Why is my puppy being aggressive? If you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something more than puppy play, you should trust your gut.
Helping a puppy overcome dog aggression is much easier with young puppies, so the quicker you address the behavior, the sooner you can prevent and stop puppy aggression!
First, it is important to identify if the puppy growling and puppy nipping you are seeing is, in fact, normal puppy play or dog aggression.
WHY IS MY PUPPY BEING AGGRESSIVE?
Well, ARE YOU SURE your puppy is ACTUALLY showing signs of aggression? Dog owners usually know their dogs very well, but take a step back for just a moment and evaluate if your puppy is being an aggressive dog or just demonstrating what could be normal behavior for very young puppies.
WHAT DOES A NORMAL PUPPY’S BEHAVIOR LOOK LIKE
Puppy play is ROUGH! Puppy nipping, puppy bites, and puppy growling is all apart of growing up.
Normal puppy behavior sometimes LOOKS like aggressive behavior, so it is crucial to know the difference between what aggressive puppies do vs. what rough play may look like.
Puppy aggression is characterized by more than just puppy barking. Aggressive barking is an issue and should be treated seriously, especially in a young family dog.
Many puppy parents do not realize that growling, in and of itself, is actually a VERY healthy way for a puppy to act.
There should be a difference in your dog’s behavior from a playful growl during rough play vs. aggressive puppy growling which may come across as more threatening.
Signs of an aggressive puppy growl may be if the growling is paired with a stiff body, hackles raised, ears flattened against the head, and/or a direct stare.
MY PUPPY REACTS WHEN I TAKE ITS FOOD OR TREATS AWAY
You finally brought home your cute puppy anticipating a well behaved dog, brought out their brand new food bowl and dinner, only to have your puppy lunge because they were upset that you were touching it!
It can be defeating to pet owners to see their puppy’s body language stiffen up when they get out the dog treats, fun toy, or food bowl.
Food aggression is a very common issue. Do NOT take away the dog food or punish your dog when they show signs of aggression nearby food or resources!
Canine aggression only gets worse when the owner threatens to remove the item that was causing the bad behavior in the first place. This habit can make the dog feel like they need to protect their resources from you, the family, or other dogs.
Puppy aggression can be a normal part of development OR it can be a sign of something more serious.
Identifying dog aggression is essential for helping your puppy overcome this behavior.
MY PUPPY BITES EVERYTHING IN ITS SIGHT
Puppy biting is NORMAL! Puppy teeth are very sharp and if you are a puppy owner you will have to help your pup learn to use those new puppy teeth for productive things.
Puppy biting does not equate to puppy aggression. However, if your puppy was not raised with a litter/mom to teach them bite inhibition, their puppy biting habit will likely be much worse.
If you are having troubles with your puppy biting, there are many ways to help them overcome this undesirable behavior.
WHAT ARE AGGRESSIVE PUPPY SIGNS?
An aggressive dog will show signs of aggression that their owners should not take lightly as if they are not dealt with when they are young they will continue into them being aggressive adult dogs.
Remember, not all of these signs lead to aggressive puppy behavior, which is why it is so important to examine your specific dog as an individual. For example, many puppies will go through a biting phase during teething and this does not necessarily mean they are an aggressive puppy.
It is only when you see multiple signs of aggression in your puppy that you should start to worry and take steps to correct the behavior.
A professional dog trainer can identify a puppy’s inappropriate behavior and determine what behavior modification might be necessary.
Should your puppy exhibit aggressive behavior around other puppies, other dogs, or children, you should work on strong obedience training and socialization skills that will both protect them AND the other dogs/kids.
Correcting a puppy’s inappropriate behavior is absolutely possible.
If you notice your puppy aggressively behave, begin by using positive reinforcement to build confidence in their obedience training.
Many times, aggressive behavior (especially in an aggressive puppy) is linked to a lack of obedience training and confidence which can lead to fear aggression.
Fear aggression is when a dog is rooted in fear of people, loud noises, other dogs or something else that causes them to show aggressive behaviors.
Dog owners might view their dog’s aggression as mean or vicious, but the dog is simply trying to protect themselves from what they perceive as a threat.
Identifying and correcting fear aggression in puppies is essential for helping your puppy feel safe and secure. If you are concerned about your puppy’s safety or the safety of others, seek professional help from a certified dog behaviorist or professional trainer.
Using positive reinforcement is crucial with any dog that is showing aggressive behavior. Take immediate and appropriate action if you think your pup is afraid of something to the point of demonstrating aggressive behavior. Most dogs will respond hugely to positive reinforcement training. When needed, seek the help of a dog trainer to help with your dog’s aggressive behavior.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN A PUPPY GROWLS AT ITS OWNER?
Dogs growl for a variety of reasons and it does not always mean they are aggressive dogs.
Growling can also be a sign of fear or anxiety in dogs. If your puppy is growling at you, it is important to take note of the circumstances and what may have led up to the growling.
A dog can also growl when they are in pain. Maybe someone touches them in the wrong spot and it hurts them. Dogs have no other way of communicating but using their voice, so a growl could be a sign that your dog is in discomfort.
If you are concerned about your puppy’s growling, it is best to seek professional help from a certified dog behaviorist or professional dog trainer. They can help you identify the root cause of the growling and work on a training plan to correct the behavior.
Many pet owners who have experienced fighting dogs wonder how to stop two dogs from hurting one another or if there is a safe way of separating fighting dogs.
Dog fights may arise for a variety of reasons including territorial disputes, resource guarding, or simply because one dog is feeling threatened by another.
However, even to the best dog owner and most well-behaved dog, preventing dog fights can still be near to impossible.
HOW TO STOP MY DOGS FROM FIGHTING
Most dogs will bicker with other dogs at least at some point in their life. One dog communicating with another dog is very different than a full on dog fight.
Dogs communicate by using noises, growls, snarls, and even body language that we might not always understand or be able to see visually.
Not all dogs fully understand how to communicate with other dogs, and sometimes a dog fight can escalate quicker than others.
Fighting dogs can be one of the scariest situations! Two dogs who are fighting don’t have much else on their minds other than the other dog.
It can be dangerous to separate fighting dogs, so it is important to get educated, practice behavior modification and monitor rough play between multiple dogs.
WHY DOGS FIGHT
Dog fights can happen for a variety of reasons, just like you may fight with a coworker, family member or friend for a variety of reasons.
Sometimes, when there are two or more dogs in the same house, living as family dogs with the same family, things can go wrong. But, that does not mean that two dogs or even more than two dogs cannot live in harmony together.
There are several different situations where dogs who live in the same house may start fighting with each other.
Other times, one dog just simply works better as a single family dog, however most dogs tend to enjoy having companions to spend their lives with.
The best way to set up a multiple dog household is to make sure that before you get a new dog, you trust the dogs that currently live in your home. Getting new dogs involved while you have a current outstanding more aggressive dog is never a good idea and can lead to dogs fighting.
MANAGING A YOUNGER DOG WHO IS ANNOYING AN OLDER DOG
If you have an older dog and you want to bring home a puppy- rest assured it can still happen!
Puppies can be extremely annoying to older dogs. Not all dogs like puppy energy, puppy play or want to share their toys and resources with a new puppy.
The best way to manage a younger dog who is annoying an older dog is to provide breaks to each dog individually so that your dog does not begin to resent the puppy.
USING A CRATE
Using a crate for both dogs (or at minimum the young dog) will help keep the dogs separated and provide a break for your current dog to relax and get some much needed puppy-free time.
Many dogs will begin to resent a new dog coming in to their house if they suddenly do not get any alone time with their owner. Household dogs should be treated as individuals and given separate time to walk with you, as their owner.
SEPARATE ROOMS
Providing separate rooms for household dogs can allow both dogs to continue to grow in confidence. Separate the dogs BEFORE they begin showing signs of anxiety. A confident dog is one who can remain separated from the other dog without showing separation anxiety.
Plus, when you separate the dogs you not only provide each of them a break, but can ultimately create a more confident dog.
WHY DO MY DOGS KEEP FIGHTING
If you are continuing to have fighting dogs in your household, you need to be more vigilant to separate the dogs, be proactive in dog training, and work with a veterinary behaviorist.
MEALTIMES
Always separate dogs during mealtimes. Family dogs may get along all the time, but can develop food aggression if they eat their meals, bones, treats or snacks around the other dogs in the house.
Perhaps you should separate the dogs proactively for all of their mealtimes.
FIGHTING DOGS NEED DOG TRAINING
If you are experiencing your dogs fighting often, please seek a certified professional dog trainer. Practice obedience training, keep your dogs leashed and safe!
Avoid the ‘pack leader’ training method, as usually a dog who is already demonstrating the ability to fight has underlying anxiety.
A great place to start is with an animal behaviorist who can help you to determine if your dogs are capable of living in the same household and if you will be able to help your dogs coexist.
CAN MY DOGS LIVE TOGETHER AFTER FIGHTING?
Family dogs who have fought usually can continue to live in the same house- but it will take time, training, and vigilance on your part.
If you have one dog who regularly is the more aggressive dog, consider whether they are happy living in a multi dog home. Dogs fight because they are trying to communicate their feelings.
Aggressive dogs are not the only dogs who get into dog fights.
IS IT NORMAL FOR TWO DOGS TO LIVE TOGETHER TO FIGHT?
Sometimes, dogs fight! Just because dogs fight does not mean you have an aggressive dog.
Inter-dog aggression is different from fighting and occurs when a dog is selectively aggressive to other dogs and not people.
If you have a dog who is growling, snapping, demonstrating aggressive behavior, or biting other dogs- seek professional help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist.
Dogs who are fighting should not be left unsupervised and should always be monitored or separated.
If you have an older dog or multiple dogs of the same sex, take extra precautions to prevent your dogs from beginning to fight in the first place. It is very difficult to separate fighting dogs and the best way to stop a fight is to prevent your dog from starting one in the first place!
HOW DO I STOP MY DOG ATTACKING OTHER DOGS OUTSIDE OF THE HOUSE
Sometimes, a dog can develop aggression to other things outside of the house.
Common reasons that dogs fight outside of the house might include:
SOCIALIZATION SKILLS LACK IN THE DOG
Lack of socialization: Dogs who do not have regular opportunities to meet other dogs and people can be more prone to fighting. Be sure to socialize your dog early and often!
THE DOG IS ANXIOUS
Anxiety: Dogs who are anxious or fearful can be more likely to lash out and fight. Be sure to consult with a certified dog behaviorist to help your dog overcome their anxiety. Demonstrate calm behavior to the dog, avoid stressful places like the dog park, and help build confidence with the dog by doing socializing activities. A stressed dog is not a happy dog!
Territorial aggression: Dogs who are territorial can be more likely to fight with other dogs who they perceive as a threat to their territory. Be sure to keep your dog leashed and under control when outside to prevent them from fighting.
POSSESSIVE AGGRESSION
Possessive aggression: Dogs who are possessive of their food, toys, or people can be more likely to fight with another dog. Be sure to keep your dog’s food and toys away from other dogs and only give them to your dog when they are calm and relaxed.
If your dog is attacking other dogs outside of the house, please seek professional help from a certified dog trainer or
HOW TO BREAK UP A DOG FIGHT
Breaking up a dog fight is dangerous. It really can cause a lot of harm when humans intervene in the midst of one dog attaching another dog. Additionally, often times a dog fight might appear dangerous, but really will not end up in any serious injury.
If you must break up a dog fight, here are some tips:
DO NOT use your hands or feet to break up the fight. You can get seriously injured.
DO use a loud, high-pitched noise to startle the dogs and interrupt the fight.
DO use water (hose, faucet, etc) to break up one dog from attacking the other dog.
DO use a physical object to block the dogs from each other or to separate them.
DO NOT throw things at the dogs, as this can further agitate one dog into further attacking the other dog.
After the fight has been broken up, take the dogs to separate areas to calm down.
If the dogs have any injuries at all, they should be taken to the vet immediately, as a dog bite has major bacteria in them. If you, the human, has a bite / wound mark, you should seek a doctor as well as you can get infected quickly from dog bacteria getting into your open wound.
DOGS ARE COMPLICATED
Dogs are complicated. Female dogs are complicated! Male dogs are complicated! All dogs are complex beings with their own emotions, needs, and wants.
Dogs fight for a variety of reasons. Dog fights can be nerve wracking and scary.
But, dogs learn quickly and with proper guidance from their owner, socialization and training skills, confidence building, and a little bit of time…a dog can overcome their fears, anxieties, and aggressions.
If you’re the owner of a Great Dane or another giant breed dog, you may be wondering if neutering will get them to chill out. Does neutering calm a dog down? W
You’ll be surprised to learn that there are many other factors at play, and when it comes to neutering your Great Dane there is a lot to consider. We will dive into this today and give you some well-researched and much-needed advice!
Intact Dog Behavior
There are many behaviors exhibited by male dogs, and in some cases, it does not matter if they are intact or not. This will provide clues to whether or not neutering is right for your dog and if it might calm them down.
I’m going to outline each situation below!
Marking Territory
Many dogs mark their territory, including females! Entire male dogs tend to do this more frequently, but it is a behavior that can be seen in both sexes.
Males will also urine-mark when they are feeling anxious or stressed.
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This is their way of trying to feel more secure in their environment.
Neutering does not necessarily change this behavior, unfortunately, as for many dogs, it’s just part of their habits and routines.
If you are having problems with your dog marking territory indoors, there are products such as belly bands that, when paired with diligent supervision and training can help with this issue.
Humping is often seen as sexual behavior or dominance, but it’s actually more of an insecurity thing.
As a matter of fact, the relationship between “humping” and “dominance” is one of the most common myths in the world of dogs!
Dogs will hump other dogs, people, inanimate objects…anything and it’s not always related to sex, hormones, or dominance.
They do this to release stress, often caused by over-excitement, nervousness, or having a too-full bucket.
This means that your dog may be experiencing a form of anxiety brought on by over-stimulation, and humping provides a natural stress release. They learn pretty quickly that it feels good and helps them release tension, which makes this a self-rewarding behavior that is hard to eliminate.
Insecure dogs tend to exhibit this behavior most often. Puppies are no exception! They may be overwhelmed by the environment.
Depending on the cause, neutering your dog may reduce the frequency with which they hump, but for many dogs, it’s not a quick fix. Many pet owners are shocked when their neutered dog still humps.
The underlying cause of the behavior must be addressed first if you want your pet to stop humping. Unfortunately, sex drive and hormones have surprisingly little to do with humping.
Helping your dog build self-confidence will be much more effective at changing your dog’s emotional state than surgical castration.
That said, neutering does have benefits and should not be overlooked.
Hormones, including testosterone in male dogs, can absolutely lead to aggression and other undesirable or even dangerous behaviors.
As a matter of fact, same-sex aggression between male dogs, especially intact male dogs, is very common.
Many intact male dogs may be fantastic around dogs and people, but he can smell an intact male a mile away. Their hackles may immediately go up at the perceived threat. The hormones start flowing and they can definitely become protective, or defensive of their space.
Displaying dominant and rude behavior towards other intact male dogs is a common problem associated with delayed neutering! It doesn’t mean that the dog is aggressive, he’s really just hormonal and acting on basic biology.
A lot of times, the reduction in testosterone level following the procedure helps to settle their minds. Neutering is an important step in any behavioral treatment program, especially for dogs who encounter other male dogs often.
Fear Aggression
Many dogs, however, are experiencing fear-based aggression. Some information suggests that hormones can cause dogs to be more timid or fearful than they would be otherwise.
Here are some common examples of this behavior:
Resource guarding (fear of losing something)
Reactivity (fear of being hurt)
Escalated fear-based aggressive reactions caused by triggers such as rude children, punitive training, or abuse
Reactivity is a common form of aggressive behavior that can easily be caused by preventable situations. Reactive dogs are often just having a hard time dealing with something in the environment.
For example, a dog may be reactive because they are on a leash and cannot properly greet dogs and people without feeling trapped. The added pressure on their restraint device (collar, harness, etc.) escalates their feelings of frustration, especially when they are around other dogs that may be showing defensive or aggressive body language.
Some dogs are reactive at the fence line for similar reasons.
That said, it’s important to realize that there are other factors at play when it comes to aggression in dogs. Neutering is not a magic bullet that will make all aggressive behaviors go away.
As a matter of fact, some studies have also shown that neutering may increase fearful and aggressive behavior in dogs with poor temperaments.
We recommend working with a highly qualified canine behaviourist to implement safe management and address your dog’s behavior if you are seeing aggressive tendencies.
Neutering your dog is only one thing to consider.
They will be able to evaluate what role hormones have played in the development of the behavior or aggressive tendencies and will be able to advise on the benefits or drawbacks of neutering.
Testosterone & fear
It’s also important to note that some people cite increased aggression after neutering their dog!
Emerging research indicates that dogs who are neutered prior to maturity (a very common practice) may actually exhibit unwanted aggression towards other dogs or people.
More research is needed, for sure. You should not be alarmed, however. While this type of behavioral change has been documented, it is unlikely that it will happen to your dog.
We do believe, however, that for health reasons related to orthopedic structure and bone growth, large and giant breed dogs should not be neutered until they are 18-24 months of age. (More on this topic below).
The benefits of waiting are currently being studied and the results look promising! Increased self-confidence and less risk of orthopedic disorders are just some of what researchers are learning.
As always, the underlying cause of a dog’s behavior should be of utmost importance; fearful and timid dogs are often that way because of genetics, and no surgical procedure is likely to fix that.
Male Dogs Chasing Female Dogs
Of course, the biggest problem with keeping an intact male dog in your house is mating!
Intact male dogs are often fixated on female dogs in heat. They will hound them relentlessly, trying to get to them in any way they can.
Their hormones will be raging; this behavior is natural biology at its finest. The humane society and other rescue organizations promote spay and neutering as a way to reduce and minimize the impact of accidental pregnancies.
Many rescue organizations offer low-cost spay and neutering programs to the community.
This mating behavior can also, unfortunately, result in broken fences, holes dug under the fence, and even physical injuries if your dog gets into a fight with another dog while he’s trying to mate.
This behavior can also be dangerous for the female dog if your male is not properly trained and supervised around her while mating.
Adolescent dogs who are immature and new to the business of making babies may be needlessly frantic and rough while mating and could hurt the female.
Many owners find it easiest (and safest) to just neuter their dogs to avoid all of these problems.
Not only that, but accidental pregnancies mean puppies. Puppies must be kept together as a litter for eight weeks; this can be time-consuming, exhausting, and expensive.
Pet owners have a responsibility to keep their intact female dogs safe from other male dogs, especially while they are in heat.
Those who own intact male dogs have an even bigger responsibility to ensure that their dog is well trained, not running off, under control, and if necessary, neutered to reduce these unwanted behaviors.
Intact male mating behaviors
If you have an intact male dog who is becoming frantic, you may have a female dog in heat nearby.
Here are some common behaviors that an intact male dog may exhibit when a female dog in heat is nearby:
Drooling
Panting
Pacing
Whining
Barking
Low appetite, including losing weight
Acting ‘out of control’
Jumping fences
Breaking through walls and doors
Escaping their crate
Running away
Even the most well-trained dogs may lose their minds over an intact female!
If you have intact dogs in your home living together, these behaviors are often more pronounced.
Worst case, your dogs could tie and make puppies. It only takes a few seconds of unsupervised access for a tie to happen, and at that point, it will have been too late.
Dogs have been known to tie through fences and diapers, so don’t be complacent!
When a male and a female dog “tie”, they are connected and cannot be separated for a short time, often as long as 30 minutes.
The male’s penis swells inside the female, locking them together.
If this happens, do NOT try and separate them!
Leave them alone and call your veterinarian for advice.
In most cases of accidental mating, the puppies are not coming from exceptional, fully health-tested parents, and the most ethical and responsible thing to do is to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
A routine spay abort may be recommended to eliminate unwanted pregnancies, especially when the health of the female or the puppies is at stake.
The ONLY prevention from accidental puppies is several degrees of separation.
If you have a female in heat who is living in your home with an intact male dog, we highly recommend neutering the male or boarding him until her heat cycle is completely finished.
Accidental pregnancy is often complicated, not to mention unethical in the context of full animal shelters and when compared to truly thoughtful breeding.
Dogs that are neutered tend to be less fixated on females in heat and are less likely to engage in these types of behaviors.
Does Neutering Calm a Dog Down?
In short, neutering can help with certain behaviors but it may not be a cure-all for everything.
It’s important that you understand the pros and cons of neutering before making a decision for your dog.
Neutering can have some health benefits, such as a reduction in the risk of testicular cancer, but it also has some risks.
These must be weighed against the behavior problems that neutering may help to solve, including the risks associated with an accidental pregnancy.
We often see Great Dane owners, desperate for relief from their bouncy, strong 8-month-old male who has suddenly become aggressive or started resource-guarding food.
You may notice a common theme here, though.
While testosterone levels can fuel these behaviors, the root cause often lies in genetics and training.
Depending on the individual dog, neutering may or may not help calm them down at all. Many times, a highly qualified canine behaviourist is needed.
How to calm a dog down
Here are some more effective ways to calm your crazy dog down, whether they are neutered or not!
Many dogs with crazy behavior are actually just bored or not well trained! If you want to help your dog calm down, encourage calm behavior with positive reinforcement, daily training, and a lot more enrichment.
The Benefits of Neutering
One of the major benefits of neutering is that it completely eliminates the chance of accidental pregnancy.
Dogs that have been neutered are much less likely to be driven by hormones, and as a result, will not freak out or attempt to get to intact or newly spayed females.
Male dogs that are neutered tend to be less aggressive and more relaxed overall, especially when their behaviors have been fueled by a combination of genetics and testosterone.
Neutering can also help with certain types of behavior problems, including roaming, urine marking, and humping. However, as above, the root cause of a dog’s behaviour must be addressed first.
Health Risks in Neutered Dogs
Many studies are showing the benefits associated with keeping male dogs intact, especially if they are large or giant breed.
This is where the behaviour, hormones, neuter, and common myths discussions become even more complicated.
Neutered dogs have:
Increased risk of osteosarcoma bone cancer (when neutered before 1 year of age)
There are valid and researched reasons for responsible dog owners to keep well-tempered male dogs intact.
What is the Best Age to Neuter a Dog?
This one is actually a hot-topic debate.
Veterinarians will offer differing opinions and advice on this one, and sometimes it depends on the owner too!
Responsible owners can safely keep a well-bred and well-mannered dog intact through maturity or beyond.
Many owners, however, cannot.
You can take a quick walk around any municipal animal shelter and see the results of these failures.
For this reason, many veterinarians recommend neutering at or before 4-6 months. They will draw a hard line in the sand and may not even see pets who are still intact.
Other veterinarians will take a different approach and welcome responsible dog owners who wish to delay spaying and neutering.
Talk to your veterinarian. The important truth here is that NO veterinarian, even those who support delayed spay and neuter programs, will be supportive if you are not a dedicated and responsible dog owner.
Responsible dog owners:
Train their dogs well
Socialize their dogs well
Keep their dogs in excellent condition (including teeth and nails)
Don’t allow their dog to become overweight
Seek regular veterinary care, including yearly well-visits
Keep their dog’s vaccines up to date
Use flea, tick, and heartworm prevention as advised
Don’t breed dogs that aren’t fully health tested and proven as excellent examples of their breed
Research in neutering
Emerging research indicates that male dogs in particular should remain intact until maturity. For large and giant breed dogs, this can mean 18-24 months of age or later!
It is believed that keeping male dogs intact through puberty can help reduce the risk of:
Hip dysplasia
Arthritis
ACL/CCL tears
Poor overall substance
Timid and fearful behavior
More research is definitely needed here, but there is a lot to be said for keeping testosterone levels intact while large and giant breed dogs are still maturing.
The Neutering Procedure
You may be curious about what to expect, so I’ve outlined some common Q&A about neutering your dog below!
Pre-Op Bloodwork and Wellness Check
Before scheduling your dog for a neutering procedure, your veterinarian should perform a physical exam and pre-op bloodwork.
This is to make sure your dog is healthy enough for anesthesia and surgery.
Dogs who have a heart murmur or heart disease, who are obese, or who have a genetic link to blood clotting disorders, DCM, wobblers, bloat, or other health problems will have an increased risk of complications during surgery.
Dogs that have been eating a grain-free, home-cooked, or boutique diet should also have an echocardiogram prior to surgery, as unbalanced nutrition can lead to deadly heart problems which can complicate surgery.
Neutering is a quick and relatively simple procedure.
Your dog will be given a general anesthetic and often a local one as well.
The testicles are removed through a small incision in the scrotum. The sack will be left; it will eventually shrivel up, however, this process may take weeks or months.
The incision is then stitched closed. Neutering takes about 15-20 minutes and most dogs wake up quickly after surgery.
Scrotal ablation
Sometimes your veterinarian may recommend scrotal ablation, in addition to neutering.
This is a procedure where both the testicles and the sack are removed.
This is a much more invasive surgery, however, aesthetically it may be preferable if you have a large or giant breed dog who has reached or passed maturity.
What to expect after neutering
Your veterinarian will send you home with pain medication and antibiotics. Your dog will likely be coming home the same day as the procedure and will be loopy, tired, and possibly disoriented.
The incision site should be checked daily for any signs of infection, swelling, or excessive redness.
Most dogs feel a little groggy after surgery but are back to their normal selves within a day or two.
Some may experience mild nausea and will not have much of an appetite. This is NORMAL and should not be cause for alarm unless it persists for more than a day or two.
If your dog is acting lethargic, has a fever, or is vomiting excessively, please call your veterinarian!
If proper pain medication has not been administered, your dog may also show signs of pain including whining, restlessness, and drooling.
If this is the case, please call your vet!
You should also keep your dog calm and quiet for at least two weeks after surgery to allow the incision to heal properly. This means no running, jumping, or playing off-leash.
You must find some way to keep them occupied so they don’t get bored! This can be a difficult task, but it is crucial to their recovery.
CBD and other ‘holistic’ home remedies are NOT enough medication for humane surgical recovery.
It is important that your dog is truly pain-free.
We encourage you to follow your veterinarian’s advice for prescription pain relief and antibiotics, which have been proven safe and effective.
Common medications that are prescribed after neutering may include:
-Tramadol
-Gabapentin
-Rimadyl
-Metacam (Meloxicam)
Excess fluid following neutering
Large or giant breed dogs, especially those who are allowed to move and play too much following surgery may develop fluid that will build up in the newly emptied testicular sack.
This alarming and often painful condition can lead to infection and may require veterinary treatment. If you notice that the scrotum is becoming enlarged, red, or angry, please call your veterinarian!
Neutering healing time
Your dog should have absolutely no access to the surgical site, as licking can cause infections and delayed healing.
The incision should be fully healed within two weeks. Your veterinarian will advise you on when your dog can return to normal activity.
In general, small breed dogs recover quickly while large and giant breed dogs may take a little longer. In most cases, you can expect to resume normal activity within a month.
You should continue to monitor the incision site for any signs of infection or irritation. If you have any concerns, please call your veterinarian!
How to care for a dog after neutering
We highly recommend a surgical suit, which will be more comfortable for your dog and can help prevent them from licking the incision.
Other options include blow-up e-collars, which can be a little more cumbersome, or t-shirts (upside down so they can’t pull it over their head).
Whatever you choose, make sure your dog cannot get to the incision site!
Your dog may need to wear the surgical suit or cone for two weeks or until the sutures have dissolved and the skin is healed. Some dogs will require the use of both a surgical suit AND a cone!
If your dog is particularly insistent on licking the incision, talk do your veterinarian about sedatives.
Potential risks of neutering
All surgeries come with potential risks, which is why it’s so important to have a pre-surgical examination and echocardiogram prior to surgery.
The most common complications from neutering include:
– Bleeding
– Infection
– Swelling
– Pain
– Allergic reaction to the anesthesia or post-op pain medications
-Death from anesthesia-related complications
Fortunately, neutering is a very common procedure with a high success rate. A neutered animal is less likely to suffer from testicular cancer and much less likely to run away. The benefits of neutering should not be overlooked!
With proper care and monitoring, your pet dog will recover quickly and be back to its normal self in no time.
How much does Neutering Cost?
The cost of spaying and neutering will vary depending on your veterinarian, the size of your dog, and where you live.
In general, small dogs will cost between $200-$400 while large dogs will cost between $400-$600. Giant breed dogs may cost upwards of $1000. This may or may not include additional expenses such as a surgical suit, pre-op blood work, echocardiogram, or pain medications and antibiotics.
We understand that the cost of neutering may be prohibitive, so there are resources out there for people who cannot afford these costs.
You can check with your local humane society, SPCA, or animal rescue organizations to see if they offer any low-cost spay and neuter options.
Spaying or neutering is one of the most important steps any of us can take towards combatting the world’s huge problem with unwanted, poorly bred pets clogging the rescue system.
Not only does spaying and neutering help reduce the number of unwanted animals, it has health benefits for your pet!
Do dogs get lonely? Dog owners have long suspected that their furry friends get lonely for a variety of different reasons.
Some dog owners report lonely dogs when they have to leave their dogs home alone for too long, their dog is the only dog in the household, or their dog isn’t getting enough mental stimulation. Other dog owners report that their dogs are always happy and don’t seem to get lonely no matter what.
So which is it? Do dogs really get lonely or not?
The answer, like with most things related to canine behavior, is complicated, but definitely not impossible.
DO DOGS GET LONELY?
Feeling lonely is a normal feeling that most dogs will experience during their lifetime.
Since dogs evolved from wolves which are pack animals, they are social animals that require regular interaction with other dogs and humans.
Without this social interaction, dogs can start to feel lonely, which can lead to a wide range of behavioral problems such as:
Being a dog owner is one of the most rewarding things you can do. You have a furry friend that is always happy to see you, whether you’ve been gone for two minutes or two weeks. But sometimes, even the most well-meaning dog owners can inadvertently make their dogs feel lonely. Here are six common reasons for lonely dogs, along with some tips on how to avoid them.
SEPARATION ANXIETY
One of the most common reasons for a lonely dog is separation anxiety. This happens when your dog becomes anxious or stressed when you leave them alone. The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to ease your dog’s separation anxiety, including providing them with a cozy bed to sleep in, leaving them with a favorite toy, and establishing a daily routine.
Another common reason for a lonely dog is not being around other animals. If your dog is the only pet in the house, they may feel isolated and bored when they’re left alone. To avoid this, try taking your dog to a local park or animal cafe where they can socialize with other furry friends.
It’s no secret that dogs are social creatures. They thrive on human interaction and need plenty of it to be happy and healthy. If you work long hours or travel frequently, your dog may feel neglected and become lonely as a result. To prevent this, try setting aside time each day to play with your pup or take them on a long walk. Even if it’s just 10 minutes, your dog will appreciate the quality time spent together.
BEING THE ONLY DOG
As we mentioned before, dogs are social creatures and need regular interaction with other dogs to stay happy and healthy. If you only have one dog in the house, they may start feeling bored and lonely after awhile. To avoid this, consider taking your dog to a local puppy play group or doggie daycare center or getting pet care where your dog can interact with other dogs and form outside pack members. where they can interact with other pups their own age.
NOT GETTING ANY MENTAL OR PHYSICAL STIMULATION
Just like humans, dogs need both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and balanced. If your dog isn’t getting enough exercise or isn’t being challenged mentally, they may start feeling restless and bored. To avoid this, make sure you’re taking your dog on regular walks/runs and incorporating some type of mental stimulation into their daily routine (e.g., puzzle toys filled with treats).
Dogs are social creatures that need plenty of human interaction to stay happy and healthy. If you think your dog may be feeling lonely, there are a number of things you can do to ease their loneliness, including providing them with a cozy bed to sleep in, taking them to a local park or animal cafe where they can socialize with other furry friends, and setting aside time each day to play with your pup or take them on a long walk.
Just like humans, dogs are social creatures that need companionship from their dog parents or other pets. If you have a busy schedule or travel often, your dog may start to feel lonely. Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate your dog is feeling lonely.
POTTY ACCIDENTS
One sign that your dog may be feeling lonely is if they start having potty accidents in the house even though they are fully house trained. This is usually a sign that they are not getting enough attention and are trying to get your attention by being naughty. If you notice this behavior, try to make more time for your dog or consider hiring a dog walker to help them get the exercise and companionship they need.
Another sign that your dog may be feeling lonely is destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or barking excessively. This is usually a sign that they are bored and are looking for something to do. If you notice this behavior, try to make more time for your dog or consider enrolling them in a dog daycare where they can socialize with other dogs.
DEPRESSIVE BEHAVIORS
Another sign that your dog may be feeling lonely is if they become withdrawn and stop participating in activities they once enjoyed. This is usually a sign that they are depressed and need more companionship. If you notice this behavior with your dog, try to make more time for your dog or consider hiring a dog walker to help them get the exercise and companionship they need.
SEVERE SEPARATION ANXIETY
Another sign that your dog may be feeling lonely is if they experience severe separation anxiety when you leave them alone. This is usually a sign that they are very attached to you and become anxious when you’re not around. If you notice this behavior, try to make more time for your dog or consider enrolling them in a dog daycare where they can socialize with other dogs.
BARKING EXCESSIVELY
Another sign that your dog may be feeling lonely is if they start barking excessively when you’re not home. This is usually a sign that they’re bored and are looking for something to do. If you notice this behavior, try to make more time for your dog or consider enrolling them in a dog daycare where they can socialize with other dogs.
If you notice any of these behaviors in your dog, it may be a sign that they are feeling lonely. Try to make more time for your pet or consider hiring a professional dog walker to help them get the exercise and companionship they need.
HOW DO YOU HELP A LONELY DOG?
Dogs are social animals that need companionship, but sometimes their owners can’t provide the constant company that they crave. If your dog is feeling lonely, there are a number of things you can do to help ease their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable.
BRAIN WORK AND MENTAL STIMULATION
One way to help a lonely dog is to keep them occupied with brain work. This could involve teaching them tricks, playing interactive games, or even just giving them a puzzle toy to figure out. Something as simple as a Kong toy filled with peanut butter can keep a dog entertained for hours.
DOGS REQUIRE EXERCISE: A TIRED DOG WILL HAVE LESS DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOUR
Another way to help a lonely dog is to make sure they get plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a happy dog, and a tired dog is also less likely to be anxious and destructive. If your dog has pent-up energy, they may start chewing on furniture or barking excessively. Getting them out for a walk or run will help burn off some of that energy and hopefully make them more calm and relaxed when they’re home alone.
HIRE AN ANIMAL BEHAVIORIST WHO HELPS DOGS WITH ANXIETY
If your dog’s loneliness is severe, you may want to consider getting a dog trainer to help them with anxiety. A trained professional will be able to assess your dog’s needs and come up with a tailored plan to help them feel more comfortable when they’re by themselves.
KENNEL TRAINING IS A TOOL TO HELP DOGS COMPLEX EMOTIONS
Crate training can also be helpful for dogs who get anxious when left alone. Having a safe space that they can retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed can make all the difference in the world. Just make sure that you only use the crate as a positive space – never punish your dog by putting them in there.
There are a number of things you can do to help ease your lonely dog’s anxiety. From keeping them occupied with brain work to getting them out for exercise, there are plenty of options available. If your dog’s loneliness is severe, you may want to consider getting help from a professional trainer or crate training. Spending time with other dogs can also be beneficial. By taking some extra steps, you can help make your lonely dog feel comfortable and loved.
For dog lovers, it’s hard to imagine life without a furry friend by their side. But not every pet will have another dog in the home. Here’s everything you need to know about living happily with just one dog.
NOT EVERY PET WILL HAVE ANOTHER DOG IN THE HOME
There are a number of reasons why some dog owners choose to only have one pet. Maybe they live in a small apartment and can’t have more than one dog. Or maybe they already have their hands full with one pooch and don’t think they could handle more. Whatever the reason, there’s nothing wrong with only having one dog.
YOUR DOG CAN FORM AN EXTENDED PACK WITH ANOTHER DOG OUTSIDE THE HOME
Just because a dog doesn’t have another canine friend in the house doesn’t mean she can’t socialize with other dogs. If you only have one dog, make sure to take her to the dog park or on group walks so she can interact with other pups. Many dog owners find that their dogs actually prefer spending time with humans over other dogs anyway. So if you’re the only person in your home, your pup will likely be just as happy snuggling up with you on the couch as she would be playing with another doggy friend.
SOME DOGS DON’T ACTUALLY WANT ANOTHER DOG IN THE HOME
Contrary to popular belief, many dogs don’t actually want another canine companion in the family. In fact, some dogs may even get jealous or anxious when a new puppy comes into the home. If you’re considering getting another dog, make sure to do your research first to see if it’s truly what’s best for your pup.
GETTING ANOTHER DOG IS NOT ALWAYS THE SOLUTION IF YOUR DOG IS LONELY
If your dog is feeling lonely, getting another pup is not always the solution. Dogs are individuals with their own personalities, just like humans, and some may do better as an only child while others enjoy being part of a pack. If your dog is feeling isolated, try giving her more attention and walks throughout the day rather than adding another pet to the family.
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding how many dogs to have in the family. It ultimately comes down to what works best for you and your pup (or pups). If you only have one dog, make sure she still has opportunities to socialize with other animals and humans so she doesn’t feel isolated. And if you’re thinking about getting another dog, be sure to do your research first to ensure it’s truly what’s best for everyone involved.
DO DOGS FEEL LONELINESS WHEN THEIR PET OWNERS ARE GONE, AND WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT?
We all know what it feels like to be lonely. That feeling of being isolated, unknown, and worthless. It can be hard to cope with those emotions as humans, so just imagine how tough it must be for dogs who cannot tell us that they’re feeling that way. As pet parents, it’s our responsibility to make sure our furry friends are never feeling lonely. But how can you tell if your dog is suffering from loneliness? And what can you do about it?
IF YOU ARE SEEING DOG LONELINESS, CONSIDER METHODS OF HELPING THEM COPE
If your dog is having a hard time adjusting to their new home, the first thing you should do is consult with your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist. They will be able to help you create a plan specifically for your dog that will help reduce their anxiety and loneliness. At-home remedies such as pheromone diffusers, Thundershirts, or even something as simple as playing soft music while you’re gone can also help soothe your dog’s emotions.
PET SITTERS, DOG WALKERS, AND HIRING A DOG TRAINER
Another solution to help alleviate your dog’s loneliness is hiring a professional dog walker or pet sitter. This way, your dog will have somebody to spend time with during the day while you’re at work or running errands. If you choose to go this route, make sure you take the time to interview several different companies or individuals before making your decision. You want to make sure whoever you hire is qualified and capable of providing the best possible care for your four-legged friend.
GETTING A SECOND DOG COULD WORK, BUT IT MAY NOT BE THE ANSWER
Depending on your work schedule or lifestyle, another option could be getting a second dog. This way, your dogs will always have each other for company when you’re not around. However, this solution isn’t right for every pet parent or every dog out there. Some people simply don’t have the time or energy to properly care for two dogs and sometimes two dogs just don’t get along regardless of how much time you spend training them to do so. If you do decide that getting a second dog is right for you and your furry friend, welcome them into the family with open arms! They’ll need all the love they can get during this big transition in their lives too!
Loneliness is a tough emotion for anyone—human or canine—to deal with on their own. As pet parents, it’s our responsibility to make sure our furry friends are never feeling lonely by being present when we’re with them and considering professional help when we’re not able to be there ourselves. Dogs are social creatures by nature so spending quality time with them should always be one of our top priorities!
If you’re a dog owner, you know that your furry friend needs exercise, a healthy diet, and plenty of love and attention. But did you know that enrichment is also an important part of keeping your dog happy and healthy? In this blog post, we’ll discuss what dog enrichment is, why it’s important, and some easy ways to enrich your dog’s life.
WHAT IS ENRICHMENT FOR DOGS?
Dog enrichment is anything that stimulates your dog’s mind or body in a positive way. Just like people, dogs need stimulation and variety in their lives to stay happy and healthy. Enrichment activities can include things like training, feeding puzzles, chew toys, interactive toys, scent work, and more.
WHY IS ENRICHMENT AND MENTAL STIMULATION SO IMPORTANT?
Enrichment is important for dogs because it prevents boredom, provides mental stimulation, strengthens the bond between you and your dog, and can help with problem behaviors. Dogs that are bored often turn to destructive behaviors like chewing furniture or digging holes in the yard. Providing enrichment activities can help keep your dog’s mind active and prevent these kinds of problem behaviors from developing.
Enrichment activities also provide an opportunity for you to bond with your dog. Training sessions are a great way to have quality time together while also teaching your dog useful skills. Feeding puzzles are another great way to bond with your dog while providing them with mental stimulation – plus, they’re a lot of fun!
EASY WAYS TO PROVIDE CANINE ENRICHMENT
There are lots of easy ways to add enrichment activities into your dog’s life. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few ideas:
Take your dog for a walk in a new place – different sights and smells will stimulate their senses and make for an exciting adventure!
Buy or make a simple puzzle toy – there are tons of great options available online or at your local pet store. You can also easily make your own puzzle toy by putting some kibble or treats inside an empty water bottle or cardboard box.
Sign up for a training class – training classes are a great way to bond with your dog while teaching them useful skills. Check out your local humane society or animal shelter for affordable class options in your area.
Make homemade frozen treats – fill an ice cube tray with chicken broth or peanut butter mixed with some of your dog’s favorite kibbles for a simple and delicious treat that will keep them cool on hot summer days.
Enrichment activities are an important part of keeping your dog happy and healthy. By providing enrichment activities for your dog, you can prevent boredom and destructive behavior, strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend, and give them the mental stimulation they need to thrive.
There are lots of easy ways to add enrichment into your dog’s life – take them for walks in new places, buy or make puzzle toys, sign up for training classes, play fetch, or make homemade frozen treats. By including enrichment activities in your dog’s life, you’ll be giving them the best possible chance to live a happy and healthy life!
DOG ENRICHMENT TOYS
Dogs need both physical and mental exercise in order to stay happy and healthy. Canine friends are known for demonstrating destructive behavior if they are not provided with some way of staying mentally stimulated.
Using dog enrichment toys can be a fantastic way for dog owners to provide their furry friend with the stimulation they need in a fun and engaging way.
An example of one is this ball, below, which allows dogs to work for the treats they are given.
Dog enrichment toys come in all shapes and sizes, from simple chew toys to more complex puzzle feeders. Choosing the right toy for your dog will depend on their individual personality and preferences.
Let’s talk about some of our favorite dog enrichment toys.
THE KONG CLASSIC DOG TOY
The Kong Classic Dog Toy is one of the most popular dog enrichment toys on the market. The Kong is a rubber toy that can be filled with treats or kibble, making it a great option for both mental and physical stimulation. Kongs come in different sizes to accommodate all different dogs, and they can even be frozen for an extra challenge.
The Nina Ottosson Puzzle Feeder is a great option for dogs who need a mental challenge. This toy requires your dog to use their nose and paws to figure out how to get to the treats inside. The Puzzle Feeder can be adjusted to different levels of difficulty, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced puzzlers. Dog food puzzles provide mental enrichment which keep your dog mentally stimulated, while also allow adult dogs (and puppies) caloric intake to remain monitored!
THE CHUCKIT BALL LAUNCHER
The Chuckit! Ball Launcher is perfect for active dogs who live for a good game of fetch. The Chuckit! Ball Launcher makes it easy to throw the ball farther and faster, giving your dog an extra workout. This toy is also great for owners who have limited mobility, as it eliminates the need to bend over to pick up the ball.
SNUFFLE MATS
Snuffle mats are a great way to give your dog’s nose a workout. Snuffle mats are made from fabric and filled with treats or kibble, which encourages your dog to use their sense of smell to find the food. Snuffle mats can be used indoors or outdoors, making them a versatile option for all kinds of dogs.
Flirt Poles are a great way to get your dog moving. This toy consists of a pole with a rope attached, which you can use to tease your dog and encourage them to chase. Flirt Poles are perfect for dogs who need an extra burst of energy, and they can be used both indoors and outdoors. If you have an active dog, investing in a flirt pole is something that will lower unwanted behaviors and let your dog get their physical enrichment as well as their mental enrichment.
HOMEMADE ENRICHMENT TO KEEP YOUR DOG ENTERTAINED
You don’t have to spend a ton of money on puzzle toys and enrichment games to keep your dog busy.
There are an abundance of ways that you can create your own enrichment games at home.
DIY toys are becoming more popular for social enrichment, cognitive enrichment and physical enrichment.
CREATE YOUR OWN FLIRT POLE
A flirt pole is a great way to get your dog moving and can be easily made at home with a few supplies.
You will need:
A PVC pipe (1/2 inch in diameter and 3-4 feet long)
A rope (approximately 6 feet long)
A knotted rag or toy
To make your flirt pole, simply tie one end of the rope to the PVC pipe and the other end to the knotted rag or toy. You can then use the pole to tease your dog and encourage them to chase. This is a great way to tire out even the most active dog and let your dog live happily doing things that attract their natural instincts!
TOILET PAPER ROLLS
Dog owners can provide enrichment with something as easy as old toilet paper rolls.
Toilet paper rolls can be filled with treats or kibble and then sealed shut with duct tape. Your dog will then need to use their nose to figure out how to get the food out of theroll. This is a great way to keep your dog’s mind challenged and active.
PLASTIC WATER BOTTLES
Another easy way to create enrichment for your dog is to stuff a small treat inside a plastic water bottle and seal it shut. Your dog will then need to figure out how to get the treat out of the bottle. This is a great way to keep your dog’s mind challenged and active.
HOMEMADE TREAT BALL
A homemade treat ball is a great way to provide both mental and physical enrichment for your dog.
To make a treat ball, simply take a small rubber ball (such as a tennis ball) and cut a small hole in it. Stuff the ball with treats or kibble, and then seal the hole with duct tape. Your dog will then need to figure out how to get the treats out of the ball by rolling it around. This is a great way to keep your dog’s mind challenged and active.
HOMEMADE PUZZLE TOY
A homemade puzzle toy is a great way to provide mental enrichment for your dog.
To make a puzzle toy, simply take an empty tissue box and fill it with treats or kibble. Your dog will then need to figure out how to get the treats out of the box by using their nose or paw. This is a great way to keep your dog’s mind challenged and active.
CARDBOARD BOXES
You don’t have to be a professional dog trainer to get a tired dog with household items like cardboard boxes!
Enrichment games can be easy and cheap.
Using old cardboard boxes, you can create a variety of enrichment games for your dog.
Some examples include:
Tunnel: Create a tunnel by joining two cardboard boxes together with duct tape. Your dog can then crawl through the tunnel to get to the other side.
Hide and Seek: Place your dog in another room while you hide food or treats inside a cardboard box. Your dog will then need to use their nose to find the treat. Hiding treats will keep your dog excited and break up your dog’s routine.
Obstacle Course: Create an obstacle course by placing cardboard boxes in different shapes and sizes around your home. Your dog will then need to navigate their way through the obstacle course. This is a great way to tire out even the most active dog!
MUFFIN TIN PUZZLE
Your dog’s mind will absolutely love trick training with a basic kitchen muffin tin.
Here’s how it works: place a treat in each muffin section and then cover the treats with tennis balls. Once your dog figures out that there is food under the tennis balls, they will need to use their nose or paw to remove the ball and get to the treat.
Using the muffin tin somewhat like a snuffle mat, this activity works like similar scent games or enrichment toys to help your dog sniff out the treats or food. Most dogs love to search for the hidden treats, and will feel exhausted and satisfied after this canine enrichment!
This is a great way to keep your dog’s mind challenged and active.
DOGGY ICE CUBES
Doggy ice cubes are a great way to keep your dog cool in the summer months.
To make doggy ice cubes, simply fill an ice cube tray with water and add a small toy or treat to each compartment. Freeze the tray overnight and then give your dog one of the frozen cubes. Your dog will then need to lick the frozen ice cubes until they can get the treat out.
Chippin’ has some treats that are high in protein and great for games.
Chippin’ Cricket Treats are known for being a powerful food topper for digestion- and dogs LOVE them!
PAPER TOWEL ROLLS
Canine enrichment CAN take place with a dog toy or physical exercise, but it also can be as simple as using something like paper towel rolls. If your dog loves dog toys that roll around and make noise, this is a great activity for them!
To make paper towel rolls, simply take an empty paper towel roll and stuff it with treats or kibble. Your dog will then need to figure out how to get the treats out of the roll by using their nose or paw. This is a great way to keep your dog’s mind challenged and active.
USING YOUR DOG’S FAVORITE TREATS FOR MENTAL EXERCISE
Make sure when you are substituting a dog toy for diy dog enrichment toys, you hide treats that your dog really loves.
Make sure that your dog likes the treats or food that you stuff in the toy. Try different kinds of foods to see what your dog is motivated by.
You may be surprised at how much your dog will love a simple game of hide and seek with their favorite treats!
Ensuring that you are using something that your dog really enjoys will help increase the canine enrichment and keep the dog fully engaged.
YOUNG PUPPIES AND KEEPING YOUR DOG BUSY
Young puppies love physical exercise and canine enrichment!
There are an abundance of dog toys that are perfect for puppies including a snuffle mat, frozen toys, or chew toys.
Being intentional about keeping your dog engaged while they are young might even help to keep them out of trouble as dogs LOVE to keep busy and work hard.
Dog toys are not all suitable for a puppy. A dog starts off learning everything they need to know about life, and that includes learning how to bite and chew.
Puppies love to explore the world with their mouths, and they will mouth anything they can get their teeth on including your fingers, toes, clothing, and basically anything else they can find.
That’s why it’s so important to choose the right kinds of puppy toys that will not only be safe for them to mouth and chew, but also provide enrichment and keep them mentally challenged.
Here are a few great puppy toy ideas:
Chew toys: this could be anything from a Kong toy to a Nylabone to a rope toy. Just make sure it’s specifically designed for puppies and made of safe materials.
Snuffle mat: a snuffle mat is a great way to keep your puppy’s mind challenged while they search for treats.
Frozen toys: freezing a toy or treat is a great way to keep your puppy entertained and cool in the summer months.
Puppies need both physical and mental stimulation, so choose dog toys that will provide both. Canine enrichment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, it just needs to be tailored to your individual dog.
SPENDING JUST A FEW MINUTES INVESTING IN YOUR DOG’S BRAIN
Canine enrichment activities can span anywhere from doing some training with toilet paper tubes and scent work, to dog sports to physical activity.
Here are a few simple ways to provide mental stimulation for your dog:
Take them for walks in new places – different sights and smells will stimulate their senses and make for an exciting adventure!
Buy or make a simple puzzle toy – there are tons of great options available online or at your local pet store. You
DOG ENRICHMENT CLASSES
There are many different types of dog enrichment classes available, from obedience training to agility courses. Enrolling your dog in a class is a great way to provide them with mental stimulation, while also strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend.
Dog enrichment classes provide an opportunity for your dog to socialize with other dogs, learn new skills, and burn off some energy all at the same time.
DOGS LOVE TO USE THEIR BRAINS
Most dogs love physical activity, but it is true that dogs also love to use their brains. If your dog enjoys environmental enrichment, they will probably love a good engagement activity as well.
Enrichment activities for dogs can be as simple or complex as you want them to be. If you’re looking for something simple, start with some basic obedience training or a game of hide and seek. If you’re looking for something more challenging, try enrolling your dog in an agility course or a nose work class.
You don’t have to spend a ton of money or time on enrichment activities for your dog – the most important thing is that you are spending quality time with your furry friend.
What kinds of canine enrichment activities does your dog enjoy? Let us know in the comments below!
Learning how to teach a puppy to sit could be one of the most important things you can practice during the puppyhood season.
Sit is one of the most basic, yet essential commands that your puppy needs to learn. Not only is this a cue that will come in handy on a daily basis, but it’s also a great way to start building a foundation of obedience training.
Additionally, teaching your puppy to sit is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished in just a few short sessions. However, as with any new behavior, you’ll need to be patient and consistent when working with your pup. But before you get started, there are a few things you should know.
If you are struggling to teach your new puppy or dog to sit, you’re in good company. Although teaching a puppy ‘sit’ is one of the first things they usually learn, some dogs can have a hard time with the sit position and other basic commands.
However, every well behaved and good dog must know how to follow the sit command. Even if they do fine in a standing position, a dog should know a down position in the event that they ever need to practice the sit behavior.
Therefore, training your puppy and helping your puppy learn the sitting position is very valuable. Let’s dive in to some mechanisms of how you can teach your pup this important training skill.
CHOOSING A CUE WORD
When teaching your puppy to sit, you’ll need to choose a cue word or phrase that you’ll use to tell them it’s time to plop their butt down on the ground. Common cue words include “sit,” “sits,” and “sitting.” However, you can really use any word or phrase you like, as long as you’re consistent with its use while your puppy learns a good sit.
If you plan on using multiple cue words (for example, “sit” and “sitting”), make sure you only use one at a time during training sessions. Teaching your puppy two different behaviors with two different cue words can be confusing for them, and will likely only prolong the learning process.
USING A TREAT
One of the easiest ways to teach your puppy to sit is by using treats as positive reinforcement. When they perform the desired behavior, they’ll get a tasty little reward for their efforts. Start by holding a treat close to your pup’s nose so that they can smell it—but don’t let them have it quite yet!
Have the treats ready before beginning training. Hold a treat in your hand so that when they follow the sit command and plop their butt down, you can reward this as a good sit and begin to associate positivity with the word sit.
Begin by holding the treat upward so that the dog’s head leans backwards and upwards. Once they’re focused on the treat, slowly move it upwards above their head while simultaneously giving the cue word or phrase you’ve chosen (for example, “sit”). As they look up at the treat, their back end should naturally lower into a sitting position. As soon as their bottom hits the ground, give them the treat and lots of verbal praise!
LURING VS. REWARDING A YOUNG PUPPY
Luring is when you use a treat (or another type of motivator) to guide your puppy into performing the desired behavior. In contrast, reward-based training means rewarding your pup after they’ve performed the desired behavior—not before or during. So which method is better?
For puppies (and dogs in general), reward-based training is usually more effective than luring because it allows them to make the connection between performing the desired behavior and getting rewarded for it. Additionally, reward-based training tends to result in faster learning and fewer behavioral issues down the road.
However, when teaching a dog to sit, especially as a puppy sits for some of the first few times, you will most likely be using luring to teach them.
As you hold the treat above the puppy, their head automatically goes backwards, and their rear hits the ground. However, after they begin to associate the treat and the training with the sit position, they will no longer need the food lure.
SLICK SURFACES
During dog training, you will want to avoid surfaces that your dog or puppy can slip on. Achieving a sit position, let alone holding it, can be a challenge for a puppy or an older dog when the floor is too slick.
You may need to experiment with a few different types of surfaces before finding one that works best for your pup. A textured mat, carpet, or grassy area may work well for some dogs, while others will do better on hardwood floors or concrete with a grippy rug overtop.
If you’re unsure of what type of surface your dog would do best on, try a few out! If your dog is having a hard time keeping their bum in a down position without their feet sliding forward, it may be time to switch to a more suitable surface. Always remember that a slick surface bears negative repercussions to your dog’s joints, and adding runners and rugs can help many dogs regardless of their age.
When first teaching your puppy to sit, its best to keep training sessions short—just a minute or two at most. This will help them stay focused and prevent them from getting too frustrated or tired.
As your puppy begins to grow good manners and more endurance, you can practice training sessions for a bit longer.
Start with just a few repetitions, with treats as a reward. Many dogs will pick up on a verbal cue, enthusiastic tone of voice and receiving treats in just a few training sessions, while other dogs may need more time for the light bulb moment to take place.
USING A HAND SIGNAL
Some dogs learn best to sit with a hand signal. Young puppies can learn quickly with a sit command and a basic movement of your hand. Some owners choose to hold their hand in a fist, while others use an open palm.
To signal “sit” to your puppy, simply hold your hand up in the air and then lower it towards the ground while saying “sit.” As your hand lowers, move it towards their back end so that they understand that you want them to sit down.
For dogs who are already familiar with the sit command, you can add a hand signal to reinforce the behavior. Hold your hand up in the air and then move it towards the ground as you give the verbal command “sit.”
If you begin incorporating sit teaching with a hand signal into a training session while your puppy is young, you will be able to use this strong skill all throughout your puppy’s life.
TEACHING AN OLD DOG NEW TRICKS
You’re never too old to learn and no age is too old to teach a dog to sit! Dogs of any age can be taught to sit. You can train a dog of any age, you just may need to set more boundaries to teach your dog if they are older and not a puppy who is ready to soak up information like a sponge.
With an older dog, you may not only be teaching the dog to sit, but you may also be correcting unwanted behaviors at the same time.
For example, maybe your dog will sit when you ask them to, but then stands up after just a few seconds. Your desire is to teach them to hold the word sit when you ask your dog to sit, instead of breaking that command.
RELEASE CUE
One boundary you may need to set is not letting your dog move from the sitting position until you give him or her a release cue. This verbal cue could be a word like “OK” or “free.” If your dog stands up before you give the release cue, guide them back into the sit position and try again.
When first teaching this boundary, it is best to not use treats as a reward. Once your dog has the hang of sitting and waiting for the release cue, you can start rewarding them with treats again.
If you find that your dog is still having trouble following the command to sit, try asking a friend or family member to help you out. Having another person there to help can be very helpful, especially if your dog is easily distracted.
With patience and consistency, you will be able to teach your dog to sit on command!
HOW OLD CAN YOU START TRAINING A PUPPY TO SIT?
Teaching a dog to sit is one of the first tricks that a puppy usually learns when they come home.
A puppy can learn the word sit as early as 8-9 weeks old, when they are first brought into their new house. The word sit can be a fun and exciting way for their new family to begin to train them and teach them. Give your new puppy a tasty treat when you begin to teach them how to sit.
Usually, a puppy who is having a hard time learning to sit is not food motivated.
If you have a dog or puppy who is not interested in following the training treat and learning to sit, you can switch things up. The important thing is finding out what your dog values and then using that to teach your dog to sit!
USING TOYS DURING DOG TRAINING
Try to find a toy that your dog or puppy is very excited about. Make sure the toy is loud, squeaky, smells good, or is one that your dog absolutely loves.
Take the toy and slowly bring it above the head of your dog. As you bring the toy towards their head, give the verbal command “sit.” Most likely, your dog’s natural reaction will be to follow the toy with their nose, which will cause their body to sit in order to keep an eye on the toy. If the dog’s nose doesn’t follow the toy exactly- that’s okay!
As soon as your dog sits, give them a second to process that they did what you asked and then immediately reward them with the toy.
TEACHING YOUR DOG TO LAY: THE NEXT STEP AFTER SIT
Teaching your dog to lay down is very natural after the puppy understands how to sit. If the dog’s nose is following either a treat or a toy, once they sit it makes it very easy to teach them the lay down command.
Just simply take the treat or toy and lower it towards the ground. The dog’s natural reaction will be to follow the item with their nose, which will cause their body to lay down in order to keep an eye on the treat or toy. This default behavior to lay down will help your dog understand exactly what you are asking them when you use the ‘down’ or ‘lay’ command.
As soon as your dog lays down, give them a second to process that they did what you asked and then immediately reward them with the treat or toy.
And that’s it!
ADDING DISTRACTIONS
Following commands during dog training is a whole different story when there are distractions around.
In order to prepare your young dog to grow into an adult dog who can follow commands in public and with distractions around, you should practice!
The first step is to practice in different rooms. You can start to ask your dog to follow a sit command in a busier room, like the kitchen. With their eyes on the sausage that is cooking for breakfast, it will be a much different test than in a quiet room with no distractions.
You can also ask a family member or friend to help you out by being the distraction while you practice. Have them stand a few feet away from you and your dog and make sure they are not looking at the two of you. This will add another element of surprise for your young pet.
As you practice, remember to keep the commands short and sweet. You can say “sit” or “lay down”, but avoid saying “would you please sit down so we can eat breakfast?” The longer the command, the more likely your pup is going to get distracted and forget what they are supposed to do!
GOING OUTSIDE
Heading outside to practice commands with your dog may feel overwhelming, but it is so much fun! Take your dog on a safe, strong leash.
Now, head to your usual walking spot. If you live in the city, this may be around the block. If you are lucky enough to live in the country, this could be down a long driveway or even through a field!
Find an area with no other dogs in order to practice a few commands. Keep your dog on leash at all times while you are practicing basic skills.
Remember that a dog that is new to a skill will most likely only be able to practice this skill for a few minutes. Using a treat, lure your dog into a sit and then give them the treat as soon as they are sitting.
If you have been practicing inside, it is likely that your dog will be very excited to be outside. Be patient with them and try not to get frustrated if they don’t sit perfectly the first time.
If you have been consistent with your commands and rewards, your dog should be able to follow commands even with exciting things happening around them.
LONG LEAD
Most dogs can master the sit command fairly consistently. Once your pet is reliable with the command, you can add in a challenge of putting them on a long lead and asking them to sit. A long leash serves as a great tool to keep your dog on leash, while still giving them freedom.
This adds a challenge for your pet and requires them to have a strong relationship with you because they are not as close to you for you to ensure that they follow the command.
The release command is an important one for your dog to know because it tells them when they can get up from a down or sit position.
This command can be used in a number of different situations, such as getting up from their bed or getting in and out of the car.
To teach your dog the release command, start by having them in a sit or down position. Place a treat close to their nose so that they can smell it but cannot eat it.
Now, say the release command (such as “free” or “okay”) and move the treat away from their nose so that they have to get up to eat it. As soon as they start to get up, give them the treat!
Repeat this a few times so that they understand what the release command means. Once they are consistently getting up when you say the release command, you can start to phase out the treat.
KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER
Choose one cue word or phrase and stick with it throughout training sessions.
Sit should mean the same thing every time you say it.Use treats or praise to reward your dog for following commands.
Start with short training sessions and gradually increase the length of time as your dog gets better at following commands.
Be patient with your dog and don’t get frustrated if they don’t understand a command right away.
Most dogs will need to be reminded of commands from time to time. This is normal! Just be consistent with your commands and rewards, and your dog will eventually catch on.
Conclusion
Puppies are capable of learning all sorts of new behaviors, but it takes time, patience, and consistency on your part. By following these simple tips , you’ll be well on your way to teaching your pup how to sit like a pro in no time!
Introducing a puppy to an older dog can be stressful, but bringing a puppy home is so much fun! If you have an older dog and are bringing home a new puppy- don’t fret!
Dogs teach one another new things all the time. Both the puppy and the other dogs in your home can learn from this experience.
Adding a new puppy to the family can be an exciting time, but it can also be challenging if you have an older dog at home. Older dogs may not be used to having a little one running around and might become agitated or defensive.
Let’s learn how to introduce dogs in a way that helps both the senior dog or adult dog and puppy stay calm and respectful during their first meeting.
INTRODUCING A PUPPY TO AN OLDER DOG REQUIRES PLANNING
It may be hard for you to face the truth: your big dog is not a frisk, young pup anymore.
That’s okay! Older dogs can still enjoy life, but you will need to take some extra considerations into account when bringing home a new puppy.
PREPARATION IS KEY
Before introducing a new puppy to your older dog, you’ll want to do some planning and prep. Take some time to think through the following items:
What is a good, neutral territory that you can have the dogs meet?
Does your dog have any health issues that might cause the pup to scare or hurt them? (Arthritis, for example, can make some older dogs grumpy if they’re not feeling well.)
What is the personality of your current dog? (This will help you better understand how they might react to a new puppy in the home.)
Do you have any other pets in the house that need to be considered in this equation?
Does your existing dog tolerate puppies, or are they afraid/uncomfortable with younger puppies?
Answers to these questions will help you better prepare for a successful puppy-dog meeting.
PICK A GOOD TIME FOR THE INTRODUCTION
You’ll want to make sure that both the puppy and your dog are calm and not too tired or hungry before introducing them. A good time might be after a walk when they’re both relaxed.
SET UP THE INTRODUCTION
Once you’ve decided on a good time and place to introduce the dogs, it’s time to set things up for success.
Here are a few things to consider:
Make sure both dogs are on a leash during the introduction. This will help you keep control of the situation in case things get too rowdy.
Do not introduce your dog in an area where other canines are around.
Create a toy free zone. Some dogs will get annoyed easily when puppies are rude/steal their toys, as puppies tend to not have any manners at all when it comes to sharing.
CHOOSE A NEUTRAL TERRITORY
Choose an area for the dogs to meet where there are no fights for territory.
DO NOT INTRODUCE A NEW PUPPY IN RED FLAG ZONES
A negative example of where NOT to introduce a puppy would be the kitchen.
Kitchens are full of temptations such as food bowls and treats. You don’t want the dogs to go after each other’s food and end up having sibling rivalry.
CHOOSE NEUTRAL GROUNDS
It is best to introduce your new puppy to your dog in an area that neither dog knows too well, such as a quiet park or friend’s house, in a fenced backyard (with no other dogs present).
Putting two new dogs in the same room when the resident dogs already have ‘ownership’ of the home could lead to the resident dog feeling resentful right off the bat- which could result in some territorial behavior.
KEEP IT SHORT AND SWEET
Older dogs and especially a senior dog will have way less stamina than your new pup.
Do not ever expect your existing dog to ‘babysit’ your new pup. Your current dog is just that- your dog- do not turn them into puppy raisers!
You- the owner- made the decision to bring home a wild, spunky, energetic puppy. Your senior dog is going to be TIRED after just a few minutes.
Before you see your existing dog show body language of being annoyed and tired- grab your puppy and head for the crate.
Crate training requires a LOT of practice, so why not get started now?
Using treats and a fun, excited voice, practice showing some fun and energetic body language with your pup nearby the crate. Throw a treat inside and see if they’ll go in after it.
If you’ve properly introduced the crate and made it a happy place- your puppy will be more likely to ‘self soothe’ and not cry or fuss when you put them in there for some down time.
Introducing a new puppy to an existing dog doesn’t just stop after the dogs meet.
Dogs need quality time and patience to grow into being best friends. And most of all- older dogs need SPACE!
Keeping your puppy inside a confined area, away from your other dog/dogs, is a fantastic way to teach your puppy that not only do they need to stay calm- but they also need to be QUIET.
You can use baby gates, x-pens, or even a dog crate to help confine your puppy when you’re not able to watch them like a hawk and you want to give your dog a break.
ONE-ON-ONE TIME WITH ADULT DOGS
At times, when bringing home a young puppy, some dogs struggle to understand why there is a new dog in the home.
The new dog is suddenly taking all of your attention away from them. This is a scary feeling for some dogs and they may start to act out or become destructive.
Be sure to give your other dogs extra attention and love during this time- even if it means getting up earlier in the morning or staying up later at night.
They need to know that they are still your number one and that you haven’t forgotten about them.
A great way to show your puppy some love is through positive reinforcement- such as treats, petting, and verbal praise.
Make sure to give your puppy a ton of verbal praise whenever they display any type of good behavior- no matter how small it may be!
And there you have it! These are just a few tips to help make the transition from one dog to two (or more) as smooth as possible.
Remember- every dog is different and will require a different amount of time, patience, and training in order to successfully live together in harmony.
But with a little bit of guidance and a whole lot of love- you’re sure to have happy, furry family members in no time!
Since training is a lifelong practice, what better time to work with your adult dog AND your new puppy than when you’ve just brought home your new pup?
Set aside time each day to do some training with both your pup and your older dog.
You may be surprised at how much your new puppy learns from watching your older dog practice some of the basic commands- such as sit, stay, come, and down.
Training is a great way to help your dogs bond and build a positive relationship with one another.
An adult dog will require different treats than your new puppy, so be sure to do some research as to which treats are best for your new dog and your older dog.
Most dogs love to work hard for treats- and this can be a great way to help your new puppy learn some basic commands while also giving your older dog some much-needed attention.
WATCH BODY LANGUAGE
Dogs communicate with their bodies! They can’t speak English, after all.
When you bring your puppy home into your house for the first time, and everyday after, you will want to play close attention to the communication that your dogs are demonstrating with their bodies.
SIGNS OF STRESS:
TAIL TUCKED
EARS BACK
YAWNING
LICKING LIPS
When you see any of these signs in your dogs- take a step back and help your dogs avoid territorial behavior.
Separating your dogs in different rooms can help make it a more positive experience when they do spend quality time together.
Every dog does need a break from one another, but especially senior dogs or an older dog.
Make sure to have a space in your home, in completely different rooms, where each dog can relax and feel comfortable without the other dog present. This will help to avoid any conflict or stress between your dogs.
If you decide to give your dogs some special bones or chew toys, make sure to set them up for success.
Give your puppy their own bone or chew in their own space, and do the same for your adult dog.
If your pup tries to steal your older dog’s chew toy repetitively, they may start to be annoyed at the pup, and this can cause behavioral issues such as guarding or reactivity.
INTRODUCING YOUR PUPPY TO OTHER ADULT DOGS OUTSIDE OF YOUR FAMILY
It is important that your puppy have adult dogs as role models.
But, what kind of role models are you choosing?
Pick wisely which adult dogs you allow your puppy to play with and interact with.
Only allow your new pup to play with adult dogs whom you completely trust.
Never allow your pup to play with unvaccinated dogs. Choose an adult dog who you know is up to date on their vaccines. If you are not sure if the dog is up to date, you should ask the owner.
Encourage your puppy to play with adult dogs who have the same play styles as ‘puppy energy’ and enjoy playing with puppies.
Choose an older dog that you’ve already met countless times- like a friend or family member.
Your puppy relies on you to provide them with positive experiences interacting with other dogs. Make sure to set your puppy up for success by choosing the right adult dogs for them to interact with.
PUPPIES NEED TO GET EXERCISE
One great way to set up both your puppy and your current dog for success is to make sure your puppy is getting the exercise it needs.
A tired puppy is a good puppy.
Puppies need a lot of exercise- at least two hours a day. This may seem like a lot, but it should be easily broken up into smaller sessions at proper times throughout the day.
A tired puppy is less likely to have the energy to jump on and annoy your current dog.
Plus, if your puppy is properly exercised, they will be less likely to guard their food bowl or toys from your current dog.
So, make sure to get out there and tire out your pup! Both you and your current dog will be happy you did.
IS INTRODUCING A PUPPY TO AN OLDER DOG HARD?
Puppies are a lot of work- but they can also be a lot of fun for both you and your older dog!
If you think your older dog is stressed, try moving a little slower with the introductions.
Give your older dog time to adjust to the new puppy in their home. It may take a few days, or even weeks, but eventually they will warm up to their new furry friend.
Just be patient and take things at your older dog’s pace. Never force them to interact with the puppy if they do not want to.
With a little patience and some extra exercise, introducing a puppy to an older dog can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family!
Dog bite prevention is one thing that all dog owners should know all about!
Dogs are one of the most beloved creatures on the planet. They are known for their loyalty, affection, and playful demeanor. However, dogs can also be quite dangerous, especially if they are not properly trained or socialized. Each year, millions of people are bitten by dogs, many of whom require medical attention. In this blog post, we will discuss how to avoid an attack and what to do if you are bit by an animal.
DOG BITE PREVENTION
Dog bite prevention is important for ANY dog owner, not just a dog that has a bite record.
Any dog can demonstrate good behavior every single day, but get afraid when they feel threatened. Dogs bite when owners may least expect it. Most dog bites can also be
There are many things you can do to prevent your pupper from biting someone.
Proper socialization is one of the most important things you can do to prevent your dog from biting. Socialization means exposing your dog to a variety of people, places, and experiences in a positive way so that they learn to cope with new situations without feeling scared or threatened.
You should also provide your dog with basic obedience training. Obedience training will help your pup to understand what you expect from them and give them the confidence to follow your commands.
Let’s dive in to more solutions for how to prevent dog bites.
WHAT ARE THE TOP CAUSES OF DOG BITES?
Most dog bites are caused by fear or anxiety. Dogs may feel threatened by unfamiliar people, other animals, an unfamiliar pup, a young child, small puppies, or new environments. They may also become defensive if they perceive that their food, toys, or territory is being threatened.
Common causes of dog bites include:
Lack of socialization
Lack of obedience training
Pain or illness
Fear of young children
Fear of being around other dogs
Loud noises
Someone getting invasive with dog’s space
Most dogs will give off body language to imply that they are uncomfortable with a situation before growling. Body language is one of the key indicators a family or dog owner can use to prevent a bite from happening.
DOG BEHAVIOR AND COMMUNICATION WITH THEIR BODY BEFORE DOG BITES
All animal owners should learn to read their dog’s body language so they can prevent their dog from feeling scared or threatened. Common signs that a dog is feeling scared or threatened include:
Hiding behind the owner
Trying to get away from the person or animal
Lying down with their belly up
Ears pulled back
Tail between their legs
Whimpering or barking
Growling
Lip licking
Showing teeth
Freezing in place
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to remove your dog from the situation immediately. Ignoring these signs can result in a bite.
Many times, a pup will get uncomfortable with direct eye contact. It can help prevent a dog bite if you avoid direct eye contact with a pup that you do not know.
If your own pup is nervous, you can even practice avoiding eye contact with your dog, gently getting down to their level and showing them that you are not there to hurt them but to protect them.
Avoid petting them with any fast movements, and continue to avoid eye contact while slowly allowing them to come around. Responsible dog ownership is knowing that your pup is the only one that can prevent dog bites in most situations.
Remember, any dog has the potential to bite so it’s important to be prepared and know what to do if you find yourself in a situation where a dog is feeling threatened.
Some dogs have a hard time understanding the behavior of a puppy. Puppies are playful by nature and often unaware of their size. They may also jump, nip, or mouth people in an attempt to play.
Even if your dog has no bite record or history and is great with familiar dogs, it is important to be cautious when they are playing with a pet that is much younger than them. Everyday activities for an adult or senior dog can seem intense and high-strung when a young dog is involved.
YOUNG CHILDREN AND PREVENTING DOG BITES
Dogs can have a hard time interpreting the body communication language of children.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Humane Society, there are approximately 4.7 million dog bites every year in the U.S., and it’s believed this estimate is low.
Unfortunately, children are common victims of being bitten by dogs. And, in addition, many dog owners also have children living in the same home.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance that your dog and child both understand how to live as a cohesive family.
TEACH YOUR CHILD TO INTERACT WITH YOUR DOG APPROPRIATELY
Many bites happen because children are inappropriately interacting with dogs. Children get bitten because first the child might do something aggravating to the dog over months and months, sometimes even years.
Therefore, it is crucial to teach your children to interact appropriately with your pet.
A child should never:
Approach a dog they don’t know without permission
Hug or kiss when the pet doesn’t expect it
Pull ears or tail
Climb on or kick
Hit, kick, or scream at any pet
Bother a sleeping, eating, or sick animal
Lay on top of
Grab by the tail
Put their face close to face or head
Pull on ears or tail
Disturb while eating, drinking, playing with a toy, or sleeping
Try to take food away from them
Play inside the kennel with them
Kids are capable of learning safety when a parent or guardian is willing to teach them what it looks like to respect their pet.
TEACH YOUR DOG TO INTERACT IWTH YOUR CHILD APPROPRIATELY
Just like it is important that kids respect their animals, it is equally important that you teach the animal rules of safety while they are in the vicinity of a child.
No jumping
No playing with ropes/tug toys as it is easy for the animal to accidentally bite the child instead of the toy when playing
No playing with food or toys around the child
No taking food away from the child
Sit/down when greeting a child
Be gentle when taking treats
Walk calmly on a leash past a child
Never put their face close to the child’s face
Leave an area if they are feeling uncomfortable or scared (have a strong stay/off command)
If overly excited, spend some time in their crate to maintain calm behavior
INTRODUCING A KID TO AN ANIMAL
A pup that is not used to being around children, or any new person for that matter, can become startled and defensive if they feel like their personal space is being invaded. It is important to introduce your pet to a child gradually and allow them to get used to the smell, sounds, and movement of a child before expecting them to be okay with close interaction.
When you are first introducing your pet to a child, it is important that the introduction takes place in a quiet area without too much commotion. Allow the child to approach the animal while maintaining a calm demeanor. If
DON’T LEAVE YOUR KIDS AROUND DOGS BY THEMSELVES
You should also never leave a small child unsupervised with any dog, even if the pup is friendly. Dogs can become defensive when children get too close to their food or toys, or if they feel like the child is invading their space.
MY DOGGO IS NERVOUS AROUND DOGS
If you have a pup that is fearful of an unknown dog or new animals, it is still possible to avoid and prevent bites.
Some dogs will simply not enjoy socialization activities where there are a lot of new dogs such as parks or beaches. If this is the case with your dog, it’s best to provide other outlets for socialization such as hikes, smells and finding the right outlet for your specific dog’s needs and breed.
SOCIALIZATION IDEAS FOR A NERVOUS DOG
Even if your own pup does not demonstrate aggressive behavior, he or she may be nervous around others. Finding an outlet for them to get their energy out without feeling uncomfortable is crucial. Here are some ideas:
Sniffing Activities: This can be done on a leash or in an enclosed area. All you need is some tasty treats and patience! Let your pup take their time to smell around and get used to the new smells. Try not to move too fast or make sudden movements as this may startle them.
Scented Toys: You can purchase special toys that come with a scent. This can help your pup feel more comfortable around other pup by getting them used to the smell. Tug of War: Playing tug of war is a great way to get your pup’s energy out without having to be in close proximity to other pups.
Hide and Seek: Hiding treats around the house or in your backyard is a great way to keep your pup’s mind active. This is also a good way to get them used to new smells if you are hiding the treats in different areas each time.
Remember, socialization is key for preventing dog bites! Dogs that are not properly socialized are more likely to bite out of fear or anxiety. If you are unsure about your dog’s socialization level, consult with a professional trainer or behaviorist.
There are also many management tools that can help prevent bites from occurring such as muzzle training, body harnesses, and head collars.
If you are experiencing a dog bite where dogs require medical attention, immediately wash the wounds, avoid if it is a potentially dangerous situation and if anybody is severely injured, and always seek medical care for ANY bites.
This is a pro-prong collar on giant breed dogs story.
If you are on the fence about prong collars and want to learn more, stick around! If you hate prong collars no matter what anybody says, this post is likely not for you.
Meet Figaro, the subject of today’s deep dive into dog training, ethics, prong collars, and life with dogs that are in fact bigger and stronger than we are!
Why prong collars ROCK 101
Figaro is a Well-Trained Dog
I’m not trying to brag here, but this guy is a great dog.
He walks politely next to me on a flat collar through all sorts of distracting areas.
He checks in with me often, is gentle around people and other dogs, and can be off-leash almost anywhere that it’s safe and legal to do so.
Figaro was trained using a lot of positive reinforcement! He obtained his Canine Good Citizen and Novice Trick Dog title, and is working towards his Community Canine title now.
He is also a BIG, strong, intact male.
Dogs will be Dogs
I’m a 5’4″ strong, sturdy female.
I can move furniture, haul giant bags of dog food on my shoulders, and lift my 95 lb tripod female Dane out of the car without help. I’m far from weak.
But we failed. Figaro gave me a run for my money the other day, and I’m embarrassed.
On our walk a neighbor’s dog came out of nowhere, charging his fence line and zipping back and forth. He was barking and growling at us behind bushes and trees that rustled and shook as he moved.
Figaro LOST IT.
My sweet boy who is great on a leash, polite and friendly, literally lost it.
As a matter of fact, the ONLY thing that gave me the strength to hold onto his leash was that slow-motion picture in the back of my head of what might happen if I let go.
Figaro wasn’t trying to be a jerk. He wasn’t trying to overpower me with his flat collar, or pull me down.
At that moment, I didn’t exist. He lunged, he jumped, he bounced like Tigger. He made all kinds of noise and threw his body weight around.
His plan was to get to that fence and protect himself against what he perceived as a threat.
TRUTH: No amount of training can prepare you for moments like this and yes, even the most well-trained dogs can be caught off guard.
Things are going to happen. Dogs will come out of nowhere. Wildlife will bounce in front of you. People and things and sounds are lurking, waiting to prove to you that you still have more training to do.
What I Learned from this Mistake
I had believed for far too long that prong collars were aversive, punishing torture devices. Like many people, I fell for the negative marketing which implies that using a prong collar is a form of abuse.
But here is the thing.
A prong collar would have been the safest and most effective tool for him to be wearing at that moment. Allow me to explain.
Flat collar: with a traditional flat, martingale or choke collar not only do you have very little control, but the dog can injure its trachea. That made this lunging VERY dangerous and unsafe for both of us!
Harness: harnesses have their place in some situations and for some dogs, but it’s very easy for a large dog to pull through one and lunge straight out of your grasp. I believe that harnesses on giant breed dogs are often dangerous: if the dog does decide to lunge, the owner may not be able to recover.
Front Clip Harness: A front-clip harness may provide more control than another type, but similar to a flat collar a lunging dog may then damage itself by pulling into one. Front clip harnesses work by restricting the movement of the front shoulders and chest, and pulling a dog to the side when they lunge.
Head Collar: this is one of the most insidious, damaging, and aversive training tools available. While it would have allowed me to maintain at least some control, he likely would have also whipped his head and neck around. We all know how dangerous that can be for Great Danes!
The Best Collar for a Great Dane
Fig needed to be in a prong collar in that moment.
It can never be acceptable for a giant breed dog to lunge like that. He could have easily hurt me, himself, or anything in his path.
I’ve invested thousands of hours into his training. The fact that my well-trained polite dog did this means that it could have literally happened to anybody.
Prong collars look like stabby pokers that jab at the dog’s neck. What they look like and what they do are two different things.
Prong Collars don’t stab and poke. They take the pressure from pulling and distribute it evenly around the dog’s neck.
This makes it so the dog cannot injure itself while wearing one. It’s a simple matter of pressure on, pressure off.
The pressure is uncomfortable, but not painful. Unlike other tools, the sensation from a prong collar is a very deliberate YES and NO that dogs understand.
The dog is in control of that pressure. They can turn it off at any time.
Because prong collars are so effective, that also makes them one of the safest and most gentle options for Great Danes. Hear me out.
The prong collar quickly resolves pulling issues, thus minimizing the damage a dog can do to itself and others by continuing to lunge into collars, harnesses, and head collars.
Of course, I could just keep my dog at home in a ‘gentle’ harness and practice more so that he never does that again, but that’s not real life.
Real life is FULL of surprises. We cannot isolate our dogs as we attempt to practice responding to each one without error. It’s just not possible.
Giant breed dogs can and will throw their weight around. You are not hurting your dog when you say NO.
As a matter of fact, pairing an occasional and necessary NO with lots of YES is a truly holistic way to approach dog training and your relationship with your dog.
A prong collar is not an abusive torture device, especially when it becomes the difference between getting out in the world with your dog, and staying home because you don’t have safe and effective way to control them.
I know I learned my lesson. Figaro walks with me in a prong collar now so that we can practice NOT practicing that behavior again.
Someday I’ll trust him in his flat collar again, but until then, we’re having a great time together out and about.
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Puppy fear periods can be confusing for any pet parent. A young dog usually starts off pretty confident, but as they start to learn and navigate, they can begin having puppy fear. A puppy fear period can occur in any puppy and dog owners should not fret if their puppy begins being suddenly scared.
There’s a lot of new things for puppies to experience as they grow up – new people, places, and things to smell and explore. One thing that can be quite confusing (and sometimes scary) for puppies is the fear period.
Photo credit to @BlamethedatePhoto credit to @Blamethedate
This is a time when your puppy may seem to have a bit of an attitude change – becoming more fearful or anxious than usual. In this blog post, we will discuss what puppy fear periods are, when you can expect them, and how you can help your puppy through them!
What are puppy fear periods?
Fear periods in dogs occur during different parts of a dog’s life. Puppy fear stages usually occur in puppy development in adolescent dogs who are between the ages of six and 14 months old.
There are three different types of puppy fear periods:
Neonatal: This is the first fear period and usually occurs between two and four weeks of age. At this stage, puppies are still adjusting to life outside of the womb and may be fearful of loud noises or sudden movements.
Transitional: The transitional fear period usually occurs between four and eight weeks of age. During this time, puppies are becoming more independent and may start to experience separation anxiety when away from their mother or littermates.
Juvenile: The juvenile fear period is the last stage and typically occurs between four and 14 months old. This is when puppies are going through adolescence and may be fearful of new people, animals, or experiences.
What causes puppy fear periods?
There is no one answer to this question as each puppy is different. The puppy fear stages are completely normal and sometimes have a sudden onset with sudden behavioral changes.
Many experts believe that the cause of fear periods in dogs is due to a combination of genetics and environment. For example, if a puppy’s parents were fearful of certain things, the puppy may be more likely to experience fear during their own fear periods. Contrastingly, some experts state that sometimes a puppy fear period coincides with a single scary event that can shape future behaviors in a dog.
Similarly, if a puppy is not exposed to different people, places, and experiences during their socialization period (between three and 16 weeks old), they may be more likely to experience fear during their juvenile fear period. This is sometimes called the fear imprint period.
What are the signs of a fear period?
There are a few different signs that you may notice if your puppy is going through a fear period:
Hiding or cowering when around new people, animals, or experiences
What are the most common things that puppies are afraid of?
Throughout a dog’s life fear stages can cause most puppies to have unusual or unexplained fears. Dog behavior can sometimes feel unpredictable, however pet parents can be aware of puppy fear stages before they begin in order to help their young dogs overcome their anxiety before the fear period occurs.
If your puppy is displaying any of the above signs and it is causing them distress, you should be proactive about increased positive socialization. Working hard to create positive associations with training sessions and early socialization can minimize fearful behaviors and increase positive behaviors.
Your veterinarian or a qualified trainer will be able to rule out any medical causes for the fear and may recommend a behavior modification plan or dog training classes to help your dog create positive experiences at their own pace.
Sometimes, dogs will exhibit fear one time. For example, if the vacuum cleaner falls in the kitchen and comes close to your puppy, the dog shows a startle and runs away.
This is a flight instinct and when your dog acts afraid, they are not actually demonstrating anxiety but rather a very normal reaction to having something loud and large fall in front of them.
In this instance, a completely healthy reaction from pet parents would be to walk past the puppy or dog and ignore the reaction. This teaches your dog that the loud and ‘scary’ vacuum cleaner falling in front of them actually is not a big deal.
If you, instead, quickly pick up your puppy and coddle them, you are providing positive reinforcement or positive association with their fear. In turn, this will likely increase their fearful behaviors around the vacuum cleaner in the future.
What can I do to help my puppy during a fear period?
There are many things that you can do to help your puppy during a fear stage.
Provide increased positive socialization opportunities: During this time, it is especially important to provide your puppy with increased positive socialization opportunities. This means exposing them to as many new people, places, and experiences as possible in a slow and controlled manner.
Use positive reinforcement: Reward your puppy with praise, treats, or petting when they display brave or confident behaviors around the things they are afraid of.
Avoid punishment: It is important to avoid punishing your puppy for being afraid as this will only make them more anxious and increase their fear. Practice force free behavior modification by using positive reinforcement to help your puppy learn new behaviors.
Be patient: It is important to be patient with your puppy and understand that they are going through a normal and natural process. Fear periods usually only last for a few weeks and with proper socialization, most puppies will outgrow their fears. If you have any concerns about
Make sure they have plenty of exercise: A tired puppy is a good puppy. Making sure that your puppy gets plenty of exercise will help to tire them out both mentally and physically.
Young dogs typically have two fear periods: one at around eight to ten weeks old and another at six to seven months old. The first fear period is often considered a ‘mini’ fear period and may not be as intense as the second.
The second fear period is often more pronounced and can last for several weeks. After the puppy goes through the second fear period, they will typically start to become less afraid of things and more confident in themselves.
Puppy fear periods usually only last for a few weeks but can occasionally last up to several months. Puppy owners can tackle fear behaviors by helping their dogs with confidence building tasks and socialization.
What should I do if my puppy is afraid of something?
If your puppy is afraid of something, the best thing you can do is to take advantage of the critical period with your adolescent dog and practice excellent puppy socialization.
Tips to practicing puppy socialization with an adolescent dog:
Make crate training fun: Dogs typically love their crates and see them as their own personal space, but only when puppy owners practice with positive training sessions.
Start with short car rides: A lot of dogs are afraid of car rides, so it is important to start slowly. Try taking your dog for short car rides around the block at first and gradually work up to longer car trips.
Visit different places: It is important to expose your adolescent dog to different types of places like the groomer, the vet, and different types of parks.
Enroll in a puppy class: A great way to socialize your adolescent dog is by enrolling them in a puppy class. This will help them become accustomed to being around other dogs and people.
The long-term effects of a fear period are typically not serious and most puppies will outgrow their fears with proper socialization. However, if not properly managed, a puppy’s fear can become more entrenched and turn into anxiety or phobias later in life.
Can a puppy fear stage be prevented?
Most dogs will experience some sort of puppy fear stage throughout their life. Dogs are born into a world with many new sights, sounds, and smells that can be overwhelming for them.
The best way to prevent a puppy fear stage is by socializing your puppy early on. This means exposing them to as many new people, places, and experiences as possible in a slow and controlled manner.
Puppy owners can also help their dog by never putting them in a position where they are forced to do things that the dog is uncomfortable with. To force interaction on a dog can create sudden onset of anxiety in the dog, which could have unnecesary implications later.
What age do dogs have fear periods?
Typically, a puppy might start their real, first fear period around the age of eight to ten weeks old. The second fear period usually begins around six to seven months old. The second fear period is the fear period that dog owners will typically notice more in puppy development.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that every dog is different and some might start their fear periods earlier or later than others. It all depends on the individual dog and their experiences.
Do dogs go through a second fear stage?
Puppy development is different for every dog. Typically, after about the age of 1 years old, fear periods have resided for the most part.
However, factors to consider are:
Is the dog spayed/neutered?
What was the dog’s early socialization like?
Did the dog have any traumatic experiences?
Is the dog health tested?
What are the genetics of the dog?
Can early spay or neuter hurt your dog? Check out our blog here.
These are all things that can play a role in whether or not your dog has a second fear stage.
How do I deal with my puppy’s fear phase?
A dog builds confidence every time they are able to feel successful in a situation. In a dog’s brain, when they are successful and have gone through a situation without being overwhelmed by fear, they are more likely to try again.
So, the best way to help your puppy through their fear phase is by socializing them in a slow and controlled manner. This means taking them to different places, exposing them to different people and animals, and letting them experience new things in a safe and positive environment. Using patience can help a dog overcome odd behaviors and help the dog build confidence.
TAKING BABY STEPS WITH YOUR DOG
For example, taking a dog to the veterinarian can be quite intimidating. There are scary/new hands, cold examination tables, and potentially frightening procedures. However, if the owner breaks the visit down into baby steps (i.e., going in for a minute or two to get used to the office, then coming back another day to sit on the table, etc.), it will help the puppy feel more comfortable and less overwhelmed each time they come in for vet visits.
Do puppies grow out of being scared?
Some dogs will have major anxiety issues as adults. An adult dog with a severe anxiety issue can be a real problem.
Fear periods in dogs should not last forever. Fear periods are meant to be just that, a period of time where your puppy or dog is exploring something unknown and figuring out that this ‘unknown’ is actually not scary at all.
Your dog should not have to live in fear all his life. If you notice fearful body language for an extended period of time, consider hiring a certified dog trainer to help your dog overcome their anxiety.
When you bring your puppy home is the best time to begin preventing fear periods in dogs. It is never too young to begin socializing in a safe and appropriate way.
Can a puppy go through a fear stage as old as 18 months?
A pronounced fear period can take place as old as 18 months. Fear periods are often most common during puppyhood and adolescence, but they can happen at any age. If you think your dog is going through a fear period, the best thing to do is consult with a certified dog trainer or behaviorist.
They will be able to help you assess the situation and come up with a plan to help your dogs fear.
How can I help my puppy stop being afraid of everything?
If you see fearful body language in your dog, the best thing you can do is to remain calm and avoid reacting in a way that might scare your dog even more. Dogs are very intuitive and can sense when their owners are feeling anxious or stressed. This will only amplify the fear your dog is feeling.
If you need to move your dog to a safer location, do so slowly and calmly. Avoid using forceful methods to try to get your dog to move, as this will only scare them more.
TIPS FOR HELPING YOUR DOGS OVERCOME THEIR FEARS
Use positive reinforcement to help your dog feel good about themselves in situations that scare them. This could include treats, petting, or verbal praise.
Create a safe space for your dog to retreat to if they are feeling overwhelmed. This could be a crate or a designated area in your home where they can go to relax and feel safe.
Make sure you are not inadvertently reinforcing your dog’s fear by giving them attention when they are displaying fearful behavior. This could include trying to soothe them or picking them up.
Fear periods in dogs are normal and usually nothing to worry about. The best thing you can do is to help your dog through these periods by socializing them in a slow and controlled way.
What tools can help my puppy when he is scared?
Some tools that can help your puppy when they are scared are:
A secure and comfortable crate or den that they can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed.
An interactive toy like a Kong or treat ball filled with their favorite treats to keep their mind occupied.
A calming supplement like CBD oil to help reduce their anxiety.
A bed that supports your puppy both physically and helps them feel safe.
Patience and positive reinforcement from you, their owner!
Remember, every dog is different and will cope with their fear in different ways. It’s important to be patient and understand that your puppy is going through a tough time. With a little bit of help from you, they’ll get through it in no time!
Puppy fear periods are a normal, and often necessary, part of your puppy’s development. By understanding what they are, when to expect them, and how to help your puppy through them, you can make the experience as positive and stress-free as possible for both you and your furry friend!
If you have any questions or concerns about your puppy’s fear period, don’t hesitate to reach out to a certified dog trainer or behaviorist for help.
In the meantime, check out our blog for more tips on raising a happy and healthy puppy!
Wishing you all the best during this exciting time in your puppy’s life!