all, Puppies, Leadership and Dominance in Dog Training, Guy Fawkes and similar stressors for dogs, Separation Anxiety, 'Walking the Dog' and all associated..., Dog 'Ownership' Helpful Tips, Preventing 'Fixation'/'Obsession', With Cats..., General Training, 'Obedience' Type Command Instruction, Safety Around Dogs, A Good Dog Behavioural Consultant/Dog Behaviourist, Entertainment for your dog, The problem with gadgets in effective dog training, Stress in Dogs, Reactionary Behaviour, Aggression, Embarrassing antics our dogs get up to..., 'Tis the Season', Visitors and your Dog, Vocalization, Strangers, Issues with Food, Cars/Vehicles and your Dog, Why does my dog?
Stress in Dogs
01.06.24 Dog Behaviour. Dog Training. Stress in Dogs. Some signs of stress in dogs -
When faced with an unwelcome situation, dogs may ‘escape’ by focussing on something else. They may sniff the ground, groom themselves or simply turn away.
Dogs can also use appeasement/calming gestures when they're feeling stressed, uncomfortable, or scared. Yawning or lip licking by a dog lets a person or another animal know that they're of no threat. A dog who is being approached by another dog may turn their eyes away, whilst licking their lips. This lets the other dog know they come peacefully. A dog may also do this if scolded or punished by their owner. They're saying, 'Look, I intend no harm.'
Dogs may also use appeasement/calming gestures as part of a distraction.
When your dog is confused or stressed around what you're asking of them, they can begin to maniacally scratch, 'distracting you' in the situation. For example once they understand the new command, or their stress level drops, the scratching stops. If, however, your dog begins to lick their lips and yawn, it's likely they're feeling a higher level of stress than usual and you should not push the interaction, giving them time to relax - the ‘fake yawn’ is one way a dog’s body relieves stress, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with HarperCollins ‘Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood’ as well, check out https://selinamcintyre.podia.com/ for some online dog behaviour training, thank you 🐾 13.04.24 Dog Behaviour. Dogs that take/collect items.
Dogs that frequently go out and collect items are often insecure.
These dogs are regularly collecting items that the owners have touched or worn and are active in this behaviour when the owners are out. They surround themselves with an 'object barrier of their owners scent.' Great absorbent material for this scent includes - tissue paper, books and T.V. remote controls - which have little gaps around the buttons to capture skin cells. These items also get reduced in size (chewed up) so they can be spread out, to form a greater barrier (as well as the chewing producing the feel good chemical, serotonin - aiding a reduction in anxiety) Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural & training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with HarperCollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' or my online Canine Behaviour Seminar Downloads, available at https://selinamcintyre.podia.com/
thank you! 06.04.24 Dog Behaviour. Dog Training. Dog Appeasment Gestures. Signs your dog is stressed, uncomfortable or scared. Did you know, dogs can use appeasement/calming gestures when they're feeling stressed, uncomfortable, or scared.
Yawning or lip licking by a dog lets a person or another animal know that they are of no threat. For example, a dog who is being approached by another dog may turn their eyes away, whilst licking their lips. This lets the other dog know they come peacefully. A dog may also do this if scolded or punished by their owner. They are saying, 'Look, I intend no harm.'
Dogs may also use appeasement/calming gestures as part of a distraction.
When your dog is confused or stressed around what you're asking of them, they can begin to maniacally scratch, 'distracting you' in the situation. Once they understand the new command for example, or their stress level drops, the scratching stops.
If however, your dog begins to lick their lips and yawn, it's likely they're feeling a higher level of stress than usual and you should not push the interaction, giving them time to relax, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural & training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with HarperCollins 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' or my online Canine Behaviour Seminar Downloads, available at https://selinamcintyre.podia.com/ thank you! 16.02.24 Dog Behaviour. Dogs Fake Yawning. The ‘fake yawn’ is one way a dogs body relieves stress.
He or she may have ‘had enough’ or are getting frustrated in a situation.
They may be highly aroused in anticipation of an event, such as, ‘’I’m waiting, waiting, for that food bowl to be put down….come on!”
It pays to look at the overall situation to gain clearer insight as to the route cause of the ‘fake’ yawn but then worth addressing, if this is a stressful situation/event requiring resolution, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you. 06.01.24
Dog Behaviour. Dog Training. The Crate
The piece of equipment known as a ‘Crate’ is not for everyone but neither is it a cruel cage. It is a hugely beneficial training tool for both your pup and adult dog.
The crate provides a sense of security for all stages of life (as such should not be dispensed with once your pup matures) and will be what is used to house your companion at least at a clinic stay, if your dog requires this.
Particularly when covered with a blanket in Winter or a sheet in Summer (or partly covered) the crate provides a secure, den-like environment, all of the dogs own.
When working with clients I inform them, the crate is a smaller area to protect than the much bigger home 😉
The sense of security can be very beneficial at potentially stressful periods such as Guy Fawkes.
Crate Training Tips –
Keep it positive!! Give your dog fun, mentally stimulating toys inside the crate and super tasty treats that maybe they do not get elsewhere.
Importantly with training, do not let your dog out (if all other requirements have been met - your dog does not need to go to the toilet, eat etc. realistically) when crying, barking or scratching on the crate, otherwise these become the ‘button’ behaviours you will train your dog they need to ‘push’ for you to let them out! From many a client, they say these behaviours get old, very quick … Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant and Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you 🙂
23.12.23 Dog Behaviour. Signs of Stress in Dogs
There can be a lot of stress around at this time of the year and this can be reflecting onto your dog also.
Below are some common signs of stress in dogs (some of which may surprise you) -
*Hyperactive behaviour
*Being on the ‘look out’ all the time
*Eyeballing you and you being able to see a lot of white of your dogs eyes - this is potentially a sign of a high level of stress.
*Your dog finding it difficult to sleep or relax
*Howling, whining or barking when left alone
*Lots of panting, even when it is not hot or your dog has not been exercised
*Excessive salivation/drooling
*Chasing and barking at birds, cars, fence running/pacing
*Obsessive behaviour
* Excessive digging
* Excessive chewing of toys, furniture etc.
* Excessive licking - objects or themselves.
Other signs may be specific to your dog, I always say, you know your dog best. If something feels ‘off’ please seek help for your beloved companion,
Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant, Trainer & Author, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you. 09.12.23 Dog Behaviour. Christmas Time. Dog's energy levels. Tis’ the Season!
Christmas can be quite a stressful time of year for our beloved dogs as well.
There can be extra people in the home with guests visiting (and possibly the shrill coming from ‘little people’) lots of exciting wrapping paper mountains, flashing lights and in general a lot more ‘buzz’ around.
We humans refer to it as ‘The Christmas Rush.' For me, it’s absolute ‘crazy time’ busy.
My tip for this time of year, is for both your dog and yourself, to keep up the ‘release’ that comes from including exercise in your life.
With dogs (and yes, at least some humans) we know pent up energy causes an increase in tension and anxiety. Also, mental exercise/stimulation for your dog is just as important, especially at this time of year.
Did your dog get into those bags of Christmas presents you didn’t even have a chance to wrap yet? He or she may be bored.
You and your pack will get through the Christmas crazies❤ Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend.
For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you 🙂 28.10.23
Dog Behaviour. Noise Aversion. Fear of noises, including fireworks in dogs.
Guy Fawkes Prep. Post 3.
- BioAcoustic Music -
Music has been created aiming to calm your dog, it's called 'Through a Dogs Ear.' The soundtracks mastered are easy for the canine nervous system to absorb. In the formation of Through a Dogs Ear, adjustment of the high and low frequencies has occurred. High frequencies tend to arouse the dog's nervous system.
- Provide a small area for your dog during stressful periods-
Perhaps use a covered crate if your dog is accustomed to this, or even just a sheet covering a table for your dog to retreat to. This area is den-like and hopefully will help make your dog feel more secure.
- Lastly, you must be the strong one -
Don’t act worried about the loud bangs and squeals outside, for your dog. I always say with behaviour, 'You can get what you reflect,' - so act calm and nonchalant about the goings on in your neighbourhood, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training advice, tips and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you 🙂 14.10.23
Dog Behaviour. Noise Aversion in dogs. Fear of noises, including fireworks in dogs.
Guy Fawkes Prep. Post 2.
- Ensure your dog is receiving adequate mental and physical exercise every day - Pent-up energy has been directly linked to an increase in tension and anxiety in dogs.
- Many of my clients rave about the ThunderShirt - New Zealand a 'anxiety wrap' for dogs. This is a cloth, positive acupressure vest your companion wears. The idea is also, that a constant gentle ‘hug’ can calm an anxious pet’s nervous system (a hug is chemically rewarding). On a hot day you can soak the Thundershirt in water and put it on your dog.
- Aromatherapy -
The use of high quality Lavender and Cedarwood essential oils to promote calm. Lavender has a reputation for its calming benefits and paired with Cedarwood, these benefits are thought to increase. A couple of drops onto a cloth tied onto your dog’s crate/kennel or dropped into a diffuser and let run for a few hours, should be beneficial, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training advice, tips and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you 🙂
09.09.23
Dog Behaviour. Dog Training. Noise Aversion in dogs. Fear of fireworks in dogs.
It's not too early to start preparing your dog for the noise of fireworks!
*Post one on this topic -
- Start training and practicing obedience tasks to be performed when fireworks are going off in the distance. Get your commands down pat, so it's like your dog could 'do them in their sleep.' Shower your dog with praise and affection when these 'tricks' are being performed.
- Recordings of fireworks/other ’scary’ noises can be played while your dog is doing something fun. I would recommend downloading the ‘Sound Proof Puppy App.’ for pets off ITunes or Android. This app. has noises that typically can bring about a fear response. Starting at a barely audible volume, slowly increase this over time. You can reward relaxation/no/less response. If using a super tasty treat in this process, if your dog is not accepting this they are too stressed and the intensity of the noise needs to be decreased. This process is about weeks of training, amounting to about 10 minutes a day with your dog. I'll be posting more on this topic also. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions, why not check out my book in association with Harpercollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood,' thank you 🙂 Selina McIntyre of Dogs Best Friend, a qualified Dog Behaviourist & Dog Trainer in the Hamilton, Waikato, Tauranga and Rotorua areas of NZ since 2004. 28.08.2021
Dog Behaviour. Dog Training. Tension and Anxiety. Covid 19. Your dog feeds off your emotions and intent in situations. As well and quite logically, your dogs behaviour affects you. Be it through the frustration at chewed up new sunglasses or perhaps sadness and anxiety when they too are exhibiting these emotions. This point is something to think about in the current times. You get what you reflect.
Also, pent up energy can increase tension and anxiety - manifesting in nervous behaviour.
For both your dog and yourself, get out and walk.
Many owners are underestimating the requirements in this area. For a healthy dog, of every breed, I would be recommending two walks per day. The length of each walk would then vary.* As a general rule, a large adult dog, 2 X 1 hr (minimum), medium sized adult 2 X 45 minutes and an adult small breed 2 X 25 minutes. *Taking your dog for a run for one of these sessions would then shorten the required time of this session.
Now, I know a look of shock will be on some of your faces with the above recommendations, it’s important to look to those numbers as times to aim for, but that with pent-up energy behavioural issues will be made worse. There is more stimulation (experiencing different sights, smells etc.) when you break up the day with two walks and this approach also burns more energy than a single big, less intense one. Throwing a ball or Frisbee does not calm the mind of a dog, these activities hype the dog up and we want a calm, more stable energy. Most certainly do these activities but they should not really make up the bulk of your exercise regime with your dog.
At the end of the day regardless of what is happening in the world, our dogs don’t dwell. Dogs live in the now and I think it would be great to live a bit more like that, Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant & Dog Trainer, Dogs Best Friend. For more dog behavioural and training tips, advice and suggestions going forward, look for my book in association with HarperCollins, 'Big Dog, Small Dog - Make your dog happier by being understood' it's out now!
10.09.2020
As part of the noise aversion scenario, it is common for dogs to become sensitive to stimuli that forecast something else. For example, with a dog that is scared of thunder, they have been known to react to the air pressure dropping, which leads to the wind getting up, which often accompanies thunder. Most markedly, your dog may start to pace and whine when the wind increases. [Read More…]
Admin - 11:37:48 @ Guy Fawkes and similar stressors for dogs, Stress in Dogs, 'Tis the Season'
21.03.2020
Your dog feeds off your emotions and intent in situations. As well and quite logically, your dogs behaviour affects you. Be it through the frustration at chewed up new sunglasses or perhaps sadness and anxiety when they too are exhibiting these behaviours. [Read More…]
Admin - 06:26:54 @ Dog 'Ownership' Helpful Tips, Stress in Dogs
02.11.2019
Fear of Noises, Guy Fawkes Prep. Part Two -- You must be the strong one.Don’t act worried about the loud bangs and squeals outside for your dog and don’t cuddle or coddle them as this can inadvertently be seen as praise for their fearful behaviour. [Read More…]
Admin - 08:03:41 @ Puppies, Guy Fawkes and similar stressors for dogs, Dog 'Ownership' Helpful Tips, Stress in Dogs, 'Tis the Season'
12.10.2019
Ask for ‘tricks’ to be performed at this ’stressful’ time. Shower your dog with praise and affection and some treats if the ‘trick’ is worthy when performed. The ‘trick’ is what you are praising for, not any reaction. [Read More…]
Admin - 08:09:33 @ Puppies, Guy Fawkes and similar stressors for dogs, Dog 'Ownership' Helpful Tips, Stress in Dogs, 'Tis the Season'
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Selina McIntyre of Dogs Best Friend, a qualified Dog Behaviourist & Dog Trainer in the Hamilton, Waikato, Tauranga and Rotorua areas of NZ since 2004.