Dog Fun

Some fun doggy pics from this week.

Puppy Lucky (2 months), a Chihuahua mix.

Adam walking with Devo and Caravaggio.

Hazel and Lucky.

Hiking with Milla, Caravaggio, Nekita, and Devo.

Trainer Tips--Lavender Oil & Dogs

Lavender Oil for your Dog:

Lavender is a naturally calming scent for both humans and dogs.  To use lavender for your dog, take some time to give your dog a massage and some good petting.  Put just a little dab of lavender oil on your hands.  Before massaging your dog and/or petting him in his favorite spots, allow him/her to smell the oil you have applied to your hand.  If the dog remains calm, proceed to using nice, calming, slow strokes.  Slowly massaging the outsides of the spine from the neck down is a proven approach.  Do this several times to really associate the smell of lavender to a relaxed state of mind for your dog.

The point of this exercise is to associate the smell of lavender with a nice calm, relaxed state of mind.

Be sure that you are purchasing oils free from contaminants.  Be sure to only use therapeutic-grade Lavender Oil from a reputable company and verify the quality of the oil before use.  (For Maui, I recommend purchasing your Lavender Oil from Down to Earth in Kahului.)

Do not use a lot of Lavender oil.  A tiny dab will do just fine.  You do not need a lot to get the smell, and we do not want to have dogs licking excessive amounts of oil off themselves.  Be sure to buy diluted oil or dilute it yourself.  Use oil on your dog in moderation and with caution.  Be sure to avoid the eye and mouth areas.  I also recommend that you do NOT use Lavender Oil on your dog every day.  Some dogs may develop a sensitivity to the oil if used too often.

Why use Lavender Oil?
Lavender Oil is naturally soothing to the central nervous system in both humans & animals.  Many humans with anxiety-related issues use lavender oil to help calm themselves in stressful situations.  This oil may be used in a similar way for your dog.

Anxiety:
If your dog suffers from anxious or nervous behaviors or has separation anxiety, Lavender oil could help.  You want to start using the oil as directed above, and then continue to have the scent present in situations that are stressful to your dog.  

For example if your dog suffers from separation anxiety, start as directed above, then do the same ritual before leaving your dog for the day.  Remember to remain calm and relaxed (do NOT try and do this if you are rushing out the door).  Your mood must match what the lavender oil is trying to accomplish:  a calm state of mind.  

Another example:  if your dog is frightened of guests:  start again as directed above, then bring back the scent of lavender right before guests come over and have them follow the "No touch, No talk, No eye contact" policy to further help relax your dog.

Have a dog that is afraid of car rides?  Start as directed above and then apply a drop of diluted Lavender oil on your dog's collar before your next car trip.  Remember to remain calm yourself.

Over-Excitement:
If you have a dog that is high-energy who easily gets over-excited, Lavender Oil can be used to help calm their behavior.  Start as directed above then re-apply the scent before events that may excite your dog.  For example if you dog becomes very over-excited when guests arrive, apply the oil a few minutes before they arrive.  (Also remember to remind your guest to follow the "No touch, No talk, No eye contact" policy until the dog fully calms down.)

Older Dogs/ Dogs with Physical Pain:
Lavender oil is also an excellent way to help dogs with joint and other types of physical pains.  Two of our dogs are getting into their "senior" years and starting to show signs of joint pain.  We use lavender oil while massaging the areas of the dog that are aching and in pain.  This helps both relieve their joint pain and relaxes them at the same time.  We are associating the smell with the relief of massage and relaxation.  Essential Oils have also been known to help reduce inflammation.  So next time you notice the dog is having a bad pain day, you can bring out the Lavender smell and it will help the dog both mentally and physically relax.

Allergies & Skin Conditions:
Lavender oil has also been known to help with dog allergies and skin conditions.  If you dog suffers from hot spots, try applying a few drops of diluted Lavender oil.  Start out small to be sure your pet does not have a bad reaction.  
If your dog suffers from allergies, try adding a Lavender oil diffuser near the pet's main area.

Lavender Oil is also a natural repellent for fleas, ticks, and other insects.  Add a few drops of Lavender Oil to your dog's shampoo and shake well.  Use as normal for bathing and your dog will have an added natural insect repellent, plus smell great!



More Information on Animals & Essential Oils:

Previous SGDs Blog Article "Trainer Tips--4th of July Safety."
Audio Clip & Article:  Dr. Karen Becker interviews Melissa Shelton, DVM.
"Essential Oils & Dogs" article by The Bark.
"Essential Oils for Pets" article by Dogs Naturally.

Dog Training Class

Pictures from some dog fun and this week's Basic Manners dog training class.

Hazel and Lucky.

Min Pin party.

Basic Manners class graduation.

Breed of the Month--Least Obedient Breeds

For this month's Breed of the Month, we are going to give you a list of some of the least obedient dog breeds.

1.  Afghan Hound

Socialization at an early age is especially important to reduce the Afghan Hound's large prey drive.  Although very intelligent, the independent Afghan can be difficult to train.  For best training results, be sure to use positive-based training methods.  The Afghan Hound excels at many events including:  dog shows, agility, obedience, and lure coursing.

(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Afghan Hound)

2.  Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is generally aloof with strangers but will typically bong strongly to one person.  It is said that the Chow will not obey his master, but would be ready and willing to die for him.  The Chow Chow is naturally protective and aloof and must be properly socialized from puppyhood.  The Chow Chow does not like to be pushed, and requires a trainer who is both firm and fair.  Using positive reinforcement training methods for this breed is a must.

(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Chow Chow)

3.  Besenji

The Basenji was also bred and used to hunt over long distances, making this breed independent and aloof.  The Basenji does love to play and is full of energy.  Use this love of play in positively based-training to get the dog interested.

(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Besenji)

4.  Bulldog  

This is an intelligent breed that is capable of learning many things.  The Bulldog makes an excellent watchdog and although he does have strong protective instinct, he is one of the most gentle breeds.  Extra patience is key when training a Bulldog.

(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Bulldog)

5.  Bloodhound 

The Bloodhound is easily recognizable with its long drooping ears and facial wrinkles.  The  Bloodhound is kind and gentle and gets along with everyone. Bred to be a pack animal and persistent, the Bloodhound should be kept in an enclosed yard so his nose does not get him into trouble.  The Bloodhound was bred to be an independent thinker and requires extra incentive to do basic obedience tasks, however the breed will thrive if asked to track a trail.  The best way to train any breed is to work with their instincts.

(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Bloodhound)

6.  Pekingese

The characteristics of the Pekingese are quite distinctive.  The breed has a shortened muzzle and a flat face.  The Pekingese eyes can be prone to injury, and he also has a flat and wide head and short neck.  Pekingese are compact and fearless but never aggressive. The sole purpose of the life of the Pekingese is to comfort his companion.  This breed is quite charming but can become jealous of other pets or children.  Bred to be a lap dog, many refer to the breed as "stubborn" when it comes to training, however basic manners are still important.  This breed should be well socialized from puppyhood. 
(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Pekingese)

7.  Borzoi

The Borzoi has an independant nature, but is extremely affectionate and loyal.  This dignified dog is incredible calm and cat-like.  He enjoys a calm atmosphere and does not easily tolerate roughhousing.  When training a Borzoi, consistency and patience are key.  Bred to be independent and with a high prey and chase drive, basic manners training can sometimes be a challenge.  Positive reinforcement training with a calm disposition and lots of patience is a must.
(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Borzoi)

8.  Beagle

Although friendly and a cute size, the Beagle is still a hunting dog.  He was bred to use his voice, as all Hound dog breeds do.  Beagles do not generally like being left alone either.  These are things one should consider if thinking of adding a dog of this breed to your home.  Using positive reinforcement training combined with treat-based rewards is important for training a Beagle.  The Beagle can be quite stubborn at times, but is highly food motivated.  Keep your Beagle engaged in training by using high-value rewards.  Once your Beagle learns a new skill, he will quickly be ready to move onto a more difficult task.
(See previous post:  Breed of the Month--Beagle)

New Puppy: Mojo

Meet Mojo, an 8-week-old Chihuahua mix.

Mojo playing with Devo.

Mojo and Caravaggio.

Cute Mojo likes Caravaggio's tail.

Dog Tricks--Dog Apps/ Reference & Help

Dog Tricks

Iphone Apps for Dogs/ Dog Reference & Help
Updated:  December 12, 2012
$0.99


This app is a great one to add to your phone.  This app includes several helpful features.  Included in the "Tricks" section is a list of things to teach your dog with pictures and instructions on how to do so.  This list includes both basic training (such as sit and come) and trick training (such as dance).

Also included in this app is a "Search" section where you can search different dog breeds and read basic information on each breed.  A very helpful reference.

I would highly recommend this app to any dog owner.  Keep in mind that the instructions given within the app are a basic overview of each command or trick.  If you are having a hard time training your dog on basic things like sit and come when called, this app may offer some assistance, but professional training help is recommended.  For those owners who have a good grasp on basic obedience and want to add a few tricks, I would highly recommend this app.

Pictures of the selected command or behavior.

Hit the info button to get the description of how to do this.

The "Search" section of this app.

You can search dog breeds and get basic information of each breed.

Finally, the Dog Tricks app includes a "Bark Machine" section.

This is similar to many dog bark apps.

Each button makes a different noise to tease your dog.

Breed of the Month--Borzoi

Borzoi:

Color:  Any color or combination
Height:  Males:  28-33.5 inches/  Females:  26-30.5 inches
Weight:  Males:  75-105 pounds/  Females:  55-85 pounds
Life Span:  11-14 years

Breed Health Concerns:  Hip dysplasia, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).

Coat:  Silky, long coat.  Can be curly, wavy, or flat.  Neck has a curl, large frill.
Country of Origin:  Russia


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

The Borzoi has been used for coursing wolves since the early 1600s in Russia. 
 {Coursing:  the sport of hunting game animals such as hares with greyhounds using sight rather than scent.}
The Borzoi is a result of attempts to combine durability with speed.  Arabian hunters were crossed with native coated breeds to be able to withstand the cold Russian weather.  The exotic look of the Borzoi made them sought-after by nobles.  Sadly the breed was almost irradiated during the Russian Revolution, but the breed survived and has flourished since.

The Borzoi has an independant nature, but is extremely affectionate and loyal.  This dignified dog is incredible calm and cat-like.  He enjoys a calm atmosphere and does not easily tolerate roughhousing.

Exercise:
Although the Borzoi can reach high speeds, he does not require a great deal of exercise.  Daily walks or running around an enclosed yard will keep him happy.  Due to his independent nature and love of running, he should never be off leash around dangerous traffic and busy streets.

Grooming:
His coat should be brushed every few days.  The Borzoi is a seasonal shedder and will require extra brushing during these times.  The hair between this dog's toes must be kept short and his face should be cleared with a soft, damp cloth.

Training:
When training a Borzoi, consistency and patience are key.  Bred to be independent and with a high prey and chase drive, basic manners training can sometimes be a challenge.  Positive reinforcement training with a calm disposition and lots of patience is a must.

Playdate

Hanging out for the weekend with our friend, Gruff, a Star-pei mix.

Devo and Gruff.

Caravaggio, flying Gruff, and Devo playing.

Fun at the park.

Caravaggio, Devo, Gruff, and Nekita.

Gruff and Devo.

Cute silly Nekita.

The pups had a great day at the park.

Trainer Tips--July 4th Dog Safety

The Fourth of July is coming soon and with it comes some terrifying sounds for your dog.  This month's Trainer Tip is focused on keeping your dog safe during the holiday and helping ease his anxiety and/or fear of the sights and sounds.


Have ID on your pet:
This is the number one most important thing!  More pets run away on July 4th than any other day of the year.  Be sure that your pet has proper identification tags with updated contact information.  On the 4th, be sure to keep your pet on a leash and keep a close eye on him when out and about.  

Preparation:
The best thing to do for a dog that gets nervous, anxious, or fearful during fireworks is to properly prepare BEFORE the day arrives.

Desensitize your dog to firework sounds:
One of the best things you can do is to prepare your dog before the 4th by desensitizing him to the sounds and sights of fireworks.  There are several places online that have video and audio downloads.  
Dogs & Fireworks has a free download and step by step guide.

To desensitize your dog to the sounds of fireworks, download one of the many free samples online.  Start by playing it near your dog at low volume while doing normal every-day activities and/or during feeding time.  If your dog seems comfortable, slowly turn up the volume while continuing to do activities.  Be sure NOT to stare at your dog when you play the video/audio clip.
Engage your dog in activities he enjoys while playing the clip in the background.  This can include short training sessions for treat rewards, or maybe a game of fetch.  Be sure your dog appears comfortable and seems to be enjoying himself.  Use high value rewards:  whatever your dog likes best.
If your dog is still feeling comfortable, continue turning up the volume to the max.  Remember to use very high rewards for calm and good behaviors.

Try Lavender Oil:
Lavender is a naturally calming scent for both humans and dogs.  I have recommended lavender in the past for dogs with arthritis.  To use lavender for your dog, take some time to give your dog a massage and give some good petting.  Put just a little dab of lavender oil on your hands before massaging your dog and/or petting him in his favorite spots.  Use nice, calm, slow strokes.  Slowly massaging the outsides of the spine from the neck down is another proven approach.  Be sure not to use a lot of lavender.  A little dab will do just fine.  You do not need a lot to get the smell, and we do not want to have dogs licking excessive amounts of oil off themselves.  The point of this exercise is to associate the smell of lavender with a nice calm, relaxed state of mind.  You should do this for a few days (or more) prior to the fireworks on July 4th.  Your dog will build an association to the smell of lavender and being relaxed and calm.  Before the fireworks begin, put your dog in his "safe place" with the scent of lavender.

Have a "Safe Place" for your dog:

For many dogs the thing that makes them feel best and most safe is to be able to get as far away from the sights and sounds as possible.  Have a spot ready that your dog will enjoy and be comfortable in.  Make it somewhere far away from outside walls and windows.  This will make it easier for him to relax.  The best thing would be a kennel or crate.  Dogs generally enjoy den-like enclosures, and having your kennel or crate set up before the 4th will help them have a nice spot to go.  It is also helpful to place sheets or towels over wire crates to help block sound and lights.  Be sure to take the temperature into consideration.  It is summer and things get hot quickly.  Do not make your "safe place" uncomfortable for your dog by making it too hot.  You are most looking for a den-like area for your dog to feel safe.  If possible feed and/ or treat your dog in this area prior to the 4th.  Make sure the area is lined with a bed or comfy blankets for your pup as well.
Also remember to try and give your dog something he enjoys to help occupy him such as a chew bone or Kong filled with some yummy treats or peanut butter.

Sedation:
This is not something I would generally recommend.  Sedating a dog during fireworks may not have the effect the owner wants.  Sedation may actually make a dog more anxious or nervous.  If this is an option you are considering, please talk to your vet.

Communication & Energy:
If you will be around your dog during the fireworks, the best thing you can do for them is to remember to remain calm and feel like the fireworks are no big deal.  Dogs react to energy.  If your energy is telling your dog that you are calm and not at all worried about the sights and sounds, your dog will feel that it is okay for him to relax as well.
Remember Body Language:
Energy is important, but always remember you also communicate with your dog through body language.  There are three things on your body that are rewarding to dogs.  Touch, talk, and eye contact.  This means that any time you touch a dog, talk to a dog, or look at a dog, you are basically rewarding whatever behavior they are doing.  This is important because we do not want to unintentionally reward bad behavior.  
That means during July 4th fireworks, if your dog appears fearful, anxious, or nervous, do not do any of these 3 things.  Do NOT pet your dog and tell them its okay.  By doing this, you are basically telling your dog to continue being scared.  Obviously this is not what we want.  Instead encourage or lead your dog to their "safe place."  Remain calm.  Ignore any nervous or fearful behavior and only reward calm, relaxed behavior.

Exercise your Dog before Dusk:

A fantastic way to help your dog is to thoroughly exercise him before the fireworks begin.  Be sure to get your evening walk in before it starts to get dark.  The less energy your dog has, the less energy he has to put towards being fearful.  A tired dog will be more comfortable and will be able to more easily ignore the sounds and sights of the night.

Other Helpful Tools:
There are many other helpful tools on the market that you may want to try.  These include soothing dog sounds, and shirts/ vests that are supposed to help keep a dog more calm.
Soothing Dog Sounds:
There are many places online where you can download free or cheap music sounds that have been proven to help calm dogs.  Many people use these sounds or even leave on the radio when their dogs are left home alone.  These soothing dog sounds might be useful to help drown out the scary sounds coming from the fireworks.  Try some free samples here.
Thunder Shirt:
The primary use for this product is for dogs who get nervous during storms, but it may also be helpful for July 4th.  The Thunder Shirt applies gentle, constant pressure to the dog.  It is similar to swaddling an infant.  It is supposed to help sooth the dog and make him feel more safe.  
Calming Cap:
The Calming Cap is a tool used to help block out possible sights that may make a dog nervous or fearful.
Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP):
DAP is a synthetic chemical based on a hormone produced by lactating female dogs that helps keep her puppies calm.  It may help relax your dog during fireworks.  



More Helpful Articles:
Victoria Stilwell July 4th Tips
Nine Calming Aids for Fearful Dogs
Keeping Dogs Calm on the 4th of July

Trainer Tips--Dogs & Summer

Summer Tips for your Dog:

We are well into the summer and it is time to go over some basic tips for keeping your dog healthy and safe in the hot summer months.

Animals are not able to sweat like humans do.  To cool themselves, dogs pant and sweat through their paws.  This means it can take a dog much longer to cool off than his human.  In fact, an increase of just 2 or 3 degrees in a dog's body temperature can be fatal.

Leaving your dog in a parked car:

Many people enjoy taking their dogs with them in the car and on errand runs.  However, we sometimes forget that leaving a dog in the car for only a few minutes could be very dangerous.  Since dogs cool themselves by panting, if they are left in a car and only have overheated air to breath, they are less able to cool down quickly. 

In just 15 minutes, an animal's body temperature can climb from the normal 102.5 degrees to dangerous and possibly deadly levels.  This increase in body temperature can cause damage to the cardiovascular and nervous systems leading to dehydration.  The dog may suffer collapse, brain damage, and possible even die of heatstroke.  A dog's body temperature should never be allowed to get over 104 degrees.

Example:
If the outside temperature is 85 degrees (which is a regular daily temperature for Hawaii), the temperature inside a car, even with the windows slightly open, can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes.  The temperature inside the car can reach up to 120 degrees after just 30 minutes.

Tips to Help you enjoy summer with your dog:

1.  Do NOT leave your dog in a parked vehicle.
As you just learned, it really is as bad as they say to leave a dog in a parked car in the hot summer sun.  Even if you are parked in the shade and have your windows slightly open, your dog can suffer serious damage in just minutes.  Go with safety first.  Leave your dog at home when you must run errands.  If you want to take the dog with you, try and plan your day so that the dog may accompany you OUTSIDE of the car.  Many business will allow you to bring your dog in for a few minutes.  It never hurts to ask!

2.  Exercise your dog in the early morning or late afternoon.
Just because it's going to be hot does not mean your dog does not need his regular exercise.  However, take caution and exercise your dog during cooler periods of the day.  This will make your walk more enjoyable for both you and your dog and you will avoid any issues of dehydration and possible heatstroke.  If you must exercise your dog during hot periods of the day, scale back the duration and intensity of the exercise, and be sure to have plenty of water on hand to keep your dog cool and comfortable.

3.  Watch the humidity.
It's not just the outside temperature you need to worry about; the humidity can also affect your dog's ability to cool himself.  Animals pant to evaporate moisture from their lungs.  This allows them to cool themselves by taking heat away from their body.  If the humidity is too high, they will be less able to cool themselves quickly.

4.  Beware of the pavement.
Sometimes we forget that we wear shoes (or sandals) and our dogs have no protection on their feet.  Pavement and asphalt temperatures rise quickly and can damage your dog's feet easily.  Whenever possible, try and walk your dog on grass or dirt to avoid burning your pup's paws.  If this is unavoidable, invest in some booties for your dog.  They will help protect their paws from injury and hot temperatures.

5.  Go for a Swim!
It's summer and that means swimming.  Take your dog to the beach with you!  Swimming is a fantastic form of exercise and great way to cool off for both you and your dog.  Plus you do not need to limit this activity to certain, cooler times of the day.  Just remember to bring plenty of fresh drinking water for your dog, especially if you are swimming in the ocean.  When swimming in ocean water, dog's may become more dehydrated.  Be sure that your dog does NOT drink ocean (or lake, stream, or river) water.  Only allow your dog to drink the water you have brought.  Drinking ocean water will cause dehydration.  Drinking other types of water may lead to possible bacterial or viral infections.  Keep your dog safe and cool by only allowing him to drink the clean water you brought with you.
--Need help getting your dog to like swimming?  Check out this previous post.

6.  Pay attention to your dog.
Your dog can only "check the weather" by going outside.  When you are out and about with your dog, pay attention to any unusual behavior.  Your dog may think it is too hot or too cold for a walk right now.  Ever noticed your dog lifting his paws?  Perhaps you stopped to talk to a neighbor or look at a sign and forgot you were standing on hot pavement or asphalt.  Is your dog panting excessively and slowing down?  The dog may be in need of some water or a break from the walk in the cool shade.  Bottom line:  listen to what your dog is trying to tell you.

7.  Provide plenty of shade and water at home and away.
Whenever your pet is outside, be sure the dog has protection from the sun and heat.  This means having plenty of fresh water and shade.  Shade from trees and tarps are best because they do not obstruct the flow of air.  A dog house is NOT adequate for summer relief because it has little to no air flow.  A dog house will actually make it worse for your dog in the summer.  You may also consider adding ice cubes to your dog's water when it is really hot.