Walkin' the Walk

Have you and your dog been hibernating all winter? It's time to break out the old leash or break in a new one. Spring officially arrived, at least that is what is written on my calendar! But Hey! Not so fast, maybe you need to get in shape before you head out? You don't want to be dragged down the street. It is important for your dog to walk nicely by your leg but also we like our dogs to sit when we come to a stop. This is in our dog's best interest especially when we have to look both ways before crossing the street or when you want to strike up a friendly conversation with your neighbor.

Here is a video clip of dogs in different stages of learning. Maybe your dog is somewhere along this line?

• Benny is new to this style of leash work and stopping to sit.
• Millie understands how to walk, stop and sit. She just needs some adjustment to straighten her up.
• Daisy is the Queen of Walk! She could probably walk and chew gum at the same time!!

If the Spring Snow is still keeping you inside, No Problem!; just start walking inside. Be sure to walk up to your door leading outside and practice having your dog Sit. When you do see the flowers blooming you can really have a Spring in your Step!

Out of the DogHouse LLC website www.ohiodogtrainer.net
Contact Dru Therrian 440.286.9070

A Leash = A Life Line

My family owned a large wooden boat that we pulled on a trailer when I was a little girl. It was the type that had a cabin, a head and I could climb through the hatch to sit on the bow. Throughout my childhood, we boated on the Great Lakes and many rivers in the Northeast States, Canada, the East Coast, and Down South. Some of my favorite places are Flower Pot Island in Canada, the Chesapeake Bay and going through the Inter-coastal waterways.

My earliest memories of boating began when I was six years old. I loved to swim and as a safety measure my parents kept me from floating away by tying a boat rope to my life jacket. It gave them peace of mind and me the joy of swimming.

I too, use this same idea of a Life Line that I refer to as Tethering in my dog training. I have peace of mind and the training dogs get the joy of being out of their crate. The dogs have limited freedom but can move around without being in danger or harm's way.

Another thing that is similar about then and now is that my parents just didn't throw me overboard; they kept a vigil watch. When I have dogs tethered, they are under my watchful eye and ear. They may be attached to a door knob, a heavy piece of furniture or to even me. While tethered to me, I obviously know what they are doing! The bottom line is we are in the same room so I can supervise their activity.

As a tool and training aid, I like to think about my leash as a Life Line. Not only will it keep my dog safe but allow learning within that safety.

Out of the DogHouse LLC www.ohiodogtrainer.net

Contact Dru Therrian 440.286.9070

Training Tiny Dogs

Are you one of the 52% U.S. small dog owners? That number was listed on the U.S. Pet Ownership Statistics fact sheet. 

I can see why so many people have small dogs.

1. They don't take up much room.
2. They are easy to take traveling.
3. They eat less food; have smaller poops!

These days there are many tiny breeds weighing in under 5lbs. Does this excuse you from training your puppy? It certainly shouldn't but training a small dog will have it's challenges. 

Here are some creative approaches to teach your small dog.

Table Top Training: Use an old table or some sturdy work bench to raise your small dog higher. This will make training easier if you don't have to bend down so low. Also you won't seem like such a Giant leaning over your dog.

Step Stool Training: Teach your small dog to climb up to sit on top of the stool. The top step will be just the right size and will help your dog want to stay on to prevent falling off. This activity builds confidence and coordination.

String Toy Training: Many small dogs have been bred to catch the "Proverbial Vermin". Tie a string to a toy and pull it away from your dog. At first you will want to get your dog interested in chasing the toy. Once your dog knows how to play the game, you will be able to teach your small dog all sorts of commands such as sit, down, come and stay while using the toy as a reward.

Don't sell your small dog short! They are just as capable of learning as big dogs. Try not to be over-helpful; let your small dog do the work that it takes to climb up and down the stairs. Resist picking up your small dog unless he really is in danger. 

Training tiny dogs doesn't have to be difficult. All you need is patience and a little creativity!


Here is a video of Joey. He is so tiny that I am using upside down rubber bowls. 

 


Out of the DogHouse LLC  www.ohiodogtrainer.net
Contact Dru Therrian 440.286.9070

Light Bulb Moments: When You Know Your Dog Knows!

It starts with a flicker. The next time it is brighter until the light bulb is glowing brilliantly! 

What does this mean? Your dog just did something you asked and really understood what you said. I think those are the most amazing moments! True recognition and accomplishment.

I am addicted to Light Bulb Moments; I get the pleasure of teaching lots of different dogs how to turn on the light bulb. 

You too, can have many Light Bulb Moments with your own dog. I do it all the time with Daisy. That is why I continue to teach her to do new things.

Don't you just love it when your dog looks at you with a tilted head. That shows your dog is interested and thinking......."What do you want?". And gosh darn if that's not a cute picture!! 

It really starts there too, with your dog looking at you with interest. Your dog may be trying to figure out what is going on. Through focus, engagement and interaction, your dog will begin to learn.

So what is next? Spend time with your dog; play interesting games, teach new tricks and enjoy each other's company; Have Fun! Before you know it, you and your dog will be glowing example of a wonderful relationship.

Out of the DogHouse LLC website www.ohiodogtrainer.net

Contact Dru Therrian 440.286.9070