Tag: training puppies

  • HELP! DOG SNAPPING AT CHILD FOR NO REASON AT ALL AND I AM DESPERATE FOR ANSWERS

    HELP! DOG SNAPPING AT CHILD FOR NO REASON AT ALL AND I AM DESPERATE FOR ANSWERS

    Help!!! Dog snapping at child for no reason at all!!!

    My dog has been a loving part of my family for many years and suddenly the dog growled and then snapped at my toddler!

    What do I do?

    AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR
    FIXING BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS
    KNOWING THE SIGNS OF STRESS
    DOG BITES

    DOG SNAPPING AT CHILD FOR NO REASON AT ALL- A BIG PROBLEM ON HAND

    If your dog suddenly began behaving aggressively to your own children, you are probably devastated.

    Dogs are our family members, and just like we teach children to be kind, we expect the same from our fur family members.

    Seeing our dogs show aggression towards our human children can break our hearts in an instant.

    So, what do we do next if our dog growls or snaps?

    How to Stop a Great Dane Puppy from Resource Guarding

    DOG SNAPPING AT CHILD

    DOGS BITE FOR A REASON

    The first thing to do is accept that dogs bite for a reason.

    Signs of Stress in Dogs: How to Help An Anxious Dog
    Fear Aggression in Dogs: The Scary Reality That 1 Bite Can Cause
    Puppy Fear Periods: What They Are, When to Expect Them, and How to Help Your Puppy
    Why Is My Puppy Being Aggressive?

    It may have appeared to you that there was no reason that the dog bit, but to the dog– there was a reason.

    By accepting to see through a lens that the dog sees, you will be able to better understand the reason for the dog acting the way it did, and therefore move on to finding solutions more quickly.

    WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF AGGRESSION IN A DOG?

    There are several different types of aggression that a dog might portray.

    1. Territorial aggression: A dog might demonstrate this type of aggression when someone or something enters their territory- such as another dog on a leash, or a person walking by the house.
    2. Redirected Aggression: A dog might show redirected aggression when they are feeling frustrated or threatened, but cannot reach the object of their aggression. For example, a dog on a leash who cannot get to a person or another dog might redirect their aggression onto the leash, or the person holding the leash.
    3. Possessive aggression: A dog might show possessive aggression when they feel like someone is trying to take away something that they perceive as theirs- such as a toy or food bowl.
    4. Defensive Aggression: A dog might show defensive aggression when they feel like they are in danger and are trying to protect themselves. Defensive aggression can also occur when a dog is sick or in pain and need medical attention.
    5. Predatory Aggression: A dog might show predatory aggression when they are instinctively trying to catch prey- such as a small animal.
    6. Fear aggression: A fearful dog can result in them behaving aggressively as they try to protect themselves from their anticipated threat.
    DOG SNAPPING AT CHILD

    REASONS THAT MOST DOGS SHOW AGGRESSION TOWARDS CHILDREN

    Shockingly, dog bites occur roughly every 75 seconds in the United States. Millions of dog bites are happening every single year, and sadly- The Humane Society estimates 51% of dog bite victims are children.

    Getting bitten by a dog is the second most frequent cause of visits to emergency rooms for children according to a survey done by Weiss HB, Friedman DI, Coben JH “Incidence of dog bite injuries treated in emergency departments,” in the JAMA 1998;279:53.

    So, if so many dogs are biting kids every year- we have to ask ourselves- WHY!

    WHY ARE SO MANY DOGS SHOWING AGGRESSION TOWARDS KIDS?

    1. A fearful dog thinks that a kid is a threat and is trying to protect themselves
    2. A dog with a poor socialization history and not used to being around kids might be fearful or even aggressive when kids approach (defense aggression)
    3. A dog that is in pain might be more defensive and aggressive when kids try to touch them or play with them (defense aggression)
    4. A dog that is possessive of food, toys, sleeping spots, or anything else might show aggression when kids come too close (possession aggression)- How to Stop a Great Dane Puppy from Resource Guarding
    5. A dog that has been teased, hit, kicked, or treated poorly by kids in the past might have learned that aggression gets them left alone (learned aggression)
    6. A dog that is being defended by another animal might show aggression when kids come near (redirected aggression)
    7. A dog that is territorial might show aggression when kids come in their space (territorial aggression)
    8. A dog that is sick might show aggression when kids come too close because they are feeling defensive (sickness or redirected aggression)
    9. Kids are simply obnoxious to some dogs- kids can be loud, fast/energetic, grab tails, rude, grab their face, try to lay on them, show no boundaries, etc.

    Now that we know some of the reasons that a dog might show aggression towards a child, we can start to learn how to prevent these bites from happening.

    HOW TO STOP MY DOGS FROM FIGHTING
    Dog Bite Prevention: How to Avoid a Dog Attack

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    HOW CAN WE PREVENT DOG BITES TOWARDS KIDS

    Prevention is the absolute best solution to stop the dog bite statistics from increasing.

    Dog bites do not happen overnight, and most dogs do not bite in general.

    However, there are preventative actions that dog owners can take to prevent dogs from showing aggression towards other dogs, family members or kids.

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    SOCIALIZATION OF YOUR DOG

    The best way to prevent dog bites is by socializing your dog from a young age. This means exposing your pup to as many different people, places, animals, and situations as possible.

    You want your dog to be comfortable with all kinds of people- men, women, children, the elderly, people in hats, people in uniform, etc.

    You also want your dog to be comfortable being handled in different ways- being petted, brushed, having their nails trimmed, being restrained, etc.

    Do Dogs Have Nerves in Their Nails?
    How to Cut Black Dog Nails Without Hurting Them
    How Often Should You Cut Your Dog’s Nails?
    5 Big Reasons to Have Your Dog’s Teeth Cleaned by a Veterinarian

    The more relaxed and comfortable your dog is around different people and situations- the less likely they are to show aggression.

    GOOD OWNER DISCIPLINE

    It is important that you, as the dog owner, are showing good leadership skills. This means being calm, assertive, and consistent with your commands.

    Your dog should look to you for guidance and direction- not the other way around.

    You are not the leader of the pack- you are the leader and director- and there is a big difference in the way you will interact with your dog!

    How to Find and Choose the Best Dog Trainer for Your Great Dane
    Does Neutering Calm a Dog Down?

    RULES FOR FAMILY MEMBERS

    It is crucial to provide rules for not only your dog, but for your family members as well.

    Dogs are bombarded with rules the moment they get brought home- but what about the other humans in the house?

    Kids especially need to be taught how to interact with dogs in a respectful and safe way.

    Are Great Danes Good with Kids?
    Signs of Stress in Dogs: How to Help An Anxious Dog
    The Best Crates for a Great Dane: Crates that Fit 100 lb+ Dogs

    Teach children how to properly interact respectfully with your dog. This means no pulling on tails, ears, or fur. No climbing on, jumping on, or sitting on the dog. No chasing the dog. And most importantly- no hitting, kicking, or otherwise being violent towards the dog.
    My Dog Snapped at My Child:My Dog Bit & Hurt My Child Suddenly

    If children are taught how to interact with dogs properly from a young age- it will go a long way in preventing bites from happening.

    TRAIN YOUR DOG AND PROVIDE BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION INTERVENTION EARLY

    Training your dog is one of the best ways to prevent aggression and bites from happening. Remember, your dog is trying to convey something to you almost all the time and dog body language is something that you can work to understand.

    Aggressive dogs do not ‘happen overnight’.

    Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive or Playing?

    You will want to provide basic obedience training, socialization opportunities, and behavior modification intervention if needed.

    If you can provide these things for your dog- you will greatly reduce the chances of your dog ever biting anyone.

    USE TOOLS

    E COLLAR TRAININGTRAINING WITHOUT AN E COLLAR
    E Collar Training Guide
    E Collar Myths
    What is an E Collar?
    What is the Difference Between an E Collar and a Shock Collar?
    9 Reasons to E Collar Train Your Great Dane Puppy
    99 Reasons Why to Use an E Collar and a Shock Ain’t One
    Things that are More Aversive Than an E Collar in Training
    E Collars are NOT Shock Collars
    Proper E Collar Placement
    E Collar 900 Review
    Using an E Collar to Teach Recall
    Dog Halo Collar Review

    Is the Gentle Leader an Abusive Tool?
    Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive?
    What is Great Dane Dominance Training?
    How to Stop a Great Dane from Jumping Up
    How to Teach a Great Dane to Walk on Leash
    Day Pouch Treat Bag Review
    12 Potty Training Tips for a Great Dane Puppy

    Potty Training in an Apartment
    Best Training Treats for Great Dane Puppies

    Tools are friends- not foes!

    Use a crate to give both the dog and humans a break from one another.

    How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
    The Best Crates for a Great Dane: Crates that Fit 100 lb+ Dogs
    E-Collar Myths – Great Dane Training

    Do not expect the dog to always coexist in the same room as younger or even older children.

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    How to crate train a Great Dane: click here

    Provide a baby gate as a barrier for an older dog who might need a more calm environment than the stimulation of the kitchen. A baby gate might be a simple but incredible tool to help your dog learn that they are respected and not expected to tolerate everything that happens in the home.

    SHOP HERE:

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    WHAT TO DO IF MY DOG BIT MY KIDS

    As stated, our dogs are our family members and when a dog demonstrates aggression towards our children it can be extremely scary and frightening.

    VETERINARY BEHAVIORIST

    Aggressive dogs are typically in need of a veterinary behaviorist who can help provide intense behavior modification while also ruling out potential for any health issues that may be causing their aggression. The veterinary behaviorist will be able to both provide you consult as well as give your dog medical attention if needed.

    POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

    Your dog does not need yelling, screaming or anger. These actions in response to aggression towards something or somebody else could aggravate your dog further.

    How to Raise a Confident Dog: 7 Tips for Building Your Puppy’s Self-Esteem
    A Story of Balanced Dog Training Success With My 2 Great Danes

    In response, try to stay calm and remove your dog from the situation.

    USE TOOLS AND WORK TO PRODUCE SAFETY

    Immediately after your dog bites a child, you should look for ways to make the situation safer.

    Baby gates, crates, or muzzles may be a great option to help keep everyone safe until you can get professional help.

    SEEKING MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR BITE WOUNDS

    Dog bite wounds can get infected extremely quickly.

    If your dog has shown aggression towards your child and broken skin, antibiotics are needed to ensure that your child does not get infected.

    Can Dogs Take Human Antibiotics? When Human Medicine is Safe and When It Is Not

    CONCLUSION

    DOG SNAPPING AT CHILD

    There are many things that you can do to prevent bites from happening in your home.

    It is important to provide rules for both your dog and your family members, train your dog, provide behavior modification intervention if needed, use tools, and seek professional help if necessary.

    If a bite does occur- stay calm and remove your dog quickly from the situation.

    Your dog might not be happiest living in a home with children but with some effort you can make it work!

    Having a dog is a big responsibility and requires a lot of time, energy, and patience.

    Make sure that you are up for the challenge before bringing a four-legged friend into your home!

  • 4th of July and Dogs: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Happy

    4th of July and Dogs: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Happy

    4th of July and Dogs

    4th of July and dogs just do not always mix well.

    It is that time of year again when some pet parents get anxious for the upcoming holiday in anticipation for their dog’s becoming anxious.

    4th of July and Dogs

    The 4th of July is a time for celebration, but it can also be dangerous for dogs. Fireworks and loud noises can scare them and cause them to run away. Here are four tips to keep your dog safe on the 4th of July.

    EXERCISE BEFORE THE NOISES BEGIN

    A tired dog is usually a happy one. Once the noise begins is WAY too late to tire out an anxious pup. By that time they are already on high alert. A long morning walk or run before the party starts will help to use up some of that energy and hopefully make them sleepy when night falls.

    4th of July and Dogs

    TRY SOME NATURAL REMEDIES

    There are many natural remedies that can help to ease your dog’s anxiety. CBD oil is one option that has been shown to be helpful for many dogs. There are also various calming supplements available at your local pet store. Ask a staff member for recommendations based on your dog’s weight and age.

    4th of July and Dogs

    HAVE A SAFE SPACE FOR YOUR DOG

    It is important to have a safe space set up for your dog in case the noise gets too overwhelming. This could be a bedroom or bathroom where they

    Make sure your chosen safe space is the same space that they are used to, as switching things up can be confusing when they are already anxious. Create a comfortable spot for your dog to relax in with some of their favorite toys and blankets. This will help them feel calm and safe.

    KEEP YOUR DOG’S COLLAR ON THEM INDOORS

    Keep an ID tag on your dog, even indoors. In case they do get scared and run off, an ID tag will help ensure that they’re returned to you safely.

    Fourth of July is the number one day/night that dog’s go missing in America.

    4th of July and Dogs

    Even though it is usually recommended to take off your dog’s collar while they are indoors, this is not the night to do so.

    Keeping an ID tag on them is an extra layer of security.

    KNOW YOUR DOG’S ANXIETY BEFOREHAND

    Be aware of your dog’s anxiety levels. If you know that your dog is particularly anxious or scared of loud noises, take extra precautions to keep them calm and relaxed on the Fourth of July.

    4th of July and Dogs

    CBD is a great anti-anxiety tool to keep on hand. Check out our favorite here.

    Don’t be afraid to ask your vet for prescription sedatives prior to the 4th of July to prevent their anxiety from getting too bad.

    What other tips do you have for keeping dogs safe on the Fourth of July? Share them in the comments below!

    Have a happy and safe holiday!

  • How to Decide on the Best Pick of the Litter When Choosing Puppies: New Puppies 101

    How to Decide on the Best Pick of the Litter When Choosing Puppies: New Puppies 101

    How to decide on the pick of the litter when choosing puppies? There are so many puppies out there to choose from, how do you know which one is the right fit for your family? It can be tough to decide, but with a little bit of knowledge it can be a lot easier. Adding a new Great Dane pup into your family is extremely exciting but also a tad overwhelming. After you decide to start looking for the perfect Great Dane pup, you may be wondering: now what?

    Pick of the Litter When Choosing Puppies

    In this blog post, we will discuss the things you need to consider when making your decision on choosing a Great Dane puppy from a litter.

    So whether you’re looking for a Great dane, (Or other dog breeds like Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers), read on for some tips on how to pick a puppy from an experienced breeder and most of all- make sure it’s the RIGHT Great Dane puppy!

    Pick of the Litter When Choosing Puppies: So You Want The Perfect Puppy!

    It makes sense. When looking for a new family member, everybody wants to make sure that they have the ‘best puppy’. But what exactly does it mean to have the best dog?

    Is it an independent pup, a relaxed pup, a shy puppy? Great Dane owners are SO eager to bring their puppy home, that sometimes they forget to really consider what is the ‘right puppy’ for them.

    I think for most people, the main priority is a HEALTHY puppy! But, when falling in love with a new puppy, dog owners often do have high hopes for more than just their new puppies health. (which is completely valid!)

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    So yes, above all, you want your Great Dane to be a healthy pup. But, when looking for a new puppy, you should evaluate exactly what it is that would make this new pup the ‘right pup’.

    Let’s examine some common things that new Great Dane parents might look for. But before we jump in, it’s important to discuss ethical breeding and litter choosing. Bear with me!

    Sometimes a Reputable Breeder Will Choose the Right Puppy for You

    If you’re looking for a new dog, you might be considering going to a reputable breeder of Great Danes.

    But did you know that sometimes a reputable breeder will choose the right dog for you? With a breed like Great Danes who quickly turn into massive adult dogs, it is SO important that a family is equipped with the tools to handle their puppy, even as it grows.

    A good breeder will often temperament test their pups to help identify which puppy from a litter will be the best fit for each family. Sometimes, an individual puppy might work for most families but clash with another particular family.

    For example, the very high-strung / energetic pup from the litter might do best with a family to match that pup’s personality. Controversially, that puppy’s personality may clash with another family who lives a more quiet and laid back lifestyle.

    And while it’s certainly possible to find a good breeder who will let you pick your puppy from a litter, it’s also possible that the best breeder for you is one who will choose the right dog for your family.

    It can be difficult for you not to be able to pick a puppy yourself, but sometimes it is best to admit that a responsible breeder does know their puppies best. Who knows, the perfect pup for you might just be the one who was meant to be and ultimately work out better for you in the long run.

    Pick a Puppy from Rescue Groups

    Rescuing a Great Dane pup can have many pros and be VERY rewarding, but it doesn’t come without cons.

    When adopting a puppy from a rescue, you are often not given the chance to meet the parents of your new pup. This can make it difficult to know what traits your puppy might have inherited.

    Additionally, puppies in rescues are often not as socialized as those who come from breeders or professional dog-rearing facilities. It is possible that you might adopt a perfectly healthy puppy who soon becomes an older dog with extreme socialization issues.

    Lastly, health issues are usually very difficult to determine when adopting a dog- whether it be a puppy OR adult dog from a shelter or rescue. The reason for this is that often, the dog’s prior health history is unknown.

    This means that any health problems the dog might have could go undetected until they suddenly surface later on in life. A rescue could clear a puppy from a litter ‘a healthy perfect puppy’ and soon after bringing your puppy home you could notice it needs major medical treatment.

    All of this is not to say that adopting a puppy from a rescue is a bad idea. We are very supportive of ethical adoption! But it is important to be aware of some of the cons and identify an ethical rescue who is willing to take responsibility for appropriate health screening of their dogs PRIOR to rescuing them out.

    My Family Wants a Relaxed Great Dane Puppy

    So, you’ve decided to pick a Great Dane puppy from a litter! First of all, congratulations . You’ve done your research and you’re well on your way to becoming a great pup-parent.

    Now, it’s time to think about what kind of Great Dane puppy would be best for your family. If you’re looking for a more relaxed dog, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing from a litter.

    It Might Not Happen: Your Great Dane Puppy Might Be Wild

    First, you might not get a relaxed Great Dane puppy. Ask yourself if you do not end up getting the calm, sweet, shy pup that you want, is that okay with you? Are you and your family going to be able to adjust and live with a pup that is active and eager to learn / run / exercise?

    Just like humans, as puppies the dog could be a relaxed pup but as it ages, it could develop energy and need an abundance of exercise.

    As a responsible puppy and soon to be dog owner, you need to be prepared for an energetic dog, even if you want a relaxed one.

    Speak with Your Breeder

    Your breeder will be able to discuss which puppy is most suitable for a laid-back, calm lifestyle. (If they are helping you pick a puppy and a responsible, ethical and breeder).

    Choosing the right Great Dane puppy for your family will be a joint effort between you, your breeder, and of course some good old fashioned fate!

    The most important thing is that you do your research, ask lots of questions, and find a responsible breeder who is committed to helping you find the best possible pup for your you.

    I Want To Bring Home Litter Mates

    Litter mates is a term that means two or more puppies who were born in the same litter and are close in age.

    There are pros and cons to taking home two puppies at once, but if you’re set on it there are a few things you should know before making your decision.

    Puppies Are A lot Of Work: Especially 2 Puppies At Once

    No matter how you look at it, puppies are a lot of work. They need to be fed, watered, walked, played with and potty trained.

    If you’re thinking about adding two pups to your family, you need to make sure that you’re prepared for the extra work of having not one, but two dogs.

    Sometimes Bringing Home Littermates Can Create Issues

    Sometimes, bringing home two puppies from the same litter can create issues later on down the road. The pups might have a strong bond with each other and not be as attached to you and your family.

    Of course, this isn’t always the case and sometimes it works out perfectly- but it’s something to keep in mind when making the choice to add two dogs to your family at once.

    Training Two Puppies At Once is a Commitment

    If you’re going to bring home two puppies, you need to be prepared to train them both at the same time.

    This means having twice the patience, and being twice as consistent with your commands and rules.

    It’s not impossible to successfully train two puppies at once- but it is a big commitment.

    Not only that, but it is recommended when bringing home littermates that they are trained separately from one another, to avoid littermate syndrome and develop independence.

    Your Pups Might Differ in Personality and Interests

    Each and every puppy is very unique! When looking at two pups, you may get one from a litter that is very dominant, and one who is a shy pup.

    Of course, this is just an example and there are endless possibilities when it comes to pup personalities.

    The point is, even if they come from the same litter- two puppies can be very different from one another.

    This could, or could not, become a problem. If one puppy is indeed a shy pup and turns into a shy adult, the other more dominant one could take advantage and require more of your time.

    I Can’t Decide on a Female Dog or Male Dog

    When thinking about whether to get a female or male dog, there are a few things you need to take into consideration.

    Size Differences

    Size, activity level, and temperament can all vary greatly between male dogs and female dogs of the same breed.

    Female Great Danes are usually on the smaller side (comparatively), while males are usually larger.

    This doesn’t mean that every female dog will be small or every male dog will be large- but it’s something to keep in mind when making your decision.

    Temperament Differences

    There can also be temperament differences between male and female dogs.

    Some people suggest that females are often a bit more “independent” and “protective”, while males are often considered to be more “easy going” and “go-with-the-flow”. These assumptions are, however, highly based on both nature AND nurture.

    The Bottom Line

    The most important thing is that you find a pup that is the right fit for you, your family, and your lifestyle- regardless of whether it’s a male or female dog.

    Take your time, do your research and ask lots of questions to make sure you’re making the best decision for both you and your new Great Dane so that everyone involved can find success.

    Should I Get a Puppy at a Pet Store?

    Choosing a puppy at a pet-store is a very irresponsible decision. Most pet-shops source their pups from puppy mills, which are dangerous / unsanitary / unethical hoarders of little puppies that advertise available pups as ‘healthy and available’.

    Usually puppy mills advertise their pups on websites with great design and beautiful photos that look clean and well-cared for, but this is not always the case.

    When you purchase a pup from a store front, you are unknowingly (or hopefully now you know) supporting these puppy mills and their terrible practices.

    Additionally, pet store pups often come with a number of health problems that can be expensive to treat.

    These health problems are most likely not some that you can see while you look at that adorable little puppy and its shiny coat or sweet little tongue in the cage at the mall.

    But I’m ‘SAVING’ the Puppy

    Of course, we always have the heroes who think that by getting a puppy from a shop that they are saving this pup. And, technically, YES, you are saving that ONE PUPPY.

    But, what about the rest of the litter who was left behind in deplorable conditions? What about the mother dog who wasn’t able to come and get sold to a loving home because its still needed to breed more dogs- for profit?

    What about the father of that pup who is also likely being used as a breeding machine in a puppy mill, with little to no regard for his health or wellbeing?

    When you get a puppy from a pet store, you are lining the pockets of these people, equipping them to produce litter after litter, ultimately putting other dogs into critical situations that they simply cannot get out of.

    I am Afraid That Puppy Won’t Like My Other Animals

    If you have more dogs in the house and are worried about how a new puppy will affect them, don’t be! Being cautiously aware, but not nervous, is the correct mindset to be at.

    In most cases, puppies and adult dogs get along famously. The key to success is to introduce the puppy to your dogs gradually and under supervision so that everyone has time to adjust.

    What Does Socialization Mean?

    Puppy socialization means exposing your new puppy to as many different people, animals, and environments as possible in a positive way so that they can learn how to interact with the world around them.

    Socialization is the way that puppies interact with the world. It DOES NOT mean that they should visit dog parks daily or be exposed to daycare facilities that do not guide them in appropriate behavior.

    Practicing negative behavior will only lead to the development of negative habits.

    For more information about how to balance play with other pups and include puppy based socialization, you will be interested in our guide:

    Start play is important for all puppies, but Great Danes especially need early socialization because they are such a large breed.

    Help: I Got My First Puppy and I’m Drowning in Work

    If you’ve just gotten your first puppy and are starting to realize that you’re in over your head, it’s okay!

    We’ve all been there. Every new pet owner needs a little help getting started.

    Find a Few Pups You Trust

    The first step is to find a few owners of well behaved dogs or puppies that you trust. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your veterinarian for recommendations or look for local dog training clubs.

    If you have friends with well-behaved dogs, ask if their owners would be willing to help you out.

    This is important so that your dog CAN interact with other puppies in a responsible way. Allow your puppy to start playing with them, and monitor the behavior between the crew so that they can all have positive learning experiences.

    Get Some Training Tips

    Once you’ve assembled a group of pups you’re comfortable with, it’s time to start working on some basic obedience training.

    This will help your puppy learn how to behave around other dogs as well as people.

    There are plenty of resources available to help you get started, including books, videos, and online courses.

    Make a few purchases like treats and a long leash to get them used to wearing a leash. Treats should be used in a fun, loving way to help build self esteem and get your puppy’s attention.

    Here are a few of our favorite treats:

    Crate Training and Your New Pup

    Crate training is an important part of obedience training for puppies.

    Not only does it help with housebreaking, but it also provides your puppy with a safe place to go when they’re feeling overwhelmed or need a break from play.

    Start by introducing your puppy to their crate in a positive way. Put their food in the crate and let them eat in there.

    Once they’re comfortable with that, you can start closing the door for short periods of time while they’re inside. gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate until they’re able to stay in there for several hours at a time.

    Here is a compilation of our favorite crates for your pup:

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    The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

    In Conclusion:

    In conclusion, choosing a new Great Dane is a very challenging task.

    Be responsible when choosing a breeder, and be prepared for the challenges of housebreaking and obedience training.

    But most importantly, have fun! Your new puppy is sure to bring you years of happiness. Thanks for reading!

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  • Your Great Dane is Bored: Here’s 11 Fun Ways to Entertain Them.

    Your Great Dane is Bored: Here’s 11 Fun Ways to Entertain Them.

    Your Great Dane is bored. It’s true. Many Great Danes are bored, and frustrated pet parents see the symptoms as a sign of disobedience or dominant behavior.

    This is important. Most people imagine their Great Dane should be a couch potato, content to lounge all day. They kind of are. They do like to lounge! Most will happily park themselves on a couch given the opportunity. They don’t need the same kind of intense working and exercise that a herding dog or terrier might need.  But they are still dogs, and I think we all tend to forget that. 

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    Great Dane Signs of Boredom

    Imagine a life inside a home. You cannot see friends, watch TV, read a book, work on a hobby or go for a walk. This is the life most pet dogs are living.

    A few toys scattered about and a quick 15 minute walk really isn’t fair, nor is it enough. 

    Boredom is something that plagues many pet dogs, not just Great Danes. All of us get stuck in a routine and forget that our dogs are living their lives alongside us, and have different needs than us, too.

    Do any of these common ‘complaints’ accurately describe your dog? 

    1. Destructive (Bedding, couches, walls, etc.)
    2. Noisy (Barking & whining)
    3. Digs Holes & Pulls up Landscaping
    4. Escapes (Jumps fences, breaks out of crate)
    5. ‘Stubborn’ (Doesn’t listen, won’t come when called)
    6. ‘Defiant’ (Ignores commands, doesn’t respond to corrections)
    7. ‘Dominant’ (Makes the rules)
    8. Rude (Jumps, steals, humps, etc.)

    Boredom, frustration, confusion and anxiety are key factors with dogs that are destructive, out of control and difficult to live with. Not ‘Dominance’ or being ‘defiant’ or ‘stubborn’. 

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    Dog Behavior & Boredom Go Hand-in-Hand

    SO many difficult behavior problems are minimized or even eliminated when you solve issues related to boredom, anxiety, and a lack of sleep. 

    Stir crazy, under-stimulated, over-tired anxious dogs are really hard to live with. 

    Any good dog trainer worth their salt will address most behaviors by first assessing the routine and what kind of access the dog has to appropriate mental enrichment and exercise. 

    Destruction, digging, chewing, getting into the trash, barking and hopping the fence are all signs that a dog literally doesn’t have any appropriate outlet for the correct behavior. 

    They are saying, in dog language that they are BORED.

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    Enrichment Ideas for Great Danes

    Are you ready to tackle boredom and common behavior problems?

    Even just a few minutes per day can go a long ways here. If you have more time on the weekend, save that for the big stuff. During the work week, compromise where you need to and make up for it later. That’s ok to do! 

    #1 – Unstructured Walks

    Instead of structured walks on pavement, consider also adding unstructured walks that involve sniffing, exploration, and moving naturally on varied terrain such as grass, sand and gravel. (This can help their feet too!)

    This DOES mean getting off your property; remember, your backyard is not a novel or interesting environment.

    If your dog is E-Collar trained, you can visit places where being off leash is safe and legal. If not, consider a long tracking line such as this one so your Dane can move as freely as possible.

    If you drive around, you may be surprised to find how many areas near you are interesting to explore!

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    #2 – Visit a Dog Friendly Store

    If your dog is friendly and well trained, visit your local dog-friendly store and pick out a new treat or toy.

    In this situation it is incredibly important that your Great Dane be a calm, gentle, and friendly ambassador of the breed. This is NOT a good activity for Danes that lunge, pull, bark, or are fearful or aggressive.

    It’s also important that the stores you visit are truly dog friendly! Only service dogs (who are task trained to assist with a specific medical condition such as seizure alerts or blind navigation) are allowed in most stores. If you are unsure, call the manager to ask in advance, and always err on the side of caution.

    Check out this list of dog friendly stores.

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    #3 – Have a Picnic and People Watch

    Sit at a park on a blanket and watch people and dogs walk by. 

    Not only is this activity mentally engaging, but it socializes your Great Dane by allowing them to realize that they can be ‘in’ the chaos without being apart of it.

    People watching is also a great opportunity for you to work on your obedience training with your dog! By using positive reinforcement, you can teach your dog that engaging with you is much more fun than lunging, pulling, barking, or reacting towards people, dogs, bikes, and children.

    Puppy Socialization
    Puppy Culture: A Way to Socialize from the Start
    Puppy Socialization Guide
    Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training

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    #4 – Clicker Training

    Use clicker training and teach your Great Dane a new trick each week.

    Clickers are a fantastic tool that work by communicating to your dog the exact moment they do something you like.

    Many people think that clicker training means clicking at the dog with the clicker to get their attention. This is completely wrong!

    Clicker training starts by teaching the dog that when they hear a click, they get a treat.

    Click, treat.
    Click, treat.
    Click, treat.

    With a little practice, you can then begin to CLICK when your dog completes a behavior such as sit, paw, down, or touch. For example:

    Sit, Click, Treat.
    Sit, Click, Treat.

    or

    Touch, Click, Treat.
    Touch, Click, Treat.

    The dog learns to ‘work for the click’ because clicks = good things! Clicker training aids in providing your dog with clarity and precision, which means they learn more, faster.

    You can purchase a clicker HERE.

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    #5 – Take an Obedience, Sport, or Trick Class

    Take a class together. Learn how to stand for the show ring (conformation class), work up to your Canine Good Citizen (obedience) title and then go a step farther into Rally Obedience.

    There are MANY amazing sports and obedience classes that you can take through local training clubs that will help you build a better relationship with your dog and possibly even provide you with a fun new hobby.

    Here are some ideas:

    • Basic, intermediate, and advanced obedience
    • Conformation (how to act like a show dog)
    • Rally (Obedience course)
    • Dock Diving (Dive off a dock for a toy)
    • Scent Work (Learn how to find things by scent tracking)
    • Agility (Athletic course)
    • Lure Course (Running quickly after a lure)
    • Trick Training
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    #6 – Learn Scent Work with Your Great Dane

    This goes hand-in-hand with taking a class, but you can also learn to do this at home with youtube videos.

    Scent work is an incredible way to work your dogs mind.

    Dogs have an amazing sense of smell and within a few training sessions, most dogs are able to find ‘hides’ (scent) that are just out of sight.

    It only takes weeks from that point to teach them to find scent that is well hidden! If you enjoy the process and your dog is good at it, you can even earn ribbons and titles together.

    Some handlers are paid very well for dogs that can scent track things such as bed bugs or drugs, and many are even used in search and rescue efforts.

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    #7 – Fitpaws & Body Confidence Training

    Purchase some FITPAWS or other dog fitness gear and learn how to use them to teach your Great Dane better balance, coordination and body awareness.

    These are fun and can be used in your living room or backyard. When used under the supervision of a canine rehabilitation specialist, they can also be incredibly helpful for building core strength as well as building strength in the toes and ankles.

    Because standing on the FITPAWS is basically a dog trick, using lots of positive reinforcement is key. This will wear out your dogs mind and body!

    If you don’t have FitPaws, watch Youtube videos online for dog coordination exercises.

    You can buy FITPAWS here.

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    #8 – Use a Puzzle Feeder

    Have your Great Dane eat meals out of a puzzle feeder.

    This will slow down their eating, reduce their risk of bloat, provide them with better digestion, and wear their brains out, too!

    Puzzle feeders come in so many shapes and sizes. Experiment with what works well for your pet.

    If you don’t want to spend money on bowls to clean and wash, you can roll your dog’s kibble up into a towel! They have to forage to get it out and will love ‘working’ for their dinner.

    #9 – Stuff Kong or Topl Toys

    Stuff rubber KONG or West Paw Topl toys, freeze, and let your dog figure it out!

    Here are some popular dog Kong or Topl stuffing ideas:

    • Kibble (hydrate with bone broth)
    • Peanut butter (take it easy with this one)
    • Pumpkin
    • Plain yogurt
    • Canned dog food

    Make sure that you only replace 5% of the normal diet with treats, toppers, and stuffing. Your dog does NOT need a Kong filled to the brim with peanut butter, in other words! Rehydrated kibble is always a good choice, as it’s part of the normal diet and gives you a base upon which you can be creative.

    For example, smear peanut butter inside before stuffing it with the canned food or rehydrated kibble, then add a treat for the dog to find in the middle!

    Freezing the Kong or Topl before serving will make it last longer, and can be a great activity for dogs that have separation anxiety.

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    #10 – Play Hide & Seek with your Great Dane

    There are many ways to play with dogs, and hide and seek games are perfect indoor activities for those not-so-nice weather days.

    You can play hide and seek by hiding in another room or behind a curtain and then rewarding your puppy or adult Great Dane for finding you! This fun game also builds on recall (staying close and always looking where you are), so your dog will have better off-leash skills out of the home, too.

    You can also hide toys or treats for your dog to find around the house, and make doing so a fun daily part of the routine. 

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    #11 – Introduce a Flirt Pole to Your Great Dane

    For dogs aged 2+, you can introduce a flirt pole.

    Flirt poles tap into natural prey drive; dogs love to chase, circle, and ‘catch’ the lure on the end.

    NOTE: We never recommend using a laser pointer to play ‘lure’ games with your Great Dane, as doing so can cause nearly irreparable damage to their mental health (don’t believe us? Check out THIS article for information on why you should NEVER use a laser pointer to play with your dog).

    However, a flirt pole is an incredible alternative to laser pointers. It results in the same fun behaviors and play, but unlike a laser, the dog can actually ‘catch the prey’ and is less likely to develop obsessive or compulsive behaviors.

    Flirt poles can also be used as a reward as part of a positive training program.

    Expecting a Miracle for Behavior Problems?

    Don’t expect any miracles here, at least not straight away. 

    A dog that has made a habit of chewing up beds and hopping fences is a dog who has made these things part of the routine. Adding a TON of enrichment will help, but many times this also requires thoughtful training and management. 

    Get creative here! Get ahead of the curve and keep the enrichment activities coming. Work with a highly qualified trainer to change or even eliminate the behaviors that are unacceptable. 

    Even just one new enrichment activity is bound to get even the most wound up dog to settle more!

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    If your dog is currently showing signs of boredom and anxiety, don’t stress! Jump in, change your routine and go from there. 

    Have fun with your dog! 

    READ MORE:

    What is the best leash for Great Danes?