Teaching Phase

March 28, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 2 minutes

There are 3 phases of training a dog, teaching (first phase), proofing (2nd phase) and maintenance (3rd phase). In the first phase we are teaching the dog to learn and the meaning of each command. Dogs don’t come to us speaking English or any language other then their own. They are visual learners and quickly learn what our body language means, but they need to be taught the words we use as commands. Trainers use different techniques to teach a dog. Motivational training rewards the dog for good behavior encouraging the animal to want to learn and obey you. Praise, lures, rewards, and play are often used with this style. When teaching your dog, practice each command three times this will build consistency. Praise and reward your dog when they are in the correct position or giving you the behavior you want. Use the same commands to make things clear for your dog. Consistency, clear… Read More

My Teachers

March 23, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Throughout my life I have owed and been around many dogs. With each dog and dog interaction I have learned. One of the many reasons I love being a trainer is because there is always more to study. Prior to taking my Instructor Course I had developed knowledge and skills training animals. During my course I learned principals and foundation and continued to build my handling skills. I was very fortunate to train under someone who was highly skilled and knowledgeable and I continue to work with her so that I can offer my clients and their pets a high level of skill. I have worked with other experienced trainers, attended seminars, read books, watch DVDs and other people who work or are interested in dogs. I appreciate that I have had various resources in which to gain knowledge and build my skills. Some of my best teachers have been the dogs I have owed… Read More

Separation Anxiety

March 12, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Canine Separation Anxiety is defined as destructive or disruptive behaviors every time a dog is left alone. Dogs are social animals who form attachments to the people they live with, some dogs will panic or become anxious when separated from the person they are most attached too. Signs of Canine Separation Anxiety: Urinating or defecating while you are out Excessive licking, drooling, vomiting or diarrhea in your absence Excessive whining, howling or barking when left alone Prior to leaving your dog may show anxiety, depression, bark or whine excessively, or follow you around the house In your absence your dog may chew or be destructive in your home Your dog may cause injury to him or herself Escape behaviors such as scratching or destroying doors or windows, digging under fences, jumping fences or opening gates. Exaggerated greeting behaviors Possible Causes: Lack of Leadership and owner behavior. Lack of exercise Genetics – abnormal predisposition to dependency,… Read More

Jasper – Great News

February 17, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 2 minutes

I just got off the phone with the vet and learned some great news about Jasper’s Cushing’s and liver enzyme results. After increasing his milk thistle, his liver enzymes dropped significantly, although they remain elevated. The good thing about the decrease is that there is almost half of it. It should be said that liver enzymes can go up because a dog is on anticonvulsant medication. As for the Cushing’s, while Jasper’s resting level is normal, it went up a bit after the Cortisol injection. The vet thinks it could be in the early time of Cushing’s or might have been raised because of diabetes. For now, we’re focusing on keeping the Diabetes under control and looking out for signs of pancreatitis, again so we can act quickly when those things happen to prevent him from losing his appetite and therefore not being able to give him his insulin for those times-it’s really complicated. I… Read More

What is Temperament?

February 9, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 3 minutes

In my consultations with clients on selecting their dogs, I discuss temperament as being very important in their selection. Many times, I hear, “My dog is amazing, but it’s afraid of strangers and needs more socialization.” While in some cases, you may attribute the fear to a lack of socialization, more often than not, the problem is the dog’s basic temperament. Temperament is genetically determined: it’s a mixture of various drives, nerves, thresholds, and instincts that are naturally passed along. It is not considered something that you can develop or change; it’s just the state of being that the dog is born with. Although the foundations of a dog’s temperament will remain forever, particular behaviors may be modified through training, given a capacity for adjustment in the temperament. For instance, say your dog has very high prey-drive; loves to chase a ball. When properly trained, the dog can learn to accommodate that drive. However, you… Read More

Jasper – Therapy Dog

January 31, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 2 minutes

For the last six years or so, Jasper becomes a regular visitor to a retirement home located a stone’s throw from where we live. He has brightened the lives of residents with joy, warmth, and laughter. Over this time, we’ve formed deep relationships with a lot of them, to whom they have even told some very moving stories about their own beloved pets. Pet therapy for seniors has such a profound impact, and Jasper, with his gentle, calm nature, has become a great favorite with the residents. He adores his visits as if he were right at home among friends made long ago. One of Jasper’s most touching achievements is that there is a woman who has been scared of dogs, especially German Shepherds, since childhood when she was bitten. Although terrified, she has reached out to stroke Jasper twice–what an impressive thing for someone so petrified! There are many a few days when her… Read More

The Relationship

January 19, 2012 author

K9 Manners

Reading Time: 2 minutes

The foundation between every dog and its owner is the relationship. This needs to be solid and built on trust and respect. Consistency is particularly important as it clearly lets your canine friend know its boundaries and your expectations. Define your expectations with respect and fairness and your dog will respond. Always teach your dog with rewards and positive reinforcement. Play and food are great rewards when teaching your dog commands. Your dog needs to trust you, you are in charge and it is your job to keep your dog safe from harm. Establishing leadership gives your dog stability, reduces anxieties and stress. You need to be calm yet assertive when working with your dog, frustration and anger should never be involved in training your dog. Most owners consider their dogs as part of their family and just like any member the dog needs to know how to behave. A well mannered dog is one… Read More