A couple weeks ago my dog and I drove 7 hours down south to the ABQ dog show. A few friends with the same breed, actually relatives of my dog, were driving and flying in from all over. I had done a few fun matches with my dog and a conformation show as practice where we hadn't groomed up much prior to attending. This was a big show and we were there to go big. The first conformation show of the weekend I placed 3rd of 3 dogs in the ring and then the guy that has been in my breed for like 40 years said " you did pretty well, I didn't like your dog though, he looks immature" well thank you... I guess? It is because I lost my pin brush a while back and had used a shedding comb which striped him of his undercoat and left him looking very un fluffed. I watched my breeder groom that afternoon and repeated those techniques when we got to the hotel. The next day he came in 2nd to his brother and more importantly beat out a dog who had placed 1st the first day of the show. I was so proud. I guess I have no idea what I am doing in the ring and how to make my dog show well but, my spirits were up and we were having fun and not letting the fact we didn't get points slow us down. We are a wonderful team and that is what matters. Someone actually stopped their car the final day of the show to tell me how beautiful my dog was. That is a compliment I can agree with. He looks just like his brothers mostly I just have to figure out what the heck I am doing and I can finish him.
Next stop Longmont,CO show next weekend!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Saturday, May 1, 2010
dog walk event
Today my dog and I participated in a fundraising dog walk. We did it last year for the first time and met this nice woman and her collie. We walked the entire way with our 2 shy dogs shoulder to shoulder with eachother keeping one another secure. This year we took a while to find a dog who we could walk with and finally found a nice springer spaniel named oliver who kept with my dog and they behaved nicely. I had fitted my dog with his gentle leader simply because he never gets snippy with dogs he doesn't like while wearing it and I knew today he would be exposed to a lot of untrained dogs with owners who weren't able to read signals and may not even be watching their dogs interact and I wanted a good shot at my dog behaving the best he could. I hate "tools" and like to rely on our relationship for good behavior but, sometimes you need a guarantee.
He had a blast. He played and sniffed many many dogs. He was nipped by a 6 inch chiuaua who was understandably nervous and almost bitten by 2 other dogs but, I read the vertical tail of one well enough to back off and the other had the big "back off" eyes and of course he was like "calm down,I mean no harm" and pushed her too much so she snapped at him luckily out of range. I love reading signals now that I know most of them. It is a great affirmation to my knowledge to be able to know how a dog is thinking. Timing is so important with dogs reactions and when you read the signals it helps your reaction speed to respond before anything gets elevated.
I love my dog most when we are out doing something and he looks at me as if to say "I am doing good right now, right mom?" or "thank you for this, I love you mom" that little look lets me know I am a good human/dog mom. It actually makes me proud of me, that makes me happy.
We were home by like 1030 am and he napped most of the day except a short stint outback when I had him hang out in the yard while I pulled weeds. now he is crashed out again. You know what they say: a tired dog is a good dog.
He had a blast. He played and sniffed many many dogs. He was nipped by a 6 inch chiuaua who was understandably nervous and almost bitten by 2 other dogs but, I read the vertical tail of one well enough to back off and the other had the big "back off" eyes and of course he was like "calm down,I mean no harm" and pushed her too much so she snapped at him luckily out of range. I love reading signals now that I know most of them. It is a great affirmation to my knowledge to be able to know how a dog is thinking. Timing is so important with dogs reactions and when you read the signals it helps your reaction speed to respond before anything gets elevated.
I love my dog most when we are out doing something and he looks at me as if to say "I am doing good right now, right mom?" or "thank you for this, I love you mom" that little look lets me know I am a good human/dog mom. It actually makes me proud of me, that makes me happy.
We were home by like 1030 am and he napped most of the day except a short stint outback when I had him hang out in the yard while I pulled weeds. now he is crashed out again. You know what they say: a tired dog is a good dog.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
time not toys
It is the same story that we have with busy people and their kids. You spend so much time working hard to bring home the money to provide for the family that, you are too exhausted to enjoy the family. To replace your mental of physical absence, you buy bribes to get your family to forgive you, to love you and honestly, to release yourself from te guilt of being devoted to your work.Same thing with pets, really, people don't seem to realize what your pets want is you. They want to snuggle and walk and hang out with you. So buy more toys on sale and take time to enjoy the pet you have. teach a new trick,play a game, get on the floor and play bow, hide treats in the yard and go explore together to find them,sing and dance and be silly because pets don't care about your pride they just want to see you smile. Make a list of 5 or 10 things that your dog absolutely loves (hint: these are things you have trouble competing with) my dogs list:
1. other neutral dogs especially certain breeds and females
2. smelly grounds at the park
3. his people
4. squirrels taunting him
5. the stretchy dog toy
I have trouble prying his attention from any of these things even with super high value treats like the bread bag and roast beef. I try to keep him set up for success but, sometimes these temptations hinder efforts a bit. I try to remember what my dog values above all and if I can gather myself to be most interesting I am wonderfully proud not only of him but, of me being able to have a forward thinking relationship with my dog. He is not my child, my spouse, or a replacement for something missing in my life, he is my dog and letting him be my dog is what makes me smile.
1. other neutral dogs especially certain breeds and females
2. smelly grounds at the park
3. his people
4. squirrels taunting him
5. the stretchy dog toy
I have trouble prying his attention from any of these things even with super high value treats like the bread bag and roast beef. I try to keep him set up for success but, sometimes these temptations hinder efforts a bit. I try to remember what my dog values above all and if I can gather myself to be most interesting I am wonderfully proud not only of him but, of me being able to have a forward thinking relationship with my dog. He is not my child, my spouse, or a replacement for something missing in my life, he is my dog and letting him be my dog is what makes me smile.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
strides: from puppy to adult
When my pup was small I thought I would go out of my mind. Honestly, I was kind of on my own with the training and time with him and all. My roommate would come home and let him potty but, really that was about all she did. I was ragged. I would walk and train and close him in our kitchen in the morning after breakfast and come home tired from work to a puppy who was wound up and wanted more. I would push myself on for months and months. I took him to classes and even a behaviorist to try to get a balanced dog. I had minor victories as he learned and retained the knowledge, I watched as he figured out how to get what I wanted or what he wanted. I remained strong and found the methods to train him as he needed and give him what he needed.
I went through all of this. I am now comfortable with my dog in everything except leaving the toilet paper out or off leash. This morning I said " why don't you go in the kitchen and finish your foo-foo" he walked by me into the kitchen and started eating again. I have a smart dog. I am really proud of him but, he still has brain farts. Last week, we were at a show and he completely bailed on me. We were showing in rally which is kind of like obedience only with stations. sit here, walk around your dog, down there, etc. Anyway he was checking out this cute great dane and that was it for him. "let me go sniff her mom, come-on I want to play with her" I was disqualified when I know he knows the stuff because not 2 weeks earlier he scored 98 out of 100 points in the same stuff. The point here is know your limits, know your dog, and know what makes the most sense for your team. It is super important to have that mutual respect too because dogs can be taught in fear and will react to your commands out of fear but, they won't respect you and that makes the relationship strained and weak. When you train out of choice and respect your dog will know what you offer is based there and trust the outcome will be good if they choose to honor your requests.
I am so glad I don't come home to a chew fest anymore. That is quite nice. indeed.
I went through all of this. I am now comfortable with my dog in everything except leaving the toilet paper out or off leash. This morning I said " why don't you go in the kitchen and finish your foo-foo" he walked by me into the kitchen and started eating again. I have a smart dog. I am really proud of him but, he still has brain farts. Last week, we were at a show and he completely bailed on me. We were showing in rally which is kind of like obedience only with stations. sit here, walk around your dog, down there, etc. Anyway he was checking out this cute great dane and that was it for him. "let me go sniff her mom, come-on I want to play with her" I was disqualified when I know he knows the stuff because not 2 weeks earlier he scored 98 out of 100 points in the same stuff. The point here is know your limits, know your dog, and know what makes the most sense for your team. It is super important to have that mutual respect too because dogs can be taught in fear and will react to your commands out of fear but, they won't respect you and that makes the relationship strained and weak. When you train out of choice and respect your dog will know what you offer is based there and trust the outcome will be good if they choose to honor your requests.
I am so glad I don't come home to a chew fest anymore. That is quite nice. indeed.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Dog is my teacher- What I learned from failure
Today my lovely wonderful dog and I competed in rally. This was not our first time nor our 6th but, he loves it and I enjoy doing things with him he likes so we continue to compete at beginner level knowing we aren't ready to go off-leash in the advanced competition just yet.
Well today we show up get set up and potty break prior to our warm up. We do a few tricks and run back and forth like normal then we stand by the ring until our turn. Meanwhile my dog is awful, he normally is at ring-side he pulls and sniffs and wants to visit with strange dogs and then when he gets in the ring he is fine, ready to focus and loves the tasks. not,today. He got in the ring and immediately turned to look at a dog "of interest" outside the ring. I asked him to do a few tasks and he could not keep interest on what I was asking, he kept being bad, nose to the ground sniffing and pulling to go out of the ring. Until, indeed he exited the ring at one station and we were disqualified. The judge invited us to finish and I should have known to just say no thank you he isn't into it today. But, I am shy and not very brave so I said ok let's go and we kept trying to do the course. He was horrible. I was embarrassed and angry because I know he isn't to do that normally. I left the ring after it all and just wanted to go home. But I worked him a little and sat in my chair for a minute. I was so sad for us, team Macon failed.
Then a little spark came to me once in the car on the way home. He was tired today and wasn't in the mood and I dismissed it and pushed him. I let him down. I couldn't get his interest and had trouble focusing on us instead of people watching us fail. I realized that it isn't about anyone but us. It is our time, our teamwork and I always focus on that and am always ready to make him my shining star. I lost that today and was angry with him but, it was my fault. When our dogs are bad it is always our fault because we don't lead correctly.
Anyway what I learned from my failure was dogs get the ribbons and we get the "air ribbons" thebadges of failure shining brightly in our face as if to say..."challenge" and how we accept such a challenge is what shows how we are as leaders. I know it does no good to get angry or yell or scold my dog he doesn't know what to do with that. I know I have to amp myself up to be worthy of following in order to get what I am looking for.
Someone suggested I dab a cottonball with vanilla oil and just before ring time dab his nose with it to void the interesting smells and allow him to focus. Someone else once told me not to over warm up because the dog loses interest in what you want after a while or tires out. Others have told me that if you break out the great treats right before and have a good interesting smell around you you will do better. Some dogs have trouble on dirt or grass and compete well on mats only. I heard one time if you let your dog sniff outside the ring they think it is ok inside.
I guess it all comes back to training, focus on the 3d's duration, distance and distraction. My dog is fine with the crowds but, not so good with the smelly distractions and working close to them while I am perhaps a little farther away could be a good stage.
I was too comfortable and took it for granted. He was tired and distracted and had to wait for the show time too long. He did wonderfully yesterday and is amazing. I need to trust that this fluke will have good come out of it. I will learn to prepare myself and do what I need to do first and foremost. That is what is best to captain team Macon.
Well today we show up get set up and potty break prior to our warm up. We do a few tricks and run back and forth like normal then we stand by the ring until our turn. Meanwhile my dog is awful, he normally is at ring-side he pulls and sniffs and wants to visit with strange dogs and then when he gets in the ring he is fine, ready to focus and loves the tasks. not,today. He got in the ring and immediately turned to look at a dog "of interest" outside the ring. I asked him to do a few tasks and he could not keep interest on what I was asking, he kept being bad, nose to the ground sniffing and pulling to go out of the ring. Until, indeed he exited the ring at one station and we were disqualified. The judge invited us to finish and I should have known to just say no thank you he isn't into it today. But, I am shy and not very brave so I said ok let's go and we kept trying to do the course. He was horrible. I was embarrassed and angry because I know he isn't to do that normally. I left the ring after it all and just wanted to go home. But I worked him a little and sat in my chair for a minute. I was so sad for us, team Macon failed.
Then a little spark came to me once in the car on the way home. He was tired today and wasn't in the mood and I dismissed it and pushed him. I let him down. I couldn't get his interest and had trouble focusing on us instead of people watching us fail. I realized that it isn't about anyone but us. It is our time, our teamwork and I always focus on that and am always ready to make him my shining star. I lost that today and was angry with him but, it was my fault. When our dogs are bad it is always our fault because we don't lead correctly.
Anyway what I learned from my failure was dogs get the ribbons and we get the "air ribbons" thebadges of failure shining brightly in our face as if to say..."challenge" and how we accept such a challenge is what shows how we are as leaders. I know it does no good to get angry or yell or scold my dog he doesn't know what to do with that. I know I have to amp myself up to be worthy of following in order to get what I am looking for.
Someone suggested I dab a cottonball with vanilla oil and just before ring time dab his nose with it to void the interesting smells and allow him to focus. Someone else once told me not to over warm up because the dog loses interest in what you want after a while or tires out. Others have told me that if you break out the great treats right before and have a good interesting smell around you you will do better. Some dogs have trouble on dirt or grass and compete well on mats only. I heard one time if you let your dog sniff outside the ring they think it is ok inside.
I guess it all comes back to training, focus on the 3d's duration, distance and distraction. My dog is fine with the crowds but, not so good with the smelly distractions and working close to them while I am perhaps a little farther away could be a good stage.
I was too comfortable and took it for granted. He was tired and distracted and had to wait for the show time too long. He did wonderfully yesterday and is amazing. I need to trust that this fluke will have good come out of it. I will learn to prepare myself and do what I need to do first and foremost. That is what is best to captain team Macon.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Grooming....
So up until this week I have only used water to groom my double coated dog. His fur is longer on top and very thick underneath. My breeder recommends only using water and I was going with that until I was reading in our breeds newsletter about product and how in shows you just can't really expect to be as good as those who use product.
I thought well, maybe I will give it a try. I have a very light leave in conditioner I developed at work (I am a bit of a chemist) I realized there was nothing in there which would harm my boy if he decided to lick himself. I used to water first then put the conditioner on my hands to lightly touch over the coat then, I started my line brushing and I was delighted at how easy the tabgles removed without any painful pulling on my dogs skin. I was happy with the quick work it made without any real residue left behind. I was overall very please by how the coat didn't break or give difficulty when separating. I feel it is a gentle product and though I still can't get rid of his bed head scraggles without brushing the next monring it is nice to feel like the coat is in better healthier condition. I feel like with my own hair you can take supplements to better your hair from inside out but if you don't use the conditioner in the shower you will have raggedy hair. I wish I had found this long ago. That and the dremel. Oh gosh
The dremel makes such short work of the nail care just zip zip a couple seconds at most on the nail and a minute or 2 later you have a nice looking paw to keep good shape. The first time I used it my dog wagged his tail and ripped out a tiny bit of tail fur and the next time he decided to put his nose on it which freaked him out but did no physical damage. I feel like if I can get a little more relaxed with it the better his nails will be. lots of treats I guess, praise too.
I thought well, maybe I will give it a try. I have a very light leave in conditioner I developed at work (I am a bit of a chemist) I realized there was nothing in there which would harm my boy if he decided to lick himself. I used to water first then put the conditioner on my hands to lightly touch over the coat then, I started my line brushing and I was delighted at how easy the tabgles removed without any painful pulling on my dogs skin. I was happy with the quick work it made without any real residue left behind. I was overall very please by how the coat didn't break or give difficulty when separating. I feel it is a gentle product and though I still can't get rid of his bed head scraggles without brushing the next monring it is nice to feel like the coat is in better healthier condition. I feel like with my own hair you can take supplements to better your hair from inside out but if you don't use the conditioner in the shower you will have raggedy hair. I wish I had found this long ago. That and the dremel. Oh gosh
The dremel makes such short work of the nail care just zip zip a couple seconds at most on the nail and a minute or 2 later you have a nice looking paw to keep good shape. The first time I used it my dog wagged his tail and ripped out a tiny bit of tail fur and the next time he decided to put his nose on it which freaked him out but did no physical damage. I feel like if I can get a little more relaxed with it the better his nails will be. lots of treats I guess, praise too.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Injury to work around
The other day I went out for a run/walk with my dog. It was to be our long journey of the week. Every 5-6 days we go quite far as a way of relaxing and freeing ourselves of added energy and stress. We were about 30 minutes in and I was running a little when I strayed from the pavement and misjudged the depth of the grass. I toppled onto the ground twisting my ankle and landing on the thumb which holds my leash securely. I immediately thought "can we continue?" I knew the answer was no and then I thought about what I would do to get my dog to receive exercise that week. It would have to be mental with me out of commission he will get amped up too much to handle. I am glad I at least have a fenced yard so he may go potty without my walking him.
What do we do for our dogs when we can't exercise them? There are some options for us. There is no replacement to our one on one bonding fun time such as walking and playing. what is the next best thing? We can bring someone in to walk our dog for us when we can't or bring her to a doggie daycare to spend the day with others.We can also call a friend with a dog and have a play date or even a car ride can help them. We can try to explain to them we are hurt and can't do what we would like but, there is no controlling the injuries we suffer from time to time or being sick with the flu we just have to get through it.
We can try to help our pets adjust for such things. We can play games in the house. "find it" is my favorite and doesn't take too much. drop several treats around and then release the dog from his "place" and tell him to "find it" using the nose is a great challenge,switch where you hide things,what he is looking for and even place under things like under couch pillows or a toy. We also do "doggie dance party" this is hard with and injury but as long as you move the healthy body parts he won't care, this incorporates several tricks to music, some to use are: heel,back,front,spin,down,tunnel(or thru the legs), down (you step over dog), paw, or whatever else you want to throw in. Your dog will love the combo of mental tricks and music. Try to do lots of down or sit stays and praise like crazy, have your dog follow you wherver you do move (bathroom,kitchen,laundry etc) this keeps them working and by using the mental tricks as much as possible you keep them relaxed and even tired. You can also try simple things to relax your dog, you can groom if you are able or as best you are and you can give a simple massage or rub/scratch, even brush her teeth because anything you do to mentally stimulate the better. Don't just put your dog in his crate because you are sick, you will have a perky pup later when you are still sick.
I find it best if you have a yard and can sit out in it at the garden furniture or hammock and rest out there while your dog takes in the day, maybe hide some treats out there and let her explore for them. If you can bring out a new toy, I buy toys in multiples if I know my dog likes them and I stash them in a bag in my front closet. This way I can bring out a new toy when I feel the time is right.
Today I was lucky enough to wake up with a better feeling in my injuries and since nothing is broken I will be improving daily. I was glad too because we had a show today and an appointment to have his eyes checked. We hopped (or hobbled) to the car and icepack in hand I iced at the show, got his eyes checked and were home for his nap (in the dark ) because of his eyes being dilated. We even had a good score on our rally run. I hope I feel better still tommorrow but, if not, I have plenty of mental challenges for him to tire him out. I am a little disappointed I will miss out on my gym ruitine this week while I recover as it is nice to have my own time.
I remember back when he got his own injury last summer and i had to limit his exercise. I hear these stories of people who have dogs with torn ligaments they must put on exercise restriction and I realize at least I know because it is my body, what my own limits are. When you have a dog their brain goes into neutral and they don't let on they have pain and you have to learn to read them like a book. I am just feeling lucky I got hurt, not him. Of course, in the future I will watch a little more closely when the pavement turns to grass on my running path and hope you do the same.
What do we do for our dogs when we can't exercise them? There are some options for us. There is no replacement to our one on one bonding fun time such as walking and playing. what is the next best thing? We can bring someone in to walk our dog for us when we can't or bring her to a doggie daycare to spend the day with others.We can also call a friend with a dog and have a play date or even a car ride can help them. We can try to explain to them we are hurt and can't do what we would like but, there is no controlling the injuries we suffer from time to time or being sick with the flu we just have to get through it.
We can try to help our pets adjust for such things. We can play games in the house. "find it" is my favorite and doesn't take too much. drop several treats around and then release the dog from his "place" and tell him to "find it" using the nose is a great challenge,switch where you hide things,what he is looking for and even place under things like under couch pillows or a toy. We also do "doggie dance party" this is hard with and injury but as long as you move the healthy body parts he won't care, this incorporates several tricks to music, some to use are: heel,back,front,spin,down,tunnel(or thru the legs), down (you step over dog), paw, or whatever else you want to throw in. Your dog will love the combo of mental tricks and music. Try to do lots of down or sit stays and praise like crazy, have your dog follow you wherver you do move (bathroom,kitchen,laundry etc) this keeps them working and by using the mental tricks as much as possible you keep them relaxed and even tired. You can also try simple things to relax your dog, you can groom if you are able or as best you are and you can give a simple massage or rub/scratch, even brush her teeth because anything you do to mentally stimulate the better. Don't just put your dog in his crate because you are sick, you will have a perky pup later when you are still sick.
I find it best if you have a yard and can sit out in it at the garden furniture or hammock and rest out there while your dog takes in the day, maybe hide some treats out there and let her explore for them. If you can bring out a new toy, I buy toys in multiples if I know my dog likes them and I stash them in a bag in my front closet. This way I can bring out a new toy when I feel the time is right.
Today I was lucky enough to wake up with a better feeling in my injuries and since nothing is broken I will be improving daily. I was glad too because we had a show today and an appointment to have his eyes checked. We hopped (or hobbled) to the car and icepack in hand I iced at the show, got his eyes checked and were home for his nap (in the dark ) because of his eyes being dilated. We even had a good score on our rally run. I hope I feel better still tommorrow but, if not, I have plenty of mental challenges for him to tire him out. I am a little disappointed I will miss out on my gym ruitine this week while I recover as it is nice to have my own time.
I remember back when he got his own injury last summer and i had to limit his exercise. I hear these stories of people who have dogs with torn ligaments they must put on exercise restriction and I realize at least I know because it is my body, what my own limits are. When you have a dog their brain goes into neutral and they don't let on they have pain and you have to learn to read them like a book. I am just feeling lucky I got hurt, not him. Of course, in the future I will watch a little more closely when the pavement turns to grass on my running path and hope you do the same.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
time away from home
This past week I was able to take my first vacation in about... well 3 years. I have gone on plenty of weekends in state and to shows but, always was able to bring my fur kid along. This time was the first time since he came to me at 10 weeks old that we slept apart and for 3 nights, and 4 nights at that.
It got me to thinking I should have done it much sooner. It was hard to leave when he was a pup because of potty training and other training. Who would watch him etc. etc. Well plus him being so cute and growing inches while I was at work. It was hard to make myself miss any of that. That was afterall why I got a purebred puppy, so I could watch and see all the growth and development. Well the time had come and I felt like a limb had been lost or something. I tried to prepare him.
I took him to daycare at the boarding facility a few times. He is shy so he needed to warm up to them so he would eat. I brought his nighttime bed and a toy and a bone for him to have while he was there. The first day of daycare he stood shaking, gave one girl kisses and visited with the neighbor dog occassionally. The days passed and he adjusted to liking the place and its people. Then the first night without me at home he howled for me when my sister put him to bed. She caved and let him sleep on the top of the stairs "waiting for me" then my Dad took him to be boarded the next morning and he did fine. He adjusted fine, a little stress from sleeping in a weird place but, he did great.
Me on the otherhand. I could not enjoy my vacation because I wanted to be on a hike with him or thought how much he would like the pool at the hotel. I was cold at night without the dog butt near my feet (keeping them warm)
I have done so much research on how things should work, what you are supposed to do and how to act appropriately with this or that; I never realized it affects me too. I remember when I lost my last dog, the dog that was really mine. I was completely devastated. How I had loved that dog instantly and my new dog, he had to grow on me. Sure I thought he was cute but, I didn't really understand him and click instantly. I realize now after 2 years that I have that. Of course I knew I loved him before and all but, this vacation made it click in my brain "what if I lost him" I guess it is a question we never want to ask or face, we hope it holds off for a long time if not forever. I push the question away because the answer I know. It would be like the last dog, I would suffer and sob and then get stronger, the only thing that is ever the same in each relationship I am ever to have and different for each of us to feel as we do.
I came back to my door and after a few minutes of rubbing the stress off his head and torso, we were us again. He is not really my kid, he is not my husband, he is not a person but, he is my friend and he is a great dog. I never expect him to make up the gaps in my life but, he adds so much to it.
I guess my point is sometimes we know what we are supposed to do and while we do it we know we will survive even when it is a challenge. When we face those obstacles we realize something else unexpected. It isn't about collars or how to get him to want to respond to my wants or even what food to feed, there is a zen moment of an answer to a question we weren't even asking. It brings us closer to ourselves and eachother. That is what made my vacation worth it. Knowing I can do no wrong when I do my best and knowing I always have my dogs love to bring me through tough times (all my dogs' love past and present) It is nice to know.
I think I will bring him with me on the next few trips though.
It got me to thinking I should have done it much sooner. It was hard to leave when he was a pup because of potty training and other training. Who would watch him etc. etc. Well plus him being so cute and growing inches while I was at work. It was hard to make myself miss any of that. That was afterall why I got a purebred puppy, so I could watch and see all the growth and development. Well the time had come and I felt like a limb had been lost or something. I tried to prepare him.
I took him to daycare at the boarding facility a few times. He is shy so he needed to warm up to them so he would eat. I brought his nighttime bed and a toy and a bone for him to have while he was there. The first day of daycare he stood shaking, gave one girl kisses and visited with the neighbor dog occassionally. The days passed and he adjusted to liking the place and its people. Then the first night without me at home he howled for me when my sister put him to bed. She caved and let him sleep on the top of the stairs "waiting for me" then my Dad took him to be boarded the next morning and he did fine. He adjusted fine, a little stress from sleeping in a weird place but, he did great.
Me on the otherhand. I could not enjoy my vacation because I wanted to be on a hike with him or thought how much he would like the pool at the hotel. I was cold at night without the dog butt near my feet (keeping them warm)
I have done so much research on how things should work, what you are supposed to do and how to act appropriately with this or that; I never realized it affects me too. I remember when I lost my last dog, the dog that was really mine. I was completely devastated. How I had loved that dog instantly and my new dog, he had to grow on me. Sure I thought he was cute but, I didn't really understand him and click instantly. I realize now after 2 years that I have that. Of course I knew I loved him before and all but, this vacation made it click in my brain "what if I lost him" I guess it is a question we never want to ask or face, we hope it holds off for a long time if not forever. I push the question away because the answer I know. It would be like the last dog, I would suffer and sob and then get stronger, the only thing that is ever the same in each relationship I am ever to have and different for each of us to feel as we do.
I came back to my door and after a few minutes of rubbing the stress off his head and torso, we were us again. He is not really my kid, he is not my husband, he is not a person but, he is my friend and he is a great dog. I never expect him to make up the gaps in my life but, he adds so much to it.
I guess my point is sometimes we know what we are supposed to do and while we do it we know we will survive even when it is a challenge. When we face those obstacles we realize something else unexpected. It isn't about collars or how to get him to want to respond to my wants or even what food to feed, there is a zen moment of an answer to a question we weren't even asking. It brings us closer to ourselves and eachother. That is what made my vacation worth it. Knowing I can do no wrong when I do my best and knowing I always have my dogs love to bring me through tough times (all my dogs' love past and present) It is nice to know.
I think I will bring him with me on the next few trips though.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
The best in dog supplies
Well we know that retrievers love balls and greyhounds need jackets to keep warm but, if I were to sell dog supplies what would I just have to have?
I guess I can start with the top 10 that have changed my life with my dog. In random order.
1. Tag silencer. In this day and age we have license, rabies, id tag, microchip tag, akc tag, and voice sight (offleash) tag all jangling around on our dogs neck tangling in fur and making a racket when he runs around. Did you know that the tags can actually cause hearing damage? I decided on a tag pocket but, there are many to choose from. The pocket is soft and velcros around the jumble of tags adding minimal weight and can be found in several colors to match or stand out from the collar and coat.
2. Leather leash line. I have tried long leads, hand loops, retractable leashes, fabric show leads and what have you but, I got a 6 foot leather leash line when I got my newest dog and once it was broken in it was great. The leather is gentle on the hands and pliable enough to walk with ease. If my dog sees a bunny and bolts; it has the strength to hold up and a little give so as not to tear my rotator cuff or harm his neck. He can't chew threw it either which when he was a puppy, could have been a problem.
3.treat toy. Again there are countless shapes and mechinisms for these but, the ideas are the same: give the dog a way to eat through working for it like a game. They use their brains and noses and teeth to work the food out of the ball,bottle,etc. When my dog was young he would have the "blue ball" at lunchtime after his potty break which allowed my sister (who would rush over on her lunchbreak) time to eat her own lunch or do what she needed without being present watching him eat every kernel of food. now I use it after a long hike as a snack or on a day when I leave for work early for his breakfast. I use kibble mostly but you can use biscuits or soft food as well depending on the toys structure.
4. bones. I like to mix up my chew toys because my dog is super intelligent and will tire of one type of bone after a week or 2. My favorite is the simple double knotted rawhide about 6 inches is good for his breed and mouth spacing. He is quite systematic with it but, after a while he needs something else to keep him mouth busy. We typically will switch to bully sticks which if you don't know what they are, you don't want to. If these aren't around there are rawhide braids or twists and cattle knee caps. There is debate on if you should or should not use soup bones aka raw bones and some people fear bacteria or if you sterilize them the fear is the bone chips being brittle and harming the dogs digestive tract. I honestly have tried the raw and I see no problem as long as they are from a reputable source and are kept frozen. I let him chew it for an hour or so them I put it back in the freezer. They last a good week this way and run about 5 dollars each.
5.dietary supplements. I use a few of these. I really believe in a good strong diet and pay for it knowing the extra dollars spent will get me a longer life on my pets who will live happier and healthier with less injury and health issues ($ at vet). That said I switch my food around from about a half dozen quality foods being sure to mix the last few days of each bag with the new food, thus not upsetting the stomach and digestive system much. I keep my dog on a few supplements regularly but, never freak out if you skip a day or two. I give a broad spectrum probiotic which keeps stool firm and because 70% of immune function happens in the gut, it should be keeping him healthy. I also give this to my cat who has feline leukemia. For strong joints I give my very active dog a joint supplement called cosamine ds (this is a human supplement because it is cheaper than cosaquin and double strength) I open these caps and give about half at a time. My dog also takes a chewable multi but probably just a few times a week since his food is so high quality. My dog does not like fish or I would give fish oil. I give him flax powder mixed into his food bag and some brown rice or oatmeal mixed in with the food helps keep skin problems and stomach issues at bay. the last supplement has been a God's send. I use a homeopathic remedy called argentum nitricum diluted in his water. This remedy is designed to help with agitation and apprehension which manifests itself with alarm barking. be it the neighbor putting out the trash and rumbling the barrels or the neighbor dog walking by the front of the house. He has calmed considerably since going on it.I also noticed he is more social on walks and while out on the town.
6. treat bag. This keeps treats out of pockets while holding them in hand range for fast dispensing. I like this best because sometimes I dole out treats like roast beef or crilled chicken, which I obviously do not want on my clothes. I have one that has a draw string and a belt clip but there are others that are designed for center waist (both hand distribution) and ones that have a pocket for a tennis ball.
7. glow in the dark rubber ball. Don't get me wrong tennis balls are great they bounce and are soft enough to grip and durable but, in the winter I get home and it is dark out back. I like to turn on my back light and toss my dog his glowing ball a few times instead of walking in the dark. It is a good option to have. There are also ones which are made with flashing lights which go on when they bounce but,electricity and my dog... not a good mixture to introduce.
8. soft flight frisbee. I have seen cloth and soft rubber as well as ones with center holes for the dogs nose. I have a soft rubber one which we love. It is soft enough if he goes to catch it he won't lose teeth(hopefully) and the rubber is still thick enough if he chews on it, it won't be ruined. I am using this toy to teach the "away" command which should be useful in herding.
9. soft crate. This is easier to see as not a cage or some sort of prison for your dog and more like a den, a place to curl up out of the way and relax safely. I used this in the past for when I needed to run to the store but, the house wasn't puppy proof. We do a lot of construction at my house and it keeps him out from underfoot and away from dangers. I like that it is collapsible and I can bring it with me to friends and families homes and leave him in it while we go to dinner or at dog shows when I have to run to the car or let him rest from the active environment. The one I have is big enough he fits comfortably while standing, turning or laying down. It has a comfy and durable mat inside too!
10. treats. I have tried different methods of training and with or without treats and decided a while back that I do like to train with treats. I don't give a treat everytime and resolve to give randomly, however I do see the attention is better when a treat is given, not as a bribe but, a reward. Rewards can be a chest scratch or a bit of a meatball, a biscuit or an enthusiastic "good dog" but, having treats in the mix lets the dog know they have done well without any doubt. The treats I like are in levels. The level one is everyday use for those I use the traditional dog biscuit snapped into many pieces and given in ones or up to five or six as "parties." Then we have to better treats like soft treats or fancy treats these are level two and are given out for excellent work or doing something difficult such as running inside from the yard or leaving the squirrel to come to me. The best treats are those which are reserved for very difficult tasks. These treats include hotdogs,bacon, roastbeef, chicken, lamb lung and duck. I give these out in high distraction situations such as while doing agility or when the judge is examining at a show. My dog is shy so I also give these out when we are great with strangers. I try to keep the level one and two treats in my treat bag always but, the randomness is a guarantee that success will be attempted each time we go out.
Well that is the list of the top 10 items and other items are of course needed but, I won't go into so much detail.
Shampoo is a must have, be sure it is designed for dogs coats and that you use it somewhere between every 2 weeks and every month and a half. I do a double rinse to be sure it is all out.
Dog bed or mat is great to keep dogs in their own area while keeping them comfy.
hiking collapsible bowl is great to have in car just in case. Ideally paired with a bottle of water.
sound cd or dvd to help relax a lonesome dog is a nice thing to have.
Dog brush or brushes depending on coat and breed are needed to keep a great coat and skin condition. Try to brush on a schedule a little bit everyday. My dog can use a line brush weekly but, I keep him brushed 10 minutes a day with different body parts focusing in on areas daily.
nail trimmer, Well I just quicked my dog last cut and now I decided I must get that dremmel tool to grind down the nails easily.
Plush toys encourage self play. Find ones your dog likes, stretchy or puffy, materials or shapes.
for puppies: something to teeth on frozen toy or frozen facecloth
for storm scared dogs: humidifier or shock absorbing booties
Well those are my essentials for dog supplies. Many dogs have individual needs and that is why we have them.
I guess I can start with the top 10 that have changed my life with my dog. In random order.
1. Tag silencer. In this day and age we have license, rabies, id tag, microchip tag, akc tag, and voice sight (offleash) tag all jangling around on our dogs neck tangling in fur and making a racket when he runs around. Did you know that the tags can actually cause hearing damage? I decided on a tag pocket but, there are many to choose from. The pocket is soft and velcros around the jumble of tags adding minimal weight and can be found in several colors to match or stand out from the collar and coat.
2. Leather leash line. I have tried long leads, hand loops, retractable leashes, fabric show leads and what have you but, I got a 6 foot leather leash line when I got my newest dog and once it was broken in it was great. The leather is gentle on the hands and pliable enough to walk with ease. If my dog sees a bunny and bolts; it has the strength to hold up and a little give so as not to tear my rotator cuff or harm his neck. He can't chew threw it either which when he was a puppy, could have been a problem.
3.treat toy. Again there are countless shapes and mechinisms for these but, the ideas are the same: give the dog a way to eat through working for it like a game. They use their brains and noses and teeth to work the food out of the ball,bottle,etc. When my dog was young he would have the "blue ball" at lunchtime after his potty break which allowed my sister (who would rush over on her lunchbreak) time to eat her own lunch or do what she needed without being present watching him eat every kernel of food. now I use it after a long hike as a snack or on a day when I leave for work early for his breakfast. I use kibble mostly but you can use biscuits or soft food as well depending on the toys structure.
4. bones. I like to mix up my chew toys because my dog is super intelligent and will tire of one type of bone after a week or 2. My favorite is the simple double knotted rawhide about 6 inches is good for his breed and mouth spacing. He is quite systematic with it but, after a while he needs something else to keep him mouth busy. We typically will switch to bully sticks which if you don't know what they are, you don't want to. If these aren't around there are rawhide braids or twists and cattle knee caps. There is debate on if you should or should not use soup bones aka raw bones and some people fear bacteria or if you sterilize them the fear is the bone chips being brittle and harming the dogs digestive tract. I honestly have tried the raw and I see no problem as long as they are from a reputable source and are kept frozen. I let him chew it for an hour or so them I put it back in the freezer. They last a good week this way and run about 5 dollars each.
5.dietary supplements. I use a few of these. I really believe in a good strong diet and pay for it knowing the extra dollars spent will get me a longer life on my pets who will live happier and healthier with less injury and health issues ($ at vet). That said I switch my food around from about a half dozen quality foods being sure to mix the last few days of each bag with the new food, thus not upsetting the stomach and digestive system much. I keep my dog on a few supplements regularly but, never freak out if you skip a day or two. I give a broad spectrum probiotic which keeps stool firm and because 70% of immune function happens in the gut, it should be keeping him healthy. I also give this to my cat who has feline leukemia. For strong joints I give my very active dog a joint supplement called cosamine ds (this is a human supplement because it is cheaper than cosaquin and double strength) I open these caps and give about half at a time. My dog also takes a chewable multi but probably just a few times a week since his food is so high quality. My dog does not like fish or I would give fish oil. I give him flax powder mixed into his food bag and some brown rice or oatmeal mixed in with the food helps keep skin problems and stomach issues at bay. the last supplement has been a God's send. I use a homeopathic remedy called argentum nitricum diluted in his water. This remedy is designed to help with agitation and apprehension which manifests itself with alarm barking. be it the neighbor putting out the trash and rumbling the barrels or the neighbor dog walking by the front of the house. He has calmed considerably since going on it.I also noticed he is more social on walks and while out on the town.
6. treat bag. This keeps treats out of pockets while holding them in hand range for fast dispensing. I like this best because sometimes I dole out treats like roast beef or crilled chicken, which I obviously do not want on my clothes. I have one that has a draw string and a belt clip but there are others that are designed for center waist (both hand distribution) and ones that have a pocket for a tennis ball.
7. glow in the dark rubber ball. Don't get me wrong tennis balls are great they bounce and are soft enough to grip and durable but, in the winter I get home and it is dark out back. I like to turn on my back light and toss my dog his glowing ball a few times instead of walking in the dark. It is a good option to have. There are also ones which are made with flashing lights which go on when they bounce but,electricity and my dog... not a good mixture to introduce.
8. soft flight frisbee. I have seen cloth and soft rubber as well as ones with center holes for the dogs nose. I have a soft rubber one which we love. It is soft enough if he goes to catch it he won't lose teeth(hopefully) and the rubber is still thick enough if he chews on it, it won't be ruined. I am using this toy to teach the "away" command which should be useful in herding.
9. soft crate. This is easier to see as not a cage or some sort of prison for your dog and more like a den, a place to curl up out of the way and relax safely. I used this in the past for when I needed to run to the store but, the house wasn't puppy proof. We do a lot of construction at my house and it keeps him out from underfoot and away from dangers. I like that it is collapsible and I can bring it with me to friends and families homes and leave him in it while we go to dinner or at dog shows when I have to run to the car or let him rest from the active environment. The one I have is big enough he fits comfortably while standing, turning or laying down. It has a comfy and durable mat inside too!
10. treats. I have tried different methods of training and with or without treats and decided a while back that I do like to train with treats. I don't give a treat everytime and resolve to give randomly, however I do see the attention is better when a treat is given, not as a bribe but, a reward. Rewards can be a chest scratch or a bit of a meatball, a biscuit or an enthusiastic "good dog" but, having treats in the mix lets the dog know they have done well without any doubt. The treats I like are in levels. The level one is everyday use for those I use the traditional dog biscuit snapped into many pieces and given in ones or up to five or six as "parties." Then we have to better treats like soft treats or fancy treats these are level two and are given out for excellent work or doing something difficult such as running inside from the yard or leaving the squirrel to come to me. The best treats are those which are reserved for very difficult tasks. These treats include hotdogs,bacon, roastbeef, chicken, lamb lung and duck. I give these out in high distraction situations such as while doing agility or when the judge is examining at a show. My dog is shy so I also give these out when we are great with strangers. I try to keep the level one and two treats in my treat bag always but, the randomness is a guarantee that success will be attempted each time we go out.
Well that is the list of the top 10 items and other items are of course needed but, I won't go into so much detail.
Shampoo is a must have, be sure it is designed for dogs coats and that you use it somewhere between every 2 weeks and every month and a half. I do a double rinse to be sure it is all out.
Dog bed or mat is great to keep dogs in their own area while keeping them comfy.
hiking collapsible bowl is great to have in car just in case. Ideally paired with a bottle of water.
sound cd or dvd to help relax a lonesome dog is a nice thing to have.
Dog brush or brushes depending on coat and breed are needed to keep a great coat and skin condition. Try to brush on a schedule a little bit everyday. My dog can use a line brush weekly but, I keep him brushed 10 minutes a day with different body parts focusing in on areas daily.
nail trimmer, Well I just quicked my dog last cut and now I decided I must get that dremmel tool to grind down the nails easily.
Plush toys encourage self play. Find ones your dog likes, stretchy or puffy, materials or shapes.
for puppies: something to teeth on frozen toy or frozen facecloth
for storm scared dogs: humidifier or shock absorbing booties
Well those are my essentials for dog supplies. Many dogs have individual needs and that is why we have them.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
New Year
I am not one for resolutions. I believe if you would like to make a change you record your goal either mentally or literally and you seek to achieve it. I feel a lot of people feel let down by themselves when they make a unprepared spur of moment decision to do something without thought of what this goal will take.
I fear some people do this with pet ownership as well. I hate that phrase actually. "pet ownership" yes, we buy a living thing and promise to look after it but, to own a living thing is not respectful. Perhaps that is my native american nature speaking out. We are more rightfully the animals caretaker. My point here, and I should get to that directly, is that some people haven't a clue as to how to care for or what to do with a pet they bought because it was cute or they wanted it. They will end up resenting or thinking the pet is stupid or crazy or something because they take no time to prepare for what they undertake. much like those resolutions which end up coming back around the next year after hope was lost on about January 25th or so if they make it that long.
We should all plan a little better. here is how. Dogs need basics like us: food, water, shelter from the elements and their bodies demand physical and mental exercise but, a puppy has moving bones until (depending on size of breed) 14 months to 2 years of age and can not run (except in play) before then. They need to learn games and tricks learn good and bad behaviors and how to stay away from bad behaviors will get them good things. They need to learn from reponsible respectful leaders who value their worth and see the choice to accept leadership is always rewarded and understanding that dog brains work very differently from human brains is important. Dog brains will filter and get almost tunnel vision which once set is hard to break to focus on you, they can shut down the other senses almost to fully focus in on the one at hand. They need structure. They never need physical reprimands of any sort only refocus/distraction which guide them to appropriate behavior. Most of all they need patience almost exceeding their need for love.
I encountered a dog this weekend who reminded me of my own dog but, who had gone another way. My dog was very shy, he would hide and cower timidly sometimes barking and bouncing at strangers. He would shake his back, lift paw and yawn in his anxious state. I worked with him almost daily to face and work through his fears. I would push him a tiny bit beyond his comfort level but never so much he would ever need to lash out. He slowly got over crowds, started to be able to walk by people without much care and then we practiced him sitting not facing the strangers, lying down then sitting facing at distance etc. I gave treats most every time we encountered a stranger, encouraged him to sniff near them, I tried to engage in simple conversation, asked them to give treats while they didn't look at him etc. I took him all sorts of new places, eventually we walked around a school as kids were dropped off ( I needed high reward treats for that) After all this work I was able to see him begin to face fears on his own. I met another dog though who was receiving no encouragement and no value on her feelings as she was feeling them. No distraction was being given, no encoragement and she was very afraid. I felt badly that dogs continue to be afraid without any help. When I become a trainer that will be one of my main classes. body language communication and shy/reactive dogs how to help them. I actually went from my breeder asking to buy back my dog to her extendng great praise the following summer at how far we had come. Dogs need to know they matter or they can work through anything.
I fear some people do this with pet ownership as well. I hate that phrase actually. "pet ownership" yes, we buy a living thing and promise to look after it but, to own a living thing is not respectful. Perhaps that is my native american nature speaking out. We are more rightfully the animals caretaker. My point here, and I should get to that directly, is that some people haven't a clue as to how to care for or what to do with a pet they bought because it was cute or they wanted it. They will end up resenting or thinking the pet is stupid or crazy or something because they take no time to prepare for what they undertake. much like those resolutions which end up coming back around the next year after hope was lost on about January 25th or so if they make it that long.
We should all plan a little better. here is how. Dogs need basics like us: food, water, shelter from the elements and their bodies demand physical and mental exercise but, a puppy has moving bones until (depending on size of breed) 14 months to 2 years of age and can not run (except in play) before then. They need to learn games and tricks learn good and bad behaviors and how to stay away from bad behaviors will get them good things. They need to learn from reponsible respectful leaders who value their worth and see the choice to accept leadership is always rewarded and understanding that dog brains work very differently from human brains is important. Dog brains will filter and get almost tunnel vision which once set is hard to break to focus on you, they can shut down the other senses almost to fully focus in on the one at hand. They need structure. They never need physical reprimands of any sort only refocus/distraction which guide them to appropriate behavior. Most of all they need patience almost exceeding their need for love.
I encountered a dog this weekend who reminded me of my own dog but, who had gone another way. My dog was very shy, he would hide and cower timidly sometimes barking and bouncing at strangers. He would shake his back, lift paw and yawn in his anxious state. I worked with him almost daily to face and work through his fears. I would push him a tiny bit beyond his comfort level but never so much he would ever need to lash out. He slowly got over crowds, started to be able to walk by people without much care and then we practiced him sitting not facing the strangers, lying down then sitting facing at distance etc. I gave treats most every time we encountered a stranger, encouraged him to sniff near them, I tried to engage in simple conversation, asked them to give treats while they didn't look at him etc. I took him all sorts of new places, eventually we walked around a school as kids were dropped off ( I needed high reward treats for that) After all this work I was able to see him begin to face fears on his own. I met another dog though who was receiving no encouragement and no value on her feelings as she was feeling them. No distraction was being given, no encoragement and she was very afraid. I felt badly that dogs continue to be afraid without any help. When I become a trainer that will be one of my main classes. body language communication and shy/reactive dogs how to help them. I actually went from my breeder asking to buy back my dog to her extendng great praise the following summer at how far we had come. Dogs need to know they matter or they can work through anything.
what dogs are made for
I have a herding breed dog. This breed is meant to look like coyotes and be fast and nip at the sheep if needed to keep the flock together and going in the right direction, that which the shepherd is wanting. Recently, I took my dog to herd and it was like he was a different dog. He looks to me for clues typically and looks to me for guidance and I was watching him do his thing with the shepherd. The shepherd was looking for his tendancies, his instincts (which were great) and guiding him to use his self control. The next day my dog was so relaxed and listened the first time every time I asked of him.
I think these dogs were bred for these tasks. Some dogs for retreiving game, some for burrowing out rodents, or chasing fox,wolves,elk. They were bred to use their noses to sniff out things needing finding or protect carriages while they ran along side, to warn humans of dangers, blend into a flock of sheep to protect them from predators. Our dogs have purpose other than sitting in the backyard or begging at the dinner table. When we let them be who they were born to be, it makes them just be, it lets them find themselves in such a natural way that we may never understand. It is beautiful. I was so proud of him that day, so proud of myself for driving the hour and a half up to let him see himself. I drove home that day wondering when I could make it so again. It was another milestone in watching my dog develop. I have watched him since his birth on my breeders puppy cam and watched him figure out things, saw his little brain working out problems, watched it overload him so he would collapse for a nap and this day was a grown up moment. You see I will probably never have kids. Partly because I am getting older and partly because my dog is shy around kids, but I will always remember his steps because they have taught me so much about myself.
This was what he was made for in a way too, and I owe him to let him shine in his own glory.
I think these dogs were bred for these tasks. Some dogs for retreiving game, some for burrowing out rodents, or chasing fox,wolves,elk. They were bred to use their noses to sniff out things needing finding or protect carriages while they ran along side, to warn humans of dangers, blend into a flock of sheep to protect them from predators. Our dogs have purpose other than sitting in the backyard or begging at the dinner table. When we let them be who they were born to be, it makes them just be, it lets them find themselves in such a natural way that we may never understand. It is beautiful. I was so proud of him that day, so proud of myself for driving the hour and a half up to let him see himself. I drove home that day wondering when I could make it so again. It was another milestone in watching my dog develop. I have watched him since his birth on my breeders puppy cam and watched him figure out things, saw his little brain working out problems, watched it overload him so he would collapse for a nap and this day was a grown up moment. You see I will probably never have kids. Partly because I am getting older and partly because my dog is shy around kids, but I will always remember his steps because they have taught me so much about myself.
This was what he was made for in a way too, and I owe him to let him shine in his own glory.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
