Here are 10 commands or cues every dog owner should work to perfect with his or her dog beyond the basics. Of course, the words you decide to use are not as important as how your dog responds to the commands. Other words could be substituted for my suggestions. For example, the word “give” would work …
Today was day three of my 30-day challenge to take my mutt to 30 new places. Today we sort of hit up three in one, by walking down a new street and going to two garage sales on that street. Ace wore his backpack and pinch collar, so he was on his best behavior. He …
I recommend electronic dog fences and will have one for my dog as soon as I have my own yard. However, electric fences are not for everyone, so I want to point out a few things to keep in mind before installing one. Based on comments from yesterday’s post, I know some people don’t like …
I can’t say enough good things about the electric fence or invisible fence for dogs. An electric fence is simply an underground wire that circles the area where your dog is allowed. The dogs wear dog shock collars that beep once they are a few feet from the boundaries. The beep reminds the dogs to turn …
Does your dog sit on command, but then jump up seconds later? Does it seem like he has no attention span? If this sounds like your dog, then it is important to teach him the “OK” command. Many dogs know the word sit, but they will not remain in that position. When teaching your dog …
I have always wondered why many owners of small dogs don’t bother to train them. Not that all big dogs are well trained; most of them aren’t. It’s just that I rarely see small-dog owners disciplining their dogs even a little. In general, small dogs just get away with so much more than big dogs. …
Ace is the first dog I have trained to do agility. He is still learning, but he and I enjoy practicing every week. I recommend you sign your dog up for an agility class. Even if you have no intention of competing, it is still a lot of fun. In dog agility, the dogs run …
A prong collar or pinch collar is one of the many options that can make training and walking your dog a much more pleasant experience. If these collars are used properly, they will help you train your dog to walk nicely on a leash in all situations. These collars are not cruel or painful. Many …
If you want a realistic approach to choosing, training and living with dogs, “Katz on Dogs” by Jon Katz is a good book to start with. It’s perfect for someone thinking of getting a dog, a first-time dog owner or someone like me who has lived with dogs all of her life. I read it …
Foster dog – Ginger! I decided to foster a senior dog in November. I wanted an older dog, one that wouldn’t require too much exercise and could be left alone when I went to work. I chose an 8-year-old Staffordshire terrier (pitbull) named Ginger. She was sweet, got along fine with my mutt and tolerated …