Category: dogs

At DogingtonPost, we know that a well-trained dog is a happy dog.

Training your furry friend doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right dog training tips and tricks, you can transform your pup into a well-behaved companion.

In this guide, we’ll share essential techniques to help you understand your dog’s behavior, master basic obedience, and tackle advanced training challenges.

What Makes Your Dog Tick?

Breed-Specific Behaviors

Different dog breeds have unique traits shaped by their historical purposes. Border Collies, for instance, often exhibit herding behaviors towards children or other pets. Terriers, bred for hunting small prey, might show a stronger inclination to dig. The University of Pennsylvania conducted a study that revealed certain behavioral traits are more prevalent in specific breed groups. Sporting breeds, for example, scored higher in trainability, while toy breeds displayed more owner-directed aggression. This knowledge allows you to adapt your training approach to your dog’s natural tendencies.

Reading Your Dog’s Body Language

Dogs primarily communicate through body language. Understanding these signals is essential for effective training and strengthening your bond. Here are key indicators to observe:

• Tail position and movement: A high, stiff wag can indicate alertness or even aggression, while a low, relaxed wag usually signals contentment.
• Ear position: Erect ears show attention or alertness, while flattened ears may indicate fear or submission.
• Eye contact: Dogs may avoid eye contact when feeling stressed, which people often misinterpret as ignoring them.
• Body posture: A relaxed, loose body indicates a calm dog, while a stiff, tense posture may signal discomfort or aggression.

Motivating Your Dog

Each dog responds to different motivators, and identifying what drives your pet is key to successful training. While many dogs respond well to food treats, others prefer praise, play, or toys. The American Kennel Club recommends experimenting with various rewards to discover your dog’s preferences.

Training methods based on rewards are considered more humane and equally or more effective than aversive or mixed methods.

It’s important to adjust your training methods based on your dog’s energy levels and mood. A tired dog might not respond as well to training, while an overly excited one could struggle to focus. Finding the right balance is key for effective learning.

Tailoring Your Approach

Understanding these aspects of your dog’s behavior equips you to customize your training approach. This knowledge forms the foundation for building a stronger, more harmonious relationship with your furry companion. In the next section, we’ll explore basic obedience training techniques that build upon this understanding of canine behavior.

Mastering Basic Commands

The Power of Sit, Stay, and Come

Teaching your dog basic obedience forms the foundation of a well-behaved companion. Let’s explore practical techniques to get you started.

Start with the sit command. Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then slowly move your hand up and back. As your dog’s head follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower. Once they’re in position, say “sit” and reward them immediately. Repeat this process, gradually reduce the hand motion until your dog responds to the verbal cue alone.

For “stay,” ask your dog to sit, then open your palm in front of you and say “stay.” Take a step back. If your dog remains in place, praise and treat them. Gradually increase the distance and duration.

The “come” command can save your dog’s life. Start in a quiet area, say your dog’s name followed by “come,” and encourage them to approach you. When they do, reward generously. Practice this in various locations with increasing distractions.

Leash Training for Enjoyable Walks

Leash training starts with the right equipment. Choose a 4-6 foot leash and a comfortable harness or collar. Start in a low-distraction environment. If your dog pulls, stop walking. Only move forward when the leash is slack. This teaches them that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go.

Encourage your dog to walk beside you by keeping treats at your hip level. Reward them frequently for staying in position. Gradually reduce treats as your dog improves.

The Magic of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is an effective training method. Although positive punishment can be effective, there is no evidence that it is more effective than positive reinforcement-based training.

Timing is key. Reward your dog within seconds of the desired behavior. This could be with treats, praise, or play – whatever motivates your dog most. Be consistent with your cues and rewards to avoid confusion.

Clicker Training: Precision in Communication

Clicker training is a powerful tool in your training arsenal. To use a clicker or other marker, you’ll first need to teach the dog what the marker means. Sometimes called “loading the clicker,” you pair your chosen marker with a reward. Here’s how to start:

1. “Load” the clicker by clicking and immediately treating your dog several times.
2. When your dog performs a desired behavior, click at the exact moment it happens, then treat.
3. Use the clicker to shape more complex behaviors by rewarding small steps towards the final goal.

Consistency is key in all aspects of training. Set aside short, regular training sessions – 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day is often more effective than one long session.

Moving Beyond the Basics

As you and your dog master these fundamental commands, you’ll build a strong foundation for more advanced training. The skills you’ve learned (sit, stay, come, and leash walking) will serve as building blocks for tackling more complex behaviors and addressing specific issues. In the next section, we’ll explore how to apply these basic techniques to solve common behavioral problems and teach your dog impressive tricks.

Solving Tricky Dog Behaviors

Tackling Destructive Chewing

Destructive chewing often stems from boredom or anxiety. To curb this behavior, provide plenty of mental stimulation. Puzzle toys filled with treats can keep your dog occupied. A study by Arhant et al. (2021) explored how dog owners manage their dogs’ chewing behavior and its relationships to other owner-dog interactions.

Redirect your dog’s chewing instinct to appropriate items. When you catch them chewing something they shouldn’t, interrupt with a firm “No,” then immediately offer an acceptable alternative. Praise them lavishly when they chew on the right things.

Stopping Excessive Barking

Excessive barking can strain relationships with neighbors and disrupt your home life. Identify the cause of the barking – is it attention-seeking, territorial, or triggered by specific stimuli?

For attention-seeking barkers, ignore the behavior completely. Only give attention when they’re quiet. For territorial barking, limit your dog’s view of passersby or use privacy film on windows.

Teach the “quiet” command for effective results. When your dog starts barking, say “quiet” in a calm, firm voice. The moment they stop (even to take a breath), reward them with a treat. Gradually increase the duration of quiet time required for the reward.

Mastering Crate Training

Crate training provides a safe space for your dog and aids in housebreaking. Start by making the crate inviting with comfortable bedding and toys. Feed meals in the crate to create positive associations.

Begin with short periods, gradually increasing the duration. Never use the crate as punishment.

For housebreaking, establish a consistent schedule. Take your dog out immediately after meals, naps, and playtime. Reward generously for eliminating outside. If accidents occur, clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might attract repeat behavior.

Socializing Your Adult Dog

While early socialization is ideal, it’s never too late to improve your dog’s social skills. Start in controlled environments with calm, friendly dogs. Keep initial interactions brief and positive.

Group training classes offer structured socialization opportunities.

For people-shy dogs, enlist friends to help. Have them ignore your dog initially, allowing your pet to approach in their own time. Reward calm behavior around new people with treats and praise.

Forcing interactions can backfire. Always respect your dog’s comfort level and never punish fear-based behaviors.

Final Thoughts

Training your dog requires dedication, patience, and a deep understanding of canine behavior. We at DogingtonPost have explored essential dog training tips and tricks to help you build a strong, positive relationship with your furry companion. Every dog is unique, so you must tailor your methods to your dog’s individual needs and motivations.

A well-trained dog brings numerous benefits to both you and your pet. Training enhances communication, reduces stress, and allows for greater freedom and trust. It also ensures your dog’s safety in various situations and makes outings and social interactions more enjoyable for everyone involved.

DogingtonPost provides the latest information and resources to help you on your dog training journey. Our platform offers expert advice, practical tips, and engaging stories to support you in every aspect of dog ownership (including training techniques). You and your canine companion can enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding relationship for years to come.

At DogingtonPost, we’re excited to explore a unique adoption opportunity: service dogs that didn’t quite make the cut.

These incredible animals have received top-notch training but, for various reasons, didn’t complete their service dog certification.

Adopting these dogs can be a rewarding experience, giving them a loving home while benefiting from their advanced training.

In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of how to adopt service dogs that failed their training programs and welcome them into your family.

What Happens in Service Dog Training?

The Rigorous Training Process

Service dog training transforms puppies into highly skilled assistants. Organizations like Assistance Dogs International set strict standards for these programs. Training typically lasts 18 to 24 months and costs between $25,000 and $50,000 per dog.

The Training Journey

Puppies begin their journey at 8 weeks old. They learn basic obedience and socialization skills with volunteer puppy raisers. At 14 to 18 months, they return to the training center for advanced work. Here, they master tasks like retrieving objects, opening doors, and alerting to medical conditions.

Why Some Dogs Don’t Complete Training

The success rate for service dog training is only about 30%. Common reasons for failure include:

1. Health issues: Hip dysplasia or allergies can disqualify a dog.
2. Temperament: Some dogs are too energetic or easily distracted.
3. Work ethic: Not all dogs have the drive for constant training.
4. Socialization problems: Fear or aggression in public settings is a deal-breaker.

Available Dogs for Adoption

Failed service dogs come in various breeds and ages. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are common. You’ll find dogs ranging from 18 months to 3 years old. These dogs often have excellent basic training and socialization skills, making them great family pets.

Adoption Organizations

Organizations like Freedom Service Dogs of America and Guide Dogs for the Blind regularly have dogs available for adoption. Those not up to the standard are offered for adoption or are transferred to programs for other service dogs such as police or search and rescue. They provide detailed profiles of each dog, including their training history and reasons for career change. (It’s worth noting that these profiles can offer valuable insights into a dog’s personality and potential fit for your family.)

As we move forward to explore the process of finding and adopting these exceptional dogs, it’s important to understand the unique qualities they bring to the table. Their advanced training and socialization can make them excellent companions, even if they didn’t quite make the cut as service animals.

Where to Find Service Dog Dropouts

Top Organizations for Service Dog Adoptions

Several reputable organizations across the United States specialize in rehoming well-trained pups that didn’t complete their service dog training. Freedom Service Dogs of America, based in Colorado, offers a “career change” program for dogs between 18 months and 3 years old. These dogs have received extensive training but didn’t quite make the cut as service animals.

Guide Dogs for the Blind, operating in California and Oregon, provides an adoption program for dogs that don’t complete their guide dog training. They often have Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or Lab/Golden crosses available.

The TSA Canine Training Center in Texas runs an adoption program for dogs that don’t meet their rigorous standards for explosive detection work. (These dogs are often described as “too nice” or “too playful” for the serious work of airport security.)

Adoption Requirements

Adopting a service dog dropout isn’t as straightforward as adopting from a shelter. Most organizations have specific requirements for potential adopters. You’ll typically need to:

1. Be at least 21 years old
2. Have a fenced yard
3. Provide references from your veterinarian
4. Show proof of homeownership or landlord approval for pet ownership
5. Demonstrate the ability to provide proper care, including regular exercise and veterinary check-ups

The Adoption Process

The process of adopting a service dog dropout can take time. Many organizations have waiting lists due to high demand. Here’s what you can expect:

Patience Pays Off

The adoption process for service dog dropouts requires patience. These organizations want to ensure the best match between dog and adopter, which takes time. (The reward of welcoming a well-trained, loving companion into your home makes the wait worthwhile.)

As you prepare for the possibility of adopting one of these exceptional dogs, it’s important to consider how to set up your home and lifestyle to accommodate their unique needs. Let’s explore how to prepare for your new companion in the next section.

How to Prepare Your Home for an Ex-Service Dog

Create a Safe Space

Ex-service dogs need structured environments. Set up a quiet area with a comfortable bed, water bowl, and toys. This space will serve as a retreat when your dog needs downtime. Remove potential hazards like loose wires or toxic plants. Install baby gates to limit access to certain areas initially.

A study by the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that dogs with a designated safe space show reduced stress levels by up to 30%. (This is particularly important for ex-service dogs adjusting to a new environment.)

Maintain Training Consistency

Assistance animals play significant roles in human therapy and well-being and represent a rapidly growing demographic of animals in society. Familiarize yourself with the commands they’ve learned. The American Kennel Club suggests spending at least 15 minutes daily to reinforce these commands.

Invest in puzzle toys and treat-dispensing games to keep their minds active. These activities can reduce boredom and prevent destructive behaviors. A survey by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers found that dogs engaged in mental stimulation activities were 40% less likely to develop anxiety-related issues.

Meet Health and Exercise Needs

Ex-service dogs are often high-energy breeds that require significant exercise. Plan for at least an hour of physical activity daily. This can include walks, runs, or fetch games. A study in the Journal of Physiology and Behavior showed that dogs receiving adequate exercise displayed 50% fewer behavioral problems.

Schedule a vet check-up within the first week of adoption. Many service dog organizations provide detailed health records, but a fresh assessment ensures you’re aware of any specific needs. Regular grooming is also essential, especially for breeds like Labrador Retrievers or German Shepherds that shed frequently.

Adapt Your Routine

Ex-service dogs are used to structured schedules. Try to establish a consistent daily routine for feeding, exercise, and rest. (This will help your new companion adjust more quickly to their new home environment.)

Provide Mental Stimulation

These highly trained dogs are accustomed to mental challenges. Incorporate training sessions, puzzle toys, and new experiences into their daily life. This will help prevent boredom and maintain their sharp minds.

Final Thoughts

Adopting service dogs that failed their training programs offers a unique opportunity to welcome a well-trained companion into your home. These exceptional animals possess advanced skills and socialization, making them excellent pets for the right families. You provide a loving home to a deserving dog and gain a highly trained companion who can enrich your daily life.

The impact of this adoption extends beyond your household, as you give a second chance to a dog that might otherwise struggle to find placement. These animals often transition smoothly to pet life due to their strong foundation in obedience and social skills. Their advanced training can significantly ease the challenges of pet ownership (and create a strong bond built on mutual trust and understanding).

We at DogingtonPost encourage you to consider this distinctive adoption option. If you want to learn more about responsible dog ownership or training tips, visit our website at DogingtonPost. We provide valuable resources to help you and your furry friend live your best lives together.

Choosing the right crate for your furry friend can be overwhelming. At DogingtonPost, we understand the importance of finding the perfect home within your home for your canine companion.

Our dog crate tips will guide you through the process, ensuring your pup’s safety, comfort, and well-being. From size considerations to material options, we’ll help you make an informed decision that benefits both you and your four-legged family member.

Why Dog Crates Are Essential

A Safe Haven for Your Pup

Dog crates provide a secure space where your pet can retreat when they feel overwhelmed or tired. This is especially important in multi-pet households or homes with young children. However, a study found that dogs exhibited significant stress responses when first kenneled, indicated by elevated glucocorticoid levels and behavioral changes.

Potty Training Simplified

Crates are invaluable tools for house training. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping areas. You can leverage this instinct to establish a consistent potty routine by using a crate of appropriate size.

Effective Behavior Management

A crate can help manage unwanted behaviors when you can’t supervise your dog. It prevents destructive chewing, garbage raiding, and other mischief. However, research suggests that confining a dog with separation anxiety to a crate can increase lip licking, a response consistent with stress, and dogs can injure themselves in attempts to escape.

Travel Companion

Crates make travel safer and more comfortable for your dog. Whether it’s a trip to the vet or a family vacation, a familiar crate can reduce stress and anxiety. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends crate training for safe car travel, as it minimizes distractions and protects your dog in case of sudden stops.

Recovery and Rest

During illness or after surgery, a crate provides a quiet, confined space for your dog to recover. Veterinarians often suggest crate rest for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries. This controlled environment limits movement and promotes healing.

As we explore the various types of dog crates available in the market, you’ll see how each design caters to different needs and situations. Let’s move on to discover the perfect crate for your furry friend.

What Are the Different Types of Dog Crates?

Wire Crates: The Versatile Choice

Wire crates offer durability and excellent ventilation. They suit dogs who overheat easily or live in warmer climates. Most wire crates fold flat, which makes storage and transport easy.

A study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior revealed that dogs in wire crates showed fewer stress-related behaviors compared to those in solid-walled crates. This could result from the increased visibility wire crates provide, allowing dogs to feel more connected to their surroundings.

However, wire crates don’t suit all dogs. Some anxious pups might feel too exposed. In these cases, you can cover part of the crate with a blanket to create a more den-like environment.

Plastic Crates: Travel-Friendly Options

Plastic crates are lightweight and often airline-approved, which makes them excellent for travel. They provide a more enclosed space, which can help anxious dogs feel secure. The solid walls also make them a good choice for dogs who need fewer visual distractions.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) states that plastic crates are the most commonly accepted type for air travel. If you plan to fly with your dog, a high-quality plastic crate is a must-have.

Plastic crates have some drawbacks. They can be harder to clean thoroughly compared to wire crates. They also provide less ventilation, which might pose issues in hot climates or for dogs prone to overheating.

Heavy-Duty Crates: For the Escape Artists

If you have a strong chewer or a dog with a knack for escaping, a heavy-duty crate might be your best option. These crates typically consist of reinforced steel or aluminum and can withstand determined escape attempts.

A survey by the American Pet Products Association found that 5% of dog owners reported their dogs had escaped from or destroyed a standard crate. For these “Houdini hounds,” a heavy-duty crate can provide peace of mind for both the dog and the owner.

Heavy-duty crates often come with a higher price tag and weigh more than other options. They don’t work well for frequent moving or travel, but they excel at keeping strong or anxious dogs safely contained at home.

Soft-Sided Crates: Comfort and Portability

Soft-sided crates offer a lightweight and portable option for small to medium-sized dogs. They work well for travel, outdoor events, or as a temporary space in different rooms of your home.

These crates often feature mesh panels for ventilation and visibility. Some models even come with convenient pockets for storing treats or toys. However, soft-sided crates aren’t suitable for dogs who chew or scratch excessively.

Furniture Crates: Style Meets Function

For those who want their dog’s crate to blend seamlessly with home decor, furniture crates provide an elegant solution. These crates double as end tables, nightstands, or other functional pieces of furniture.

While they offer aesthetic appeal, furniture crates might lack some practical features of traditional crates (such as easy cleaning or portability). They also tend to be more expensive than standard crate options.

As we move forward, let’s explore the crucial factors you should consider when selecting the perfect crate for your furry friend.

How to Pick the Right Crate for Your Dog

Size: The Foundation of Comfort

The size of the crate forms the basis of your dog’s comfort. A small crate causes discomfort and stress, while an oversized one defeats the purpose of crate training. The gate allowing access to the crate must be of appropriate size to ensure that the dog can move easily into and out of the space. Measure your dog from nose tip to tail base, then add 2-4 inches for length. For height, measure from floor to head top when standing and add 2-4 inches. These measurements will guide you to the correct crate size.

A University of California, Davis study found that dogs in appropriately sized crates showed lower stress levels compared to those in oversized or undersized crates. This fact emphasizes the importance of correct dimensions.

Purpose and Portability: Tailoring to Your Needs

The crate’s purpose influences your choice. Home use, travel, or training each require different crate types. Frequent travelers might prefer a lightweight, collapsible crate. The American Kennel Club suggests plastic crates for air travel due to their durability and airline regulation compliance.

For home use, consider the crate’s placement and how it fits your living space. Some crates feature wheels for easy movement (a useful feature if you need to relocate the crate often).

Durability: Matching Your Dog’s Behavior

Your dog’s temperament and chewing habits influence crate selection. Aggressive chewers or escape artists need heavy-duty metal crates, typically made of thicker gauge wire or reinforced steel.

Ventilation and Visibility: Balancing Comfort and Security

Proper ventilation ensures your dog’s comfort, especially in warmer climates. Wire crates offer excellent airflow, while plastic crates provide a more enclosed environment. Consider your dog’s preferences and your local climate when making this choice.

Visibility also plays a role in your dog’s comfort. Some dogs feel secure in more enclosed spaces, while others prefer to see their surroundings. You can always adjust visibility in wire crates by covering portions with a blanket.

Ease of Cleaning: Practical Considerations

A crate that’s easy to clean will save you time and effort. Wire crates often feature removable trays for easy cleaning, while plastic crates might require more thorough scrubbing. Consider how often you’ll need to clean the crate and choose a design that fits your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the perfect crate for your dog requires careful consideration of size, purpose, durability, and ventilation. Each aspect ensures your dog’s comfort and safety. The right crate allows your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably while providing a secure environment.

Proper introduction and training are essential for successful crate use. Gradually acclimate your dog to the crate, making it a positive experience with treats, toys, and praise. Never use the crate as punishment, as this can create negative associations and stress for your pet.

At DogingtonPost, we provide the latest dog crate tips and advice to enhance your pet’s life. Our resources cover everything from choosing the right crate to effective training techniques (ensuring you have the knowledge to make informed decisions for your canine companion). A well-chosen crate can become your dog’s favorite spot – a safe haven where they can relax and feel secure.