14.12.2018

Dog Behaviour, ‘The Christmas Crazies/Christmas Rush’

This time of year can be quite a stressful one for your beloved dogs as well as yourselves. There can be extra people in the house with guests visiting (and possibly the shrill coming from ‘little people’), lots of exciting wrapping paper mountains, flashing lights and just in general a lot more ‘buzz’ around. We humans refer to it as ‘the Christmas Rush’. [Read More…]

07.12.2018

Dog Training, Visitors, Barking and teaching the command “Quiet!”

Tis the season for visitors and visiting! (continued post)
- Barking and teaching the command “Quiet!”-
When your dog is barking, growl a very stern and guttural “Bah!!!”*
Then, the instant he/she IS quiet, say quiet and praise. You can also reward with something high value - such as a liver treat or cheese crumb, both are strong smelling, so usually more attractive your dog :-)

*Or shake a plastic bottle with pebbles in it if this proves ineffective or if your dog simply zones out and the barking is very intense, shake a tin (for example a Milo one) taped up with coins in it, by your side, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant, Dogs Best Friend.

01.12.2018

Dog Training, Visitors, Jumping Up!

Tis the season for visitors and visiting!
So let’s recap how to stop your dog jumping up -
(After first addressing exercise requirements, so pent up energy does not make your dog a spring!)
Always give your dog the opportunity to ‘do good’ and ask for a ‘Sit’, they may surprise you ;-)
It goes without saying then, that jumping up should never be encouraged.
If you’re dealing with a mild jumper, talk to your guest about how to greet your dog. [Read More…]