Trainer Tips--Dog Backpacks

For this month's Trainer Tips, I would like to talk about Dog Backpacks and how they might be able to help you and your dog.

A dog backpack is pretty much what you think it would be...a backpack that is fitted for your dog.  Dog backpacks come in many different styles and brands.

In choosing a dog backpack, look for a style and color that speaks to you.  The main thing you will want to look for is to make sure that the pouches of the bag do not hang too low on the sides of the dog.  Some dog packs are not made appropriately and hang too low.  This makes it difficult for your dog to walk properly.  A dog backpack that is fitted well will not hinder your dog when walking.

My personal favorite brand of dog backpacks is Ruff Wear.  Although they no longer carry the bags we have, they products are amazing and last long.  Our dog packs are at least 6 or 7 years old and I have not had any issues with them.  They are in great condition for that many years, and we use them quite often.

Of course your local pet store will have other options as well.  It is best to try and bring your dog to the store so you are able to try on the bags to see how they fit.  You may even do this just to get a good idea of what you like, then measure your dog and order online.

Why use a backpack on my dog?

There are many reasons to add a backpack to your dog for your daily walks.  If your dog is very high energy or tends to be quite reactive to people or other dogs in public, adding a backpack can help keep your dog more calm (therefore making it easier to train your dog in these situations).  I highly recommend adding a backpack to any dog that is very high energy.  If you have a hard time wearing your dog's energy out on a daily basis, adding a backpack on your daily walks can help expel some of that excess energy.  

When adding a backpack to a dog, it helps puts their brain in a "working mode."  This helps focus the dog on the task at hand (walking calmly while carrying the bag).  Add water bottles for weight, but be sure to keep the weight as even as possible on both sides.

Both my larger dogs have dog backpacks.  Caravaggio is a certified service dog and has accompanied me with his backpack into stores and other public places.  He carries my items in his bag and I add anything purchased to the bag for him to carry as well.  Service and therapy dogs are known to carry bags to assist their owners.  But just because your dog is not certified as a service dog, does not mean he can't carry things for you.  We also add the backpacks to our dogs when we go on long hikes or for a long outdoor day event such as a parade or swap meet.  Going to the beach for the day?  You can have your dog carry all the things they need for the beach in their own bag! (water, leashes, bowl, poop bags, etc.)

This is Rayne, a service dog.

Her backpack is small and includes Service Dog tags,

but is still a dog backpack.  While she is wearing her bag,

she is in "working mode."

Dog Backpack = Magic

All in all, adding a backpack to your high energy or reactive dog can work like magic to calm them down.  There is training that should accompany you adding the backpack to your dog.  As with any new items, when first putting it on your dog, it should be paired with a treat or something the dog likes so as to make it a very positive experience.  Put the bag on and tell your dog "Good!" while giving them a treat.  If they remain calm, praise and treat.  Disagree with any behavior to try and get the bag off or scratch at it.  The first time you put the bag on the dog, only leave on for a few minutes.

Once your dog seems mostly comfortable with the bag, add it before going for your regular walk.  Have the bag pre-packed with a small amount of weight to start (you can add more as your dog gets used to it).  I even throw my roll of poop bags in the backpack pouch.

REMEMBER:  While wearing the backpack your dog should be in a "working" mind set.  Therefore the dog should not be allowed to play or run wild off leash while wearing the bag.  Remove the bag and give your dog their Release Cue before allowing these activities.  While wearing the bag, the dog should be required to remain calm and in the "working mode" mind set.

This is Hazel.

She is a VERY high energy, 2-year-old Shepherd mix.

Hazel and her mom have been working with SGDs 

on her dog aggression and reactiveness on the leash.

Adding a backpack has helped calm Hazel on walks...

she is becoming less and less reactive to other dogs and objects.

VIDEO: Teaching your dog to swim in the ocean: Step Two

Here is the video for Step Two of teaching your dog to swim in the ocean.  Keep in mind that these videos do go together for training.  Teaching your dog to swim in the ocean Step One should be one day of training.  Step 2 should be done over several training sessions, while also mixing in Step One when your dog is feeling relaxed.

Always remember to stay calm during any training, especially when the training involves something new and intimidating, such as ocean waves.  Take training slowly...ease your dog into new things.  You should never rush a dog that is obviously nervous or afraid.  Don't feel bad if it takes more time than you think it should.  If you do not rush your dog, you will have him loving the beach in no time. Also remember that it's important for the dog to witness you (and if possible other dogs) having fun at the beach.  This tells the dog that this is a fun place to be.  Encourage your dog with praise when they are calm and/or relaxed.

See Step One of Teaching your dog to Swim here.

We hope you enjoy the video...

Doggie Dash!--Dog Apps/ Game

Doggie Dash!

iPhone Apps for Dogs/ Dog Game

Updated:  July 16, 2013

FREE

This is a basic run and jump game featuring a dog.  The dog jumps over the spaces between grass patches and around/over enemies and jumps up to collect gems.  

Overall, worst game ever.  This game is hard to control, super boring, and has almost nothing exciting to look forward to.  

VIDEO: How to teach a dog to swim in the ocean: Step One

Here is the new video on "How to teach your dog to start swimming in the ocean."

For dogs who are new to the ocean, or are seeing it for the first time, the waves of the ocean are the really scary part.  To get a dog comfortable with swimming in the ocean, you must teach them how the ocean waves work.  Doing this helps the dog understand what the ocean does and what might happen and therefore gets them more comfortable with swimming in the waves.

See Also Step Two of Teaching your dog to Swim.

Breed of the Month--German Shepherd

German Shepherd Dog

Color:  Black, reddish-tan, tan, gold to light gray markings, solid black, solid gray,
(white is not accepted by the AKC)
Height:  Males:  23.5-26 inches/  Females:  21.5-24 inches
Weight:  Males:  66-88 lbs/  Females:  48.5-70.5 lbs
Life Span:  10-14 years

Breed health concerns:  Allergies, bloat, elbow dysplasia, Cushing's syndrome, epilepsy, glycogen storage disease, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.

Coat:  Medium-length double coat with dense, straight, harsh, outer coat and thick undercoat.
Country of Origin:  Germany

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

One of the most recognized breeds in the world is the German Shepherd Dog and is well known for its adaptability, intelligence, and trainability.  The "father of the breed" was Rittmeister Max von Stephanitz.  Von Stephanitz promoted German Shepherds in the German Shepherd Dogs club (founded in April 1899), from 1899-1935.  He encouraged the breed's use in the military and for police during World War I.

Today the German Shepherd dog severs in many ways including:  police work, army work, search and rescue, scent discrimination, and as guide and assistance dogs.  German Shepherds are very loyal dogs, intelligent, and brave.  Shepherds are great with children of all ages and instinctually tuned into their people family members.  

This is one of my favorite breeds.  Our dog, Caravaggio, is part German Shepherd (along with Great Dane and Black Lab).  Knowing a lot about a breed allows you to pick out certain characteristics of that breed in your own dog.  For example, Caravaggio requires a lot of physical and mental activity.  He is also extremely owner oriented.  Caravaggio is a baby for his daddy.



Exercise:
German Shepherds are very energetic and intelligent dogs that require daily vigorous exercise.  Shepherds must be mentally and physically challenged each and every day to remain healthy and happy.  
I consider the Shepherd to be a "Powerful Breed."  Therefore, this is not a breed a would necessarily recommend for a first time owner.  However if the person is ready and willing to put in the extra work and training that the breed requires, this is one of the best breeds out there!

Grooming:
The Shepherd requires regular brushing to keep its dense undercoat under control.  The Shepherd is a heavy seasonal shedder.  It is not recommended to bath Shepherds too often because it will deplete the essential oils of the skin and coat.

Training:
Shepherds thrive on training.  Shepherds have been used as service and police dogs for many years.  They also excel in sports like herding, agility, and obedience.  Shepherds are very quick learners and appreciate people that keep them challenged.

Again this is a breed that requires a LOT of daily physical and mental activity.  Shepherds are considered working dogs and really need some sort of "job" to thrive.  This does not necessary mean they need to be a service dog.  A "job" for a dog can be accompanying you on a few vigorous walks throughout the day, or playing fetch for awhile, or even playing hide and seek with their toys.  They key for the German Shepherd and other working breeds is to continuously keep their minds working.  Sometimes something as simple as carrying a backpack on their daily walks will do the trick.

German Shepherd Police Dog.

Cute German Shepherd pup.

German Shepherd Service Dog.

Poodle Jump--Dog Apps/ Game

Poodle Jump

iPhone Apps for Dogs/ Dog Game
Updated:  September 8, 2013
FREE


This game is extremely simple and requires very little effort to play.  The goal of the game is to jump your Poodle up the rungs of safety while eating bones and avoiding other dogs along the way.  Simple game, but fun.  This is a game I would highly recommend for smaller children.  The Poodle automatically jumps up the board, all you have to do is tilt the phone back and forth to make him land where you want.  If you land on a bone, you gain points.  If you land on a cat, it springs you quickly further up.  If you land on/ near another dog, your turn is over.

Start screen.

Watch out for those other dogs, they will bite you.

VIDEO: Teaching the "Leave It" Cue--Step One

Here is our new video...How to start teaching your dog the "Leave It" Command.

This video is the beginning to teaching this cue.  Stay tuned for more videos.

Doggie Dash Event Saturday Oct 11th

Saturday October 11th, 2014.  (9 a.m. to 12 noon)

(All proceeds go to benefit Maui Humane Society.)

Where:  Keopuolani Park, Kahului/ Wailuku

Course:  A fun, 1.5 mile course amongst one of Maui's best public parks.  Water stations provide at start/finsh point for furry friends and owners.  Pet and people friendly pets welcome, please leave your pet in heat at home.  Furry friends and other critters must be leashed.

When:  Check-in and late registration 7:00a.m.

Race starts 9:00 a.m.  Course will officially close at 10:00a.m.

What:  A 1.5 mile Run/ Walk of all skill levels, drawing for prizes just for attending, must be present to win.

Prizes for:  Biggest Pooch, Smallest Pooch, Best Costume, 1st place, other critter racing.

Email inquiries to ssisneros1@gmail.com
Online Donation at http://www.doggiedashmaui.myevent.com

(Information from:  Doggie Dash Maui, LLC Supporting Maui Humane Society)


Join Such Good Dogs and several other great dog people at the vendor booth area at the event.  We at Such Good Dogs are always excited to be a part of fund raising for the Maui Humane Society.

Stop by Such Good Dogs booth and ask questions, take home information, and see demonstrations with some of our pack.  Our new 5-month-old puppy DEVO will be on hand to help demonstrate and answer your questions.  All our dogs used in training and events are well-trained and well-socialized around people, other dogs, and other animals.  We hope to see you at the event!

Athena & the pack.

DEVO hopes to meet you soon!

Trainer Tips--Potty Training, Ring the Bell

As a continuation from our Potty Training -Trainer Tips from August, (and as we continue potty training our new puppy), I am going to present you with an advanced training technique you can add to potty training that can be used for your dog's whole life.  This is adding a bell, or something the dog can touch or ring, to let you know they need to go potty.

To teach this to DEVO, I went to Ben Franklin and got some ribbon and bells.  Then simply attached the bells to a length of ribbon that DEVO can reach.  He is a small dog, so the ribbon hangs pretty low to the ground.


TO BEGIN:
First we start with regular potty training.  This means taking the dog out every few hours and always taking the puppy or dog out after:  waking up from a nap, playtime, eating, and drinking.  During this basic potty training, you should be adding your command like "Go potty." when you take the dog out.  (Explained in more detail in this previous post.)  Remember to say "Good potty!" with LOTS of praise when the puppy goes outside.

During this basic potty training, you will start noticing signals the puppy will give that he may have to go potty.  These can include: sniffing around a certain area or near the way out, disappearing suddenly (usually going out of sight to potty), whining, pacing back and forth, whining or jumping near the door or window.  Early in our potty training, DEVO gave a very clear signal of whining then jumping near the door when he had to go.  His signal has decreased to a simple whine as we are redirecting him into the Bell training.  Each dog will have their own signals.  Keep a watchful eye and it will soon become apparent what these signals are for your dog.

In basic potty training (especially when the puppy can't hold it very well), as soon as the puppy gives these signals, immediately get up and give your command like, "you need to Go Potty?"  Put the leash on and take the puppy directly out to the area to potty.  Continue as above (good potty, praise, etc.)

TO ADD THE BELL:
Continue training but when the puppy starts to give his signal, incorporate the bell.
So, when DEVO goes to the door and whines (telling me he has to go potty), I say "Do you have to go potty?"  Then I come over to the door and point to the bell, and again say, "Go potty?"

Initially, you will want to come over after the puppy signals the need to go potty, say your phrase, and ring the bell yourself.  Say "Let's go potty!" then touch the bell a few times.  If the puppy touches the bell, give lavish praise..."Good! Let's go potty."  Continue with excitement until the puppy starts touching the bell.

If you are consistent with using the bell when the dog signals you he has to go potty, he will learn to associate the Bell with going potty and eventually start touching the Bell instead of giving his other signals (such as whining).  This training does take time.  Don't think it will happen overnight or even in a few days.  Most likely it will take several weeks to a few months.  Don't get discouraged.  It will all be worth it in the end.  From now on you will have a dog that will easily let you know when he really has to go potty.  Besides that, it is an extra helpful way to keep up with proper potty training for you pup.  Many of us do not take a new puppy or dog out to go potty nearly as often as we should!

This was after DEVO rang the bell.  He is waiting to go outside.  Good boy!

(NOTE:  You may also need to do a side training of "Touch," teaching a dog to touch an object.  For "Touch Training," say your word "Touch," touch a simple object like a toy while encouraging the dog to mimic you.  When they do, "Good Touch!" and reward.  Work up to more difficult and unusual objects.)

Breed of the Month--the DEVO mix.

For this month's Breed of the Month, I wanted to highlight our new puppy, DEVO, who is a mix of Miniature Pinscher and Chihuahua.  Although both of these breeds have been in previous posts, I felt the need to redo them with a fresh reminder of the breeds in my own home.  DEVO is currently 5 months old.

DEVO definitely has the Miniature Pinscher coloring, but his legs and eyes have more of a Chihuahua look.  As some of you may know, I am a HUGE fan of mutts!  Even though we do the Breed of the Month focusing on Purebred Breeds, I highly recommend adopting a mutt of several breeds for your next dog.  Why?  The fact is...ONE IN FOUR purebred dogs will have some sort of genetic health problem.  Mutts tend to be healthier over all, and usually also tend to have less behavioral problems.  So I present to you, our newest pack member, DEVO...

DEVO's first pack walk (with Nekita & Caravaggio).

DEVO's first day at the beach.

Since he looks most like the Miniature Pinscher, let's start with that...

Miniature Pinscher

Color:  Black with rust markings, stage red, solid red, chocolate or fawn with rust markings.
Height:  10-12.5 inches
Weight:  9-13 lbs
Life Span:  15 years or more

Breed Health Concerns:  Epilepsy, heart problems, patellar lunation, Legg-Calve-Perthes, eye problems, cervical disk problems.

Coat:  Dense, close, smooth, shiny, straight, short
Country of Origin:  Germany

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

Although this breed looks like a smaller version of the Doberman Pinscher, the two breeds are actually not related.  The Miniature Pinscher comes from breeds including:  Italian Greyhounds, terriers, Dachshunds.  The breed comes from the word "pinscher," which refers to the way the dogs actually attack vermin.  The dog literally pinches his prey.  The "Min Pin" is the top toy breed in Italy, Holland, and Denmark.

It is important to properly socialize this breed and to not allow him to get too spoiled.  The Min Pin is a fun-loving, self-assured dog that bonds very quickly with his family.  This breed does enjoy using his voice and can become a real behavior problem if not properly trained and managed.

Exercise:
The Miniature Pinscher enjoys getting exercise by accompanying his owners anywhere, as much as possible.  He also enjoys draining mental and physical energy with obedience and agility.  A short walk each day will be enough exercise for this toy breed.

Because DEVO is still a puppy, he has plenty of energy and still needs lots of exercise (usually followed by a nap).  DEVO definitely has the characteristics of following me around.  He is always on my heel following me around the house or out on the leash.  DEVO has also learned to enjoy car rides and meeting new people and dogs wherever we are.  He is a very social dog.

Grooming:
The Min Pin coat is easily cared for with occasional brushing and rub downs.  Keep the face clean.

DEVO does shed, but brushing does very little to help the process at this point.  This is typically true of most puppies of any breed.  We are currently brushing him to get him used to the process of being groomed so that when the brush will actually do some good, he is already used to it and sits well.

Training:
This little dog is athletic and able; he does not need to be carried around everywhere he goes.  In fact, it is better for the dog to walk alongside his owner than to be carried by him.  Socialization is important and training from puppyhood is key.  Short, reward-based, and motivational training sessions are best.

As is stats above, you should let your puppy walk, not carry them.  This is very important for small dogs.  Many small dogs can easily develop fear or anxious behaviors (its hard to be small and have everyone under the sun come right up to your face).  Dogs must learn how to be without being constantly coddled or protected by their owners.

This Min Pin (right) looks a lot like DEVO.

DEVO is very good in training.  He is very food motivated and will do anything for that reward.  We have kept his training sessions short and sweet, and DEVO has already learned all of Level One dog training items.

Now the other half...Chihuahua...

Chihuahua

Color:  Any color, short coat any color, long coat solid-colored markings/ solid color
Height:  6-9 inches
Weight:  Up to 6 lbs
Life Span:  15 years or more

Breed Health Concerns:  eye problems, patellar lunation, seizure, collapsing trachea, hypoglycemia, pulmonary stenosis. 

Coat:  Long and short coat types, both types can be double or single coat...smooth, soft, silky
Country of Origin:  Mexico

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

The Chihuahua is the smallest and oldest breed on the American continent.  It is believed that travelers from Spain brought the beginnings of this breed, mixing them with hairless breeds, making the Chihuahua of today.  The Chihuahua is one of the most popular toy breeds today. 

The Chihuahua is affectionate, lively, playful, and alert.  He will bond quickly with his family and must be properly socialized so strangers will not intimidate and frighten him. 

Small and easy to transport, the Chihuahua is a favorite choice for many Americans.  It is important that even these small dogs still learn rules, boundaries, and basic manners.  Many people let these little dogs get away with a lot of bad behaviors because they think it looks cute or funny coming from such a small little dog.  It's not cute, and it's not funny!  It is very important to teach these dogs proper manners and socialization.  I have also found this breed to be very susceptible to anxiety.  The Chihuahua owner would do well to create a nice calm home life and give their dog plenty of regular exercise to keep this from becoming a problem.

Exercise:
The Chihuahua can be prone to short little bursts of energy.  An easy daily walk and following his owners around are usually enough exercise for this breed.  It is important to give the Chihuahua several little play sessions each day.

DEVO enjoys following us and the other dogs around and loves to play (then take a nap).

Grooming:
The shorthaired Chihuahua is easily kept clean with regular brushing and bathing.  The longhaired version needs more attention, including trimming.  All Chihuahuas must be kept clean around their eyes and ears.

DEVO has Chihuahua eyes and we must be sure to keep them clean and free from gunk.  

Training:
Positive, fun, upbeat training is necessary to keep the Chihuahua'a attention.  This breed can be difficult to potty training.  Never use punishment or harsh tones with this breed.  Socialization is especially important to keep the Chihuahua comfortable in all situations throughout his lifetime.

Although we are doing well with potty training, we have had some set-backs with DEVO.  But we are continuing to be consistent in taking him out and rewarding for proper elimination.  He is doing very well overall and I expect to be fully potty trained very soon.