Ahh… what do say about dog parks. I am asked frequently about taking dogs to dog parks. Dog parks are great for many reasons but also terrible for others. I don’t recommend dog parks for socialization. The reason being that most who take their dogs to dog parks know nothing about reading a dogs behavior/body posture which can and will lead to situations that may affect a dog negatively for the rest of their life. Many times dogs will wind up in fights before anyone steps in and at that point it is too late, the damage is done. Dogs go through “fear imprint periods” and if your dog is attacked during one of these periods you will then wind up with an insecure, fearful and reactive dog. Fear/insecurity is the most common reason dogs show aggression. Dogs cannot talk so they cannot tell you “Hey I’m not comfortable with this situation”, they communicate this through a growl or bite. I also do not recommend that your dog share water bowls with those whom you do not know, there are many illnesses that can be transmitted through saliva. A better choice for socialization would be to take your dog to a reputable doggie daycare run by qualified knowledgable people. Dog parks can be great during training when working with your dog on things like impulse control and focusing on you near or outside the dog park itself. The dog park is then used as a distraction. SO if you choose to take your dog to the dog park before entering watch the interaction of those that are there to determine if it is a safe environment for you and your dog. All dogs should be watched at all times by their owners so that they can step in if necessary to prevent a bad situation from occurring. If you find that there is anyone not watching their dog you should immediately leave the park.
Training…is it really necessary.
The dog industry is a billion dollar market today. You have many choices when it comes to choosing things for your best friend like food, veterinarian services, doggie daycare, activities such as agility, weight pulling, nose work, guard work the list goes on and on. When you get a dog there are expenses that come with them. Most people will take into consideration medical expenses but most will neglect those of training. Training should be considered as important as medical considerations when getting a dog. Understand that it takes time, patience and consistency to properly train any dog. As a trainer it has become pretty clear that training is not something the average dog owner considers a necessity until they are experiencing problematic behaviors. The reality of the situation is that if you start with training from the first day you bring your dog home you will be less likely to experience most if not all of these unwanted behaviors. When your dog challenges you…and yes they will you will be better equipped to handle the situation before it becomes problematic. Just like children dogs need guidance and direction so that they learn how to make the right choices for themselves. Training will teach you how to properly guide your dog so that they make the choices that will allow you to have a happy and harmonious relationship with them for the duration of their life.
Prong Collars
After having a conversation this morning with a friend I felt compelled to write a post about prong collars. I am a strong advocate for the use of prong collars when indicated and used correctly. I do not believe all dogs need them. Those who may need them benefit greatly from their use. If needed, I feel that you can communicate with your dog in a most direct and humane way. If used correctly you will not hurt your dog physically nor mentally. I feel the need to write this due to the ‘misuse’ of this tool. When you buy a prong from a store or the internet there are no directions that come with it. There are those who will refer to the internet for directions (plenty of videos out there) but some who will just put it on their dog without knowing the first thing about them. If not properly fit you not only run the risk of them falling off (loosing your dog) but actually causing harm. Then those who do not know/understand proper pressure and release techniques will then what is referred to as “crank” and “yank” the leash and will cause harm to their dog. I would NEVER recommend anyone buying/using a prong without first learning the correct way to use them. I believe that the misuse of this tool is an issue that can easily be resolved with proper direction and one of the main reasons that this tool gets such a bad wrap. PLEASE if you are going to put a prong on your dog have a trained professional show you the proper way to use it so that you can get the best results and so that you do not cause harm to your dog.
New Beginnings
Today, as I write the first of many post to come I sit here and think back on the journey which has brought me to this most rewarding place in my like. As many of you understand life is but a journey and sometimes takes a path that we did not necessarily start out on but are so grateful to be walking. As I walk this path I think about how lucky I am to have found what I am most passionate about while helping others with their struggles. I find comfort in and have always felt that my purpose in life is to help others. I feel strongly about being an advocate for those who cannot help themselves, one of the many reasons I volunteer and a local animal shelter. My journey began as a child when I was given my first dog. I was 7 years old and the connection I felt was like no other. From that day forward that connection has not only grown stronger but continues the strengthen every day. That strength has given me the courage, motivation and determination to find my way to you. Dogs, to many people are our friends, confidants, companions, life savers, therapists, partners(hunting) and yes to some our canine children. No matter what the reason for having them they do serve a purpose that no other can substitute. They can never be replaced, even when they are gone they are still in our hearts. Anyone who has ever lost a dog understands this and the affect that they will have on you that will last a lifetime. One of the most important and humane things that you can do for your dog is training. I believe that a balanced dog will bring happiness and harmony to your life. I will share my knowledge with you so that you too can have the most rewarding relationship possible with your dog.