Don’t Let Your Puppy get away with these!

We all love how cute and funny puppies can be, but while it’s cute now it won’t be when they are bigger.

To train a dog out of a behaviour is not impossible but it does get harder. So I wanted to share a few examples of when and what to do when these small behaviours start and what you can do to stop or redirect these behaviours. Keeping in mind puppies are constantly learning and testing what things are and what they think we want from them. Be patient and if in doubt reach out to a dog trainer near you.

Biting
Jumping
Barking and biting at the broom / vacuum
Digging
Food manners

Bitting

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, but it’s crucial to teach them bite inhibition early on. When your puppy nips, let out a high-pitched yelp to mimic the sound of a sibling in pain, then withdraw attention briefly. Redirect their chewing to appropriate toys and reward calm behavior.

Jumping

Discourage jumping by turning away and ignoring your puppy when they jump up. Only give attention and affection when all four paws are on the ground. Consistency is key, so ensure all family members and visitors follow the same protocol.

Barking and biting at the broom/vacuum

Dogs may perceive household items like brooms and vacuums as threats. Counter-condition this behavior by associating these objects with positive experiences. For example, leave the broom out and reward your puppy for calm behavior around it. Gradually introduce the vacuum in short, non-threatening sessions, rewarding calmness.

Digging

Digging can be a natural behavior for dogs, but it can become destructive if not managed. Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. If your puppy starts digging inappropriately, redirect their attention to a designated digging area filled with sand or dirt, and praise them for using it.

Food manners

Establishing good food manners early on is essential. Use mealtime as a training opportunity by requiring your puppy to wait patiently before receiving their food. Teach them the “leave it” command to discourage begging or stealing food. Consistently reinforce desired behavior with rewards.

Remember, consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are key when training your puppy. If you’re struggling to address any of these behaviors, seek guidance from a professional dog trainer who can provide personalized advice and support.

February 23, 2024 0

Just a walkin’ the dog

Walking your dog is about so much more than just making sure they go to the toilet. Walking your dog provides mental stimulation, physical exercise, chances for socialization, and opportunities for behavioral training. It gets both of you out and about while helping to grow the bond you have with your dog.

Remember, too, that a sedentary pooch can quickly become an overweight one, and that brings potential health problems with it. Even if your dog is active inside the home, he or she still needs another outlet for pent-up energy. You’ll benefit from having a well-exercised dog, as tired dogs tend to behave better, and you’ll help your pet avoid unnecessary weight gain!

Sometimes it can be really difficult to make sure your fur-family member gets out for a walk. Maybe you’ve got family commitments or work demands that are keeping you too busy, so much activity can leave you with a lack of energy or patience for your pet.

I offer professional dog walking services that can assist you while you’re managing a difficult time in your life.

I want my customers to feel peace of mind. A sense of relief, contentment and satisfaction from the knowledge that their dog’s needs are being met. I understand that handing over your much loved dog to a virtual “stranger” requires a huge leap of faith. Please know that I do not take the responsibility lightly.

MY SERVICE:

* I do one hour walks

* I pickup and drop off dogs (sometimes owners are home during these times, sometimes they are not and they offer me a way to collect their dog – a key, a garage remote, access to backyard etc… In most instances I have to drive short distances from the dog’s home to a natural setting of my or the owner’s choice.

* I take every dog to a natural setting away from roads and traffic. These settings include dog parks (should the owner approve and want the socialization), nature reserves and walking trails/tracks. I have chosen these settings so that the DOG ENJOYS IT and because of the SAFETY element.

* Some of my customers are short term/temporary (a few weeks if they are away or injured or otherwise unavailable for a specific amount of time). Other customers are long term ( I have been walking their dogs for months on an ongoing basis).

Please send me a message should you be interested in my services or you can follow this link to see my availability.

April 5, 2023 0

Day Visits, and Training, and Dog Walking oh my!

I started Tails Trails and Training in 2018. My love for animals developed similarly to that of many animal professionals, as a young child, with family pets.

I completed my Certificate iii Dog Behaviour and Training which is the highest qualification available in Australia. In addition, I have done volunteer work at Melbourne Zoo, Guide Dogs Australia, and RSPCA animal aid shelters.

For more details about availability and other services check out my mad paw profile here.

March 23, 2023 0

When I wake up…

“When I wake up every morning, I smile and say, ‘Thank you.’ Because out of my window I can see the mountains, then go hiking with my dog and share her bounding joy in the world.” ~ Carole King

June 7, 2018 0

Teaching your dog about the Leash

You can use various methods to teach dogs to walk without pulling on leash. No single method works for all dogs – they all have different ways they learn best, just like us.

June 7, 2018 0