Bringing home a rescue dog is an incredibly rewarding experience, but let’s be honest sometimes it feels like you’ve just adopted a furry little question mark. One minute they’re cautiously sniffing around, and the next, they’re hiding behind the couch like it’s a zombie apocalypse. If your new pup is on the nervous side, don’t worry force-free training, tapping into the natural desires and patience can work wonders.
Meet Goose – My Own Rescue Success Story
Before we start, let me introduce you to Goose, my own rescue dog. When Goose first arrived, he was anxious and unsure of his new surroundings. With patience, positive reinforcement, and force-free training, he slowly blossomed into the confident (so of the time) and loving companion he is today. His journey inspired me to help other dogs adjust and thrive, which is a large part of the work DogHampton in Northamptonshire do, we are dedicated to force-free training and helping dogs build trust with their humans.
Once Goose had settled, we introduced track trailing as a way to build his confidence. This safe, on-lead activity allowed him to tap into his natural instincts to hunt and follow scents while giving him a structured way to engage with the world around him. Since he was securely on a lead, we didn’t have to worry about his lack of recall, and he absolutely thrived with this newfound job! Watching him follow a trail with excitement and determination was a game-changer in his journey toward confidence.
Step 1: Give Them Time to Decompress
Imagine you just moved to a foreign country where you don’t speak the language, the food is weird, and the locals (that’s you) keep staring at you expectantly. Overwhelming, right? That’s exactly how your rescue dog feels.
Create a quiet, cozy space where they can retreat.
Keep introductions slow—let them come to you instead of overwhelming them with affection.
Stick to a consistent routine to build a sense of security.
Step 2: Build Trust with Positive Reinforcement
Force-free training is the gold standard for gaining a nervous rescue dog’s trust. This means no yelling, no harsh corrections, and definitely no dominance-based techniques. Instead, let’s bribe I mean, motivate them with tasty rewards and praise.
Use high-value treats (think chicken, cheese, or whatever makes their tail wag like a propeller).
Mark and reward calm behaviours if they sit or make eye contact, praise them.
Respect their space forcing interaction can backfire. Let them approach you in their own time.
Step 3: Teach Basic Cues at Home
So, what’s the best way to train my dog at home? Short, positive sessions in a quiet environment. Nervous dogs thrive when they understand what’s expected of them, so start with simple cues.
Sit and Down – These give your dog something to focus on besides their worries.
Touch (target training) – Encourages engagement in a non-threatening way.
Mat training – Teaches them that their bed is a safe, rewarding place.
Step 4: Socialisation—At Their Pace
Rescue dogs often have a history, and we don’t always know the full story. That’s why socialisation should be gentle and gradual.
Start with low-distraction environments before heading to busier places.
Let them observe from a distance before encouraging interaction.
Keep interactions with other dogs and people short and positive.
Step 5: Addressing Fear-Based Behaviours
If your dog reacts nervously (barking, cowering, freezing), resist the urge to punish them. Instead:
Identify triggers and work on desensitisation.
Allow them to retreat from the trigger, build trust and become your dogs ‘safe space’.
Pair scary things with rewards (e.g., if they’re scared of the vacuum, give treats when it’s off and gradually when it’s on).
Use calming tools like snuffle mats, lick mats, or anxiety wraps.
Timing is crucial, contact a professional to help
Step 6: Be Patient, Celebrate Small Wins
Progress won’t always be linear some days, your dog will feel brave, and others, they might regress. That’s totally normal! Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s the first tail wag or finally venturing into the kitchen without hesitation.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to train a rescue dog isn’t about quick fixes it’s about building trust, confidence, and a lasting bond. Force-free training ensures they feel safe while learning the ropes of their new life. With patience, love, and a little humour, your rescue dog will go from nervous newbie to confident companion in no time!
Bonus Tip: If you’re feeling stuck, consider working with a force-free trainer who can offer guidance tailored to your dog’s unique needs. If you’re in Northamptonshire, DogHampton is here to help, just like we helped Goose!🐾
Our dogs are not immune to stress. Just like humans, they can experience a range of emotional and physiological changes when faced with stressors. As responsible pet owners, it’s crucial to recognise these signs and understand the underlying science behind stress in dogs. Failure to recognise these very often leads to trigger stacking. (Check out our previous blog)
When dogs encounter stress, their bodies release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones trigger various physiological changes that impact their behaviour and overall well-being. A study conducted by Beerda et al. (1999) found that stress in dogs can lead to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Additionally, elevated cortisol levels can affect the immune system and impair digestion, contributing to a host of health issues.
Some Behavioural Signals of Stress in Dogs:
Excessive Barking or Howling: Stressed dogs may resort to excessive vocalisation as a way to express their anxiety or discomfort.
Pacing or Restlessness: Restlessness, pacing back and forth, or an inability to settle down can indicate heightened stress levels in dogs.
Excessive Panting or Drooling: When dogs are stressed, they may exhibit increased panting or drooling, as these physiological responses help regulate their body temperature during stressful situations.
Tail Tucking between the Legs: A tucked tail is often a clear sign of fear or anxiety in dogs. It indicates their desire to withdraw or protect themselves from the stressor.
Dilated Pupils: Stress can cause a dog’s pupils to dilate as a result of the increased release of adrenaline, preparing their bodies for a potential threat.
Excessive Scratching or Licking: Stressed dogs may engage in excessive scratching or licking, as stress can trigger skin sensitivities and allergies.
Reduced Appetite or Sudden Weight Loss: Just like humans, dogs may experience a loss of appetite or sudden weight loss during stressful periods. Stress can affect their digestive system, leading to decreased interest in food.
Aggression or Growling: Stress can manifest as aggression or growling in dogs. This behaviour serves as a defensive mechanism to protect themselves from perceived threats.
Trembling or Shaking: Trembling or shaking is a common physical manifestation of stress in dogs, indicating their heightened emotional state.
Excessive Yawning: Dogs may yawn excessively when under stress. Yawning in this context is not necessarily due to tiredness but rather as a coping mechanism to release tension.
Hiding or Seeking Solitude: Stressed dogs may seek isolation or hide in confined spaces as a way to cope with stressors.
Excessive Shedding: Increased shedding can be a sign of stress in dogs, as the body responds to stress by shedding hair more rapidly.
Excessive Vocalization: Some dogs may become vocal when stressed, whining or whimpering to express their discomfort.
Destructive Behavior: Stress can lead to destructive behaviour in dogs, such as chewing on furniture, shoes, or other objects, as a way to alleviate their anxiety.
Excessive Lethargy: While some dogs may become restless when stressed, others may display excessive lethargy, appearing sluggish or uninterested in their usual activities.
Excessive Licking of Lips: Stressed dogs may frequently lick their lips or nose as a self-soothing behaviour to relieve stress.
Frantic neediness: trying to climb up you jumping up, over friendly clingy behaviours.
Excessive Salivation: Excessive salivation, often resulting in the dog having a wet or foamy mouth, can be a sign of stress or anxiety.
Sudden Changes in Bathroom Habits: Stress can cause dogs to have accidents indoors or experience changes in their bathroom habits, such as increased frequency or difficulty urinating or defecating.
Avoidance Behavior: Stressed dogs may actively avoid certain people, places, or situations that they associate with stress, seeking to distance themselves from potential stressors.
Recognising these behavioral signals is vital, as it allows us to address the underlying causes of stress in our dogs. Some common stressors for dogs include changes in their environment, separation anxiety, lack of physical or mental stimulation, noise phobias, or unfamiliar situations.
To alleviate stress in dogs, it’s essential to provide a safe and stress-free environment that meets their physical and emotional needs. This can include regular exercise, mental stimulation, a consistent routine, positive reinforcement training
Understanding the signs of stress in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. By recognising these behavioural signals and addressing the underlying causes, we can help our dogs lead happier and healthier lives. Remember, each dog is unique, and stress manifests differently in individuals. If you suspect your dog is experiencing stress, consult a professional to develop a tailored approach that suits their specific needs. Let’s prioritise the mental and emotional health of our dogs!
References:
Beerda, B., Schilder, M. B., van Hooff, J. A., de Vries, H. W., & Mol, J. A. (1999). Chronic stress in dogs subjected to social and spatial restriction. II. Hormonal and immunological responses. Physiology & Behavior, 66(2), 243-254. doi: 10.1016/s0031-9384(98)00327-7
For centuries, dogs have been our loyal, loving, and obedient companions. However, not all dogs fit this stereotype, and some may exhibit unruly behaviour that leaves their owners frustrated and unsure of how to address the issue. In this blog, we will delve into some factors that can contribute to a dog being out of control, including health, diet, breed, lifestyle, and genetics.
While certain breeds may have a predisposition towards certain behavioural problems, it is important to remember that every dog is an individual. Genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some considerations when addressing these issues in breeds with predisposed behaviours:
Early Socialisation and Training:
Regardless of breed, early socialisation and training are crucial to shaping a dog’s behaviour. By properly exposing them to various environments, people, and animals from a young age, we can mitigate potential behavioural issues.
Breed-Specific Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
Recognizing the specific needs of your dog’s breed is important. Providing ample exercise and mental stimulation tailored to their breed traits can help channel their energy and prevent behavioural problems associated with boredom or under-stimulation.
Professional Guidance:
Seeking professional help from trainers or behaviourists experienced with specific breeds can provide valuable insights and guidance in addressing breed-specific behavioural issues.
The Role of Health and Diet:
Underlying health issues can sometimes manifest as behavioural problems in dogs. Consulting a veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing or exacerbating the dog’s behaviour is crucial. Additionally, a well-balanced, nutritious diet can positively impact a dog’s behaviour and overall temperament. (See last week’s blog for more details on diet)
The Importance of Lifestyle:
Dogs are social animals and require more than just physical exercise. A lack of balance between exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction can result in restlessness, hyperactivity, and destructive behaviour. Providing adequate exercise, engaging toys and games, and regular socialisation opportunities can help channel their energy in a positive direction.
Understanding Breed and Genetics:
Different dog breeds have distinct traits and temperaments. While genetics influence a dog’s behaviour, it is essential to remember that proper training, socialisation, and a nurturing environment can still shape a dog’s behaviour positively. Tailoring training and management techniques according to breed-specific tendencies is highly effective.
Consistency Positive Reinforcement:
Consistency in training methods and expectations is crucial for helping an out-of-control dog. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviours and ignoring or redirecting unwanted ones, can be highly effective. Patience, understanding, and clear communication are key to encouraging positive changes in the dog’s behaviour.
Seeking Support:
Support from fellow dog owners, online communities, or local dog training clubs can provide guidance, empathy, and shared experiences. Sharing challenges and successes with others who have faced similar situations can be a valuable source of encouragement and knowledge.
Here are a couple of the cases we are currently working with:
Case 1: Barking and Car Chasing
Breed: Border Collie
Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs with a strong herding instinct. They may exhibit behaviours such as nipping at heels or chasing moving objects if not properly trained and mentally stimulated. Effective training and mental stimulation can help address these tendencies. Firstly, we needed to identify the triggers to determine what initiates the chasing and barking. It could be the sound, movement, understanding this is crucial to building a program that will help. Then we begin to desensitise and counter-condition. Gradually exposing her to the triggers in a controlled manner, starting from a distance. Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to reward her calm behaviour.
Case 2: Digging Holes in the Garden, Zero Recall
Breed: Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are known for their striking appearance and independent nature. With a strong prey drive, they may be prone to escaping or wandering off if not securely fenced. Additionally, they require a lot of exercise to channel their high energy levels. Again, we needed to establish why he was digging. We determined that this was driven by the need to escape and explore the world beyond the fence. This was the same for his lack of recall; he simply wanted to investigate everything, and a walk a couple of times a day was just not enough. He now has a busy roster of mentally stimulating games aimed at unleashing the prey drive and building a better relationship with his owner by playing fun games. A regular visit to an off-lead secure field for him to run and weekly training sessions to stimulate his busy mind.
Dealing with an out-of-control dog can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it is possible to help them become well-behaved and happy companions. By addressing underlying health issues, providing a nutritious diet, understanding breed traits, ensuring an active lifestyle, and seeking professional training and behaviour modification, you can set your dog up for success. Remember, patience, consistency, and a positive reinforcement approach are vital in helping these dogs overcome their challenges and thrive in their human families. With dedication and support, both you and your unruly dog can find harmony and create a strong bond built on trust and understanding. Together, you can navigate the journey of addressing behavioural issues and enjoy the rewarding experience of having a well-behaved and contented dog by your side.
As pet owners, we all want the best for our dogs. We shower them with love, attention, and care. However, one area that often goes overlooked is their diet. Feeding your dog a cheap dog food may seem like an economical choice, after all there must be regulations to ensure the standard of their food! right? Wrong! the dog food industry in the UK lacks stringent regulations, leaving a concerning gap in ensuring the quality and safety of the products we feed our pets. In this blog, we will explore the alarming lack of regulations in the UK dog food industry, citing specific cases of recalls, and uncovering the reasons behind this concerning issue.
1. The Absence of Adequate Regulations: The regulations governing pet food in the UK are significantly less rigorous compared to those imposed on human food. Currently, there is no specific legislation that sets out the minimum nutritional requirements or ingredients allowed in dog food. This lack of regulation allows for potential loopholes that could compromise the quality and safety of the products.
2. Ingredients Found in Dog Food and Associated Issues:
a. Fillers and By-Products: Some dog food manufacturers use fillers and by-products as cost-saving measures. These can include ingredients such as corn, wheat, soy, and meat by-products. While these ingredients may not pose an immediate danger, they lack the nutritional value necessary for a well-balanced diet, potentially leading to deficiencies and digestive issues in dogs.
b. Artificial Additives and Preservatives: Many dog foods contain artificial additives and preservatives to enhance flavour, colour, and shelf life. Some common additives include propylene glycol, BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ethoxyquin. These additives have been linked to various health concerns such as allergies, organ damage, and even cancer in dogs.
c. Allergenic Ingredients: Certain dog food brands may contain ingredients that are known allergens for dogs, such as beef, chicken, dairy, or grains. Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities can experience symptoms like skin rashes, itching, gastrointestinal issues, and even chronic ear infections when exposed to these allergenic ingredients.
3. Recalls and Safety Concerns:
a. The 2007 Pet Food Recall: One of the most notorious cases of dog food recalls occurred in 2007 when contaminated ingredients from China led to the deaths of thousands of pets in the US. Although not directly related to UK regulations, this incident shed light on the potential risks associated with inadequate quality control and lack of transparency in the dog food industry.
b. The 2019 Taurine Deficiency Scare: In 2019, a worrying trend emerged as several dog breeds were diagnosed with taurine deficiency, a condition linked to heart disease. Investigations revealed that certain dog food brands contained insufficient levels of taurine, a crucial amino acid for canine health. This case highlighted the need for stricter regulations to ensure essential nutrients are present in dog food.
4. The Role of Self-Regulation: Currently, self-regulation plays a significant role in the UK dog food industry. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of their products, and adherence to voluntary guidelines such as those set by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). However, relying solely on self-regulation poses inherent limitations and potential conflicts of interest, compromising the well-being of our pets.
5. The Path Towards Improvement: Recognising the need for change, various organisations and pet food manufacturers have been advocating for stricter regulations in the UK. Calls for mandatory labelling, clearer ingredient disclosure, and nutritional standards have gained momentum, aiming to provide pet owners with greater transparency and peace of mind.
Can this effect behaviour or just health?
The absence of stringent regulations in the UK dog food industry raises concerns about the quality and safety of the products we feed our four-legged companions. Ingredients found in some dog foods, such as fillers, artificial additives, and allergenic substances, can lead to nutritional deficiencies, allergies, and other health issues in dogs. Combined with cases of recalls and safety concerns, this emphasizes the pressing need for stronger regulations to protect our pets’ health. As responsible pet owners, it is essential to stay informed, demand transparency, and support initiatives that aim to improve the regulations surrounding dog food manufacturing. Together, we can ensure a healthier and safer future for our furry friends.
1. Lack of Essential Nutrients: The use of fillers instead of the necessary nutrients that your dog needs to thrive are typically high in carbohydrates and lack essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This nutritional deficiency can impact your dog’s physical and mental well-being, leading to lethargy, weakened immune system, and an array of behavioural problems.
2. Hyperactivity and Aggression: Diet plays a crucial role in a dog’s behaviour. Feeding your dog food that contains excessive levels of artificial additives, preservatives, and food colourings can trigger hyperactivity and restlessness. The lack of proper nutrition and an imbalanced diet can contribute to irritability, anxiety, and even aggression in some cases.
3. Digestive Issues: Poor-quality ingredients and fillers can upset your dog’s digestive system. Digestive issues like diarrhoea, constipation, and excessive gas can be signs that your dog’s current diet is not suitable for their optimal gut health. These digestive problems can lead to discomfort and subsequently affect your dog’s behaviour, causing irritability and mood swings.
4. Skin Problems and Itching: Many dog foods contain low-quality protein sources and unhealthy fats that can lead to skin issues, such as dryness, itchiness, and inflammation. Uncomfortable skin conditions can cause your dog to scratch excessively, leading to behavioural changes like restlessness, irritability, and difficulty in focusing.
5. Poor Dental Health: The quality of your dog’s food can significantly impact their dental health. Foods lacking in the necessary texture and quality to promote good oral hygiene and can lead to dental diseases, including gum infections and tooth decay, which can cause pain and discomfort. These discomforts can manifest in behavioural changes like aggression, reluctance to eat, and increased irritability.
Conclusion: Feeding your dog cheaper dog food may seem like a money-saving option initially, but the long-term consequences can outweigh the short-term benefits. Poor nutrition resulting from low-quality ingredients can lead to a range of behavioural issues, including hyperactivity, aggression, digestive problems, skin issues, and poor dental health. It is crucial to prioritise your dog’s nutritional needs by investing in high-quality dog food that provides a balanced diet to ensure their overall well-being and behaviour stability.
Choosing the best types of food to feed your dog is essential for their overall health and well-being. While individual dietary needs may vary based on factors such as age, breed, and any underlying health conditions, here are some general guidelines for selecting high-quality dog food:
1. Look for Complete and Balanced Formulas: Ensure that the dog food you choose is labelled as “complete and balanced” by reputable organisations.
2. Real Meat as the Main Ingredient: Check the ingredient list and look for real meat, such as chicken, beef, lamb, or fish, listed as the primary ingredient. Dogs are carnivores by nature and require a high-quality protein source to thrive.
3. Avoid Fillers and By-products: Steer clear of dog foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients offer little nutritional value and are often used as inexpensive fillers. Similarly, avoid foods that contain meat by-products, as they are less desirable protein sources compared to whole meats.
4. Whole Grains and Vegetables: While dogs primarily need animal-based protein, some whole grains and vegetables can provide additional nutritional benefits. Look for dog foods that include wholesome sources of carbohydrates like brown rice, sweet potatoes, and peas.
5. Natural Preservatives and Additives: Opt for dog foods that use natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) instead of artificial ones like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin. Additionally, avoid foods with excessive artificial colours, flavours, and additives, as these are unnecessary and can potentially trigger allergies or behavioural issues.
6. Consider Specific Dietary Needs: If your dog has specific dietary needs due to allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions, consult with an independent veterinarian to determine the best food options. They may recommend specialised diets that are grain-free, limited ingredient, or formulated for specific health concerns.
7. Wet vs. Dry Food: Both wet and dry dog food can be part of a balanced diet. Wet food generally has higher moisture content and can be beneficial for dogs who don’t drink much water or have dental issues. Dry food, on the other hand, can help maintain dental health and is often more convenient. Some pet owners even opt for a combination of both, offering wet food as a topper or occasional treat.
Remember, always transition your dog to a new food gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult with your canine nutritionist for personalised recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs and monitor their health and behaviour to ensure they are thriving on their chosen diet.
Facts about the top 5 UK brands:
Royal Canin: Royal Canin is a popular dog food brand in the UK, known for its extensive range of breed-specific and life stage-specific formulas. The company is owned by Mars, Incorporated, a global food and pet care company. In 2013 they issued a voluntary recall in for specific batches of their dry dog food formulas due to potential salmonella contamination.
Hill’s Science Diet: Hill’s Science Diet is a widely recognised brand that offers a variety of dog food options tailored to specific health needs. The brand is owned by Colgate-Palmolive Company, a multinational consumer products company. IN 2019 they voluntarily recalled several of their canned dog food products due to elevated levels of vitamin D. James
Wellbeloved: James Wellbeloved is a well-regarded dog food brand in the UK, known for its hypoallergenic formulas suitable for dogs with food sensitivities. The brand is owned by Mars, Incorporated. No major recalls or issues reported in the UK in the past 10 years.
Burns Pet Nutrition: Burns Pet Nutrition is a family-owned business that focuses on producing natural and holistic dog food. The brand is known for using high-quality ingredients and avoiding artificial additives. No major recalls or issues reported in the UK in the past 10 years.
Lily’s Kitchen: Lily’s Kitchen is a premium dog food brand that prides itself on using natural, organic ingredients. The brand offers a range of wet and dry dog food options. Lily’s Kitchen was founded by Henrietta Morrison and is now owned by Nestlé Purina PetCare, a subsidiary of Nestlé. In 2018 for specific batches of their dog food products. The recall was initiated due to potential elevated levels of vitamin D.
How do I choose the best for my dog?
Its a difficult to navigate the minefield of dog food so I have attached a link below to ‘All about dog food’. They are a comprehensive website dedicated to providing pet owners with detailed and unbiased information about dog food products available in the market. The website offers a wealth of resources and tools to help dog owners make informed decisions when it comes to choosing the best food for their furry companions. Their website features a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and find the information needed. It provides a wide range of articles, guides, and reviews that cover various aspects of dog food, including ingredients, nutritional content, manufacturing processes, and brand comparisons. One of the good features of “All About Dog Food” is its comprehensive dog food directory. This directory allows you to search for specific dog food products and access detailed information about their ingredients, nutritional analysis, and user ratings. It also provides a unique rating system called the “Dog Food Directory Rating” that evaluates each product based on its quality and nutritional value. If that isn’t enough they regularly update their content to keep up with the latest research, industry news, and recalls. This ensures that you have access to the most up-to-date and reliable information to make informed decisions about their dogs’ diets. It is valuable resource for those seeking reliable information, guidance, and recommendations on choosing the best dog food for their pets.
Why fighting genetics is a loosing battle. It is vital to consider genetics when training dogs with bad behaviour because genetics can significantly influence a dog’s behaviour and temperament. Dogs inherit certain traits and tendencies from their parents and ancestors, which can impact their behaviour patterns, instincts, and predisposition to certain behaviours.
Understanding a dog’s genetic background can provide valuable insights into their behaviour. Certain breeds have been selectively bred for specific purposes, such as herding, guarding, or hunting, and these instincts may manifest in their behaviour. For example, a herding breed may display a strong desire to chase and nip at moving objects, like children or bicycles, which can be misinterpreted as aggression or bad behaviour.
By considering a dog’s genetic predispositions, we can tailor our training methods and techniques accordingly. For example, a dog with a high prey drive may benefit from structured and consistent training that focuses on redirecting their natural instincts in a positive way.
Furthermore, understanding a dog’s genetics can help us set realistic expectations and avoid frustration. Some behaviours may be more challenging to modify due to genetic factors. It’s important to remember that while training can have a significant impact, it cannot completely override a dog’s genetic predispositions.
Overall, considering genetics when training dogs with bad behaviour allows us to develop a more comprehensive and effective training plan that takes into account the dog’s natural instincts and actually use these to our benefit, leading to better outcomes and a deeper understanding of the dog’s behaviour.
Here are the top 5 issues we get calls for.
1. Destructive Chewing: – Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys and rotate them regularly to keep your dog engaged. – Dog-proof your home by removing valuable or hazardous items from your dog’s reach. – Supervise your dog and redirect their chewing behaviour to appropriate toys when they start chewing on something they shouldn’t.
2. Excessive Barking: – Identify the triggers for your dog’s barking and work on desensitizing them to those triggers through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement. – Provide mental and physical stimulation for your dog through regular exercise and interactive toys. – Teach your dog a “quiet” command using positive reinforcement training techniques
3. Separation Anxiety: – Gradually desensitize your dog to your departures by practicing short absences and gradually increasing the time. – Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog when you’re away, such as a crate or a designated area. – Use positive reinforcement training techniques to reward calm behaviour when you leave and return.
4. Lead Reactivity:
– Identify the stimulus, is it the lead? cars? movement? people? dogs? etc – Gradually desensitize your dog to the presence of the stimuli by using counter-conditioning techniques. – Use a front-clip harness or head collar to give you more control and prevent pulling. – Seek professional help from a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist to address lead reactivity as this can escalate to being dangerous quickly.
5. Jumping Up on People: – Teach your dog an alternative behaviour, such as sitting or offering a paw, that is incompatible with jumping. – Ignore the jumping behaviour and only reward your dog when they exhibit the desired alternative behaviour. – Consistently reinforce the desired behaviour and provide plenty of positive reinforcement for calm greetings.
Always remember that consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when addressing behavioural issues in dogs. It’s important to tailor your approach to your specific dogs needs and seek professional help if you are unsure.
It is easier to pay for one session to ensure your on the right path then leaving it until the behaviour has escalated.
Christmas is a happy time for humans to get together and be merry (or argue depending on your family) But it can be a stressful and confusing time for our dogs.
Routines change, more people visit, or they are alone more often than normal, most dogs like routine and can get anxious when there are changes. On top of this they now have to cope with a tree in the house they can’t pee on, it has shiny balls all over it and nobody throws them! sometimes there are even edible things hanging there too that can’t be eaten, interesting presents they can’t chew, twinkling lights with wires that bite.
Did you know some fir trees produce oils which are mildly toxic and if ingested could cause your dog to vomit or excessively drool.
We all know there are loads of Christmas foods which are poisonous or toxic to your dog, including grapes, sultanas chocolate and raisins,
mince pies, Christmas puddings, dried fruit nuts, chocolate, even something that sound like they could be safe often aren’t. Turkey scraps could contain tiny bones which are dangerous.
This doesn’t mean we should lock ourselves away and not celebrate, it’s just something all dog owners need to be aware of so we can make sure Christmas is a happy time for our dogs too.
Dog bites over the Christmas periods are higher than any other time of the year, in the majority of cases this involves young children. Not all dogs like tiny humans, they are loud and erratic. At Christmas they can be more excited than normal, maybe they have friends over, or even relatives the dogs have never even met!
All of this on top of probably getting less physical exercise than usual as we are all busy desperately trying to prep a meal and trimmings for the whole of the Moscow state circus !
Most well-socialised family dogs can cope with the temporary craziness of Christmas – and some actually enjoy it, however for a surprisingly large number it’s stressful and worrying. A dog that is under-exercised, over stimulated, under-supervised and over-threshold is an accident just waiting to happen.
So how can we prevent the dog from biting?
Make sure they get enough exercise, (it might actually help your stress levels to escape in the fresh air for an hour. Aunt Mable won’t notice the dust behind the chair!
Supervise all interactions between children and dogs. If you can’t, then create a safe space for your dog to get away
Try and keep your dog’s routine the same as always.
Watch out for any signs your dog might be getting stressed.
Licking their lips, or parts of their bodies
Not settling
Following you around
peeing in the house
Chewing
Pacing or shaking
Whining or barking. …
Yawning, drooling,
Panting.
If you recognise the early signs then help your dog,
Give them a quiet area away from everyone. Maybe try Lick mats or a kong, with some tasty treats.
Have yourselves a merry Christmas and relax and enjoy the time with your friends and family knowing that your dogs are safe and happy too.
Pacing or shaking
Whining or barking. …
Yawning, drooling,
Panting.
If you recognise the early signs then help your dog,
Give them a quiet area away from everyone. Maybe try Lick mats or a kong, with some tasty treats.
Have yourselves a merry Christmas and relax and enjoy the time with your friends and family knowing that your dogs are safe and happy too.
The blood pounded in my ears the deafening echo of my heart filled my head making it impossible to think, my breathing so rapid I can’t get the oxygen I need to stop the panic I can feel bubbling up inside me. The figure from the distance still running straight at me, My vision disfigured through the panic as if looking through a fish-eye lens. I have to get away I have to escape this creature who has me firmly in its sights. My friend has hold of me reassuring me that everything is ok, but I feel trapped and scared, overwhelmed by fear too much to even understand the words she is saying. And then it’s upon me, it’s hot breath in my face, the heady smell of it drowning out everything. I twist and turn trying to escape but she holds me tighter telling me it’s all going to be fine. My breathing is so hard, with every lung full reeking of his scent as if choking me with his stench. If cry out in fear with my chest growing tight and still he is there breathing on my neck touching me taunting me. If I do nothing I will die! My instinct to survive takes over and I sink my teeth into him!
The ordeal is finally over I can breath again. But my friend is shouting I’m a ‘bad dog’ and “he just wanted to play”.
Running straight into the face of an unknown dog is NOT ‘FRIENDLY’. It is rude and confrontational.
Any dog can be rude occasionally, they are animals but as owners we need to understand their world better and help them interact, after all many of these behaviours are because we have intervened in the natural interactions between dogs,
When we restrict our dog’s options to move away from something scary, we often remove the “flight option.” This leaves the dog few other choices, and one of them is often the “fight option.”
Never allow your dog to run up to another unless the owners have said its ok too, and even then remember that things can quickly change between dogs. My suggestion is the 3 second rule. Three seconds is the maximum amount of time the first meeting should last between dogs. This is more than enough time for the dog’s nose to have taken in and process an immense amount of information. Never pull your dog away as we don’t want either dog thinking there is anything negative about the meeting. A simple ‘this way’ or ‘come on’ maybe showing their ball if they have one. Many owners make the mistake of waiting that bit longer to see if they ‘get on’ or misreading a ‘freeze’ or other subtle body gestures that mean “I don’t like you furball, leave me alone”!
By using their superb sense of smell — which is 10,000 times more accurate than a human’s, therefore making them highly sensitive to odors we can’t perceive — the trained lab dogs were able to pick-out blood samples from cancer patients with 97 percent accuracy. Did we even need another reason to call dogs “man’s best friend?”
Heather Junqueira, lead researcher on the study, says the results could lead to canine detection as a low-cost, non-invasive approach to cancer screening and perhaps other diseases. Dogs may also be able to detect cancer earlier than other traditional exams, she added.
Junqueira said:
“This work is very exciting because it paves the way for further research along two paths, both of which could lead to new cancer-detection tools. One is using canine scent detection as a screening method for cancers, and the other would be to determine the biologic compounds the dogs detect and then design cancer-screening tests based on those compounds.”
Four beagles were taught to distinguish between healthy blood samples and those from patients with malignant lung cancer by Janqueira and her team at BioScentDx, the lab where the study was performed. One did not cooperate, but the other three dogs were able to identify cancerous samples 96.7 percent of the time.
Current And Future Studies
Now they are testing whether dogs can smell cancer in the breath condensate of breast cancer patients. The company launched a breast cancer study in which participants donate samples of their breath for screening by trained cancer-sniffing dogs. Next, they plan to isolate the chemical compounds in samples and find out exactly where the odor originates. They are quite confident the dogs will be able to perform well through all the types of smell tests they put them through.
If you are interested in training your dogs natural ability for a fun sport that is suitable for any dog take a look at our page.
Mantrailing is like no other activity or sport that you can take part in with your pet dog. It is completely unique dog training in many ways but quite interestingly, it can help solve a number of unwanted behavioural problems that may challenge your every day life with your dog such as fear, hyperactivity, phobias, stress, anxiety, reactivity and aggression.
Mantrailing is allowing the dog to make the right choices independently and will be much more satisfying and prioritising the preferred habits in the brain. It has the effect that over time, it changes unwanted habitual behavior and shapes new behavior that is the final, desired goal. It interrupts and redirects unwanted dog behavior, will give the dog satisfaction and can be therapeutic. This, in turn, will provide various benefits and will give you and the dog more confidence and stress free experiences.
These dog behaviours can lead to you becoming extremely isolated with your dog and having stressful and disappointing experiences and missing out on taking part in various activities or even simple dog walks.
Mantrailing is the ultimate sport for turning a pessimist into an optimist!
It is one of the very few sports where the dog can work freely and the handler can enjoy watching their dog work. It is all about putting the dog in control and the handlers taking a back seat and watching how the dog works tricky trails out themselves. Through this, the handler learns to read the dogs body language, which creates a great bond and ultimately will equate to further progression in their behavioural and every-day training.
By taking part in Mantrailing, both you and your dog become a team – the best team imaginable! You will achieve success after success together, getting a buzz each time a missing person is found.
This will also help with building the dog’s confidence and self-esteem up in a very short period of time. It helps the dog to become less stressed, relax, learn a new game and have endless fun along the way. By working as a team, the dog will naturally want to engage with their handler and learn.
A dog’s nose dominates its brain, so naturally Mantrailing provides mental, intellectual stimulation for your dog, providing an exceptional workout for the brain, tiring them out without the need for physical exercise. This is perfect for dogs that are still bouncing around the house after endless walks, puppies, elderly dogs or dogs that are unable to complete as much physical exercise for one reason or another.
“It is invaluable dog training.”
It´s not competitive or over arousing like some other dog sports. It is fantastic at getting the dogs to solve problems, which in turn will build confidence and make the dog more likely to respond to behavioural modification training as the dog will want to engage and learn. This will help to change the dog’s reaction to certain situations such as a person, a dog, another animal or person.
“By making Mantrailing the best game ever, we change the priorities for the dog.”
Behaviour, that has become habitual for the dog, such as chasing a runner or barking at another dog, can be challenging to reverse. By making Mantrailing, which is a natural game, more fun, exciting and rewarding, we are changing the priorities for the dog. All over sudden, chasing that bike isn´t as important as following the trail that leads to receiving the best reward. A lot of dogs find trailing rewarding in itself.
Once the dog understands the concept of Mantrailing, which happens usually within the first session, there is no stopping them from doing their ‘job’. The dogs are extremely intent on following the trail to find their missing person, that whatever or whoever gets in their way is completely ignored. This has, for expample, enabled dog reactive dogs to ignore any other dogs on or near their trail.
Nervous dogs have been brave enough to pass objects or scenarios they once wouldn’t pass or take food from strangers that they might not normally approach.
Olfaction is believed to be the dogs’ most powerful and perhaps important sense. Their sensory world is impressively different from ours, they observe their world through relentless sniffing and scent discrimination. Dogs can have up to 300 million olfactory cells, whereas us humans have only about 15 million.
“It is believed that they can detect a tea spoon of sugar in an olympic sized pool.”
Canine olfaction is a growing area of scientific investigation and there are many new applications surfacing every year. The dogs’ brain is build around the information it gets from scent which is closely linked to emotions. Endorphins are chemicals that are produced in the brain during times of stimulation and excitement, they create feelings of calmness and happiness and decrease stress and anxiety.
When endorphin levels are too low the dog is likely to feel under a lot of stress, which can result in undesired or obsessive behaviours that the dogs use as a mechanism to cope. Anything that induces pain or excitement boosts endorphin levels, so a dog could chew his own paw, spin, or chase shadows all day as their way of creating enough endorphins for normal function.
The more the brain can be engaged and challenged with new behaviours, the more relaxed and content the dog will be. Stimulating the dog mentally and physically can help it cope with lower than average levels of endorphins being produced.
So what are you waiting for? Get trailing!
To find out more about Mantrailing and how to get involved, visit our events page or join our Facebook group “Mantrailing Association UK”
Have you ever greeted a stranger with a full-on bear hug and maybe a knuckle rub to the head? I hope not!! What would you do if this happened to you?
If your dog’s personality cannot cope with this type of greeting you need to help them. After all if someone greeted your child by hugging them I’m sure they would receive a hostile response from you. Your dog doesn’t need to say hello to everyone.
Meeting face to face is not a natural behavior for dogs, this is the way humans meet each other. Meetings between dogs should be side on with each other.
Never allow your dog to run up to a dog unless the owner has said it’s ok, and even then remember that things can quickly change between dogs.
The Three-Second Rule:
Three seconds is the maximum amount of time the first meeting should last between dogs. This is more than enough time for the dog’s nose to have taken in and processed an immense amount of information. Never pull your dog away as we don’t want either dog thinking there is anything negative about the meeting. A simple ‘this way’ or ‘come on’ maybe showing their ball if they have one.
Many owners make the mistake of waiting that bit longer to see if they ‘get on’ or misreading a ‘freeze’ or other subtle body gestures that mean “I don’t like you furball, leave me alone”!
If you want the dogs to get on. Maybe a walk with friends etc. Wait until they are ignoring each other and then bring them back together for a few more seconds. then repeat again. Watch out for body language when they approach each other to guide you on how your dog is feeling. Body language equivalent
DOG HUMAN EQUIVALENT
Play Bow – Hello would you like to join me for a cup of tea?
Fluid movement – Your pretty I like you
Stiff tails – Have I seen you on crime watch?
Wagging tail – This could go either way. I’m really not sure
Head or paw on the shoulder – Epic Wedgie
Snarl – I want to punch you in the face!
Tail between legs – That bloke scares the bejeezus out of me
Roll onto back – OMG its Fred West
Showing of teeth – Take one step closer and I rain hell on you
Tail wagging can indicate both happy and aggravated, think of an angry cat. A dog can do the same sometimes, you need to look for the rhythm and position of the tail
There are many more body language signals these are just a few, Sign up for one of our courses and we will help you on your journey to speak dog.
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