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The Pooch Professor is now blogging!
Check out more of my ramblings!
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Just added! 4-hour Pet First Aid class March 28th, 2010
Class will be in Canton, GA at The Canine Ranch.
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A Trained Dog is a Happy Dog!
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| Winter is a great time to work your dog (once he has the basics) around distractions. A trip to the pet supply store becomes a training session! Here, Jigsaw the 6-month-old lab mix heels with his dad. |
With the start of a new year comes a host of resolutions, many of which people invariably break, despite their best intentions.
Why not make training your pooch--whether you just brought him home, or have had him for years--a resolution you can live with in 2010?
It doesn't cost a lot of money, or even time. A well-trained dog is a gift that keeps on giving. Contact me, and let's start the year off right!
Our dogs give us so much. We know instinctively (and scientific studies prove) that they are good for our health. Recent studies have shown that a dog is an excellent exercise partner! However, most dogs won't walk nicely on-leash until they are taught how. I can show you how!
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 I like winter. I like the cold, snappy air, the clear blue skies, and the way the dogs frolic. I also like a roaring fire, a good book, and a lap full of tired, cozy dogs.
I like snow, too, but of course I rarely get it in Georgia. Northerners laugh at me for liking it, mostly because they've grown up and forgotten its wonder. They are tired of it. But they haven't experienced the frustration and shame of trying to sled down a hill on a pile of leaves, have they?
There's nothing like taking a walk on a crisp winter day with your dog. Not only does it burn energy for both of you, but at a time when most people are happy to stay bundled up indoors, the true nature-lovers (human and dog alike) find sights, smells and sounds that winter brings to be a delight. Follow these tips to make your outdoor time most enjoyable.
If you take your dog hiking in wooded areas, be sure to
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This photo of Euchre the hound mix was taken by his owner Anna Skowronek, who lives in Michigan. |
- make sure dogs are allowed at your designated hiking spot, and obey the leash laws
- pick up your dog's waste, even if he doesn't "doo" it on or near the trail
- keep your dog from disturbing wildlife or other hikers
While walking on city streets:
- beware of ice and snow/slick areas which can cause a slip or fall
- consider having your pooch wear a sweater if he has short fur or doesn't get out much
- the salt substance used to de-ice roadways can burn your dog's paw pads, so rinse them well and dry with a towel when you get home.
Regardless of venue, take lots of water for you and your dog.
Dehydration is more prevalent in winter because we don't always feel thirsty like in summer, but we are constantly losing precious fluids with exercise. Also, check between the dog's paw pads often to remove ice or snow that may have caked and frozen there.
Notice the sights around you! Bare tree branches create interesting patterns against blue sky, especially at sunup or twilight. Certain species of plants only bloom in the wintertime (such as Camellia, Winter jasmine, and Winter honeysuckle). Look for interesting, colorful bark and berries, too. Evergreens stand out in the otherwise stark landscape.
Dogs often seem friskier in the colder air, especially those with thick coats who overheat too quickly in hotter weather. They'll keep you on your toes! Though we don't get to experience it much here in Georgia, watching dogs frolic in snow is one of life's greatest pleasures. Enjoy!
Also, if you are going to a place where Fido might be able to be off-leash, make sure he is off-leash trained first! How can you tell? This article can help.
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| Phoebe belongs to Nicole Marud, who took these photos at their home in Saskachewan, Canada. Brr! |
New puppy in the family? This book/DVD will help make training a snap.
Two of my very favorite canine professionals have put together a fantastic book/DVD for new puppy owners. Packed with lots of great information (and a whole pile of cute puppies), "My Smart Puppy" will help get your relationship with your new pup off to a great start.
 Brian Kilcommons and wife Sarah Wilson have been training for many years. Both have appeared on numerous TV news shows and their articles have been featured in several publications, including Parade magazine. They are the authors of some of my favorite books, too.
Their expertise shines through in this well-produced video that no puppy owner should be without.
Order My Smart Puppy!
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