What Foods are Safe for Your Pooch

With Thanksgiving this week, you’re probably preparing to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, but it might leave you wondering what foods are safe for your pooch to feast on. Before you feed your dog their Thanksgiving feast, check out this list of what foods your dog can and can’t have.

If you’re looking to feed your dog Thanksgiving scraps, these foods mentioned below would be perfect. However, as all things everything should be consumed by your pooch in moderation, and we don’t recommend that your dog eats everything on the list.

Turkey: Cooked boneless Turkey can be great for your pooch, just make sure you leave off the skin so you avoid giving your dog too much extra fat.

Sweet Potatoes: You might be making a sweet potato casserole covered in marshmallows, but stick to the plain cooked kind for your dog.

Apple Slices: If your baking that Fall apple pie, your pooch can enjoy a few slices of fresh apple before you put them in the pie.

Mashed Potatoes: Your pooch might just love some mashed potatoes, plus they make a great stuffing for a Kong as well. Just leave out the gravy if it’s high fat content.

Vegetables: Plain veggies can be great for your dog, without the added butter. Corn, broccoli, string beans and carrots are great way to give your dog some nutrients.

Pumpkin: It can be great for your dog’s digestion after their Thanksgiving feast, but make sure you stay away from pumpkin pie and pumpkin filling, which both have sugar added.

Cranberries: They are proven to be great to help clear out your dogs’ urinary track, just watch the sugar in them to make sure your pooch isn’t getting too much.

Thanksgiving can be enjoyable for your dog, but keep their feast to a minimum. You shouldn’t over indulge your pooch.

For safety reasons, there are a few foods your dog should not eat. .

Turkey Bones: Bones that are not made for dogs can be disastrous for them. The cooked bones from your Turkey can splinter and cause your dog harm, and possibly an unscheduled trip to the vet. Stick to bones from the pet stores that are made for your pooch. You can even stop into Morris K9 Campus and get one of our holiday turkey legs made just for your pooch, just in time for Thanksgiving.

Stuffing: Everyone seems to love stuffing but it’s one of the worst things for your pooch at the dinner table. Most stuffing recipes contain onion, garlic and sage, three of the main things your dog should always stay away from, so keep your pet healthy and keep them away from the stuffing.

Desserts: Even though your four-legged friend might be begging for that last piece of pumpkin pie, they should stay away from all desserts. So don’t give into those puppy dog eyes and keep them away for the sweets.

You and your pooch can have a great Thanksgiving together, but if you want to keep your dog entertained when you are eating, make them a Kong stuffed with some of the dog safe Thanksgiving foods and let them enjoy while you are feasting yourself. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Sources:
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/thanksgiving-safety-tips.aspx

http://www.dogster.com/the-scoop/thanksgiving-foods-safe-for-dogs

ALLIE'S LAST WEEK OF BOOT CAMP



Allie is in the front of the group during training class eager to learn!



We've heard some wonderful news that there is interest in Allie for adoption! We are all crossing our fingers that she will find her fur-ever home. To continue to further her chances the staff at MK9 wanted to give our reasons why we think Allie is so great:

We love that Allie is so happy to see us when she gets dropped off in the morning, ready for a fun day of training because:

- She loves people she doesn't know unconditionally

- She has a great combination of a sweet manner but playful personality

- She is so affectionate and gentle

- She has joyful puppy-like play especially when she chases tennis balls as if they were bunnies in the grass

"Allie is such a pleasure to work with.." says Morris K9 Campus Trainer Robin Lash. "Most of her success in training is due to that fact that she is such a smart eager-to-please dog!" 

Since Allie might be meeting new dogs as part of her adoption process, we want to show a video of Allie nicely and appropriately greeting another dog. We have loved getting to know her!

If you are interest in adopting Allie, please call 973-664-0865 or visit Eleventh Hour's website for more information about her.

KIDS K9 ADVENTURE CAMP!

Are you still scrambling to find ways to occupy your child when school lets out this summer? How about entertaining both your youngster and your dog? Not only will your child and your canine get up and move together but they will learn important training skills! With our Kids K9 Adventure Camp, everyone in the family wins, even the furriest member!

This fun, interactive summer camp will teach your child and your pooch new tricks, canine games, manners and even agility. Instead of coming home with yet another tie-dye T-Shirt and necklace made of macaroni, your kid will come home with basic training knowledge and a better-behaved Fido. Teaching your child new ways of interacting with your dog will strengthen their bond and might even encourage them to take your pup for more walks so you don't have to!

Your child will also learn the fundamentals of agility which is a wonderful and rewarding canine recreational activity that can increase their brain-power and problem solving skills!

Camp runs Monday through Thursday. There are four weeks to choose from: 

• July 9 -  July 12
• July 16 -  July 19
• July 23 - July 26
• July 30 - August 2

Mondays: 10:00 - 11:30AM

Tuesday - Thursday: 10:00 - 11:00AM

(Camp ends early enough each day so you can still enjoy a day at the pool or the beach!)

Why only send your child to camp, when you can send your child and your dog?!

Call us for more information at 973-252-5100!

READING K9 BODY LANGUAGE

Pet owners play an important role in dog interactions and should consider themselves safety monitors and gate-keepers of the peace. Whether you have more than one dog in your household, you frequent dog parks or pass other canines on walks with your dog, the ability to understand and read canine body language is an essential skill to have for any dog owner.

Meet and Greet

When dogs play together, one of the most pivotal moments is the greeting. This will determine whether or not the two dogs will get along successfully. Can your dog tell who wants to be their friend and who doesn't? Can you? Daycare and group play is so important for your dog’s development because it provides multiple playmates with different experiences and communication skills.  A dog who plays regularly with other dogs can tell from the greeting ritual if the dog they're meeting is a friend or foe.   

What is an appropriate greeting? An appropriate greeting is rotating from sniffing the face, to sniffing the rear, sometimes doing this continually, and in circles for 10 to even 30 seconds.  An inappropriate greeting would be for another dog to come straight on, staring your dog directly in the face with no intent to sniff. Also inappropriate would be if another dog put their head or paw over your dog's shoulder without having said hello first.  The worst scenario is when a dog doesn't want to be sniffed! When this happens, your dog has two options: to understand that they have enough self confidence not to feel threatened in the "inappropriate" scenario and to not reciprocate equally negative behavior. Your dog may feel the need to communicate back to this "rude" dog.  This is when the human may need to step in. 

What You Should Know 

For the safety of the dogs, it is vital to recognize what both dogs are "saying to each other." Common stress signals to watch for are:
-Licking their lips with their tongue over and over again
-The hair on their back is raised. This can either mean, “I'm really excited" or "I'm a little nervous." 
-Ears pinned back
-Tucked tail
-Stiff body 

What You Can Do

Does your dog tend to approach other dogs the wrong way? It is absolutely possible to work on that and teach your furry companion proper greeting behavior.
1. Reward your dog for good behavior.  A simple comment like good boy/girl with some cuddly scratches can make a difference as well as a little treat.  Dogs understand they get a yummy treat when they do the right thing, so they will continue to do it.
2.  Redirect if the first meeting isn't going well. Is one dog more comfortable than the other?  Call the dog that's more confident away so the nervous dog can have a minute to get their bearings and then you can try the meeting again.

The video below demonstrates an appropriate greeting between Livvy (brown) and Hannah (brindle).While we don't reccommend having strange dogs meet on-leash, it is important to give you the right knowledge since this event is unavoidable. 

What was done right?
-Loose leashes by the two handlers (if the leash is tight this can sometimes cause an unwanted or unnatural repsonse from a dog because they are restrained)
-Relaxed and wiggly body language from both and alot of appropriate sniffing.
-Livvy, the older dog decided to end the greeting ritual first by going around mom's back, Hannah, who is still very young, read this "cut-off" signal perfectly and decided that she was done sniffing too. Hannah comes to daycare twice a week and practices these greeting skills on a regular basis. Livvy is owned by our daycare manager and assists with evaluating new dogs to join our daycare crew.


Well managed groups or play overseen by a person that understands canine body language and interactions can help a dog improve their communication skills and gain confidence. All of the daycare staff at Morris K9 Campus are trained in this skill  in order to ensure the safety of every pet and their success in the world of canine communication.

SPRING CLEANING WITH YOUR DOG IN MIND

With the unseasonably warm weather we've had this winter, you may have started your spring cleaning early. However, if you waited for the actual first day of spring, you're in luck because we have some smart tips that will help you clean your house until it sparkles, but will keep the safety of your pet in mind.

Occupy Fido
While you are busy cleaning, scrubbing and vacuuming, you don't want Fido getting underfoot, putting you both at risk for injury. Keep in mind that every year about 80,000 trips and falls are caused by pets alone. To avoid a tumble, set your fuzzball up in another room far from the cleaning action with his or her favorite toy or a Kong filled with treats. Even better, bring your pooch to doggie daycare so that he or she can run and play which will relieve all of their pent-up energy and save you the time of having to walk your dog later. After a day of cleaning, you probably just want to sit with your feet propped up on an ottoman with a drink in hand anyway!

Go Green!
Avoid ammonia, bleach and strong cleaning products loaded with chemicals. Opt instead for green products that are natural and less gag-inducing. Even with the windows open, the toxins in cleaning products tend to linger and are not safe for you or your dog to breath in. Since green products can be pricey, you can experiment by making your own, natural cleaning products. Mother Nature Network lists a few recipes for DIY cleaning solutions that can be made using natural ingredients like borax, salt, lemon juice, water, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. One example suggests using a mixture of 2 tablespoons baking soda with 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a cup of water that is then boiled. You can use the mixture to scrub the insides of your fridge and microwave. Steer clear of toxic cleaning products and both you and your dog will be happier.

Safe-Keeping
Whatever cleaning solutions you wind up using, ensure that they are not left around in any area that your dog can reach. If you mop your floors, rinse with water before you are done in case your dog licks the floor. For eliminating smells in your house, steer clear of odor neutralizing gels that your pup may try to nibble on, which could make him or her very sick.

Clean House, Clean Dog
Once your house is spic and span, bathe your dog! There's no sense in having a clean house if Fido is just going to dirty it up again! At Morris K9 Campus, we're making this easy for you by offering a choice of any specialty scented shampoo with every bath booked from now until April 30, 2012! Choose from the following scented shampoos: Cupcake Kiss, Lucky Duck, Lemongrass, Blueberry, Snickerdoodle, Canine Cabana, April Showers and May Flowers. Check them out and sniff all of our scents which will be conveniently located at the front desk in our lobby. Additional grooming services that Morris K9 Campus also provides are nail trims, brushing and teeth brushing.

HOLIDAY PET SAFETY

It's December and with your to-do-list a mile long, your lucky if you even have time to put your feet up and enjoy some egg nog. The last thing you need on your list is a trip to the vet office and a huge bill to pay. Avoid the following holiday hazards this season in order to keep your dog safe and healthy. This way you will have one less thing to worry about!

Photo Courtesy of Paul Miller

Poisonous Plants

While your house certainly looks festive and cheerful decked with boughs of holly, sprigs of mistletoe and potted poinsettias, these plants can be dangerous if ingested by your dog. According to the ASPCA, holly can cause vomiting and diarrhea and mistletoe can cause digestive and cardiovascular problems. The toxicity of poinsettias however, has been greatly exaggerated through the years and is actually less hazardous to your dog than holly or mistletoe. No one likes a fake, but when it comes to plants and your dog’s safety, imitation is always better.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry

While you should certainly enjoy the cheese platters and keep the mulled wine pouring (if you're not driving), Fido should steer clear of these holiday treats. Alcohol will upset your dog’s stomach as will too many scraps of the rich food we eat around the holidays. Avoid feeding your dog the fatty parts of poultry skin and/or the bones which can splinter and break and cause a choking hazard. Keep your dog happy and occupied in another room away from the partying with a Kong stuffed with kibble or an antler chew toy which is fun to chew on, safe and can last for up to a month.

O’ Tannenbaum

Small children and dogs are less coordinated. Walking or running through the house is sometimes all it takes for them to leave a small path of destruction. Putting a tree in your house for a couple weeks of the year can be a difficult task if you expect it to remain upright for the whole duration. Make sure your tree is properly placed in the tree stand so it doesn’t tip over and for safety’s sake you may not want to buy the largest tree you find. During this time of year you want to yell “Happy Holidays!” not “Timber!” Furthermore, make sure Fido does not sip the water from the Christmas tree stand as it may contain fertilizers that could upset your dog’s stomach. If you have a cat, do not use tinsel on your tree. Cats are attracted to this shiny, twirling decoration but if they accidentally eat it, tinsel can cause damage to their intestinal tract.

Photo Courtesy of alex_lee2001

The Lights are Turned Way Down Low...

The ambiance of the holiday season wouldn’t be the same without the soft glow of lit candles, holiday lights or the warmth of a roaring fire. While you can still enjoy these holiday mood setters, monitor your pets while near them. If you leave the room, blow out the candle or close the door so your dog does not accidentally burn themselves or start a fire. Make sure your pet cannot reach the electrical wire of your holiday lights or they may bite the cord and electrocute themself.

Follow these helpful holiday tips and you and your dog can spend the season being merry and bright!

OFF-LEASH TRAINING

Recall is one of the most important skills a dog can learn. It is absolutely vital to teach your canine companion to come when you call for them. There are many situations you may find yourself in where it is essential and possibly life-saving for your dog to have perfect recall; if the door of your house is left open and Fido bolts, at the park when a squirrel walks by, or if your leash snaps and breaks and there goes your dog! Here are a few, very simple tips to help you perfect your dog’s recall.

 

Tone is Key

If you are in the habit of screaming and yelling your dog’s name whenever you want them to come to you, your anger and raised voice may scare them away. They may associate you with this emotion and that is not a good thing. If you let your dog off-leash in the backyard, your dog has the wonderful opportunity to run around, free and unburdened by the restraint of a leash, sniffing and smelling the world around them. This is indeed a fun and liberating time for your dog. If you call your pup with anger and a loud voice, you are giving Fido no reason to come to you! Your raised voice pales in comparison to playing in the backyard!

Provide a Reason

When you call your dog to come to you, use a firm, but happy voice. Make it clear to your fuzzy friend that you are in a good mood. Provide a little treat, praise and gentle hugs and pats. This will encourage your dog to come to you in the future. If you teach Fido that coming to you will result in loving attention and a treat, why wouldn’t your dog come running? Practice this over and over again in your backyard. Make sure to use small bits of treats or little carrot sticks as a reward so that Fido doesn’t pack on the pounds. Throw in more and more distractions to enforce this skill to the point of perfection.

Why let the fun stop outside? Leave a Kong filled with yummy peanut butter waiting by the door inside or grab your dog's favorite toy and start a quick play session to keep the fun going. This way your dog will be more willing to come inside. The key to great recall is practice and patience. If you keep working with your dog on their recall by using these tips, you will have a dog that wants to return to you time and time again! If this problem continues to plague you, try our training program at Morris K9 Campus and we will help you nail down your recall so that it becomes second nature.

PET PROOF YOUR HOUSE

By now, as a responsible pet parent, you know there are some basic foods you shouldn’t feed your canine because they are toxic to your dog’s digestive system like grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions to name a few. But what about non-edible substances that Fido can’t seem to resist crunching on? You would think every item in your house had been doused in chicken scented perfume by your canine’s enthusiasm for objects ranging from socks to your child’s Barbie dolls. Though all dogs are capable of this behavior, Lab owners and puppy parents are far too familiar with this scenario. What can you do to prevent this curious and potentially hazardous habit?

Anticipation

Just as you baby-proof a house when you are expecting, it is crucial to dog-proof your house as well, especially if you have a puppy or a dog that is prone to nibbling foreign objects. If it’s easily accessible, your dog will find it. If you leave your nice leather shoes lying on the living room floor, chances are Fido will find it and view it as a chewy appetizer. Look over all the rooms you allow your dog in and view them as though you were wearing special K9 goggles. Notice objects lying around that are easy to get at and what could cause a potential hazard to your dog if eaten or swallowed. If you have kids, don’t allow them to leave their toys and playthings on the floor. Teach your children to pick up after themselves while simultaneously keeping your dog safe.

Engage
A bored dog can be a mischievous dog who will likely engage in unfavorable activities. These activities can include chewing household objects whether edible or not. Keep your dog happy and busy. Provide rubbery chew toys for your canine to nibble on that are large enough so that they can't be swallowed. Make sure to take time out of your day to play with your pup. Daily walks and exercise sessions are a perfect outlet for your dog. If your time is limited, simply drop your dog off at Morris K9 Campus for daycare and a day of fun and play. Register your dog for a treadmill session while at daycare for extra exercise and attention. Training will challenge your dog and provide him or her with mental stimulation. Morris K9 Campus offers training classes through a membership program that allows you to choose your schedule and move through the various levels at your own speed.
How Much Will It Cost?
If you’ve ever wondered what the cost of removing certain objects from your pet’s stomach would be based on the item, the American Kennel Club pet healthcare provider, Pet Partners Inc. has outlined the price of such expenditures. The following is a list of some of the objects dogs have eaten and the removal cost of each.                                                     

Toy $669                                                   

Sock $1,173

Snail Bait $146

Golf Balls $1,844

Dental Floss $3,590

Sources: Wyn and Mary Baruch, Ph.D Citizen Canine

What unusual objects has your dog eaten?

STEPS FOR INTRODUCING YOUR FURBABY TO YOUR NEWBORN

Photo Courtesy of smoorenburg

Are you concerned about introducing a baby into your dog-friendly household? Has your pet become protective or clingy with an expectant mother? Read on for 5 simple tips to make this transition an easy one.

1. Allow your dog to investigate the nursery once it is all set up. Make it clear that this is not your pet’s room and it is off limits unless he or she is invited. Spend some time in the nursery alone to let your pet know that you will be spending time in the room without them.

Photo Courtesy of Lunchbox

2. If your dog has any behavior issues that could be a problem with a new baby, now is certainly the time to train your canine. No matter the age of your dog, bring him or her to Morris K9 Campus for all your basic training needs. Sign up for our Levels Training Membership to get started.  This is the time when you really want your dog consistently obeying your commands.

2. Begin playing a recording of baby noises around the house (particularly in the nursery), and reassure your pet that these sounds are safe and normal. When the sound of a baby crying happens in the recording, spend some time in the nursery. After a little while, turn down the volume so your pet understands the crying will eventually stop.

3. Bring home the baby’s cap or blanket from the hospital before the baby arrives. These items have both the baby’s scent as well as yours and are best preserved if kept in a sealed bag. Have your dog sit and smell the item and give your dog a treat every time your dog sits and sniffs the baby’s scent.  Your dog will recognize the scent as something positive.

4. When mother and baby return home from the hospital, put the dog outside or in another room. Since your pet has not seen Mom in a few days, he or she could be very excitable. Once the baby is safely in the nursery, mom should spend some time with the pet so they can reacquaint themselves.

Photo Courtesy of nateone

5. Introduce a new baby to your pet(s) about a day after he or she arrives home. This will give your pet a chance to hear the baby’s sounds. Let your pet sniff the baby’s blanket first, NOT the baby’s face. Pay attention to your pet…if the pet is unsure, try again another day. If things seem to be going well, you can allow your pet to continue to smell the baby’s hands and finally, face. It may take a little while, but your pet will get used to your new addition.

Obviously, the most important thing to remember about introducing a pet to a newborn is to always be aware of the pet’s body language and behavior. An adult must be present at all times, as a baby has no defense mechanisms or ways of communicating with your pet. With some patience and careful guidance, your new baby and your pet will become lifelong pals.

POOCH ETIQUETTE AND TIPS FOR SUMMER BARBECUES

The weekend is almost here! In the dog days of summer, every weekend either entails a trip to the beach or a summer barbecue gathering with friends and family. Cold glasses of lemonade, juicy burgers, and bowls of cole-slaw are enjoyed in the backyard. Nobody wants to miss these delectable warm summer get-togethers but when you have a fuzzy friend at home it can be hard to leave them alone. Here are some tips for deciding whether or not to bring your furball to the barbecue and what to keep in mind if you do.

To Bring or Not to Bring Fido

Determine how your dog acts with groups of people and crowds. If your dog is fearful or aggressive, you should leave your canine at home to guard the house while you are away. If your dog is a jumper or a barker they can cause party mishaps like spilled drinks and guests screaming to be heard above the yaps or howls of Fido. Furthermore, if your dog has a tendency to beg for food or even steal food out of people’s hands, a barbecue is the last place you want to bring your pal. With all that juicy meat around, it’s hard to resist!

Food to Stay Away From

If your darling dog does not have any of the attributes listed above and you already checked with the barbecue host about bringing your pooch, there are some small things to be aware of before affixing Fido’s bib and setting a place for him/her at the picnic table. Beware of the fruit salad if it contains grapes! Grapes are highly toxic to dogs even in small doses. They can cause vomiting and diarrhea and even kidney failure if a significant amount of grapes (or raisins) are ingested. Make sure that alcoholic beverages are not lying on the ground or the edges of picnic tables within easy reach of your curious canine. Any type of alcoholic beverage is potentially poisonous to pets. Other foods you should never let your canine ingest are chocolate, and onions which can be poisonous to dogs. Since the grill will be fired up and an abundance of meat will be around, protect the food from prying wet noses with mesh food tents that open up like an umbrella to fit over wide platters of food. Tell guests to keep food scrap feeding to a minimum so that your dog does not get sick from too much grub and indulgent food that he or she is not accustomed to eating on a regular basis.

Photo Courtesy of Florin Gorgan

Mind the Garden

Though Lilies are absolutely beautiful to look at, for dogs they are an unlikely threat. According to Stephanie Rogers from Mother Nature Network, “The peace lily, calla lily, amaryllis, lily of the valley, autumn crocus and the common houseplant, giant Dracaena or palm lily, are all deemed dangerous to dogs by the ASPCA. Ingestion of lilies can cause gastrointestinal upset, depression, loss of appetite and tremors.” Check with your host to see what plants and flowers they grow in their garden and around their property.

H20

If their is a pool, make sure there is always a lifeguard on duty to watch youngsters and water-loving dogs. Some dogs can be excellent swimmers but can have trouble finding their way out of the pool or may wear themselves out. Investing in doggie life jackets is always a safe and excellent idea. Also, make sure to bring a water bowl for your dog and keep your pup well hydrated.

Do you bring your dog to summer barbecues? What tips can you give us?

DOGS AND THE CARNUNDRUM

You know the drill. It’s Saturday morning. You are headed to the dog park, an agility match or Morris K9 Campus with Fido in tow. Since it’s the weekend, you decide to celebrate and treat yourself a little by stopping at your local coffee joint for some java and a doughnut. You rush out of the car leaving your dog locked inside. Unfortunately, it turns out everyone within a 100 mile radius had the same Saturday morning idea. What should have been a 10 minute wait, quickly turns into a 30 or 40 minute wait of impatient foot-stamping, caffeine-deprived rage.

While you may be annoyed, Fido is steaming - temperature wise. Leaving your dog in a parked car in the hot summer months is extremely dangerous. Most dog owners are aware of the cautions of such a habit, but not the extent. The temperature inside your car depends on the outside temperature. According to the Office of Climate, Water, and Weather Services, in a time lapse of 60 minutes, a parked car can reach up to 123 degrees Fahrenheit even if the temperature outside is only as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun’s shortwave radiation quickly heats dark objects like seats and the dashboard. These hot objects then warm the car’s internal air, creating a dangerous hotbox.

While it is unhealthy for anyone to be locked in an overheated parked car, dogs and children are most at risk for suffering hyperthermia because they overheat more rapidly than adults. Hyperthermia is, “an acute condition that occurs when the body absorbs more heat than it can dissipate.” Even opening the car windows is not sufficient enough to counter the effects of the heat.

To avoid this unfortunate situation, a good idea is to invest in a Wireless Digital Thermometer that reads the inside temperature of your car. Clean Run has an excellent thermometer for car owners with dogs. The sensor accurately measures the temperature of your car and sends it to the wireless receiver. Temperature readings can be sent wirelessly up to 330 feet away. As long as you religiously monitor the temperature readings and make sure the car temp does not rise to an unhealthy degree, it is possible to stop for that Saturday morning caffeine fix.

However, whenever you are in a bind and don't want to leave Fido home alone or stuck suffering in the heat of your car while you run errands during the hot days of the week, bring your precious pooch to Morris K9 Campus for daycare. Your dog will enjoy the cool comfort of our fully air conditioned facility, hydrating water breaks, and best of all, constant play and attention from our staff and other daycare doggie friends!

Sources: National Weather Service Heat Safety

It's Bite Prevention Week! Know the Signs!

As we mentioned in our previous blog post, this week from May 15-21 is Bite Prevention Week. This initiative was created by the non-profit organization Doggone Safe whose mission is dog bite prevention through education. Their goal is to not only protect children from dog bites that could have been prevented by knowing dog body language, but to also save dogs from being uselessly euthanized or sent to a shelter. Since we cannot strike up an easy conversational rapport with the canine member of our family, we must rely on more subtle signs of communication that consist of dog body language. Learning to read what your dog and other dogs are feeling is the key to safety. In honor of Bite Prevention Week, we are elaborating on canine body language.

Watch Out!
-Tail between the legs
-Ears back
-Whites of the eyes showing
-Teeth bared
-Head down
-Excessive yawning or licking
-Tense furrowed brow
Situations to Avoid
-Do not approach a dog that is eating or chewing a bone
-Adhere to the old adage, let sleeping dogs lie. Never interrupt a slumbering dog.
-Do not force a dog into a submissive position.
-Do not approach a dog that is tethered

Be My Pal!
-Tail wagging
-Relaxed expression
-Tongue out, mouth open

Doggonesafe has made an informative video illustrating these important canine cues.

Dogs may not be able to tap you on the shoulder and say, “Hey, I’m scared!” or “Hey, I’m annoyed right now!” but their body exhibits these signs in numerous ways. Subtle though it is, we would all benefit from tuning our radar to these important canine signals.

That Bites!

When it comes to dogs and children, the last thing you want is an altercation between two of the cutest members of the family. How can you keep the peace? Next week is Bite-Prevention Week and child-dog expert Colleen Pelar has excellent tips to ensure all members of the family share a safe, loving, and harmonious relationship. As a dog trainer and mother of three kids and a dog, she knows what she’s talking about!

Canine Body Language

Dogs will often alert us to how they are truly feeling, but since not all of us are dog training professionals, it can be difficult to discern what’s really going on in that fuzzy head. Luckily, Pelar has us covered. She points out that most dogs, when nervous, will display indications of this emotion by attempting to calm themselves down, what she calls, “an attempt at self-soothing akin to thumb-sucking.” According to Pelar, these are the most important signs to look for:

Lip licking—When a dog is a little anxious, he will often quickly stick out his tongue and lick his lips. It’s usually just a fast, little flick. Watch your dog; this is one of the most common signals I see.

Yawning—This is often mistaken for contentment.  The dog is surrounded by kids, and he lets out a big yawn. Isn’t that sweet?  Nope, it’s a sign that he’s in a little over his head and would appreciate your help.

Shaking off—We’ve all seen dogs shake off when they are wet, but this happens at other times too. I liken it to a reset button on a video game. Time to shake off and start over. It will happen right after something makes the dog uncomfortable, usually as he’s walking away.

Freezing—Watch out! Freezing is one step beyond a calming signal; it’s often a last-ditch attempt to tell you to back off. Dogs typically freeze right before they snap or bite. That may sound obvious, but one of the scariest things I ever saw was when an owner told me, “Lucy loves to have kids hug her. Look how still she is.” It was a heart-stopping moment for me. Lucy, thank goodness, did not bite, but she was definitely not enjoying the experience. 

Alone Time

Just as every person needs alone time, every dog needs a bit of privacy as well. You and your kids should respect that. So when Fido is slumbering away in the dog bed or crate dreaming of digging up bones in the yard, your children should realize pup is now off-limits.

As Pelar poignantly remarks, “It’s important not to blame kids for being kids or dogs for being dogs.  Let’s be realistic; it’s impossible to control someone else’s behavior 100 percent, be it dog or child. We parents can, however, teach dogs and kids to enjoy each other’s company more by building an understanding of each other’s behavior.”

Credit: Colleen Pelar, CPDT, CDBC, author of Living with Kids and Dogs . . . Without Losing Your Mind, is America’s Kids and Canines Coach. Colleen has more than 15 years’ experience as the go-to person for parents trying to navigate kid-and-dog issues. Because a knowledgeable adult can improve every interaction between a child and a dog, Colleen is committed to educating parents, children, and dog owners on kid-and-dog relationships. 
http://www.livingwithkidsanddogs.com/lkd.html

Lazy Hazy Days of Summer

Summertime and the livin’ is easy. While you may be ready to fire up the barbeque, fill up the pool, and bring out the popsicles, some extra safety precautions should be taken into consideration regarding your dog in the warmer months. Enjoy the sudden change in temperatures and the rise in sunny days but keep Fido safe and cool. Read on for some quick and easy tips to get the most out of this summer with your dog.

Beat the Heat

Avoid possible heat stroke by keeping your dog cool during the hottest parts of the day. Move your walks from the middle of the day to early morning or early evening when the sun is at its lowest point in the sky. Both you and your pooch will be happier for it. Before taking your dog for a walk, try this tip from Andrea Arden, pet expert. Soak a bandanna in water and freeze it then wrap it around your dog’s neck before taking him or her on a walk.

It is also important to remember that you should never, ever leave your dog alone in the car. Even cracking a window is not sufficient. In the summer, even cars that are parked in the shade can quickly rise in temperature, creating a hot box that no one would like to sit in.

Paw Protection

You know what it feels like when you run barefoot across hot pavement or sand? It hurts, right? If it’s uncomfortable for you, chances are it will bother your dog’s paws too. Be conscious of your canine’s paw-pads and walk at the coolest times of day or invest in a pair of dog booties to protect their little feet.

Lifeguard on Duty

A great way to ensure your furry friend stays cool is to fill a baby wading pool with water in your backyard. This way, when Fido marches out into the heat of your backyard, a cool-off is only a few feet away. All of these aquatic activities are part of what makes summer truly wonderful, but remember to always keep an eye on your pal no matter how good a swimmer he or she is and no matter how deep the water is. If you have an in-ground pool that your dog loves to jump in, consider putting a lifejacket on your dog when frolicking outside or purchase a pet ramp to make it easy for them to get out.

Hydrate

Photo Courtesy of BigBirdz

Don’t let your dog get parched this summer. Provide fun, refreshing treats like ice cubes, keep cool fresh water on hand at all times, and try this trick from Dogster.com: freeze canned dog food in a Kong to introduce more moisture into their diet.

Don't forget, Morris K9 Campus is an excellent place for dogs in the summer! With baby pools, air conditioning, fun, and lots of fresh water for your pup, what more could you want?

Here comes the sun! Armed with these tips, you and your dog are ready to face anything the summer brings your way.

Sources: Dogster.com

When a Stranger Calls

The early morning garbage man, the mail carrier, or even the occasional Girl Scout selling those delicious cookies is often enough to send Fido into a barking frenzy. No doubt, for safety alone, alerting us to the presence of a stranger is a valuable benefit to owning a dog.

However, if your pooch takes it too far by displaying aggression, don’t worry; there is no need to hide your little Cujo in the spare bedroom. The following tips are provided by Dr. Sophia Yin, a veterinarian and animal behaviorist, in a guest blog for Dogster.com.

Womb to Tomb

If your dog was never properly socialized from the early stages of tiny furry cotton-ball to adult fuzzbucket, it makes sense that random people and other dogs might frighten a pet with little outsider experience. Make every attempt as your dog develops to introduce him or her to new people, places, and other pets. This will ensure your canine doesn’t develop a fear of unfamiliar people, places, or situations. Just keep in mind that some breeds are naturally more sociable than others.

Body Language

Learning to read their body language provides critical clues into dogs’ thinking and how they are likely to react to certain situations. According to Dr.Yin, “Fido may be tense with eyes darting back and forth or his gaze looking away while he's cowering. Or he may be yawning, licking his lips or panting when he shouldn’t be hot.” All these signs should alert you to your dog’s discomfort and give you time to warn eager petters about the possible danger. Look for the same signals when approaching dogs that you have never met and always remember to ask before petting an unfamiliar dog.

Small Steps

Once you’re fluent in your dog’s body language, take little steps to eradicate unfavorable behavior toward strangers. Invite guests over one at a time so as not to overwhelm your dog. Have the acquaintance come in the house, but don’t let them pet or even look at your dog. Provide your guest with treats so Fido will associate this new person (and new people he or she meets in the future) with a positive reward. You can also try distracting your dog from his or her fears by asking your pet to perform tricks, focusing on you rather than the stranger.

Until you are absolutely confident in your dog’s behavior toward new people, do not allow any petting. Simply work on providing constructive and pleasurable experiences for your dog so that guests feel pawsitively welcomed by not only you, but your dog as well!

Is your dog ready to meet new people this spring?

Sources: dogster.com “Dogs and Fear of Strangers.”

The Hunt for the Best Dog Toy

A long time ago, in far simpler times, the question of which toy(s) to purchase your dog never plagued the human population. There was either a bone or a stick from the backyard. But experience and common sense has shown that sticks and bones aren’t the safest playthings for your pup. More popular today are rawhides and chewing sticks, but even these pose some risks to your dog’s health. Because of this, efforts have been made to produce better, safer toys that produce a variety of squeaks, moos, and even songs. The sky’s the limit! And while having an array of options is great, it can be overwhelming. If you’re struggling to decide where to put your money in the canine toy arena, we can help! The following is our “Pick of the Litter” of dog toys, and methods of deciding which is best for your particular pooch.

Chew Style

What type of chewer is your dog? Does your pal rip all toys to shreds, or gently nibble? If your dog tends to settle down with a toy and really go at it, it’s best to purchase playthings that are made of durable rubber like Kongs made by the Kong Company®. Kongs have been known to withstand the roughest chewers. When the rubber begins to crack and tear, its time to throw it out and buy another.

If your dog has a softer approach to playing, or loves toys that squeak and squeal, consider sewn plush toys. Canvas toys are a terrific option for rough chewers that are fans of the squeak. Semi-aggressive chompers can also enjoy rope toys which break apart less easily and are wonderful for your pet’s dental health.

Planet Dog has even devised a system to aid consumers in the purchase of dog toys called the Chew-o-Meter. Their system takes into account the chewing style of your pup compared to the durability of their products to help you make the best purchase possible. Furthermore, 2% of your purchase is used to fund the training of service dogs. 

Know Your Material

It is important to be aware of the materials used to make your dog’s toy because they spend a lot of time in your canine’s mouth where harmful substances can be easily absorbed. Be careful; the Consumer Product Safety Commission only deems pet toys harmful if they put the owner at risk! As mentioned previously, Kongs® and Nylabones® are safe products that are made without harmful toxins but if you are unsure, check the label.

Safety First

Instead of smaller toys that may be a choking risk, stick to Frisbees and large balls that can’t reach the back of your dog’s mouth. A reader of The Bark recommends lacrosse balls which are large and come in a variety of fun colors. In addition, regularly check all toys for cracks or holes so that your dog’s mouth stays in tip-top shape.

Forward Thinking Pet Companies

Companies like Kong®, Tough by Nature, and Planet Dog are innovative toy producers that keep the safety of your pet in mind. They constantly take our pets’ needs and health concerns to heart and consistently provide new modes of fun and recreation.

The dog toy frontier is also pioneered by designers who wish to actively and mentally engage dogs with puzzle-like toys that require your pet to move pieces in order to reveal hidden treats. Nina Ottosson has a line a of dog toys that seek to work the canine brain by encouraging them to discover concealed treats using their nose and paws. Some of Ottosson’s products are made from particle board and should not be eaten or chewed, so it is important to watch your dog while playing with them. Another great option is the Buster Cube, which comes in different size cubes that must be rolled around in order to dispense the treats inside. Resembling a gumball machine, the Yuppy Puppy Food and Treat Machine has a large bone handle that when pressed down by your pup’s paw, dispenses treats! However, if you have any hesitations about whether your dog will chew off pieces of these brain teasers toys, opt to only use them when you can monitor your dog.

To keep the good times rolling for you and your best friend, consider your dog’s safety and well-being when selecting from the large range of toy options on the pet market today. Ready, set, play!

Sources: Sheila Pell The Bark.com
The Happy Dog Spot

Consider the Crate

Though we would love to spend every minute of every day with our dogs, life has a way of pulling us in many directions. When left to her own devices, your dog may have her own re-decorating ideas that you might not agree with, like a chiseled look on couch legs or splashes of yellow on the beige carpet. When any of these unfortunate situations arise: enter the crate.

Though crate training often gets a bad rap, crates are an excellent training tool, vital for housebreaking, and are a source of comfort for many dogs. Dogs like small spaces to nestle and hide in, and when you use a crate you are essentially creating a private room for your dog. Therefore, you need to furnish it appropriately with a soft blanket or dog bed as well as their favorite chew toys or a bone. Place a water bowl or attach a hamster water bottle to the side of the crate to keep your dog hydrated and comfortable.

When to Use a Crate

If you have just brought home a puppy and want to start housebreaking. The purpose of the crate is for the puppy to "hold it", however; puppies should never go longer than a few hours. It is recommended that you calculate an hour for each month of age i.e. 3 months of age: the puppy should be in the crate no longer than 3 hours. Dogs have a natural tendency to avoid eliminating in the place where they sleep but only if it is for a certain amount of time. If you don’t have time to housebreak your puppy, drop her off at Morris K9 Campus and we will take over with our special Puppy Housebreaking Program.

If you are concerned about your dog finding electrical cords or poisonous substances lying around your house, like household cleaning products give yourself peace of mind and crate your dog will you are gone.

If you want to prevent your dog from having separation anxiety. Crating will help adjust her to time spent alone, so it is important to let your dog be. To help your dog settle, try freezing a chew toy with peanut butter so they forget about you and focus on their yummy treat.  If you have young children, tell them to leave the dog alone.

When traveling with your dog, whether by car or plane, most hotels that allow dogs require them to stay in a crate. If your dog has already adapted to the comforts of her crate, it will make your travel much easier.

How to Adjust Your Dog to a Crate

When first introducing your dog to a crate, keep the door open and don’t close it the first couple times she ventures in. This will ensure your dog does not feel trapped.

Keep the crate near you in whatever room you are in so that your dog becomes comfortable with it and does not associate it with your absence.

Place treats inside the crate and tell your dog to go find the treats. You can even try putting her food dish inside or immediately outside of the crate itself.

Do not use the crate as a form of punishment or your dog will never want to go in the crate.

Most importantly, remember to reward your dog with praise and small treats when she uses her crate. Once your dog adjusts to the concept of crating, she will value this private sanctuary you created for her and find comfort in her own space.

Sources:

http://www.inch.com/~dogs/cratetraining.html

Dog-Friendly Dog Training by Andrea Arden (Howell Book House)