for my senior exam.
So don't forget! We hate the vet (except me because I love attention), but it could save a life! Love, Chubbs
Well, I went this week, and I had lost 10 more pounds. I'm down to 65 pounds. For a Rottie-Newfie, that's no good. I tried to convince my mom just to feed me more raw meat, but she thought that sounded suspicious and took me to the vet. There are several things that could cause weight loss and excessive drinking, which are two signs you want to be very wary of in your senior dogs. It can be caused by certain types of cancers, kidney or liver problems, diabetes or thyroid problems.
I already have thyroid problems. I've been on medication for five years. It caused me to put on 10 pounds and become very lethargic initially. Now, I have tons of energy and am shedding pounds like crazy. I was on a diet, but I shouldn't have lost this much. My urinalysis showed that I might have kidney problems, which really upset my mom, but we had to wait until the bloodwork to be sure because all of the problems I'm having could be caused by too much medication, making me hyperthyroid!
The bloodwork came back positive. I had a very high thyroid, but my BUN and creatine levels were normal, indicating normal kidneys. I also had normal liver enzymes and no calcium levels (excess calcium can indicate cancer). Thus, I just have to change my medication. This made my mom, dad and sister very happy and my brother a little disappointed. But, hey, you can't please everyone all the time! So I'm on my new meds now, doing fine. But I never would have known what the problem was if not for my senior exam.
So don't forget! We hate the vet (except me because I love attention), but it could save a life! Love, Chubbs
More Hiking Tips
Each week, my brothers and I try to add tips to whatever Mom publishes on her facebook notes. This week, we're at a loss. She posted tips about swimming with your dog, and we all hate the water. Our only experience with water, besides baths (which we all hate except Chubbs), is the ocean. Chubbs and I wouldn't go near it, and Muggsy tried to chase it back by barking at it and attacking it. I won't even go outside when it rains!
So I thought I'd add another hiking story. We have lots of those. But I'm not as disgusting as Muggsy, rolling around in dead raccoon. A few years ago, we spent the Fourth of July at Big Bear Lake to flee the fireworks that take over our neighborhood (even though they're illegal in Redondo Beach). We decided to go hiking, just through our neighborhood, to see the sites. After about 15 minutes, I practically collapsed, laid down in the street and refused to get up.
Remember that if your dogs aren't used to altitude, they need time to adjust. Just like you, we can't get as much oxygen to our blood until we have had a chance to acclimate. Take it slow and take lots of water breaks. Let your dog tell you when it's time to quit. Don't push it because "they have no problem walking six miles at home." My mom recently read a hiking tip that said, "Don't be obsessed with how far you need to get when you're hiking with your dog." It's true. Unless you take us out every time you go hiking, we don't have the same stamina that you do. Don't push us.
And be sure to watch for warning signs, such as heavy panting, seeking shade, lying down and seeking water. If you pull the skin around our neck back, and it doesn't snap back into place, we're dehydrated. If you touch our gum, and it doesn't immediately return to its original color, we're dehydrated.
Be careful, and have a great summer with your dog! Love, Fenway
So I thought I'd add another hiking story. We have lots of those. But I'm not as disgusting as Muggsy, rolling around in dead raccoon. A few years ago, we spent the Fourth of July at Big Bear Lake to flee the fireworks that take over our neighborhood (even though they're illegal in Redondo Beach). We decided to go hiking, just through our neighborhood, to see the sites. After about 15 minutes, I practically collapsed, laid down in the street and refused to get up.
Remember that if your dogs aren't used to altitude, they need time to adjust. Just like you, we can't get as much oxygen to our blood until we have had a chance to acclimate. Take it slow and take lots of water breaks. Let your dog tell you when it's time to quit. Don't push it because "they have no problem walking six miles at home." My mom recently read a hiking tip that said, "Don't be obsessed with how far you need to get when you're hiking with your dog." It's true. Unless you take us out every time you go hiking, we don't have the same stamina that you do. Don't push us.
And be sure to watch for warning signs, such as heavy panting, seeking shade, lying down and seeking water. If you pull the skin around our neck back, and it doesn't snap back into place, we're dehydrated. If you touch our gum, and it doesn't immediately return to its original color, we're dehydrated.
Be careful, and have a great summer with your dog! Love, Fenway
Monday, June 14, 2010
Summer Activities: Hiking Disaster
My mom is very active with us and likes to take us on vacations and to participate in various activities. But she made a rookie mistake with me. She took me out off-leash before I knew how to recall. Uh oh. She had taken the time to teach Chubbs to recall, and because I'm soo much smarter, she thought I would be able to do it too. Wrong. If you haven't taught your dog to recall, they don't know that "come" means to come every time, no matter what the distraction. For me, the distraction was a dead raccoon that smelled oh so good.
To teach a recall, you need to start small on a 6-foot leash. You have to build up to the hard stuff, just like if you are teaching a child math. You don't start with calculus. You start with numbers. Put your dog on a 6-foot leash, toss a treat out away from you to get him running in the opposite direction and then say your dog's name while running backward to get his attention. When your dog is running toward you, then say "come" and reward big time with lots of praise and treats. You want this to be the best thing your dog ever does.
When he is turning toward you as soon as he hears his name, start adding the command at the very beginning. So instead of saying your dog's name while running backward, just say "come." When that is going well, get a 30-foot leash and add distance. My mom took me to the trail where she liked to watch me and practiced there. Only when I could do it no matter what the distraction did she let me off leash again. Then, she would never have to make another 45-minute drive with a dog who had just rolled in dead raccoon, and I would never have to worry about being lost without seeing my mommy again.
Just remember not to move too fast. Practice, practice, practice. If you can't call your dog off a squirrel, he's not ready for off-leash. But he can be with lots of practice. As an added bonus, recall practice is good exercise, and you can involve the entire family. For example, Mom, Dad, Chubbs, Fenway and I sometimes all go out in the backyard. Mom and Dad have treats and call us back and forth while we run as fast as we can to get to them. This is great practice and great exercise! The more family members, the better. So get out there and get ready for summer with some recall practice. It's fun, and it could save your dog's life.
Love, Muggsy
To teach a recall, you need to start small on a 6-foot leash. You have to build up to the hard stuff, just like if you are teaching a child math. You don't start with calculus. You start with numbers. Put your dog on a 6-foot leash, toss a treat out away from you to get him running in the opposite direction and then say your dog's name while running backward to get his attention. When your dog is running toward you, then say "come" and reward big time with lots of praise and treats. You want this to be the best thing your dog ever does.
When he is turning toward you as soon as he hears his name, start adding the command at the very beginning. So instead of saying your dog's name while running backward, just say "come." When that is going well, get a 30-foot leash and add distance. My mom took me to the trail where she liked to watch me and practiced there. Only when I could do it no matter what the distraction did she let me off leash again. Then, she would never have to make another 45-minute drive with a dog who had just rolled in dead raccoon, and I would never have to worry about being lost without seeing my mommy again.
Just remember not to move too fast. Practice, practice, practice. If you can't call your dog off a squirrel, he's not ready for off-leash. But he can be with lots of practice. As an added bonus, recall practice is good exercise, and you can involve the entire family. For example, Mom, Dad, Chubbs, Fenway and I sometimes all go out in the backyard. Mom and Dad have treats and call us back and forth while we run as fast as we can to get to them. This is great practice and great exercise! The more family members, the better. So get out there and get ready for summer with some recall practice. It's fun, and it could save your dog's life.
Love, Muggsy
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Use of Pawsitives
I had a great time witnessing the power of positive training today while helping my mom training a miniature poodle who attacks other dogs. When he sees another dog, he starts to growl. One alternative that many owners try is saying "no" and using a collar correction. However, what this method leaves out is showing your dog what you want him to do instead of growl.
My mom taught the poodle to look at his owner instead of me when I started walking around. When he did what he was supposed to, he was given a nice treat, in this case -- steak (I'm soo jealous!!). He was so excited to listen that the transformation was amazing. I was able to get pretty close without growling. Most lessons don't always move this quickly, so be sure to move at the pace of the dog. Don't get so close that you get a reaction. Set your dog up to succeed.
Using this method allows the dog to see what it is that will please you, not just what will make you mad. Dogs love to please. It's what we do best. Once we see how happy you get when we listen -- and how happy WE get when we get steak -- we will start to choose that option more often. Then, you can start to phase out the treats and use mostly praise and pets. We love that, too.
Give pawsitive training a try. You'll both like it! Love, Chubbs
My mom taught the poodle to look at his owner instead of me when I started walking around. When he did what he was supposed to, he was given a nice treat, in this case -- steak (I'm soo jealous!!). He was so excited to listen that the transformation was amazing. I was able to get pretty close without growling. Most lessons don't always move this quickly, so be sure to move at the pace of the dog. Don't get so close that you get a reaction. Set your dog up to succeed.
Using this method allows the dog to see what it is that will please you, not just what will make you mad. Dogs love to please. It's what we do best. Once we see how happy you get when we listen -- and how happy WE get when we get steak -- we will start to choose that option more often. Then, you can start to phase out the treats and use mostly praise and pets. We love that, too.
Give pawsitive training a try. You'll both like it! Love, Chubbs
Saturday, May 8, 2010
What I've Learned in 10 Years
This month, I turned 10. That doesn't sound old, but for dogs, it is. Even though I still run around like a puppy, growling while I play tug with my toys, I am about 70 in human years. I'm even starting to get gray hairs. So here are 10 things I've learned in 10 years that may help you get along with your humans.
- Sleeping is good. The average dog sleeps 16 hours, and I sleep even more. If you can get all the way under the covers, your humans might not even notice that you are there.
- If you are going to steal something, hide it under the bed. Humans never think to look there. I have quite a good pen collection under my bed.
- When your dad has someone over for the first time, don't grab all the ham out of the middle of her sandwich and run with it. She may become your stepmom -- and a dog trainer -- and teach you not to do that.
- If you aren't allowed on the furniture, wait until your dad leaves before you get on it. When the key jingles in the door, get down. Humans give you tons of warnings to get out of trouble.
- Warm up to only the dates that loves dogs. Then your dad will marry someone who loves you enough to let you on the furniture and #4 won't matter. If you don't like your dad's date, poop in her bathtub. That works every time.
- Just because you're small doesn't mean you can't control the house. Just growl at your brothers and bite them on the faces -- not hard, of course. It's just a warning.
- Anything can be a fun toy, including blankets. And don't discard those tiny pieces of toys that seem to have no use. You can still play tug with them, and they're easy to pull from your parents' fingers.
- When it rains, don't poop outside. That's crazy talk.
- If you look uncomfortable enough on the floor, your parents will keep trying to find you beds that you like. If you keep looking uncomfortable, you will end up with three different beds -- then, you can still lie on the couch (see #5.)
- If you don't want to do something, hide in your crate. But don't try to bite your parents. Then, they muzzle you, and that's just no fun.
I've also learned that a kiss on the face can get you out of any amount of trouble. What have you learned in your life?
Love, Fenway
Happy Mother's Day!
Happy Mother's Day to all you doggie moms out there! Just because you aren't our actual birth moms doesn't mean we don't love you any less. You feed us and walk us and train us and cuddle with us, making us feel like the most special dogs in the world. My mom is great because she buys me raw meat instead of kibble for dinner, which I love. She also takes me on training lessons and walks with other clients, which makes me feel special. She knows where my favorite pet spots are and lets me lie ontop of her in the morning, even though I weigh 80 pounds.
So in honor of Mother's Day tomorrow, I have decided to give her these gifts:
So in honor of Mother's Day tomorrow, I have decided to give her these gifts:
- I will wait until 7 a.m. to jump on the bed and start licking her face because I'm really hungry and like food. I know she likes to sleep until 9, but that's a little too nice for a gift!
- I will let her sit on the couch in the evening, even though it is really comfortable.
- I will listen to every command, even when I know she won't give me a treat.
- I will play a ridiculous game of tug with her, even though all I want to do is tear the toy to little pieces.
I think that's enough. I mean, come on, it's not like it's her birthday. Anyway, think of something nice to do for your mom. I'm sure there's something you can do to make her feel good.
Love, Chubbs
Friday, April 2, 2010
Rock Chalk Dog Training
This week, my mom got her new 2011 lucky hoodie in the mail. For those of you who know her well, you know that she's a Kansas Jayhawks fan and believes that her 2008 lucky hoodie was responsible for the national championship. Because of this, the hoodie is treated as a sixth member of the family and often shows up sitting on the couch during basketball season. Since the new lucky hoodie arrived, she brought out the old one to keep it company in the house. (Believe me, this doesn't make sense if you're a dog either.)
But I've found a wonderful use for the old lucky hoodie, which smells a lot like Mom -- I sleep on it at night. Because of this, and the fact that I lie next to Mom on the couch during all the KU games, she has decided that I am not a Texas fan like Dad, but a Jayhawks fan like her. She decided to demonstrate this with a silly trick.
She's currently teaching me to run to the Jayhawk hoodie as opposed to the Texas hoodie when she says, "Which one do you like better?" This is experimental training, so we're not sure how's it's going to work, but she has started by placing the sweatshirts on the floor and giving me a treat every time I sniff or touch the Jayhawk hoodie. If I want a treat, I run to it. This is called shaping. She just waits for me to make the right decision and then gives me a treat when I do. Over time, I start making the right decision more often, and she can put the behavior on command. This is like clicker training, but she just says "good girl" rather than clicking. She can't wait to show off this silly trick to Dad. As for me, I just like the attention. Working with your parents, even if it seems silly to you, can be really fun. Try it!
Love, Fenway
But I've found a wonderful use for the old lucky hoodie, which smells a lot like Mom -- I sleep on it at night. Because of this, and the fact that I lie next to Mom on the couch during all the KU games, she has decided that I am not a Texas fan like Dad, but a Jayhawks fan like her. She decided to demonstrate this with a silly trick.
She's currently teaching me to run to the Jayhawk hoodie as opposed to the Texas hoodie when she says, "Which one do you like better?" This is experimental training, so we're not sure how's it's going to work, but she has started by placing the sweatshirts on the floor and giving me a treat every time I sniff or touch the Jayhawk hoodie. If I want a treat, I run to it. This is called shaping. She just waits for me to make the right decision and then gives me a treat when I do. Over time, I start making the right decision more often, and she can put the behavior on command. This is like clicker training, but she just says "good girl" rather than clicking. She can't wait to show off this silly trick to Dad. As for me, I just like the attention. Working with your parents, even if it seems silly to you, can be really fun. Try it!
Love, Fenway
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Loose-Leash Walking Muggsy-Style
In addition to what my brother said (Mom must have been coaching him because those were good tips), an additional challenge to loose-leash walking is a nervous dog. I can tell you this for certain because I am a nervous dog. I provided an additional challenge to Mom's training because when I'm nervous, it's really difficult to listen, so I continue to pull.
When faced with this situation, as some of Mom's clients have been recently, remember that you are training two different things: calm and loose-leash walking. To be able to effectively train loose-leash walking, you have to help your dog learn calm behavior outside. This can be as simple as desensitization and counter-conditioning, two big scientific words that mean exposing us to fear at low levels and then pairing that thing that scares us with something that makes us happy, like treats. We've talked about how to do this before, but make sure to move slowly. If your dog is taking the treats too hard, won't take them at all or is reacting, you're moving too fast. You want your dog to feel comfortable.
If your dog is very nervous, however, this might not be enough. Many dogs, like me, don't know how to feel "calm." They've never felt it, so they don't know what you're looking for. When my mom was training me, the best advice she got was from New York trainer Sue Sternberg, who said that she needed to find someplace where there was nothing scary and just let me run. So twice a week, my mom would drive me an hour to this abandoned trail in Yorba Linda where we never saw other dogs or people. On that trail, for the first time ever, I learned to relax. Now, I can do it in other environments once I have been conditioned because I know how it feels. Before that experience, I wasn't capable of calming to that level. You may need to find a place like that for your dog. If you can't do that, try walking your dog up and down the same stretch of a block over and over until all the sights and sounds are no longer scary. Try going at night or early morning when the area is more quiet. When you see your dog offering you calm signals, such as relaxed tail, ears and body posture, reward profusely with praise and treats. Do this at home if you notice calm behavior as well. (I didn't even calm down at home.)
Once your dog is comfortable in an area, then you can teach loose-leash walking. If you get pulling with your nervous dog, use the normal tips for pulling to smells but recognize when your dog is pulling because he is nervous about a sight or sound. At that time, you have to stop your loose-leash walking training and start training him to be comfortable.
It certainly makes your job a little harder, but my mom can tell you from experience, the first time you see your dog show a calming behavior (mine was finally relaxing my tail), it is 100% worth the work. She still tears up when she thinks about it, like right now.
Love, Muggsy
When faced with this situation, as some of Mom's clients have been recently, remember that you are training two different things: calm and loose-leash walking. To be able to effectively train loose-leash walking, you have to help your dog learn calm behavior outside. This can be as simple as desensitization and counter-conditioning, two big scientific words that mean exposing us to fear at low levels and then pairing that thing that scares us with something that makes us happy, like treats. We've talked about how to do this before, but make sure to move slowly. If your dog is taking the treats too hard, won't take them at all or is reacting, you're moving too fast. You want your dog to feel comfortable.
If your dog is very nervous, however, this might not be enough. Many dogs, like me, don't know how to feel "calm." They've never felt it, so they don't know what you're looking for. When my mom was training me, the best advice she got was from New York trainer Sue Sternberg, who said that she needed to find someplace where there was nothing scary and just let me run. So twice a week, my mom would drive me an hour to this abandoned trail in Yorba Linda where we never saw other dogs or people. On that trail, for the first time ever, I learned to relax. Now, I can do it in other environments once I have been conditioned because I know how it feels. Before that experience, I wasn't capable of calming to that level. You may need to find a place like that for your dog. If you can't do that, try walking your dog up and down the same stretch of a block over and over until all the sights and sounds are no longer scary. Try going at night or early morning when the area is more quiet. When you see your dog offering you calm signals, such as relaxed tail, ears and body posture, reward profusely with praise and treats. Do this at home if you notice calm behavior as well. (I didn't even calm down at home.)
Once your dog is comfortable in an area, then you can teach loose-leash walking. If you get pulling with your nervous dog, use the normal tips for pulling to smells but recognize when your dog is pulling because he is nervous about a sight or sound. At that time, you have to stop your loose-leash walking training and start training him to be comfortable.
It certainly makes your job a little harder, but my mom can tell you from experience, the first time you see your dog show a calming behavior (mine was finally relaxing my tail), it is 100% worth the work. She still tears up when she thinks about it, like right now.
Love, Muggsy
Loose-Leash Walking Chubbs-Style
Since my mom was asked to publish a few loose-leash walking tips today, I thought I might add my own. And I should know. I'm very difficult to teach to walk politely on a leash. In fact, with me, the job is never done, which is probably what some of you are finding with your own stubborn dogs.
Remember when Mom said that some dogs won't respond to the stop and wait method? I'm one of those dogs. I will stand at the end of the leash for hours without making it loose. Why? Don't ask me. I'm just trying to get where I want to go. Thus, my mom had to train me with the penalty yards method. Let me give you some additional tips that really helped her:
Remember when Mom said that some dogs won't respond to the stop and wait method? I'm one of those dogs. I will stand at the end of the leash for hours without making it loose. Why? Don't ask me. I'm just trying to get where I want to go. Thus, my mom had to train me with the penalty yards method. Let me give you some additional tips that really helped her:
- Try using something that really motivates your dog to want to do what you say. For example, Mom would let Dad, Muggsy and Fenway walk ahead of me. Every time, I pulled to catch up, I got penalty yards, falling even further behind! I would have to work really hard to catch up.
- If you always walk the same route every night, try going in the opposite direction. When I think I'm walking back home, I walk very politely because I don't want to go home. This gave my mom lots of chances to reward positive behavior.
- Make a lot of left turns right into your dog. That makes us pay attention!
- Don't talk to us when we're pulling. It doesn't work.
- Train in every new area that you visit. I need loose-leash walking training before every therapy visit because I want to pull to get inside. Mom arrives early and uses penalty yards to get inside.
- Stop and have your dog sit and focus. I always do better when I'm in working mode, so Mom often puts me in working mode when she really needs me to behave, like therapy visits.
Most of all, just remember to be patient. Some dogs will always need a little training at the beginning of the walk or in a new situation. If you are consistent with the training, the loose-leash walking will fall in place quickly. If you allow it occasionally, pulling will always continue.
Now, get out there and walk your dog! Love, Chubbs
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Managing Relationships in a Multi-Dog House
More than 75 percent of people who own pets own more than one. And most of those owners get that second pet to keep the first one company. However, what most owners don't realize is that most of us don't like that second pet half as much as we like you! In fact, some of us hate that second pet. (Of course, mine is an extreme case -- Chubbs is just the worst sibling ever!)
On the other hand, that second pet, unless he's the devil like Chubbs, will probably prefer us, the first pet. The difference is that when we come in the home as the first pet, we have to learn how to identify with you. We build a relationship with you and learn how to read and understand you. When the second pet comes in, they have a choice between building a relationship with you, a mystery from a different species, and us, another dog they can identify with. Most owners are fine with this since they got the second pet to keep the first one company.
There are a couple of problems that can develop from this dynamic. For the first pet, there is now competition for our favorite thing in the world -- you. There's competition for playtime and pet time and other activities that were once exclusively ours. For the second pet, they don't develop a relationship with you, and they often aren't well-trained because you didn't take the time to train them individually like you did with us. This often leads to dog-dog reactivity in the second dog, not toward pets in the home but outside of the home. They may be overly connected to us and have separation anxiety when we aren't around.
The best way to avoid these dynamics is finding alone time for each dog, just as you would for each child. It's really important to keep your relationship with your first pet and build one with your second pet. For example, in our house, Chubbs is very social, so Mom takes him out for therapy work and training sessions. I get to go to special places for long walks, and sometimes, Mom will go in the bedroom with just me and close the door so we can cuddle. Fenway gets special alone trips in the car and alone time in the bedroom to play tug without the big dogs interrupting. Mom finds activities that each one of us likes and makes sure to make time for each one of us.
If you have more than one dog, try to make time for each of them as well. Maybe one is older and would like cuddle time without the other squeezing in while the younger dog would like to go on a long run that the older one can no longer tolerate. Think about your individual dogs (or cats or birds or whatever) and ways to bond with each of them without the other one present. It will go a long way in building the relationship you want to have with your dogs.
If you are concerned about jealousy when separating the dogs, don't be. Though it will be weird at first, your dogs will get used to spending time alone with the other gets individual time -- as long as they get their time as well! Each time Mom opens the door, we all look at her to see who will get called out. We're all initially upset if it isn't us, but then we calm down, go to sleep and know that soon enough, we will be the one called out the door. It's always worth the wait!
Love, Muggsy
On the other hand, that second pet, unless he's the devil like Chubbs, will probably prefer us, the first pet. The difference is that when we come in the home as the first pet, we have to learn how to identify with you. We build a relationship with you and learn how to read and understand you. When the second pet comes in, they have a choice between building a relationship with you, a mystery from a different species, and us, another dog they can identify with. Most owners are fine with this since they got the second pet to keep the first one company.
There are a couple of problems that can develop from this dynamic. For the first pet, there is now competition for our favorite thing in the world -- you. There's competition for playtime and pet time and other activities that were once exclusively ours. For the second pet, they don't develop a relationship with you, and they often aren't well-trained because you didn't take the time to train them individually like you did with us. This often leads to dog-dog reactivity in the second dog, not toward pets in the home but outside of the home. They may be overly connected to us and have separation anxiety when we aren't around.
The best way to avoid these dynamics is finding alone time for each dog, just as you would for each child. It's really important to keep your relationship with your first pet and build one with your second pet. For example, in our house, Chubbs is very social, so Mom takes him out for therapy work and training sessions. I get to go to special places for long walks, and sometimes, Mom will go in the bedroom with just me and close the door so we can cuddle. Fenway gets special alone trips in the car and alone time in the bedroom to play tug without the big dogs interrupting. Mom finds activities that each one of us likes and makes sure to make time for each one of us.
If you have more than one dog, try to make time for each of them as well. Maybe one is older and would like cuddle time without the other squeezing in while the younger dog would like to go on a long run that the older one can no longer tolerate. Think about your individual dogs (or cats or birds or whatever) and ways to bond with each of them without the other one present. It will go a long way in building the relationship you want to have with your dogs.
If you are concerned about jealousy when separating the dogs, don't be. Though it will be weird at first, your dogs will get used to spending time alone with the other gets individual time -- as long as they get their time as well! Each time Mom opens the door, we all look at her to see who will get called out. We're all initially upset if it isn't us, but then we calm down, go to sleep and know that soon enough, we will be the one called out the door. It's always worth the wait!
Love, Muggsy
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
My Full-time Job
It seems to be my full-time job to deal with reactive dogs. First of all, I live with one. And, then, of course, my mom is a trainer, so I see them quite a bit. Since I am (obviously) the best dog in the house, I am often called on to help with training. Because of this, I meet a lot of my mom's clients or rescue dogs needing evaluations, and I can say that right now, she has got a really great group of dogs who are trying so hard to make their owners happy.
I am most often called in to deal with dogs who are reactive to other dogs. I have had that responsibility often in the last few weeks as this is a common problem among dog owners. At first, I'm just on the other side of the street sitting or lying down politely. I have to look at my mom because most dogs don't like it when you stare at them. I do it because I think it's funny, but my mom doesn't like it, so I'm not allowed to do it during training. It's important to start training at a level your dog can handle. Don't walk him up to the biggest, scariest dog "to see if he can handle it." He's expecting you to protect him. Instead, start exposing him to dogs a long way away and reward him for looking at you instead of the scary dog. Once he is good at far away, I can finally start moving closer.
My mom teaches reactive dogs to heel next to their owner and look up at him or her, but when a dog is getting too close that isn't always possible. Even if your dog doesn't respond, you can still reward them for not reacting. That's the ultimate goal anyway, so feel free to reward your dog just for silence. Don't expect a long look either. If your dog gives you even a glance, reward like crazy (and I'm not just saying that because I love the rewards!)
It takes a lot of practice to get your dog to ignore dogs on walks. Maybe they never can completely. But they will learn to be calm if you show them that's what you want. Don't be afraid to get really happy and silly when they do it right. That's how they know what you want -- you act happy! And if they offer you the nice behaviors without you saying them, that's a huge reward and lots of praise. Don't be stingy while your dog is learning.
One more thing (and this may be the most important), don't forget to offer the demo dog a treat. He's not fat, just fluffy, and he really likes food.
Love, Chubbs
I am most often called in to deal with dogs who are reactive to other dogs. I have had that responsibility often in the last few weeks as this is a common problem among dog owners. At first, I'm just on the other side of the street sitting or lying down politely. I have to look at my mom because most dogs don't like it when you stare at them. I do it because I think it's funny, but my mom doesn't like it, so I'm not allowed to do it during training. It's important to start training at a level your dog can handle. Don't walk him up to the biggest, scariest dog "to see if he can handle it." He's expecting you to protect him. Instead, start exposing him to dogs a long way away and reward him for looking at you instead of the scary dog. Once he is good at far away, I can finally start moving closer.
My mom teaches reactive dogs to heel next to their owner and look up at him or her, but when a dog is getting too close that isn't always possible. Even if your dog doesn't respond, you can still reward them for not reacting. That's the ultimate goal anyway, so feel free to reward your dog just for silence. Don't expect a long look either. If your dog gives you even a glance, reward like crazy (and I'm not just saying that because I love the rewards!)
It takes a lot of practice to get your dog to ignore dogs on walks. Maybe they never can completely. But they will learn to be calm if you show them that's what you want. Don't be afraid to get really happy and silly when they do it right. That's how they know what you want -- you act happy! And if they offer you the nice behaviors without you saying them, that's a huge reward and lots of praise. Don't be stingy while your dog is learning.
One more thing (and this may be the most important), don't forget to offer the demo dog a treat. He's not fat, just fluffy, and he really likes food.
Love, Chubbs
Friday, January 22, 2010
Facing Your Fears
When I was young, my mom made a terrible pre-dog trainer mistake. It's something she's never admitted to anyone. She was blow drying her hair when she saw me trying to run off with an article of her clothing. She turned to yell at me and blew some of the air from the blow dryer in my face. Since I'm scared of everything, this terrified me, and I never came into the room when she was blow drying again.
About a year ago, I decided to brave the hair dryer. I walked into the room when she was blow drying and watched her. She was so happy that she praised me a lot. This doesn't work with every dog, but I love it when my mom praises me. It's my favorite. I got excited and moved closer. She praised more. And so the story continues until yesterday when I stood almost face to face with her, receiving her warmest pets and praise while she used a new hair dryer, which did make me afraid for a few days.
I've never been afraid of thunderstorms, growing up in Texas, but I can understand why your dog might be. But he can be relieved of that fear just as I was relieved of my hair drying fear.
First of all, some dogs are not afraid of the noise but the static electricity. When the storm comes, rub your dog with a dryer sheet periodically to see if that helps.
However, most dogs with a thunderstorm fear are afraid of the sound. When you live in Los Angeles, you don't get a lot of storms to practice, but that's actually a good thing -- no element of surprise. Instead, buy a CD that has storm noises. Play it at a level where your dog's ears prick in curiousity but does not react in fear. That's really important. Praise your dog and give him treats during this time.
At first, play it for only a short time. Then, build up to playing it for long periods where you reward your dog only intermittenly. He should be learning to enjoy it and then igore it. Once you have reached this stage, play it a little louder. If you have increased the decible, decrease the time so you are back to listening to it for only a few minutes and rewarding frequently. Build up to ignoring it most of the time. Then increase again. Keep repeating until you are playing at full storm volume.
During the training, your dog should never get stressed out. If he does, you're moving too fast. This isn't a race. If you start the training in the summer, you have months before you even have to worry about a real life storm.
When the real storm hits, treat it just like you treated the CD. Reward your dog for improvements in his behavior. Any time he initiates calm behavior, reward him. Reward a lot during loud noises and ignore more as the storm goes along.
You'll be able to watch your dog progress to a dog that doesn't even notice the loudest thunder booms. And if you're anything like my mom, it will make you so happy that you even shed a few tears.
Love, Muggsy
About a year ago, I decided to brave the hair dryer. I walked into the room when she was blow drying and watched her. She was so happy that she praised me a lot. This doesn't work with every dog, but I love it when my mom praises me. It's my favorite. I got excited and moved closer. She praised more. And so the story continues until yesterday when I stood almost face to face with her, receiving her warmest pets and praise while she used a new hair dryer, which did make me afraid for a few days.
I've never been afraid of thunderstorms, growing up in Texas, but I can understand why your dog might be. But he can be relieved of that fear just as I was relieved of my hair drying fear.
First of all, some dogs are not afraid of the noise but the static electricity. When the storm comes, rub your dog with a dryer sheet periodically to see if that helps.
However, most dogs with a thunderstorm fear are afraid of the sound. When you live in Los Angeles, you don't get a lot of storms to practice, but that's actually a good thing -- no element of surprise. Instead, buy a CD that has storm noises. Play it at a level where your dog's ears prick in curiousity but does not react in fear. That's really important. Praise your dog and give him treats during this time.
At first, play it for only a short time. Then, build up to playing it for long periods where you reward your dog only intermittenly. He should be learning to enjoy it and then igore it. Once you have reached this stage, play it a little louder. If you have increased the decible, decrease the time so you are back to listening to it for only a few minutes and rewarding frequently. Build up to ignoring it most of the time. Then increase again. Keep repeating until you are playing at full storm volume.
During the training, your dog should never get stressed out. If he does, you're moving too fast. This isn't a race. If you start the training in the summer, you have months before you even have to worry about a real life storm.
When the real storm hits, treat it just like you treated the CD. Reward your dog for improvements in his behavior. Any time he initiates calm behavior, reward him. Reward a lot during loud noises and ignore more as the storm goes along.
You'll be able to watch your dog progress to a dog that doesn't even notice the loudest thunder booms. And if you're anything like my mom, it will make you so happy that you even shed a few tears.
Love, Muggsy
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
When Training Goes Wrong
Everyone who is trying to train their dog inevitably reaches a setback. Depending on the problem, this can be either a mild annoyance or a serious problem. However, I'm here to confirm that it does, in fact, happen to everyone.
All of you who have been following my allergy dramas know that I now have to have a vaccination every two weeks, which is given to me by my mom and dad. At first, I tolerated it quite nicely. Then, I realized that it wasn't a one-time thing and started to get annoyed. And I started to snap. Of course, Mom leaped into action with her treats, trying to make it more positive, and that worked.
However, this week, I got fed up again. I started snapping and growling and snapping some more. I had a true breakdown. Dad was stunned. Even Mom was angry.
But then she remembered that she has to practice what she preaches. She is always telling her clients that sometimes, you have setbacks. Sometimes, everything is running smoothly and then out of the blue, your dog will have a relapse. Once your dog has a bad habit, it's always a possibility; you will just often go years without seeing that habit resurface.
So, she is back at training. Apparently, I will now be trained to wear a muzzle, and she will practice the shot + treats training with me. I'm not looking forward to this new development, as most of this training benefits the humans more than the dogs, but I just wanted to reassure you that even dog trainer's dogs experience setbacks in training.
So keep training and keep a positive attitude! It will pay off in the end.
Love, Fenway
All of you who have been following my allergy dramas know that I now have to have a vaccination every two weeks, which is given to me by my mom and dad. At first, I tolerated it quite nicely. Then, I realized that it wasn't a one-time thing and started to get annoyed. And I started to snap. Of course, Mom leaped into action with her treats, trying to make it more positive, and that worked.
However, this week, I got fed up again. I started snapping and growling and snapping some more. I had a true breakdown. Dad was stunned. Even Mom was angry.
But then she remembered that she has to practice what she preaches. She is always telling her clients that sometimes, you have setbacks. Sometimes, everything is running smoothly and then out of the blue, your dog will have a relapse. Once your dog has a bad habit, it's always a possibility; you will just often go years without seeing that habit resurface.
So, she is back at training. Apparently, I will now be trained to wear a muzzle, and she will practice the shot + treats training with me. I'm not looking forward to this new development, as most of this training benefits the humans more than the dogs, but I just wanted to reassure you that even dog trainer's dogs experience setbacks in training.
So keep training and keep a positive attitude! It will pay off in the end.
Love, Fenway
Muzzle Up
I know that I have become known amongst all of Mom's friends and followers as the "bad" dog. I don't like people, I'm afraid of almost everything, and I don't welcome new dogs into my home. But this week, it became clear that there's another bad dog in the house when Fenway tried to bite Dad while he was giving her the weekly don't-be-allergic-to-humans vaccine.
Now, many dogs never need one, but it's really important that every dog be muzzle trained when they are puppies. You never know when an injury or fearful event may cause your usually sweet best friend to react with a snap. Thus, it's important to train each dog to tolerate a muzzle when nothing scary is happening to him or her so he or she won't be afraid to put one on when it's necessary.
I was never muzzle trained as a puppy, but Mom trained me to tolerate one when it became clear that I was never going to like veterinarians, no matter how many treats they gave me. So she bought me a basket muzzle, smeared peanut butter on the inside and said "muzzle" when I put my nose in it. She repeated that a lot of time with different types of treats. When she's training, she sometimes even has dogs eat their meals out of it! The key is to say "muzzle" each time they put their nose in.
After many, many positive repetitions, she held the strap behind my ears -- the first feeling of being stuck in the muzzle. As soon as I stopped struggling, she let me out and gave me lots of treats and praise. I love treats and praise! So I forgot about being scared. Eventually, very slowly, after many practices, she fastened the muzzle and then built up the amount of time I had to wear it, up to two or three minutes.
Now, no matter how scared I am, every time I hear the command "muzzle," I know I have to stick my head in that muzzle. Soon, Fenway is going to learn that command as well!
Love, Muggsy
Now, many dogs never need one, but it's really important that every dog be muzzle trained when they are puppies. You never know when an injury or fearful event may cause your usually sweet best friend to react with a snap. Thus, it's important to train each dog to tolerate a muzzle when nothing scary is happening to him or her so he or she won't be afraid to put one on when it's necessary.
I was never muzzle trained as a puppy, but Mom trained me to tolerate one when it became clear that I was never going to like veterinarians, no matter how many treats they gave me. So she bought me a basket muzzle, smeared peanut butter on the inside and said "muzzle" when I put my nose in it. She repeated that a lot of time with different types of treats. When she's training, she sometimes even has dogs eat their meals out of it! The key is to say "muzzle" each time they put their nose in.
After many, many positive repetitions, she held the strap behind my ears -- the first feeling of being stuck in the muzzle. As soon as I stopped struggling, she let me out and gave me lots of treats and praise. I love treats and praise! So I forgot about being scared. Eventually, very slowly, after many practices, she fastened the muzzle and then built up the amount of time I had to wear it, up to two or three minutes.
Now, no matter how scared I am, every time I hear the command "muzzle," I know I have to stick my head in that muzzle. Soon, Fenway is going to learn that command as well!
Love, Muggsy
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