September 2009 publication of El Ojo Del Lago . . . .
by: Gudrun Jones --- phone 766-3813 from Lakeside

Everybody who has dogs would like for them to be well trained and well behaved. I too would like that – but to be very honest mine fall into the category “Will you come - or not.” The only time they come running is at feeding time. I know that dog behavior problems can be solved, all it takes is patience and understanding.  I do know a few things, for instance you should never call a dog to you to be punished; your dog will think he is being punished for coming to you.

The perfectly trained dog should stop what he/she is doing, run to you as quickly as possible, and sit down in front of you.  Ha…But there is a way to achieve this? Simple, if you have the time and patience have your dog on a four to six foot lead. When you have your dog’s attention, take several swift steps backward as you guide the dog to you with a treat held at his nose level. When the dog is in front of you, stop and raise the treat up slightly, causing the dog to sit, then give him/her the treat. After a few practice sessions do this while standing in place rather than backing up. Then eliminate guiding with food and switch to simply giving the command.

   All dogs fear thunderstorms. My dogs are getting very agitated even before the first bolt of thunder hits. There are a few tips that will make it easier for you and your dog to get through a storm.  I rub my dogs coats with a dryer sheet, that reduces some of the static then I put my husbands old T-shirts on all the dogs and them around their waist.  There is also a tranquilizer (found at the health food store) to be rubbed on their gums and this will also calm them down. Dogs like to jump on people but not every visitor that comes to your house will be happy with your dog’s exuberant greeting.   This is simple, all you have to do is make your dog understand that all four feed need to be on the ground. When the dog jumps on you, ignore him/her. Don’t pet him/her, scold him/her, or even look at the dog.  But when he/she gets off you, toss a treat and give praise.  Before you know it he/she will learn – feet on the ground means treat and praise. If he/she jumps on you again (and it will happen!), ignore him/her.  The best way to train a dog is not to punish for misbehaving, but to reward when he/she does something right.

Digging is one of the things that dogs think is cool. Perhaps they want to help your Gardner. There are several options; to begin with, do not leave your dog in the yard unsupervised. If the dog looks like he/she wants to dig engage him/her in something fun to do, fetch, tug, etc. make him /her associate the yard with fun activities that have nothing to do with digging;: Continue this ritual until the dog  can be trusted to be alone outside for several minutes. In the meantime, fill the holes up and pack them down tight. Dogs prefer digging in soft, loose soil also you can put decorative stones or lawn furniture in spots that used to be a favorite digging hole. Dog of the Month:  Rocket.

For more information on these “Marvelous Mutts”
Call Gudrun Jones at 766-3813.