Filed under: Dachshund, Dog Behavior, dog behaviorist, dog psychology, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, Dogs, k9 mgmt, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, positive dog training, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
A question from a Facebook Fan:
Dogs are all about body language. 1st and foremost they read other dogs, and 2nd they *hopefully* learn to read human body language. With that being said, it is easier for us to use our body language in as peaceful and non-threatening ways as possible… because we are the intelligent beings in this scenario!
Points to consider:
1. When dogs greet each other, they never walk straight up to one another. It’s extremely rude and threatening, and poses a natural threat. Instead, they will greet each other perpendicularly (like a T).
2. If a dog towers over and towards another dog, it is an invitation to fight. Dogs have a natural fight or flight instinct. If cornered and they cannot run, they will fight or become extremely submissive and shut down (rolling over, pissing).
I hope that makes sense so far. With all of that in mind, here’s what you can do to remedy the situation.
1. When approaching your dog, do NOT bend towards him. Instead, turn your side to him and place your hand lower than his chin with palm up. Offering treats in this scenario will help reprogram his brain that not all hands are scarey hands. If you must scoop him up at that point, do it from the side.
2. Don’t stare. A gaze of any longer than 3 seconds is also an invitation to fight in dog language, and unless they have been trained for eye contact… will can naturally go into fight or flight here as well.
3. The vet can be an extremely challenging scenario. Vets bend towards the dog… AND THEN POKE THEM AND PROD THEM. NOTHING is pleasant about this, ever. It also doesn’t help that we typically only see the vet once or twice per year, so the dog doesn’t ever get the chance to get past his fear. Twice a year, the scarey man in the lab coat bends towards him, grabs him, shoves a thing on his face, and then pokes him with needles. Not too much fun for the dog. Realistically speaking, you won’t get past this. You can help him by remaining calm in the presence of the vet (which is hard when you see your baby all stressed out), and hope he feeds off your calm energy. You can also take several trips (at least once per week) to the vet to “hang out” in the lobby so that he can see that not every trip to the vet ends poorly. If you can commit to doing this, it is a workable situation and one that you can conquer together.
Filed under: animal behavior, animal behaviorist, Animal Communication, canine management, Dog Behavior, dog behaviorist, dog news, dog psychology, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, Dogs, Environmental Enrichment, k9 mgmt, Marc Bekoff, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, positive dog training, preventing dog bites, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
Do you agree with Marc Bekoff? Do you think animals experience emotions?
Filed under: animal behavior, Animal Communication, Dog Behavior, dog news, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, k9 mgmt, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
Filed under: Animal Abuse, animal shelter, buying a puppy, Cesar Millan, Christmas puppies, dog death, dog health, dog news, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, Dogs, euthanasia, HSUS, humane society of the united states, k9 mgmt, Nebraska Dog Boarding, Nebraska Dog Day Care, Nebraska Dog Daycare, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, Omaha Dog Boarding, omaha dog daycare, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, oprah, Pet abuse, pet law, petstore puppy, puppy mill, Puppy Scam, Rehoming a dog, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management, spay/neuter law, Tamar Gellar, two puppies, xmas puppy
Thanks to “Nightline” for the episode about puppy mills in Pennsylvania. Watch the video, and think about it before purchasing a puppy in a petstore. By “saving” that one pup from the store, you are causing several more to suffer. This will only stop if we quit shopping and supporting these types of stores.
Filed under: 2 puppies, animal behavior, animal behaviorist, Animal Communication, buying a puppy, dog adoption, Dog Behavior, dog behaviorist, dog news, dog socialization, dog trainer, Dog Training, Dogs, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, Puppy training, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
According to the results of a recent study in the Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan, when puppies play, the males allow the females to dominate and win.
Four different breeds of pups from the ages of three to 40 weeks were observed with pups of the same sex, as well as pups of the opposite sex. What Dr. Ward and her colleagues found was that when the male puppies were engaged in play with the females, they would often use vulnerable positions in order to allow the female to dominate and keep the play going as long as possible. It is believed that this leads to easier mating of dogs later in life.
The study also revealed that although females will engage play with other female puppies that this was not as popular among the male pups. Female to female aggression is often more intense than aggression towards male dogs, so the study leads us to believe that play among female puppies is a way they practice appeasement behaviors. This is yet another argument in favor of not removing a pup from a litter prior to eight weeks of age, and continuing socialization with other dogs and puppies throughout a dog’s lifetime.
Good job to Dr. Ward and her colleagues at the University of Michigan.
Filed under: animal behavior, animal behaviorist, Animal Communication, Dog Behavior, dog behaviorist, dog psychology, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, dog trainer, Dog Training, dog training school, Dogs, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, positive dog training, Puppy training, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
In working with dogs, a question that frequently comes up is “what is the difference between a dog trainer and a behaviorist”? Working as both a dog trainer and a behaviorist, when I am contacted by a dog owner I first need to take a look at what the dog owner is hoping to accomplish with their dog(s). Oftentimes, the training will fall into a management and obedience category. However, once in awhile I will see a dog who is really having a problem adjusting to life in the human world. That is where I put on my behaviorist hat and really put my in-depth knowledge of dogs and their behaviors to work.
First, let’s take a look at what a dog trainer is. A dog trainer is typically an obedience instructor that you will find at the head of your basic dog training classes. Dog trainers work with manageable behaviors such as: pulling on the leash, coming when called, sitting, laying down, basic housetraining, jumping on people, etc. Most of these problems can be solved with obedience training. Basic obedience training will open a line of communication between canine and human, thus helping you build a deeper relationship between the two of you. Credentials should always be looked at before working with a dog trainer, and the trainer should have had years of hands-on training of the basic commands. Unfortunately, there are several “schools” out there that do not include hands-on instruction, or very limited hands-on instruction when handing out their “certifications”. Dog training is not regulated, and although there are many wonderful organizations out there, it is always best to look at the amount of experience a dog trainer has had before handing over your hard earned money.
Now let’s take a look at what a dog behaviorist is. A behaviorist steps in where basic obedience training fails to solve a behavior issue. Typically, a trainer is looking to make a behavior happen whereas the behaviorist will be attempting to make a certain behavior go away. You would call a behaviorist if your dog is having any aggression problems, anxiety issues, fear related behaviors, or any other behavior you may consider “abnormal”. It takes years of in-depth knowledge and training to even consider being called a behaviorist. Unfortunately again, this is unregulated and there are many people out there who will be more than willing to take your money and “fix” your dog. As a dog owner, you should also be aware that most obedience instructors do not have the in depth training of a behaviorist and could actually do further damage to your dog’s abnormal behavior by trying to solve it themselves.
If you are having problems with your dog, and you feel that you need professional help then by all means seek it out! By searching for credentials and experience, you are sure to find a great trainer or behaviorist. And remember to give that dog a chance before giving up on him!
Copyright 2008. Sandi Hansen. Sandi’s K9 Management. All Rights Reserved.
Filed under: animal behavior, Animal Communication, barking, chewing, Dog Behavior, Dog Day Care, Dog Daycare, dog health, dog psychology, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, Dog Training, Environmental Enrichment, Nebraska Dog Day Care, Nebraska Dog Daycare, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, omaha dog daycare, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, positive dog training, Puppy training, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
In working with dogs and their owners, I am always surprised to find out that people don’t know how to build a bond between themselves and their dog. Sadly, many dogs are turned into shelters simply because their owners didn’t understand how to go about living peacefully with them. Here is a list of simple and easy ways to establish that never-ending friendship between the two of you:
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Spay or neuter. This really should go without saying, but if you are not in the show-ring with your dog, then do him a favor by taking care of any unnecessary urges he will encounter while intact. A dog that is fixed lives a longer and healthier life, is less likely to wander away from home, and is all-around a calmer and more relaxed dog.
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Identify. Microchipping is one of the greatest things you can do for a dog. If your dog is found, any vet or shelter will be able to use a scanner to get a number that is traced back to you! About $50, this is so worth the money. In addition, it is also an excellent idea to keep your phone number and address on a tag on your dog’s collar. I usually put my cell phone on the number because I figure if the dog is missing, then I am out looking for him and not at home sitting by the telephone!
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Communication. Learning to read your dog helps in establishing an excellent line of communication between the two of you. Turid Rugaas has done some excellent work with what she refers to as “calming signals”. I will include a link to her work at the end of this article. Interpreting your dog’s body language helps you to learn to adjust your own body language in order to effectively “speak” to your dog.
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Management. Proper management is staying one step ahead of your dog. Setting him up to succeed, and not giving him the chance to practice bad behaviors are what it is all about. Proper management includes: use of a crate, fenced in yard, properly fitted collar, supervision, etc.
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Training Fun. Did you know that teaching your dog can and should be a fun thing to do? So many people don’t know how to make training fun! Keeping it fun keeps the dog working for you and with you, and helps to strengthen that tie between the two of you. Train with an upbeat attitude, with plenty of praise and rewards. Mix training with a game of fetch or a tug with his favorite tug toy!
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Schedule. Keeping to a set schedule helps a dog feel secure, knowing when he can expect that next meal or a trip outside. Although it isn’t possible for any of us to keep the same set schedule 100% of the time, try to keep a set schedule for most days.
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Socialize. Dogs are social creatures. They are pack animals. They like to be with their own. Providing your dog with other canine friends at a dog park, playgroup, or dog daycare is one of the best gifts you can give to him!
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Exercise. Exercise helps to relieve pent up energy and also helps to avoid boredom behaviors such as excessive barking or digging! Not only will it contribute to his healthy lifestyle, it is a great way for the two of you to spend quality time together. Not a jogger? Take a nice fast-paced stroll through the neighborhood, or teach him how to play a great game of Frisbee!
Hopefully these tips will get you on your way to a lifelong companionship between the two of you!
For more reading about canine communication and Calming Signals, please check out Turid Rugaas’ website at: http://www.canis.no/rugaas/articles.php
Copyright 2008. All Rights Reserved. Sandi Hansen. Sandi’s K9 Management.
Filed under: animal behavior, Animal nutrition, California Dreaming, Dog auction, Dog Behavior, Dog Camp, Dog Day Care, Dog Daycare, dog health, dog psychology, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, Dog Training, dog treats, Environmental Enrichment, Heidi the dog, Nebraska Dog Daycare, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, nutritious dog treats, omaha dog daycare, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, positive dog training, Puppy training, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management, Zuke's
Heidi asked me to get on here and let you all know about her favorite treats called Zuke’s Mini Naturals. She takes them on every job she gets, and I usually keep them in my training bag. After working with dogs throughout my entire life, I can tell you that these treats are by far the easiest and most palatable of any I have encountered so far. Their small size makes them a quick bite for a learning situation while their healthy ingredients and lack of unwanted fats and preservatives makes them a healthy alternative to most treats on the market today. Not to mention, they are made right here in the USA! They can be kind of hard to locate, so I have listed some on Ebay so you can try them out (or rather, your dog can try them out!). Unfortunately, I don’t have many to sell … BUT my prices are very competitive. Take a look…
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250214877911
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=250214876863&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT&ih=015
Filed under: animal behavior, Animal Communication, barking, chewing, digging, Dog Behavior, dog psychology, dog rehabilitation, dog socialization, Dog Training, Dog training associations, dog training school, Dogs, kids and dogs, Nebraska dog trainer, Nebraska dog training, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, positive dog training, Puppy training, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
Finding the best dog trainer for you and your dog can be as challenging as training the dog himself. These tips will help to ease the frustration of finding the right trainer:
1. Get a referral from a friend who has taken a class or worked in private training sessions with the trainer. Get a referral from a veterinarian. Ask for references from past clients.
2. Don’t assume that just because a trainer belongs to an organization or graduated from a dog training college that they can help you with your dog. There are unfortunately, several organizations and training schools out there that are not up to date on the newest methods of training. Find a trainer who uses a positive approach and keeps up to date on current training techniques. Ask how many different breeds the trainer has experience living with and working with. Steer clear of those who have only ever lived with one or two different breeds.
3. Look for treats and toys being used as rewards during the training. Avoid trainers who refuse to use food as a training reward. Food is a powerful positive training tool that works with most dogs. It also makes training and learning fun. With that said, make sure that the trainer shows you how to get away from using food rewards once the dog has learned a new command.
4. Beware of the trainer who offers a guarantee. That is a red flag that the trainer doesn’t understand the complexities of a dog’s behavior and individual needs. Each individual dog has a different learning style and a different rate of learning. Look instead for a trainer who is willing to work a little bit extra with you if you or your dog are not quite getting the hang of things. Don’t work with a trainer who you are afraid to ask for extra help from.
5. Stay away from trainers who insist you use a choke chain or prong collar or a head collar. There are still many “positive trainers” out there who believe that a head collar is a positive training tool, when in fact it is no less cruel than the chains or prongs/pinches. Shock collars should be avoided at all costs. Most trainers out there unfortunately do not understand how to properly use a training tool. Sadly, they then show you how to use the tool but not how to transition to not using it. Hence, you are stuck using an inhumane device on your dog for his lifetime, leaving both of you uncomfortable.
There are great trainers out there… you just need to know how to find them and what to look for!
All rights reserved. Sandi’s K9 Management. Sandi Hansen. 2008
Filed under: Dog Behavior, Dog Day Care, Dog Daycare, dog socialization, Nebraska Dog Day Care, Nebraska Dog Daycare, Omaha Dog Boarding, omaha dog daycare, Omaha Dog Trainer, Omaha Dog Whisperer, Sandi Hansen, Sandi's K9 Management
If you are thinking about enrolling your adult dog or puppy in a dog day care, here are a few suggestions for important details to look for and to be aware of:
Socialization
Getting your dog around as many well-socialized adult dogs as you can find is one of the most important parts of raising a behaviorally healthy animal. This is extremely important for the mental well-being of the dog in order for him to continue learning proper body language for safe interactions with other dogs. Playgroups are great, but dog daycamp is even better! Finding a day care that offers off-leash play with well-behaved adult dogs is a must.
Exercise
Wouldn’t it be nice to come home to calm and relaxed dog? Typically after a long day of work, most people are exhausted and would like to rest once they are home. That doesn’t always work out when you have a dog in the household! Sending him off to dog day care is a sure way to provide your dog with the exercise he needs to fulfill his energy level. A day care where your dog is offered many opportunities to engage in physical activities throughout the day is important.
Manners
I’ve actually seen dogs who attend day care develop bad habits from not being positively reinforced throughout the day. Finding a day care where your dog’s manners are reinforced so that no bad habits develop along the way is something that most people don’t think about when looking for a day care for their dog. Although it can be hard to find, look for a day care where positive training and reinforcement is stressed, and an environment where your dog will actually have fun learning various tricks and commands!Taking these tips into account when looking for a dog day care will help to ensure that your dog develops into a behaviorally healthy companion!
All rights reserved. Sandi Hansen. Sandi’s K9 Management. 2008
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