PetBuds of Champlain Valley Advice Blog

Understanding dog behavior takes effort!

2011-06-06T21:41:00.000-04:00

I cannot tell you how many times I hear people makes statements about dog behavior that is absolutely incorrect and misinformed. Watching a few episodes of Cesar Milan is not enough to make anyone an expert, no matter how much you can remember of any particular episode.

I'm a trained professional, and I have had to endure many conversions where a dog owner was attempting to school me on the different aspects of dog behavior. I listen quietly and patiently, and I don't like it. It's even more difficult to bear as I'm watching their dogs exhibit bad behavior. All the while, I'm in the I-know-it-all-school of animal behaviorist, I often silently think to myself, "Do you actually have kids? How'd that go?"

The first thing I did to become an expert dog handler and behaviorist was to get training. I didn't do an on-line certification. I refused to become a trainer by the on-line method. When it comes to dogs, book learning is great. But it is only one step towards understanding animals that are hard-wired for pack behavior. I did an apprenticeship with an actual dog pack. Hands-on experience is worth 100 of the best written books out there. You cannot be a quick study in this field. It takes time, a lot of studying and experience.

Read as many books as you can. There are some great trainers and dog behaviorist out there. Then take that knowledge and go to dog parks. Observe what is happening within each experience. Do not engage the pack, just observe and see what you'll learn. Do this more then once, go often. Even then, you may not become an expert, but your sure be more knowledgeable then most!

Cold Weather Tips!

2009-12-21T20:47:00.005-05:00

Extreme temperatures cold or hot are the times that you should be more aware of your dogs needs. Common sense is always the rule. There are three important factors to consider during the winter: Breed and coat, age, and overall heath conditions. Wind and moisture are factors to consider. If it's below O/F quick potty breaks, then curl up around the fire place. For short haired and warm weather breeds use sweaters, coats and booties. Cut your walking time down to 15 to 25 min. at least twice a day. For healthy medium or large breeds, two 30 min. walks per day is good as long as the temperature doesn't fall below 20/F.

Dogs need exercise even in the winter. If you and your dog can tolerate more, then go for it! Cabin fever is unhealthy for your dog. Don't over do it. The temps won't stay frigid forever. Visit my web-site @ www.petbudsvt.com.

How To Keep Fido Physically Fit

2009-11-28T21:03:00.003-05:00

One of the greatest aspects of maintaining your dogs physical health is that it has a direct effect on your own fitness. The best way to bond and have quality time with your companion is exercise. It's all about "the walk." Walking is pack behavior. It emulates the "hunt" for food, and has a lasting effect on your dogs emotional well-being. Nothing better to a dog than a run with the pack. Fenced in or backyard play is good, but it never gives your dog the same benefits as walking, the truth is, that your dog is more active during a good walk.

A vigorous walk is a cardiovascular workout. It breaths life into the muscular tissues and circulatory system. Oxygenation occurs by dilation of blood vessels and increased blood pressure, and cleanses cells of toxins. Exercise aids in improved bowel movements. (Natural Health for Dogs & Cats, Richard H. Pitcairn, DMV, PHD)

Use common sense. Design your exercise regiment according to your dogs abilities. Low energy, smaller breeds need less exercise then high energy larger breeds. Elderly dogs need exercise, but at a much slower pace, and that's assuming they are healthy and mobile. German Shepherds, for example, will do good with at least a hour or more a day. For your couch potato Terriers, a half hour is good. Mix walking with other activities like fetch or frisbees. Makes for a win-win program that benefits you and your companion. Visit my web-site @ www.petbudsvt.com.

Caring for your dog

2009-11-21T18:21:00.003-05:00

Dogs play a vital role in our daily lives; and are amazing companions. They are fun, cuddly, loyal, and humorous players on the stage of life. It's worth the time and energy to educate yourselves and your family about your dogs psychological, social, emotional and physical needs. The benefits from learning how to handle your dog correctly is enormous. Owning and caring for a dog is a great responsibility, one that shouldn't be taken lightly.

Dogs are dogs; they are hard-wired for pack behavior. Scavengers that travel up to 15 miles a day forging. They will eat nearly anything, especially if it smells bad. Dog packs are hierarchical. Status and position is everything; the glue that binds them for survival. How much you understand about dogs, how they think, and what motivates them, will give you the upper hand and insight on how to keep you dogs emotional state balanced.
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