Should You Take Your Dog to the Dog Park

Dogs are social creatures, but while some dogs clearly love to visit dog parks, others seem less happy about it. New research by Ottenheimer Carrier et al (Memorial University of Newfoundland) investigates whether the dog park is stressful, and what dogs do there.

Photo: Gerald Marella / Shutterstock

Dog parks are open spaces, usually fenced, where dogs can be off-leash. They are particularly useful in municipalities where leash laws mean there are few spaces for dogs to run free. The researchers recruited owners at a dog park and asked if their dogs could take part.  

Eleven dogs took part in the first study, in which saliva samples were collected before and after a walk, before arrival at the dog park, and after being in the dog park for about twenty minutes. Because some samples did not get enough saliva, full results were available for six dogs. The results showed that salivary cortisol levels were higher after 20 minutes in the dog park compared to before they arrived. There was no difference in levels before and after a walk.

Sixty dogs aged 6 months to 15.5 years took part in the second study. 81% were spayed or neutered, and all but one were medium or large breeds because the park was for dogs over 12kg. Owners completed a questionnaire about their dog, including the frequency of visiting the park, and canine personality scales. Each dog was videoed for twenty minutes, and then a saliva sample was taken.

The videos were analyzed to see how dogs spent their time. Five dogs were not included in this analysis because, during the time of the video, they were alone or one of only two in the park and hence did not have chance to interact with several other dogs. For the remaining dogs, there were typically seven dogs in the park at any one time.

Forty per cent of the time was spent near to a human, either with a human alone or with a mixed group of human(s) and dogs. The size of the dog park could have had something to do with this. Dogs spent about a third of their time alone, and about a quarter with other dogs in groups or more.

There was a correlation between play behaviour and mounting. There was also a correlation between stress behaviour (such as a tucked tail) and a hunched posture. Almost all of the dogs displayed a stress-related behaviour at some point, and 83% displayed at least one play signal/behaviour. Older dogs were less active, and younger dogs were more playful.

The owners’ ratings of their dog’s amicability were linked to the frequency of play signals and behaviours. Ratings of extraversion linked to how much time was spent in a pair with another dog. 

The dogs who visited the dog park the least had the highest cortisol levels, suggesting that they found it stressful. Dogs that had already visited the park within the previous week showed fewer stress-related behaviours than dogs that had not visited as recently.

So what does this mean for your dog? The scientists say “Owners of dogs showing lowered posture in the dog park might be advised to reconsider exposing their dog to this setting for welfare reasons. Most dogs, however, especially those which owners rate as physically active and friendly, appear to have overall positive experiences in the dog park, and likely benefit from the physical activity and social interactions that such a setting provides.”

Does your dog like to visit the dog park?

Reference:

Ottenheimer Carrier, L., Cyr, A., Anderson, R.E., & Walsh, C.J. (2013). Exploring the dog park: Relationships between social behaviours, personality and cortisol in companion dogs Applied Animal Behaviour Science , 146, 96-106 DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2013.04.002

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Dalmatian training tips and tricks

Dalmatian training programs are designed to suit the dogs natural characteristics of a companion dog. Dalmatians seek affection but only from the people they trust – and they tend to take a while before trusting strangers.
As with any dog breed, personality differences can be noticed with Dals – some area easier to train, some will give you a hard time. Here are a few of the most common Dalmatian training tips that will help you shape your dog into a real friend and companion:


• Patience is important when training a Dalmatian – they are quite independent and you might have to go through a routine several times before they start learning – not because they lack the intelligence, but because they tend to have their own way at first.


• Although they mature from a physical point of view relatively fast, they still act like puppies until they are about one and a half to two years old. And if you are looking for a good Dalmatian training tip , here it is: do not expect maturity from your dog until he reaches 2 years of age, and, even then, dont restrict his playful nature completely.


• Dals are active dogs, so make sure to offer them training routines that involve physical exercise – they love it!


• Dalmatian housebreaking training is not very difficult and the dog learns quickly what is allowed and disallowed around the house.


• Chewing toys are a must with the Dalmatian. Since they are in a puppy state for longer than most dogs, you should also try to adapt your training methods to this. Start the Dalmatian training program early, otherwise the puppy will turn into a very independent adult Dalmatian that will be a lot harder to train.


• Some Dalmatians do well in tracking and obedience trials, but you have to find the ones with the proper personality if you are thinking of training them professionally. The road trial, a sport where the dog accompanies a horse or a horse-drawn coach as an adornment and as protection is also a favorite Dalmatian activity.


• Teaching your dog obedience training commands is not different from other dog breeds, but keep in mind that you are dealing with and active and stubborn breed, and patience and creativity have to be combined if the dog-training program aims to be a success.


• When taken care of properly, these dogs can live up to 16 years. Proper Dalmatian training will ensure a better life, both for you and your spotted pet.

I have compiled a few simple steps for you to train your puppy or a adult dog as well

"Teaching the “Puppy Sit”

With your puppy at your left side, place your right hand on the collar and your
left hand on your puppy’s rump just above her tail. “Roll” your puppy’s haunches under with a tuck of your left hand. As you’re rolling your puppy’s rump under, gently apply upward and backward pressure with the collar. As you’re placing the puppy into the position, say “SIT.” When the puppy is there, cheerfully say “Good SIT!”

Do not push down on your puppy’s pelvis and never use force when teaching SIT! Your puppy’s rump should roll right under her as you slide your hand down and over her tail. If you curl your hand gently under her buttocks while you do this, she will automatically roll her haunches under for you.


Teaching the “Puppy Down”

Begin with your puppy in a SIT by your left side. Place your left hand on your puppy’s upper shoulders and back, with your right hand underneath your puppy’s front legs, palms up. With a sweeping motion, move your right hand forward as you gently push your puppy’s front feet forward and out from underneath him. While doing this, apply gentle, steady pressure downward on your puppy’s shoulders as your puppy slides softly into the DOWN position. As you place the puppy into the position, say “DOWN.” When the puppy is there, cheerfully say “Good DOWN!”


Teaching Your Puppy “Follow-the-Leader”
(Skills and Leash Etiquette )

At this point it isn’t important for your puppy to walk directly at the HEEL position. It is more important for her to learn to happily accept walking on a leash somewhere near you. This means no excessive pulling or dragging
behind. Begin by calling your puppy’s name and saying, “Let’s go!” Pat your leg, encourage your puppy with your voice, and praise her for following. When your puppy becomes distracted, gently tug on the leash, saying “No,” then say “Here!” When she responds, looks at you, and follows you, praise her heartily! If yourpuppy is a puller, turn away from her to get her attention.You may have to make several turns in each session to teach her to stay by your side. Do not expect her to hold a true HEEL at this time in her life. Just concentrate on having her learn to look for you. If your puppy bites at the leash when you walk, give her a toy to carry on the walk. This will avoid a “tug-of-war” situation. You can also spray a bitters spray on the leash before each walk to discourage her from putting the leash in her mouth.

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5 Tips In Deciding to Get a Puppy for Your Child

In the movies, childrens books, and television shows, children are always seen having a very compatible relationship with a dog. Your child is exposed to this information and images on a regular basis, and if its not from the media and books, its from friends in the neighborhood or other family members.

With these images all around you, there is no reason why you may not be wondering if it is time to purchase or adopt a puppy or dog for your child. Deep down inside, you probably had a dog growing up in which you have fond memories, and you may want to share this with your child. There is no doubt that dogs do make great pets for children, as it is so common to see a child being followed by a dedicated and loving dog. Regardless of your reasoning, there is some preparation and thought that needs to go into making that ultimate decision of getting a puppy.

Do Your Research

It is very important to do your research before making a decision to purchase or adopt a puppy. Not all dog breeds are compatible to children. There are dog breeds that are not tolerable of children, and yet there are dog breeds that truly live to be a companion to a child. In fact, one of the most compatible dog breeds for children is the Australian Staffordshire Bull Terrier, aka, "the nanny dog". This dog will unconditionally love a child, will want to constantly play with the child, and even follow the child around the house or yard guarding and protecting the child from any harm. This dog can play for hours with a child.

This is only one example of a dog breed that is child friendly, but there are many other dogs that will love spending countless hours with a child. This is where doing your research is essential. The most detrimental thing you can do is purchase a dog that rather be alone sleeping or roaming the house than being a companion to your child.

Determine if Your Child Wants a Puppy

After you have done your research into the best breed of dogs for a child, have a discussion with your child if he or she would like a pet dog. Show your child pictures of the types of dogs that you have researched to be child friendly, and pay close attention to your childs reaction. If your child does not show any interest in having a puppy, dont push the issue. You dont want to force this type of relationship and it will only lead to an unhappy child and a neglected pet.

If your child shows you complete excitement and energetically jumps up and down saying, "I want that puppy!", then of course, that is a sign that this could be a great match up. Out of the dogs you picked that are child-friendly, encourage your child to pick the puppy that he or she likes the most. This is the beginning to a great relationship for years to come.

Expose Your Child to Dogs

Take some time to expose your child to other puppies and adult dogs, and take note of his or her reaction. Your child may have been excited looking at the cute puppy and dog pictures, but when it comes to the dog being near them in real life it may mean a different story. You want to ensure that the child-dog relationship is one that will be welcomed, and not one that will cause fear for your child. If he or she is scared, you should wait.

If a child is not comfortable around a dog, it will be hard for the dog too. Dogs want love and attention, and if the child is scared and reacts by hitting or running from the dog, neglect will soon be felt by your new pet. If your child softly pets, hugs, and plays with someones dog, then it is a sure way to know for sure that your child is ready for a puppy.

Practice Puppy Care

Buy your child a toy puppy to practice basic puppy care that your child will be able to participate in. Teach your child how to softly pet and carry a puppy, and of course teach your child not to step on, hit, kick, or pull the fur of the puppy. Children need to be taught on the proper love that needs to be given to a puppy, regardless of their age, as children of all ages can be abusive to dogs.

You may also purchase some dog toys and show your child the difference between his or her toys, and the toys made especially for the puppy. Let your child know that his or her toys are not for the puppy to play with, because it can be dangerous and hurt the puppy. Have your child pick out the puppy toys so he or she will make that connection that there is a difference in the toys.

Accept Your Responsibilities

Understand that you may be the sole care taker of your new puppy. Your child, depending on his or her age, may not be capable of washing and feeding the puppy, or even cleaning up after the puppy. You may, depending on the age of your child, encourage him or her to assist you in the dog duties, but dont expect a young child to be fully responsible.

Let your child enjoy the play time and companionship, and you can take care of the other needs until your child becomes old enough to understand how to completely care for a dog. The most important point you want to make with your child is the development of the child-dog relationship. Find T-shirts with your dog breed for your child, or even purchase puppy checks that you can use to show your child how much love there is to give to a dog. The care can come later.

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About Author: Kim is a freelance writer and lover of dogs. She recently bought a puppy for her two children and enjoys teaching them responsibilities in caring for their new pet. Kim shares her love of dogs with others by using personalized checks found at www.personalchecksplus.com.

Photo credit: Smlp.co.uk

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Tips For Traveling Safely With Pets

Co-Authored by Kendra Thorton Travel advocate, TV personality, PR business woman, and Karen Rosenfeld Dog Behaviorist, Canine Holistic Wellness - the Ottawa Valley Dog Whisperer

When our family goes on vacation, I always make sure we make plans to ensure that our dog is safe and comfortable. This is a challenge for many people, as pets can make traveling more complicated. I’m going to be hosting family members who will be visiting me in Chicago next month. Since they’ll be bringing their own dog, I’m planning to offer them some suggestions on how to make the trip easier for everyone. The following are some of the ways that I make sure everyone, including our dog, feels at home while we’re on the road.

Most dogs have a toy or other object that helps them feel relaxed. I’ve found that bringing a familiar item along really helps our dog stay calm while we’re traveling. In our case, it’s a blanket, but anything familiar will do the job. Another trick that works with our dog is to massage some aromatherapy oil into her coat to help her to relax. If you try this, just make sure you choose an oil blend that’s safe and non-toxic to pets.

There are a few steps that should be taken prior to taking your pet on a trip. I always bring our dog to the vet for a complete check-up and to catch up on any vaccines she might need. Another thing I did was having her micro chipped. This is a painless procedure that makes pets easy to track if they ever get lost. Finally, if you’re traveling out of the area make sure you check laws and regulations about transporting animals. For example, if you travel abroad there may be quarantine laws in place.

When I book hotel rooms, I always check into their policies regarding pets. Aside from seeking a hotel that allows pets, I search for one where our dog will be as comfortable as possible. There are quite a few pet friendly hotels that are happy to recommend places where you can walk your dog. Some go as far as to prepare continental breakfasts for dogs, which any dog will surely appreciate! Check on the hotel’s website to find out their policies and attitudes towards pets. If necessary, give them a call and ask any questions you might have.

Planes are usually the fastest and most direct way to cover long distances. They are not, however, the ideal way to travel with pets. Animals do not enjoy flying and most airlines are not too crazy about the idea either. The one time I tried flying with my dog she ended up stuck in the cargo hold. I would never do that again unless there were absolutely no other options.

When our family goes on vacation, I want everyone to have a good time. This includes our family dog. I find that it really helps to keep the same routine as we follow at home as much as I can. For example, I feed and walk the dog at the times that she’s grown accustomed to. This helps make it feel like home to her, even if we’re hundreds of miles away ~ Kendra

What To Pack - The Basics 

• Bags (poop bags)
• Bed and/or blanket
• Bowls for food and water
• Collar, considering bringing an extra
• Leash, considering bringing an extra
• Harness if using one
• Crate / Kennel if using one
• Grooming supplies
• Medicines/supplements if applicable
• Food / treats, especially if your dog has a sensitive digestive system that is  adversely effected by sudden changes in diet
• Toy if your dog enjoys having one or two
• Towels
• Water bottle
• Water for traveling in the car
• Your dog’s papers (medical, vaccination records, ownership) - particularly important if you are crossing an international border
• First Aid Kit

Emergency Preparedness - Health and Safety Basics

First Aid Kit
For instructions on how to make your own amazing all-natural first aid kit Go Here >>

Emergency Health Care - Know Where to Go

Consider looking up and writing down the contact information and hours of operation of some veterinarian offices or alternate and complementary medicine health care providers along your travel route and near where you will be staying.  This can save valuable time in an emergency situation.

How to Help an Anxious Dog Travel Comfortably

 

The Psychology of Travel Anxiety

When it comes to communicationdogs are very insightful - if you expect your dog to get anxiousyou are actually directing your dog to be anxious. Vehicle anxiety is a psychological state that results in one or more of the following physical symptoms - barking, panting, whining, inability to ‘settle down’, wanting to hide or escape etc. Solving the issue is best accomplished by addressing and resolving the all elements that contribute to the anxious state, including:

• The psychological state (human and canine)
• The physical state (human and canine)
• Food, diet, nutrition (canine)

Herbals for Travel Anxiety

In addition to providing appropriate psychological and physical support you can also purchase a holistic herbal or homeopathic tincture / tonic to help reduce your dog’s stress. 

There are many good quality herbal tinctures, tonics, homeopathic remedies that can be purchased on-line or from a good-quality pet store or natural health store. Be careful to check the ingredients list. Many products including those made for pets contain alcohol, toxic fillers, and slipping agents, artificial sweeteners, and other inappropriate ingredients.  Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and dosage carefully.

If your dog has allergies or any health medical conditions please makes sure you check all herbals and homeopathic remedies for interactions and cautions related to your dog’s condition and medications prior to use.

Motion Sickness

Some dogs experience motion sickness - another condition that can be cured when addressed properly and with patience. You can read more on treating motion sickness here. Herbssuch as ginger, anise or peppermint are good choices for treating nausea.  And do not feed your dog for at least an hour before vehicle travel, but do not restrict water intake. An empty stomach (no food, water is fine) helps to avoid the onset of nausea.

Food, Nutrition, Diet and Travel Anxiety

Diet matters.  Dogs, just like people have more serotonin in their gut than in their brain. A dog ‘food’ (i.e. processed commercial dry or wet food) that contains grains, chemical based preservatives, artificial food colouring, artificial flavours, poor sourced protein, and other toxins definitely contributes to increased levels of anxiety. If your dog is anxious - proper attention to creating a truly supportive diet is important to supporting an over-all cure.

When this type of behaviour is addressed properly vehicle anxiety and motion sickness can be resolved.

I am Lost - I am Found

Make sure that you have a better chance of recovering your dog if he/she wanders off. Even a well trained dog can end up lost when the unexpected occurs...

• If your dog does have ID tags:
• Check to make sure the ring that holds the tag on the collar is secure
• Make sure all information on the tag is current
• If your dog does not have an ID Tag:
• Make sure you get one - even if your dog is micro chipped -the person that finds your dog may not know about microchips or have access to a facility that scans for chips
• Include the following on the tag
• Dog’s name (essential)
• Your phone number (essential)
• Your name (optional)
• Your address (optional)
• Make sure you always have available a recent photo of your dog 

Car Travel Safety

For important tips of car travel safety with your dog - guidance on whats best, the front seat or back seat; options for making sure your dog is not injured during a sudden emergency stop;  the right way to use a crate in the car if you need to do so and other life saving dos and donts Go Here >>

...and last but not least, have a good trip! ~ Karen

Additional Assistance - Holistic Health and Wellness Service

If you require additional support, and guidance - contact me to discuss your requirements. I will determine the appropriate course of action for your situation and I will let you know the applicable fees. I offer consultative services to clients around the world...
Diet, Nutrition Wellness Services

• Unbiased Diet, Nutrition, Product Advice - information and payment here >>. 
• Holistic Diet, Nutrition Wellness Plans - information and payment here >>.

Dog Obedience Training and Behavior Modification Services

• In-Person sessions - information and payment here >>.
• On-Line consultation and sessions - information and payment here >>.

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