Daily Training: Front Door

Does your dog bolt out the door?  Or do they go absolutely insane when a visitor rings the doorbell?  As the alpha in your pack, you must establish the door as YOURS.  This is YOUR home, you are responsible for the well being of all who reside in it.  When your dog does not understand this, he believes HE is alpha and HE is responsible for who walks in and out of that door.  This thinking not only makes it difficult to handle your dog when the door is being opened, but it also puts a tremendous amount of stress on your dog.  Can you imagine being in charge of a whole family without the proper equipment, training and resources?  You'd be pretty crazy too, making the wrong choices and causing chaos in the family.  But the alpha-talk is another topic.  Let's discuss this door issue.

Train Daily!

For front door training (when someone knocks or rings the doorbell), teach your dog to follow you to a specific point on your way to the door and to wait.  Always use this same spot.  Use treats as positive reinforcement.  Once they've done this enough and they've established this spot as their "wait" spot, next step is to open the door.  Be confident when you do this.  With your back facing your dog, open the door.  If he makes any type of move towards you, use a distraction method that causes him to focus on you.  You can use the "BAH" method, which is a low growl.  It is not aggressive and is more of a "pay attention" type of message.

Have a partner stand on the other side of the door and ring the door bell.  Have your dog do as you've trained him: follow you to that spot, wait, and then you will open the door and tell the "visitor" that the dog is going to greet him/her.  Then once you've closed the door, call your dog to the visitor and have him greet him/her.  Hopefully at this time, you've already taught your dog not to jump on people! ;)  Spend at least 5 minutes a day doing this training.

Another tip outside of front door training:

When people want to greet your dog (while outside the home), never just let them approach your dog and never just let your dog approach them.  Train your dog to wait until you tell him to greet the person.  Tell the person to hold on until you tell your dog it's okay to greet them.

Things to remember

1. Be consistent; you need to be the one to win.
2. Control the situation at all times by interrupting the "bad" behavior.  Do this by bringing the dog's focus to YOU.
3. Anticipate the behavior. 
4. When your dog makes a mistake, don't stress!  Just take a break and try again.
5. Train all the time, just because.
6. Reward Reward Reward!!
7. Have fun with it!

The Dog In Your Home

The Dog In Your Home

Dogs are like children.  They don't understand English until you teach them.  Of course a dog would only know key words that are associated with results.  For instance, command + action = reward.  It works that way with children, only people usually use this with dogs for tricks and not actually a guided obedience like they do with children.  If humans instead went into dog training fully believing the relationship to be one of family, the training might just be more effective and beneficial for both the dog and the humans.  To have a successful canine family member, you must understand canines and the language they speak.

Dogs are and always have been pack animals.  They naturally know how their hierarchy is structured.  They know their place and they are very good pack members.  But when their pack consists of humans who don't understand the pack mentality, the dog is often confused about where he is in the hierarchy.  When the household is chaotic to a dog (which means the humans aren't properly placed in the hierarchy), the dog believes he must take control and become alpha since nobody else is stepping up to the plate.  However, because he is a dog and it is highly intimidating for him to lead a pack of humans, his leadership position isn't exactly compatible to ours.  And that's when the humans believe the dog is the problem.  If the dog was instead a child, the only differences taking place would be the type of "acting out" the child would have and the end result of the situation.  A dog would usually be dumped at a shelter while a child would never be given up.

Without enforcement of rules, children go absolutely crazy.  Don't they?  If there is no discipline in the home, the children believe they can do whatever they like whenever they like to.  Parents pull their hair out in frustration.  If, however, rules are enforced, discipline is consistent, and the relationship is balanced with healthy acts of love, children are very successful and even though they will make mistakes, they always come back to center.  All of this is the same for the dog in the home.

Understanding your dog's language, speaking to him in that language, and working with him to maintain his place in the pack will plant in him that security he needs as a pack member.  Set your dog up for success by doing these things.  So many dogs end up in shelters because their humans were ignorant to the fact that dogs do in fact have their own language and it isn't English.

I received training through Bark Busters, which made a difference in my perspective of the dog in my home. Check out the following video to see what I'm talking about.

Say What?? You Home-Cook For Your Dog????

Those of you who home-cook or raw-feed your dog know the funny looks, sarcastic remarks, and even looks of disgust (either for the raw idea or just the mere fact that you don't feed kibble).  These reactions come from friends, family members, and strangers alike.  The food people feed their dog is their choice, but I've noticed that whenever we discuss the topic a lot of the time we can be judgmental towards the other person's feeding choice.  I've seen raw-feeders shake their heads at kibble-feeders in dismay.  At the same time, I've also seen raw-feeders shake their heads at home-cookers.  I've seen kibble-feeders rant and rave about the health and sanitary concerns that accompanies raw-feeding.  And a mix of all feeders quibbling over who's wrong and who's right.  Here's the deal:  Find what works for both you and your dog!

Chicken, carrots, brown rice, veggie pasta.
Add an egg, cottage cheese, and herbs to complete it!

I switched from raw-feeding to home-cooking because I honestly couldn't stand trying to keep up with keeping Bruce's mouth free of raw food.  He licks my and the kids' faces and even though I brushed his teeth and wiped his face clean after he ate, I couldn't shake the idea that I might not have cleaned enough.  So I home-cook now.  And honestly, Bruce and I both love it.

I've found home-cooking to be lots of fun.  I always make sure to mash the veggies either when it's cooked or prior to mixing with the cooked meal.

I still get the funny looks.  But it's okay.  It's my choice.  And if you find yourself feeling a little embarrassed when strangers think you're weird or maybe feeling not-enough when others think you're not feeding the "best," just remember:  As long as your dog is getting what he needs to live a happy, healthy life, it's probably the right choice.

Health tip:  Did you know that omega-3 fatty acids reduce lactate levels and have the ability to reduce or eliminate metastatic disease?  Cancer cells thrive on sugars and create lactate as a waste product.  Lactate poisons the animal by depleting its energy, thus weakening it.

Bruce watches me prepare his food with a look that says,
"Why must you punish me by taking forever?"

Belly Problems? Use Pumpkin!

Pumpkin puree (you can get it canned as long as it is 100% pure and not mixed with other ingredients) is a great stabilizer for an upset digestive system.

Daily Dose
10 lb dog - 1 tblspn
20 lb dog - 3 tblspn
40 lb dog - 1/4 cup
60 lb dog - 1/2 cup

Make It Yourself

You'll need 1 (3-4 lb) pumpkin

1. Preheat oven to 350F
2. Wash outside of pumpkin and cut into quarters
3. Scoop out the inside and discard the fibers
4. Place pumpkin quarters flesh side down in the bottom of a large roasting pan or on a rimmed baking sheet
5. Roast for 45 minutes until flesh is tender
6. Allow the pumpkin to cool
7. Scoop out flesh and discard the skin
8. Puree the pumpkin in batches in a food processor for about 30 secs until smooth
1. Or mash with a potato masher
9. Use immediately
1. Or store in fridge for up to 1 week
2. Or store in freezer for up to 6 months

Yields 2-3 cups

You can drain this mixture and use the liquid to pour over dog food.

Book Highlight

In Dogs We Trust is a collection of true stories written by a multitude of authors.  Don't scroll past this one--click on the link to check it out!

Description from the site:

The Hardcover Edition of In Dogs We Trust is an Autographed Special Edition: Includes More than 10 new stories from celebrated authors.

 “If you love dogs…..and even if you haven’t yet been touched by one, you will understand how magical they are….as Angels, healers of traumatic wounds, teachers, therapists, heroes, saviors, and friends.”

A book by world class writers with all proceeds going to the Lt. Michael Murphy Scholarship Fund, Freedom Service Dogs, The Warrior Dog Foundation and National Mill Dog Rescue….
“The stories will make you laugh and cry and put you in touch with your inner dog…”

Click here to buy it!

 Movie Must-See

The Dog Fighter is movie that leads us on the journey through MMA Fighter, Gordon Shell's mission- the fight for the dogs.  Despite a serious medical condition that ended his MMA career, he has chosen to risk his health, maybe even his life, fighting to rescue dogs in need.  What an amazing story.  You MUST see this.

Watch the trailer!

Doing the Work

IT'S SATURDAY!!!!

Doing the Work

I was on Facebook the other day and I read a post someone wrote that they were in search of a shock collar.  They described how frustrated they were about their dog who keeps darting out the door.  A bunch of people commented on electric fences and other types of corrective tools.  The original poster reiterated how she was at her "wits end" with this dog and that she had tried everything from yelling to sneaking out the door.  I wanted to pull my hair out.  And then I had to remember that I was once in her shoes.

Prior to going through dog obedience/behavior training, most people spend their dog ownership "dealing" with behavioral problems. 

When I had my door darter, I had to establish pack hierarchy. I was alpha and the dog was part of the pack, the lowest part. That meant, no dog on furniture unless invited her up. No pets unless I initiated it. So when she wanted to play I ignored her and once she got bored and gave up, I initiated play. She began to look to me for guidance instead of just going nuts.

When it came to the door, I practiced door manners. I went to the door and she would immediately follow. Dogs understand body language, not human language unless it is something they associate with training. So I walk to the door with my back facing her, I stop about four feet away from the door, turn around and call her to sit and stay in front of me. Praise and treat. Then, I walk to the door, still with my back to her and remind her to stay. Praise and treat. I reach for the knob and look back to check if she moved. If not, I turn the knob. If she darts, I give a small growl. Nothing crazy, just something to stop her. Then I put her back and sit stay at the invisible line I established initially. This is where the work is when you train in problem areas. It is step by step, moving back to the spot where she began. Praise and treat for each step she does well. If she doesn't do what you want, you try again then praise and treat.

Eventually you'll get to the point where you will stand at the doorway with the door open and she will still be at that invisible line. Then you will close the door and praise highly.

For door darters, you have to teach your dog that it is YOUR door, not theirs. It is your house. You are in control. While you're training you will find yourself feeling bad, even maybe feeling like a bully. But dogs are pack members. They respect and love the alpha. You as alpha will make them feel secure and safe. No need to dart, no need to go crazy because they trust that as their leader, you got this.

Dogs speak dog and humans speak human.  Training is the line that connects you both.  It solves or prevents the majority of behavioral problems in dogs.  Having a dog is like having a kid-- they require your help in being successful family members!  Take the time to do the work.

Today's Toon

Do You Feed Raw?
Johanna from our Facebook page is looking for some advice on raw feeding.  She currently cooks her dog food but would like to know more about raw.  Please click here to leave her a comment! 

Are You On Instagram?

Post your doggie pics and use #justkeepthedog to tag us!

Your pic will make it to our Featured Instagram Dog!

Bruce gives me puppy eyes!



New Baby?  Don't Give Up The Dog!

Click on the Newsletter!

I always hated that part in Lady And The Tramp when Lady's owners bring home the baby and suddenly Lady is kicked out of the house and left to stay outside.  The dog is a part of your family.  When you find out you're pregnant, you have months to prepare him for the change in his pack that is about to take place.  Don't automatically assume he'll adjust as soon as you haul that infant carrier into the home.  Check out Bark Buster's Bringing Home Baby tips to find out how you can help your dog adjust!




Book Highlight

JJ The American Street Dog

by Diane Rose-Solomon

I met someone on Twitter a few weeks ago.  A fellow dog lover!  I swear, people who love dogs have a heart where a special blend of love exists.  Diane Rose-Solomon is the author of JJ The American Street Dog, a book dedicated the educating children about adopting instead of purchasing a dog from a pet store.  This book is beautifully illustrated and my two young boys absolutely love it! I purchased this book a few weeks ago and it arrived quickly. 

Click here to get yours now!



Thinking of Dumping Your Dog?

Every dog in a shelter has his own story.  Each of them loved their family before being dumped off.  Most people who surrender their dogs do so for very common reasons:

1. Moving - apartment doesn't allow dogs
2. Lack of training - chewing, barking, pottying in the house
3. Not enough time - busy lifestyle, children, too many pets
4. Cost - routine health care, senior dog needing special care
5. Allergies - sudden reaction to dog's dander or fur

So you're moving and the new place doesn't allow dogs.  Here's an answer - don't move there.  I live in a city where the majority of apartments do not allow dogs over 35-50lbs.  Bruce is 90lbs!  I couldn't live in the beautiful apartment I wanted unless I gave him up.  Well, that wasn't happening.  I searched and searched, asked around, and read reviews.  Eventually I found a place that accepted large breed dogs.  It wasn't as gorgeous as the other apartments, but I wasn't worried - I could easily make the new Bruce-friendly place Home.

Is your dog constantly driving you nuts by chewing your shoes, peeing in the house, or barking at the wind?  Train him!  The majority of a dog's behavioral issues can be corrected and prevented with training!  If you can't afford a trainer, You can definitely find great training tips for free on YouTube.

If your lifestyle is too busy because you're a single mom with two young kids, your dog may be your biggest source of peace.  I'm serious!  I'm a single mom of two young boys.  I work full time and when I get home I have plenty of work to do.  But I still manage to make time for my dog.  And you know what?  I love that I have to take him outside because I get to have some fresh air and some time outside.  I am almost forced to stop doing things and just enjoy nature.  I don't spend a long time on walks after work because I'm busy.  But I do slip in five minutes here and there throughout the evening to train my dog.  It's like taking breaks away from chores. 

I know all about being on a budget.  Trust me!  So I make sure to do some dang good cost comparison before deciding on a vet.  Also, humane societies are great at providing care at lower costs.  If your senior dog suffers from arthritis and you can't afford that laser therapy, apply heat compresses to his hips (or wherever he suffers) and give massages.  If you're struggling with dog food, you really can make your own.  Spend some time every Saturday making home made dog food to last the week.  It can be lots of fun if you let it!

Shampooing your dog in hypoallergenic shampoos can help and so can over the counter allergy medication.  Non-drowsy store brand Benadryl can help you deal.  It's not addicting and is not too bad on the wallet.

Contact a rescue group or humane society for tips on how to deal with issues that can be handled or prevented.  There are plenty of people out there who want to help you keep your dog!

But what if I've exhausted everything and really can't keep him?

Sometimes the only option is to give up your dog.  Sometimes you HAVE to.  If this is the case, please ensure you give your dog the best chance at a great future.  Instead of taking your dog to a shelter, try other options first.  Ask coworkers, friends or family if they'd be willing to give your dog a good home.  Do not utilize Craigslist!

Craigslist is a great place to shop for items at a cheaper price, but too many predators are just waiting for you to give them your dog.  Too many dogs end up being flipped or used as bait dogs for dogfighting.  Instead of Craigslist or other online classifieds, contact an animal rescue group.  Better yet, see if you can find one that is dedicated to your dog's breed.  Always seek a no-kill place.

Talk to your veterinarian about your situation-- they know their clients and who might provide a good home.

Always be honest about your dog's history.  This will help the rescue organization or vet find the suitable home. 

Suggested Reading

The Dog Guide - A great training resource!

Bark Busters Dog Training Tips - Free tips from a great training program!

Thank you for reading!

 I write not for myself but for my dog and others like him who

waited behind cage bars for someone to take them

home.

Please send your input to me at Justkeepthedog@gmail.com!

Visit our Facebook page!

Hiking With Bruce

So I've fallen in love with hiking.  After Eagle Peak and the Incline, I am in love with the outdoors.  And I have a dog who loves it too.  So I had a day off and decided to spend it only with Bruce.

 

It was a great day.

 

Bruce had a blast!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Help! My dog would rather poop in his cage!

Kyle is in need of your advice! He and his family just took in a rescue and are facing nasty potty training problems. Can you help?

I have a problem. The chihuahua we rescued is very hard to get to go to the bathroom outside. He is six months old and has always used the bathroom outside but now he thinks that when he goes in his crate at night it is time to use the bathroom inside of it.

I take him out right before we go to bed and right when I get up in the morning. Usually in bed by 12 up by 6.

I have tried a large crate with him a medium crate with him and finally last night the small crate thinking that his natural instinct of not using the bathroom where he sleeps would kick in and man was I wrong he made a bigger mess in the small crate than in the the other ones and lord did I have to give him a bath and clean like crazy on everything around his crate.

I refuse to get rid of him especially since my kids all have fell in love with him and my other dog cooper get along so good and the funny thing is my daughters cat and him even play. I have even lined the crates with nice soft blankets and left them bare to see if that helps and learned with him not to put a blanket in the crate unless you want it shredded lol.

Any ideas or thoughts or ways that worked for anyone else would be great I am willing to try anything at this point.

Please be respectful in your comments. Also, this is a family friendly site, so please no profanity. Thanks in advance!

New Year's Resolution

Bruce scored a 108 on the Bark Busters dog behavior quiz. :-( 108 is a D. Here's what the results say:

86 - 139 = D This category of dogs has issues that can be serious if not addressed soon. Owners of these dogs are constantly being annoyed and irritated by their behavior and are beginning to think, "Something has got to be done." Fortunately, dogs can change their behavior quite easily, so these owners should seek help immediately.

Bruce's habits are annoying but they've always just been annoying. I crate him while I'm out because his separation anxiety is so bad that I've come home to him baying and pounding on the door, broken blinds, pee stains, and more. While we're home, he behaves well except for the trash digging, table and counter surfing, kids toy stealing, and a few more. All these things are frustrating but I've learned to just live with it. As someone who has had previous dogs professionally trained through Bark Busters, I know better than to ignore the need for training. I have been lazy. There is no other valid excuse. So as a responsible pet owner I make a promise to my dog and to my family that things will change.

I've decided to go with Bark Busters because I've seen first hand the changes their program installs in dogs. Unlike many other programs that use corrective devices or other negative reinforcement methods, Bark Busters teaches you the dog language, giving you the ability to be in control. Plus, they have a 24 hour hotline lol!

So for my New Year's resolution, I promise to get Bruce into training. And I pray that you will do the same for your family. No matter which program you prefer, i pray it is a program that is safe for your dog, effective for both long and short term situations, and most importantly trains YOU so that you are confident and competent enough in the dog's language that you can be his trusted leader.

Happy New Year everyone.