TRAINING TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PUPPIES AND DOGS

AND 7 Ways to Exercise Your Dog Indoors By Nicole Pajer

http://www.cesarsway.com/training/exercise/Ways-to-Exercise-Your-Dog-Indoors?utm_source=mobilestorm&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=tugofwar 

Dogs need their daily exercise, and even things like it being too cold or hot outside or the days getting shorter shouldn’t get in the way. Here are some tips on how to work out your dog’s body and mind indoors:

1. Run your dog up and down the stairs.Using the stairs is a great way to tire out your dog. The steps add an additional challenge to a dog’s workout, as they engage different muscles than those used on a regular walk or run and add an extra level of difficulty with the change in elevation. Stand at the top of the stairs and throw a toy down to your dog. When your dog grabs the toy, call his name and have him bring the toy to you. After several rounds of this, he’ll be winded.

2. Laser pointer.Pick up an inexpensive laser pointer at a store and shine it back and forth across the floor. Watch as your dog chases the laser back and forth and works out in the process. Be careful to avoid shining the laser directly in a dog’s eyes, as this can cause damage to its retinas.

3. Set up obstacle courses.Whenever Cesar enters someone’s house on the show, he looks around for things in the environment that can be repurposed to help the dog. Like using that old hula hoop for him to leap through or using cushions to create a tunnel for him to navigate. Map everything out and lead your dog through the various obstacles. This game will challenge your dog both mentally and physically.

4a. Make your dog work for its treats.Take a variety of your dog’s favorite treats and hide the around the house – behind doors, under tables, underneath rugs, etc. Your dog will be so busy tracking down his treats that he’ll physically tire out in the process. Treat dispensing toys are another great way to keep your dog busy and engage them physically as they push around their toys and try to get to the food inside.

4b. Keep away and fetch.Engage your dog in a good old fashioned game of fetch and keep away. These games keep your dog engaged, active, and help to release pent up energy.

5. Take a socialized outing.Put your dog in the car (always remember to use a car restraint!) and head over to the nearest pet store. Walk your dog through the aisles, let him try out toys and sniff around.

6. Get your dog on the treadmill.A treadmill is a great way to get your dog a dose of healthy indoor exercise. First, allow your dog to get comfortable with the sight and sound of a running treadmill. Next, place your dog on the treadmill and give him a treat. Turn the treadmill on the lowest speed. Give him treats to keep him on the treadmill. You may use the dog’s leash as an aid but never tie your dog to the treadmill. Also, standing in front of the treadmill and rewarding him with treats for walking might make your dog feel more comfortable. Once your dog is adjusted, you can gradually increase the speed to provide a more challenging workout.

7. Tug of War—But Be Aware of the Risks With the amount of ropes and toys available that encourage tug of war, it’s not surprising that so many dog owners play this game with their dog. However, you need to be aware of the risk. It's a game that brings out the predator in your dog and can be unhealthy for your relationship if you don't have trust and respect to begin with. You need to have control over your dog's power and instincts before you can engage in a healthy game of tug of war with them.

Choosing a professional veterinarian for your precious babies can be easy, yet somewhat complex.

There are many things to consider when you choose a doggie doctor. After all, your puppy is a member of your family, so you need to go through much of the same considerations that you would when hiring a doctor for your child, or a child care provider, a coach, a nanny, or a dog walker for your puppy, keeping the safety and welfare of your loved one in mind at all times.

When you check out a doctor for your children or a nursing home for a parent, you normally look to family and friends for references. You basically do the same thing when you are looking for a professional veterinarian or doggie daycare for your puppy. You can seek out references from friends that have dogs, because you know that even if they administer their own vaccine booster shots, they all take their dog to the vets for at least their rabies shot. It is required by law.

Ask everyone you can think of. Your co-workers, your neighborhood association, dog groomers, dog trainers, people you have met at the local dog park, dog clubs, animal rescue organizations, and even the humane society can all be good resources. Many of them will have their own vet that they recommend or know of a vet that they have heard is a good vet. Ask them why they like that particular vet.  

Some states have a (VMA) Veterinary Medical Association that you can call for a referral. If you are new in an area, you can search for a veterinarian in your area by going to: www.pets911.com.

Once you have a list of Vets, you can call or stop by.

•    Is the location convenient?

•    Are the hours of operation conducive       to your schedule?

•    Is the office sanitary and orderly?

•    Is the office staff knowledgeable and friendly?

•    Can I see the same vet at each appointment?

•    What are their rates?

•    Do they have a welcome package?

•    What do they have in the way of emergency hours?

•    Are appointments required?

•    Are dogs and cats cages in separate areas?

•    Are the x-rays, ultrasound, blood work, EKG, endoscopy, and other diagnostics done in house?

•    Make sure the vet is not planning on retiring any time soon.

•    Write down your questions and take the list with you.

•    Be honest with your vet and their staff

How to Train a Dog at Home Like a Professional Dog Trainer Starting Your Puppy Off Right.  

At what age should you start out training your puppy? The answer is immediately! Puppies are naturally hard-wired to follow a pack leader. A pack leader is, by definition, strong, stable, and consistent; traits many new puppy owners forget. Many of my clients are strong leaders in their jobs, but when they come home, they turn to mush with their dogs. Then they come to me puzzled as to why their dog won't behave. Puppies sense our confidence levels and will take control if they perceive us as weak. When this happens, bad behaviors, such as excessive barking, leash-pulling, or anxiety, will develop. The most important thing you can do is become your puppy’s pack leader. This role doesn’t begin when your puppy is six months old or when they are "bad"/do something they shouldn't be doing. For your puppy to grow into a healthy, BALANCED dog, you must demonstrate leadership from day one! 

Please find a SAFE ways to exercise your puppy! Talk to your veterinarian about the risk of long-term bone development problems, parvovirus, and other health issues before implementing an exercise routine. More to follow on this subject soon....  (P.S.:  I will add I'm the BIGGEST mush too, and LOVE fur babies to be their furry happy, "natural" self too, but I feel a well trained pup is a safe pup/adult dog. Many dog parents/owners feel that training takes away the dogs spirit/essence and I'm here to say I politely disagree and will be adding information below soon to explain. Thank you!) Catherine Miller/Pet Nanny NYC 

More to follow soon!

More to follow soon!

More to follow soon!