PUPPY WORLD: June 2022

Thursday, June 30, 2022

Guide to the Goldendoodle Dog

The post Guide to the Goldendoodle Dog by Lauren Katims appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Goldendoodles, a cross between a Poodle and Golden Retriever, were first bred in 1970 as service dogs and have since become the most desired of the Doodle breeds. People are drawn to the friendly, affectionate and loyal qualities of the Golden Retriever – along with the Goldendoodle’s signature fluffy cuteness, plus the obedient, intelligent and low-shedding Poodle. Goldendoodle dog breeders hope to bring out these most desirable traits in the offspring. Goldendoodles are not official AKC breeds and therefore, there’s no guarantee or standard for temperament or appearance. Educating yourself on the parent breeds and researching reputable breeders is your best bet when deciding if this dog is right for you.

Here’s everything you need to know about Goldendoodles.

What it a Goldendoodle?

A Goldendoodle is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodle.

What is a Goldendoodle like?

The Goldendoodle was one of the first Doodles (designer dogs that are one part Poodle) to be bred and remains one of the most popular designer dogs – similar to its parent breed, the loyal and friendly Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is extremely social, playful and loves to be given a job. When mixed with the highly alert, sensitive and intelligent Poodle, the Goldendoodle, if left unstimulated and untrained, can have overwhelming energy levels for a family. Goldendoodles thrive off human interaction and can be prone to separation anxiety. They really love their owners! Both Golden Retrievers and Poodles are highly trainable and Goldendoodle puppies should start socialization as soon as possible.

Mini Goldendoodle or Standard Goldendoodles – how big are Goldendoodles?

Goldendoodles love retrieving games with balls and other toys. ©Elizabeth Moehlmann/Getty Images

Because there are no size standards, Goldendoodles have a wide height and weight range, based on the size of the Poodle. The Goldendoodle Association of North America, the Goldendoodle’s breed club, accepts breeders who produce all size Goldendoodles in order to keep the gene pool open.

Here’s the range of Goldendoodle sizes:

Petite: shorter than 14 inches, 25 pounds or less
Miniature: between 14 and 17 inches, 26 to 35 pounds
Medium: between 17 and 21 inches, 36 to 50 pounds
Standard: taller than 21 inches, 51 pounds or more

Verify with your Goldendoodle breeder what size dog you will be getting.

How active is a Goldendoodle?

Goldendoodles need to be mentally and physically active throughout the day to quell high social, intellectual and physical needs. To prevent these dogs from getting bored, offer varying physical and mental challenges and tasks, such a retrieving games with toys and food, along with human interaction and some down time. Dog daycare, or a dog walker who can stop by multiple times a day are good options for families or individuals who can’t provide enough activity for their Goldendoodle. Both Golden Retrievers and Standard Poodles are commonly trained as service dogs, and a Goldendoodle will also enjoy taking on the mental challenge of having a job.

Is a Goldendoodle right for a family?

Goldendoodles thrive with active families or singles who match the energy level and together time that the Goldendoodle requires. Goldendoodles will get bored napping or lying around all day, which could bring out undesirable qualities. These dogs enjoy being outdoors, so homes or apartments with access to a fenced-in yard are best. Goldendoodles want to be an integral part of your life and will enjoy joining you during most physical activities and social gatherings. Manners training as soon as possible is recommended to help your Goldendoodle learn when it’s appropriate to be rowdy and when it’s rest time.

How long do Goldendoodles live?

Goldendoodles live for about 12 to 15 years, depending on their size and health conditions. Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer, elbow and hip dysplasia and eye conditions, while Poodles also can suffer from hip dysplasia, eye problems and orthopedic problems in Toy and Miniature Poodles. There isn’t enough research on whether these health conditions affect the Goldendoodle lifespan. The GANA aims to keep the gene pools open in the hopes of overcoming these genetic health concerns of the parent breeds.

Do Goldendoodles need much grooming?

The Golden Retriever and the Poodle are on opposite sides of the shedding spectrum. While the Golden Retriever has a thick, water-repellant double coat and is a heavy shedder, the Poodle is low-shedding and needs to be brushed daily to prevent severe matting that, if unattended, can lead to a full shave to start new growth. The Goldendoodle’s coat texture – and grooming needs – will depend on the coat type of the Poodle, which can range from straight to curly. Curly coats tend to shed less, which is helpful for people with allergies, but will require regular trims and brushing.

Goldendoodles are a lively and playful addition to a family. Educating yourself on both the Poodle’s and the Golden Retriever’s personalities will help your family prepare for bringing a Goldendoodle puppy into your home.

For more information: The Goldendoodle Association of North America

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Dug up at Dogster: July 2022 Dog Events and Dog Holidays

The post Dug up at Dogster: July 2022 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Lauren Katims appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

July is a month for celebrations, BBQs and lots of play time outside with our dogs. It’s also the month we bring awareness to the importance of pet hydration in the summer heat. Prefer the indoors? We’ve got you covered. Check out the dog events and celebrations in your area.

Don’t see your dog event on the list? Email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com and we will include your dog event.

Monthly July 2022 Dog Holidays

National pet hydration awareness month
National lost pet prevention month

Daily July 2022 Dog Holidays

1:National ID Your Pet Day
4: International Whippet Day
9: Coon Dog Day
15: National Pet Fire Safety Day
21: World Collie Day
21: Craft For Your Local Shelter Day
31: National Mutt Day

July 2022 Dog Events

July 7 – July 10, 2022: The Lone Star State Classic Dog Show. Held at Dallas Market Hall, Dallas< TX. Dallasdogshow.com
July 8, 2022: AKC Rally National Championship at the Roberts Centre in Wilmington, Ohio. akc.org
July 9, 2022: Los Angeles Police Museum Dog Days of Summer at the Los Angeles Police Museum, Los Angeles, CA.
July 9 – July 10, 2022: AKC National Obedience Championship at the Roberts Centre in Wilmington, Ohio. akc.org
July 14 – July 17, 2022: River City Cluster of Dog Shows. Held at the Freeman Coliseum, San Antonio, TX.
July 20 – July 24, 2022: The Houston World Series of Dog Shows. Takes place at the NRG Center in Houston, TX. Houstondogshows.com
July 27, 2022: PAWS Chicago Beach Party at Offshore at Navy Pier, Chicago, IL. Pawschicago.org
July 30 – July 31, 2022: Denver Pet Expo at National Western Complex, Denver, CO. https://www.facebook.com/denverpetexpo

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Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Time for Pain Medication 101

The post Time for Pain Medication 101 by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Hearing your dog whimper or yelp can definitely jar you. Seeing your pup limp can worry you. Witnessing your senior dog with arthritis gingerly walk up steps can make you cringe.

Like us, our dogs are not shielded from pain that is simply defined as any physical discomfort caused by injury or disease. Pain can be acute, such as suffering from a broken leg, or chronic, such as contending constantly with arthritis in the joints. And pain can definitely affect your dog’s behavior, shifting him from being energetic and happy to one who now hides, acts depressed or becomes a bit nippy if you touch a painful area on his body.

“Fixing pain is one of the most rewarding activities I’ve been involved in during my career, as it allows me to facilitate, enhance, lengthen and strengthen the precious family-pet relationship,” says Dr. Robin Downing, a veterinarian board-certified as a veterinary pain practitioner and canine rehabilitation practitioner, who heads The Downing Center for Animal Pain Management in Windsor, Colorado.

She points to a watershed moment during veterinary school in the 1980s when a professor advised to not take away all of the pain in dogs recovering from surgeries because the dogs would “move around and hurt themselves.”

“Even then, as a mere student, that did not sound right,” says Dr. Downing, who is now regarded as a leader in pain management for pets.

Fortunately for our dogs, pain management is garnering much-needed attention in recent years. The growing arsenal of pain-relieving options now ranges from medications, laser therapy, acupuncture, acupressure and hydrotherapy to joint supplements and basic warm-ups before vigorous hikes or runs followed by muscle- stretching cooldowns.

Let’s take a closer look at medications, therapies and supplements used for pain management. Here are four common medications prescribed to dogs to alleviate pain:

Prednisone

This steroid is used to replace or supplement glucocorticoids in dogs dealing with shock or Addison’s disease. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory for dogs experiencing pain, fevers or cancers, such as lymphoma.

“The pros of using a steroid are that it has great immediate effects of reducing pain and inflammation in our pets,” says Dr. Lindsay Butzer, a second-generation veterinarian at the Clint Moore Animal Hospital in Boca Raton, Florida, and PetMeds Partner. “The cons are that a steroid cannot be used long-term due to severe side effects, such as developing liver disease, Cushing’s disease, diabetes and because it suppresses the immune system.”

Tramadol

This opioid is used for pain control and blocks pain pathways in a dog’s body. It is often used to control post-surgical or chronic pain for dogs dealing with arthritis or hip dysplasia.

“The pros of tramadol are that it is a non-expensive pain drug with a wide margin or safety and minimal organ damage,” Dr. Butzer says. “The cons are that it can lower the threshold for seizures in dogs with a history of epilepsy and can cause moderate constipation.”

Gabapentin

This neuropathic pain medication is generally used as a sedative and pain medication. It helps keep dogs calm and relaxed.

“Gabapentin has been available as a low-cost generic for dogs for nearly 20 years,” Dr. Downing says.

Adds Dr. Butzer, “It has a wide margin of safety and there is very little organ dysfunction noticed on bloodwork after long-term use. The cons of gabapentin are minimal. Most dogs have no side effects.”

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatiories (NSAIDS)

This pain category includes drugs Rimadyl, Galliprant, Previcox and Metacam — all formulated for dogs.

“NSAIDS remain the cornerstones of pain management, both acute and chronic,” Dr. Downing says. “They address pain and inflammation. There is no one ‘best’ NSAID, as the best NSAID is the one that works best for a specific patient.”

When paired with other pain-relieving products over time, veterinarians can safely lower the NSAID dose.

“This lowering provides potential protection of the organs responsible for clearing the drug from the body,” Dr. Downing says.

Major caution: Never give your dog human NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as they can cause renal failure and even death.

“It is not safe to give your dog over-the-counter pain medicine, Tylenol or Advil for pain,” Dr. Downing says. “Ibuprofen is very toxic in dogs and can cause death. OTC meds from the human medicine cabinet are just not a good choice.”

Supplements for Pain

Dr. Butzer acknowledges the rise in interest among pet parents to give their dogs CBD oil or joint supplements that contain glucosamine chondroitin.

“CBD has been used now for over a decade and has been showing great pain relief in pets with safe dosing margins,” Dr. Butzer says. “As for supplements, look for those with the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) quality seal, as you can feel confident that this product comes from a company that is committed to quality and consistency.”

Dr. Downing says nutraceuticals are in their own class for pain relief in dogs but unleashes this advice:

“Buyer beware,” she says. “This is a relatively unregulated industry, although it has gotten better in recent years. We now have several safe and effective nutraceuticals that have study data to support their use.”

Verdict: Both say to always talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog any OTC product.

Expect pain management in dogs to continue evolving.

“Technology continues to advance, so who knows what additional options we will have available that utilize various types of energy or mechanics?” Dr. Downing says. “At some point, the holy grail of cartilage replacement will be discovered and that will be a game changer in osteoarthritis management.”

Pain-Relieving Therapeutic Options

The healing power of touch can be effective in relieving pain in dogs. A pioneer in the use of

acupressure on pets is Sue Furman, PhD, founder of the Holistic Touch Therapy School of Canine Massage and Acupressure in Victoria, Texas.

“Acupressure is used to control pain, cure disease and promote healing,” Dr. Furman says. “The meridians or channels in a body are called Chi, which is considered life energy. When Chi gets blocked, it can initiate pain or discomfort or disease. If you stimulate particular points, you can initiate healing.”

For some canine patients, Dr. Downing combines the use of therapeutic laser (known as photobiomodulation) followed by acupuncture. She also has some pet parents use the tPEMF (Assisi loop) in between clinic sessions at home.

“All of these are safe physical modalities that play a role in canine chronic pain management,” she says. “They are safe, effective and grounded in good data.”

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Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Do You Need a Dog Muzzle? Behavior Clues Provide an Answer

The post Do You Need a Dog Muzzle? Behavior Clues Provide an Answer by Rachel Brix appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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Does your dog nip, growl, snarl, snap or bite? Lunge and bark at other animals or people? Do you think your dog might injure someone or another dog? Does he eat rocks or other inedible things? If you answer yes to any of these questions, your dog needs a muzzle. Don’t wait for a bite or foreign body surgery before getting your dog muzzle trained.

What is a dog muzzle?

Dog muzzles are similar to masks but with holes, designed to prevent a dog from engaging in dangerous behaviors like biting. They’re a tool to keep everyone safe and help with training. Dog muzzles are mainly for short-term use (i.e., while undergoing a training or behavior modification) or for specific purposes like vet visits or on walks.

Why do dogs need a dog muzzle?

Dogs can benefit from muzzle training since sometimes vet visits, nail trims or even new environments or introductions to new species (like your new backyard chickens) can be challenging and your dog can be provoked to bite or lunge. But let’s face it: we don’t see many dogs wearing what seems like some sort of medieval torture device. And if we do, we might stereotype muzzle-wearing dogs as aggressive, and wonder what the heck the owner was doing to the dog that he needs a cage on his face. But dogs who wear muzzles aren’t “bad dogs,” they just need space.

Dogs who wear muzzles could be struggling with any number of issues like:

fear
anxiety
stress
medical issues

Melissa Hatfield, certified behavior consultant and trial consultant for bite cases, says muzzles provide an extra level of safety during the training process. But for some dogs, wearing a muzzle may be a lifelong commitment in certain situations like going for a walk, when the small children come over or even visits to the vet or groomer. As much as training can reduce the potential for risk, there are some dogs who will never be reliable enough to go without this safety net, says Melissa.

Do not use dog muzzles for barking or chewing

Muzzles are not for barking, chewing or other troublesome behaviors. Oftentimes these behaviors are the result of lack of stimulation and exercise or other needs not being met. Certified dog trainer Cindy Martin says a muzzle is not a substitute for addressing the physical and emotional needs of the dog. And without behavior modification and affirmative training, a muzzle can stress the dog and make things worse, says Cindy.

How to find the right muzzle for your dog

Before training your dog to a muzzle, be sure you get the proper type and fit. Muzzles should fit securely yet comfortably. A properly fitted muzzle should feel to the dog like wearing a pair of glasses feels to us — like it’s not even there.

Basket muzzles are popular since they allow for dogs to pant, receive treats and drink. They’re also light-weight, flexible and inexpensive. A popular choice is the thermoplastic rubber Baskerville dog muzzle, which is also adjustable by submerging it in hot water.

My dog Apache’s muzzle is custom made of biothane by BUMAS.

Pricey, but since he wears it every time he leaves the house, and it’s made especially for him, it was worth it. It accommodates his full pant, drinking and treats. I was also able to select the colors and added security features. A similar less expensive option is made by Trust Your Dog.

If you have an extra-large dog or one with a slim, long snout, the vinyl Jafco dog muzzle is a great option.

And for brachycephalic dogs, check out the Canine Friendly Short Snout dog muzzle. Dogs can’t drink with this muzzle but can eat and pant.

For dogs who are a bite risk, wire basket muzzles, such as the Leerburg dog muzzle, can be a safe choice.

Avoid cloth and Velcro muzzles that force a dog’s mouth shut and restrict necessary functions.

How to get your dog to wear a muzzle

Take the time to train your dog to enjoy wearing his muzzle. If your training is blah your dog will be blah about the muzzle; you need your dog to feel like he’s at a rave or a rock concert when he sees the muzzle, not a black-tie affair.

If trained properly, your dog will voluntarily place his snout into the muzzle. Don’t force it onto your dog’s face! Muzzle training done right should take a few weeks. Cindy’s favorite tip is to first acclimate the dog to the sensation of putting his muzzle into a closed space using a cottage cheese or one quart yogurt container with the bottom cut out. Feed awesome treats from the cutout end, building duration.

Muzzle training isn’t as easy as teaching sit or rollover but should be just as fun and well reinforced. Take your time with each step.

Here is our step-by-step guide to dog muzzle training:

Start by showing your dog the muzzle. Any positive attention gets a million-dollar treat or two (or five). Don’t skimp here — treat well.
Put food inside the muzzle and set it up in a box/bowl and let him eat. Any hesitation, stop and go back to the previous step. Up your pay game if you have to: chicken, liver, tripe, cheese, steak, whatever. You want the muzzle to have wow factor! Do this for at least a week ideally at least a couple times per day.
If your dog’s totally cool (not just kind of cool, but super-pumped cool) when he sees the muzzle, you’re ready for the next step; if not, stay here. Keep at it until you see a happy dance from your dog when you bust out the muzzle.
Next, invite your dog to place his snout inside the muzzle and feed from the outside
DON’T force it — if he’s not putting his snout in voluntarily, back up a step.
Then hold the straps in place for a second or two and release. Treat some more. If your dog is giving the green light, increase the duration slowly each day.
At the end of the second week, you should be able to attach the straps for a second or two, then release.
By the end of the third week, you’ve worked up to longer periods of wear: some yard time, a short walk, or while you return a few emails. Whatever, just so he gets used to having it on for longer periods.
Generalize to other situations and environments.

Dog muzzle training tips:

DON’T rush this. Your dog dictates the pace.
If your dog’s not happy-dancing, back it up a step, break out the million-dollar treats and work to get the rockstar reaction you need to get the all-in from your dog.
Muzzled dogs should always be supervised.
Take the muzzle off before signs of frustration or annoyance (i.e., reluctance to putting his face in voluntarily, pawing, etc.).
If he paws at the muzzle once it’s on, back up to the previous step of success and work there. But don’t remove the muzzle while he’s pawing at it- you don’t want to reward the pawing behavior.

Here are two good muzzle training videos by Chirag Patel and Michael Shikashio

While muzzles are a great management tool, they’re not a substitute for training. If your dog is displaying troublesome behaviors first address the underlying emotions causing these behaviors. Rewards-based trainers, behavior consultants and even veterinary behaviorists can help.

Muzzles keep everyone safe and help dogs (and humans in many cases) enjoy a greater quality of life. Melissa says having the option of wearing a muzzle can give dogs freedom to experience a variety of situations they normally wouldn’t be able to while adding an extra layer of safety for all concerned.

Truth be told, long before I became a trainer, I was one of those open-mouthed gawkers when I saw a muzzled dog. But several years ago, I adopted Apache, a long termer at a rural shelter who will always wear his muzzle in public. And that’s okay. Muzzles keep everyone safe. And at the end of the day, that’s the most important thing.

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Monday, June 27, 2022

Dear Mr. Muttley: If Dogs Wrote a Manners Column

The post Dear Mr. Muttley: If Dogs Wrote a Manners Column by Ellyce Rothrock appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dogs are very much like humans: Some have great manners; others have none. I don’t know about you, but I’ve known dogs whose looks of harsh judgment and superiority could make even the most poorly mannered people change their ways for the better.

In my humble opinion, some types of dogs writing a manners column for wayward pups isn’t that far-fetched of a concept. I mean, not mine — mine would give advice on how to be a hooligan — but others could give “Dear Abby” a run for her money.

These are some of the advice topics dogs might ask — and how straightlaced dogs would answer them.

Why doesn’t the cat appreciate my overtures of affection? Is he even a real being?

We’re fairly certain cats are not alien species, despite evidence to the contrary. Some actually enjoy canine affection and dare seek it out; others just aren’t that into you. Unless kitty comes slinking around for cuddles, it’s best to leave this sharp-clawed, foreign four-legger alone.

Our mail carrier is particularly evil. How can I let him know I’m on to him without subjecting my owner to legal liability?

We know you’re asking yourself who creeps onto private property every day to drop off a bunch of useless papers. Odd, uniformed people deliver what is called “mail” to your owners every day except holidays and Sundays. They mean you no harm and, frankly, your angry, aggressive vibe is sketchy. Sure, do your job, but chill on this one. They sometimes carry ouchy eye spray and other dog deterrents.

My person only tells me I’m a good boy once a day. How can I let her know I need more?

Sometimes a Clinger Level 5 pup finds himself matched with a Clinger Level 1 human. It doesn’t mean your hairless leader doesn’t love you; she’s just got other things going on. Simply, calmly and gently but relentlessly remind her that you need her — nudge her hand, snuggle close, give her those irresistible puppy-dog eyes our kind are known for — and she’ll shower you with the affection you need and deserve.

While walking with my person, another person yelled at me for pooping in a place that clearly smelled like I was not the first pooper to anoint that spot. What gives?

Um, humans. That’s what gives. Unfortunately, some just don’t like dogs or dogs that heed nature’s call on their lawn regardless of your owner’s responsible pickup practices. If they were that upset about it, they could post “No dogs, please” on their grassy areas. Otherwise, just know it’s them, not you. Your owner can handle the slings and arrows of the haters for you.

How inappropriate is it, really, to eat food from the counter when my owner has walked away from it? I mean, she left it there, and it goes against my canine nature to waste food!

Humans do strange, forgetful and just plain dumb things. All. The. Time. Like leave food on a plate before finishing it. Again, who does that?! However, just because something is there doesn’t mean it’s yours for the taking. Well-mannered pups gently take what is offered to them. Period.

Why can’t I pull on my leash? Why can’t my owner go faster or be patient when I need to sniff everything?

Pulling on your leash is just poor form. We know why you do it, but the human at the other end of the leash usually doesn’t. If she doesn’t find out how to work with you to understand that not pulling will mean a better walkies experience for you both, just try to chill and sniff.

My owner yells when I bark at the doorbell. Isn’t my job to protect her? Should I just let the boogeyman get her to teach her a lesson?

“I’ve saved my owner from two mail carriers, three solicitors and one Girl Scout trying to sell things, and yet she remains ungrateful.” Sound familiar? Yeah, we thought so. Distinct, loud barks in response to a doorbell are totally appropriate, and your person should be grateful. However, once she acknowledges her awareness of said random intruder, muzzle it.

I have an alpha personality, but my fur sibling is always goading me and stealing my toys and then acts like he’s been wronged when I correct him. How can I send him the message that I’m boss?

It sounds like your little fur brother is a puppy who has yet to learn the true meaning of pack hierarchy. Most dogs fall into a natural pack order and read teeth, tail, ear, etc., messages loud and clear. Continue to school the youngin’, but gently, and he’ll learn his place in the den.

Do I have to greet humans and act all sloppy and stupid around them? My mom just tells them I’m “afloof” or something. What do I do?

There is nothing wrong with being aloof — or “a floof” for that matter. The problem is when clueless and “cueless” humans can’t catch your drift, try to pet you anyway and get offended when you don’t act like they’re the greatest thing since sliced chicken. They fail to recognize how weirded out they would be if other humans approached them the same way. Our advice is for you to do you and patiently endure unwanted affections. Chatty and grabby Cathy will get distracted by something else soon enough.

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Thursday, June 23, 2022

What is Heterochromia in Dogs?

The post What is Heterochromia in Dogs? by Victoria Arnold appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

What does it mean when a dog has two-colored eyes?

Are you the proud pet parent of a dog with two different colored eyes? You may think this is super cool, or super weird. And it’s probably a bit of both. But don’t worry, your dog is not alone. There are many dog breeds who are prone to this condition, and it’s called heterochromia.

What is heterochromia in dogs?

Heterochromia is the official term for dogs with two different colored eyes. In fact, this not only happens in dogs, but it can also occur in cats, horses, and even people. And it’s due to a lack of pigment — or melanin — in one eye, causing it to be blue in color.

How do dogs get heterochromia?

Typically, heterochromia is hereditary and is often partnered with dog coats that are multicolored —like a merle or dapple pattern — or even with white coats. The more white coloring the dog has around the head, the more likely he or she is to have heterochromia.

But this condition can also occur later in life — known as acquired heterochromia — due to an eye injury or dog eye health condition.

What dog breeds have different colored eyes?

There are many different dog breeds who are prone to having heterochromia. And it’s possible that some purebreds of these breeds are more inclined to have it because of a lack of genetic diversity.

15 dog breeds that are prone to heterochromia:

Do dogs with heterochromia cost more?

Although heterochromia won’t cause any additional benefits to a dog’s health, breeding or personality, the unique look will often mean a higher price tag. Some dog breeders will charge more solely because of the supply and demand.

Keep in mind that heterochromia can be a disqualifying factor in dog competitions for certain dog breeds. So, although you paid more for this dog, it won’t guarantee you any awards at a dog show.

Are there negative effects of heterochromia?

Most dogs with hereditary heterochromia — meaning that they were born with different colored eyes — won’t have any health problems related to this condition. Even though some people think this leads to hearing and vision problems, dogs with hereditary heterochromia can see and hear just fine.

But if you notice that your dog’s eyes have changed later in life — and especially if they seem to be uncomfortable or in pain — take them to your vet right away.

This could have happened due to a recent eye injuring or underlying dog health problem. And there are several health problems — not associated with heterochromia — that can also cause an eye color change. Some of these include: cataracts, retinal dysplasia, uveitis, corneal dystrophy, glaucoma, an underdeveloped optic nerve or nuclear sclerosis. But, if your sweet pup was born with this unique trait, he should be completely fine and healthy.

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What Dog Owners Should Know About Dognapping

The post What Dog Owners Should Know About Dognapping by Charlotte Reed appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Two million dogs are stolen each year and about 10% are returned home, according to Petfinder.com. We call this dognapping — the crime of taking a dog from his owner, derived from the term kidnapping.

Throughout the world, pets are stolen for a variety of reasons, like being resold as a companion pet, to collecting rewards from distressed owners or for fighting in dogfights, just to name a few. In the last two and half years, there has been an increase in dog thefts in order to make quick money by criminals looking to take advantage of the increased demand for canine companionship during the pandemic.

What are the top dogs stolen and from where?

According to the American Kennel Club Vice-President of Public Relations, Brandi Hunter-Munden, some of the top stolen dogs in the Unites States are:

Yorkshire Terriers

©Getty Images
Boston Terriers
Chihuahuas
English Bulldogs
Shih-Tzus
Pit Bulls
French Bulldogs

Brandi notes that in past years, unsuspecting owners would leave dogs in their yards for a few minutes for them to “do their business” or tether their pets outside a store to run a quick errand. “Now, we see many dogs are stolen from inside homes, yards and cars as well as being yanked from their owners on the streets throughout the country,” she says.

Furthermore, Brandi clarifies that “many of these breeds are stolen directly from owners because they are small, portable, docile and don’t put up a fuss when snatched from their owners.”

Who are the victims of dog theft?

Pet owners are not the only victims of pet theft. Dog breeders are prime candidates, too. For breeders like Louisiana’s Patricia Sosa, there is a waiting list for her limited supply of carefully bred French Bulldog puppies. In her 30-plus year love affair with the breed, she only had one person steal a dog by writing a bad check, almost 15 years ago.

“But in the last few years, since many French Bulldogs have been stolen from pet owners and breeders, I have had to take serious, security precautions,” Patricia says. She carefully pre-screens candidates via phone and checks references before she invites potential dog owners to her home to view puppies.

“I never give them my address until the last possible minute in order to protect myself, my home and my puppies,” she explains. Additionally, before inviting potential dog owners into her home, she explains to them that she has a security system and network of cameras covering her home, kennels and the rest of the property. Lastly, she tells them that she has a guard dog — a Doberman that will be present while they are visiting her premises. “Armed with this information, they can make the decision to come to my kennel,” she says.

But breeders are not the only ones to have dogs stolen from them. Many pet stores throughout the country have experienced dog thefts since the pandemic. In 2021, after two women entered a Texas pet store and asked to see a French Bulldog, the store complied. Once the dog was in their hands, the two immediately ran out the door. Store employees quickly reported the incident and description of the car to the police. Soon after, the officers found the women allegedly attempting to reattach the license plate they had removed in preparation for the heist.

Do criminal statutes and penalties vary regarding K9 theft?

Dogs, and other companion animals, are currently classed as “property” in theft sentencing. As a result, offenders who steal dogs are given similar sentences to those who steal inanimate objects. Unfortunately, most states consider pet theft a misdemeanor, and the penalties include small fines and little-to-no jail time.

Only around 15 states address dog theft in their criminal codes. While criminal charges and penalties do vary from state to state, California and Louisiana impose charges and penalties that are based on the monetary value of the stolen dogs. However, Virginia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New York and Mississippi have severe criminal statutes. In these states, dog theft is a felony with six months to 10 years of jail time. Additionally, fines commence at $200 and can equate up to three times the value of the stolen animal, but not exceeding $500,000. Quite a wide range, too!

Animal advocates agree that penalties for dog theft should be more severe than that of stealing inanimate, non-living property. Recent studies and case law have acknowledged that the animal-human bond is unique, and the implications of labeling a dog property is antiquated.

How can dog lovers help?

The Animal Legal Defense Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is an animal law advocacy organization whose stated mission is to protect the lives and advance the interests of animals through the legal system. The organization encourages animal lovers to take action by lobbying local, state and government representatives and agencies to change laws to protect animals.

If you would like to help enact more state criminal statutes, adopt harsher measures and higher penalties against dog theft, organize and meet with like-minded dog owners and work with animal rights organizations to change pet theft laws.

One last thing: If you have had your pet stolen, be patient, be diligent, be active and don’t give up. He might be returned to you.

How to prevent dog theft

There are steps you can take to ensure you and your dog are not a target for dognapping.

Microchip your dog, register the microchip with the microchip agency and keep the information updated.
Have your dog wear a collar with your phone number and ID tag with relevant and current information, like your email address and the word “Reward.”
Have your dog wear a GPS tracker that can track your dog in real time to locate his whereabouts.
Do not leave breed doormats or hang breed flags outside your home, as this serves as an advertisement for thieves.
Keep all doors locked and windows closed when you are not home. Install cameras in your home focusing on key entry and exit points.
Do not leave your dog unattended outside in your yard, in your car or tied up outside a store.
Be cautious of strangers who approach you to talk about your dog. Do not give them any information about where you live, how often you walk your dog or your dog’s name.
Try to walk dogs in daylight hours, slightly varying the time. Thieves look for consistent dog-walking behavior.
Notice your environment. Watch for parked cars in your area and pay attention to pedestrians, who just don’t seem “to fit.”
Keep a watchful eye on your
dog in the dog park and don’t walk your dog off-leash in your neighborhood.

What to do if your dog is stolen

If dognapping does happen to you, take these steps immediately.

Security experts agree that if your dog is stolen, do not try to chase the assailants or jump in the car with them because you can get badly injured or even shot.
Write down as much as you can remember about the thief or thieves and the getaway car.
Call the police and file a report with as much detailed information as you can remember.
Call your microchip company so that people in your area will receive a lost pet alert and be on the lookout.
Reach out to local missing pets and neighborhood groups on social media. Post a picture of your pet and describe him thoroughly. Post on your own social feed to get the word out, too!
Make a flyer including face and body shots of your pet, offering a reward for information leading to his safe recovery. Do not indicate that he was stolen, as there is a possibility the thief may want to return him and avoid prosecution. Post flyers in the area, including local dog parks or where large groups of people congregate.
Contact the local veterinary offices, groomers, doggie daycares, boarding facilities and shelters, as the thieves might want to drop him there.
Write a letter to local media outlets (newspapers, radio and TV) including a picture and full description of your dog and an explanation of what happened. Give them a heartfelt story about what your dog means to you. If you find out that other dogs in your residential area have been stolen, include that. This can prompt them to report your story as well as a crime wave of dognapping so residents will be on the lookout for your dogs — and to be careful with their own.
Beware of scammers who might call you for the reward or ask for money to return your dog.
Regularly review online postings for pet adoptions and pet sales.
Don’t give up!

Why some pups are dognapped more than others

Some of the contributing factors as to why some dogs are stolen more than others is that the desirable breeds of today are rare, trendy and difficult to get one’s hands on, especially the French Bulldog — a breed that is a primary candidate for theft.

“Frenchies have been become trendy due to their social media presence, especially on Instagram, as well as their breed’s representation, which can be found on sheets, sweaters, phone cases and in ad campaigns,” says Brandi Hunter-Munden, AKC vice president of public relations.

Another contributing factor to the breed’s popularity is that many French Bulldogs are owned by notable celebrities like Lady Gaga (who were famously and violently dognapped in 2021), Dwayne Johnson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Martha Stewart, Snoop Dogg, Madonna and Reese Witherspoon. And, with a hefty price tag — starting at $4K and up, there is an implied elite status from owning this breed.

In the case of French Bulldogs, the demand outweighs the supply and that must be figured into the reason why the breed is a prime contender for being stolen. French Bulldogs have smaller litters, offering a limited supply for such a voracious demand.

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Does My Dog Need His Anal Glands Expressed?

The post Does My Dog Need His Anal Glands Expressed? by Sandy Chebat appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

While some dogs occasionally or never need their anal glands expressed, others get chronic infections and require regular emptying of their anal sacs. Shake off the ick-factor and get ready to learn everything you never wanted to know about dog anal glands. Your pooch will thank you.

What are dog anal glands?

Dog anal glands, also known as anal sacs or scent glands, are specialized sweat glands located just under the skin’s surface near the dog’s anus opening. Small and oval-shaped, dog anal glands are tucked between the external and internal sphincter muscles.

Healthy, properly functioning dog anal glands produce an oily fluid with a distinctive odor. Unique to each dog, this territorial scent marker is important in animal-to-animal communication, as it tells the dog’s sex, health, if they’ve met before and if they are friends or foes. This is what’s taking place during those common butt-sniffing greetings dogs are famous for.

This liquid marker also exits when a dog is fearful, stressed or having a bowel movement. Pooping is when dog anal glands normally empty.

Does my dog need his anal glands expressed?

Not necessarily. Some dogs never need their anal glands emptied, while other dogs suffer from chronic inflammation, which causes impacted or plugged glands.

Here are 7 signs that a dog’s anal glands need attention:

Scooting or dragging his rear on the ground
Excessive anus licking
Straining, difficult or painful bowel movements
Blood or pus in the stool or rectum area or where she’s been resting
Foul, fishy odor
Swollen, tender rectum
Thick, brown or grey anal gland fluid

If you see any of these symptoms, and especially if your dog presents multiple signs, head to the vet as soon as possible to prevent more serious problems.

How to empty dog anal glands

You can safely express your dog’s anal glands at home. Full disclosure: expressing a dog’s anal glands is not for the squeamish; it can be a smelly, messy process and many prefer to leave it to the professionals, such as your veterinarian or your dog groomer.

What you’ll need:

Paper towel or large gauze pad
Gloves
Lubricant
Cleanup products, such as waterless shampoo, wipes and butt deodorizer
An assistant to help restrain the dog

Step-by-step: How to do an external anal gland expression

Work on a stable surface and have an assistant firmly restrain the dog.
Place your gloved index finger and thumb on either side of the dog’s anus, about an inch out on each side.
Gently squeeze your fingers together and you’ll see some oily fluid expelled. Wipe with the towel or pad.
Clean/deodorize the area.

Step-by-step: How to do an internal anal gland expression

This should typically be done by your veterinarian or a person with anal gland expression experience. Even professional groomers won’t typically do an internal anal gland expression:

Work on a stable surface and have an assistant firmly restrain the dog.
Lubricate your gloved index finger and gently insert the tip (about 1 inch) into the dog’s anus.
Using your index finger and thumb, feel for the small, grape-sized gland at the 5 or 7 o’clock positions.
Gently squeeze the dog’s anal gland, milking the oily contents out until the sac has shrunk. Wipe with the gauze or pad.
Clean the area.
Repeat on the other gland.

How to tell if my dog’s anal glands are infected

If the expressed fluid contains blood or pus, the dog’s anal glands are infected and he needs to see the vet.

Your veterinarian or groomer can teach you how to empty dog anal glands, or you can leave it to the experts. Dealing with dog anal glands is a dirty job, but having the know-how enables you to provide your pooch with relief and to monitor the area to catch any flare-ups before they become major issues.

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Wednesday, June 22, 2022

10 Great U.S. Dog-Friendly Towns to Visit

The post 10 Great U.S. Dog-Friendly Towns to Visit by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dreaming of the perfect getaway with your dog? Traveling with your canine companion is a fun way to spend quality time together, increase your bond and experience new areas of the country. Especially after the last two years, many of us are ready to stretch our legs and start exploring. Dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, parks, beaches and laws make these towns tail waggin’. You and your pup are sure to enjoy these dog-centric vacation destinations!

1. San Diego, California

Ready for fun in the sun? This dog-friendly city with lots of sun and beaches is also home to “the original dog beach.” While in San Diego you can even rent a boat and head out on the ocean with your dog or check out dog surfing competitions! ➤ sandiego.org

2. St. Johnsbury, Vermont

Looking for a canine paradise? Look no farther than the 150 acres of private mountaintop known as Dog Mountain. The mountain is a serene place filled with hiking trails, fields and ponds for you and your dog to explore together. It’s also the home of The Dog Chapel, a nondenominational place to memorialize dogs who have passed. ➤ dogmt.com

3. Key West, Florida

With its many dog-friendly restaurants and bars, this may be the tropical getaway of your dog’s dreams. For dogs and people who love to get warm, Key West boasts an array of dog-friendly beaches, parks and shopping. ➤ keywest.com

4. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

In the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, with dog-friendly shops, walking tours, hiking trails and more, this is an ideal destination for dogs and people who love the outdoors. The area has hiking trails perfect for all abilities and is a dog dream outdoor destination. ➤ gatlinburg.com

5. Cannon Beach, Oregon

With miles of public sandy beaches and mild weather, Cannon Beach is a Pacific Northwest wonderland for dogs and their people. Most businesses in town are dog-friendly, with plenty of patios at local restaurants. There are even annual Dachshund races just a few miles down the coast! ➤ cannonbeach.org

6. Bar Harbor, Maine

This charming town has it all with beaches and mountains. Hiking the dog-friendly trails of Acadia National Park is a pup lover’s paradise. With hiking trails, dog-friendly kayaking, hiking, shopping and dining, there’s something for dogs of all sizes whether you’re feeling outdoorsy or looking to kick back and take in the scenery. ➤ visitbarharbor.com

7. Austin, Texas

With dog-friendly bars and restaurant patios, Austin is the perfect foodie destination for dogs and dog lovers. When you’re looking for activity, the city has dog-friendly hiking trails, off-leash parks and lakes, as well as music venues, outdoor museums and shopping. ➤ austintexas.org

8. Sedona, Arizona

With an array of hiking trails, you and your dog will love the beauty the red rock has to offer. It boasts trails ideal for beginners through advanced, and dogs and their people can enjoy views of Cathedral Rock and other landmarks. Go on your own or take your dog for dog-friendly guided tours. Dog-friendly restaurants and shops are perfect for relaxing when you get off the trails. ➤ visitsedona.com

9. Kanab, Utah

Known for the stunning landscape and rock formations, Kanab is perfect for dog lovers. With a variety of dog-friendly trails, bring your camera to capture photos of your dog against the breathtaking landscape. And while you’re there you can plan to stay and volunteer at Best Friends Animal Society! ➤ visitsouthernutah.com

10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

If you’re a water lover, don’t miss Cape Cod. With beaches, hiking trails, parks and, of course, dog-friendly restaurants, art galleries and shopping (including many dog-centric gift shops), Cape Cod is a classic beach vacation destination for dogs and their families. ➤ visitcapecod.com

Top Dog Hotel & Rental Tips

When traveling with your dog, there are a variety of options for where to lay your head at night. When picking lodging, consider what will be most comfortable for both you and your dog. Do you have a shy dog who is uncomfortable around a lot of people or other dogs? A high-rise hotel in the middle of a city might not be a good fit. On the other hand, if your dog loves being the center of attention, don’t hesitate to book that pawsome hotel suite!

Dog-friendly hotel advice

There are many dog-friendly hotels ranging from budget to luxury.

When making your reservation, make sure the hotel knows you’ll be traveling with a dog.
Confirm that the hotel doesn’t have any size/weight restrictions that could impact your plans.
Check if the hotel charges any pet fees.
Many hotels maintain lists of dog-friendly local restaurants, shops, walking tours and places near the hotel to help you and your dog make the most out of your visit, so don’t forget to ask for it.
Check if the hotel has special packages for their canine guests for an added fee. These could include toys, beds, bowls, and other treats and accessories from local dog boutiques and businesses in your room.
For safety, don’t ever leave your dog unattended in a hotel room.

Dog-friendly Airbnb advice

When planning your vacation with your dog, consider staying at an Airbnb. Many (though not all) are dog-friendly and a great option for people who would prefer not to stay in a hotel. Benefits of many Airbnb’s include:

Access to a full kitchen
The homey living space may be quieter than a hotel without other guests above and below you so your dog won’t constantly wake up at night and bark at strange sounds.
Airbnbs allow dogs to avoid the stress of navigating a hotel lobby, other dogs and strangers.
Some come with a fenced yard and other amenities like private access to beaches.

Don’t forget to check all rules for particular Airbnb properties. Some have size limits and requirements. Some will allow you to leave your dog alone in the house in a crate while you go out, while others require someone to be with the dog at all times.

Dog-friendly Trailer/RV advice

Ready to hit the road? You can bring a home along with you in a travel trailer or RV. If you’re looking to rent or purchase an RV, keep your dog’s needs in mind.

Select an RV/trailer that is easy for you and your dog to get in and out of. Some dogs will have trouble getting up and down the stairs.
Consider all the supplies you’ll need for your dog while on the road, including crates, bowls and toys, and ensure that any RV/trailer you look at has enough storage.
Cover the RV screen door’s bottom half to keep the dog from scratching to go outside and ripping through or crashing through it.
Look for scratch-resistant flooring or cover the floor with slide-resistant throw rugs.

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Monday, June 20, 2022

How to help an Aggressive or Reactive Dog

The post How to help an Aggressive or Reactive Dog by Rachel Brix appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Do you think your dog might be reactive, or even aggressive? Some reactivity is normal and necessary for survival, but when is it time to get help? Maybe you’re frustrated or embarrassed by your dog’s meltdowns when deliveries come, or sad or even scared by your dog’s barking and lunging at neighborhood dogs. It doesn’t mean you have a bad dog, or that you’re a bad dog guardian. But it does mean your dog needs help handling her feelings about certain parts of her life.

Emotions drive behavior. So, if your dog doesn’t have the necessary skills to cope with what scares her, her response is likely to be flight, freeze or fight. Michael Shikashio, a certified behavior consultant who specializes in aggressive dogs, says, “I don’t differentiate between reactivity and aggression; they’re one and the same. We look at the actual behavior.” Usually, aggressive behavior is rooted in fear and “meant to threaten distance from a provocative stimulus,” Michael says.

Causes of fear-based aggression vary, but could be related to:

improper socialization
during early development
learning history
environment
trauma
genetics

Dog aggressive or reactive triggers

Say your dog’s stimulus, or trigger, is strangers. When she sees them she tries to create distance and hides (flight). But maybe a well-meaning stranger gets closer, so she freezes. Then the person reaches out to pet her, and she snaps or bites (fight).

Or suppose the trigger is other dogs and she barks and lunges, trying to make the scary things go away. If the dogs do go away (or even just keep walking in the direction they were headed anyway) she feels her behavior “worked” and will likely display these behaviors again. Unless she gets help.

Here are some typical triggers that cause aggression in dogs:

Strangers
Other dogs
Cats; squirrels, chipmunks or other critters
Visitors to the home or delivery people
Grooming procedures (especially nail trimming) or other handling
Being bothered while resting or sleeping
Resource guarding (protecting food, chews, toys, sleeping areas, etc.) — a normal behavior that can escalate if not addressed early on

Aggressive behavior signs

So, what does aggressive behavior look like? A wagging tail isn’t always a sign of friendliness or happiness!

A dog’s body language must be evaluated as a whole, but look for:

Hard stare or “whale eye”
Body pitched forward
Tight mouth or corners of the
mouth in a “C” or “V”
Ears pricked forward
Upright tail, could be wagging/
vibrating
Tense body

More obvious signs of aggression would include:

barking
lunging
snarling
snapping
biting

“Nips” are bites! And if your dog growls, don’t punish him, even verbally. A growl is a warning — punishing her means your dog may not give that gift next time.

Body language signs of fear

Because fear is the most common cause of aggression, recognizing when your dog is afraid and supporting her is key.

Look for:

Tucked tail
Cowering
Ears pulled back
Head turned to the side
and/or eyes averted
Lip licking, tongue flicking
Yawning
Panting or closed mouth
Hypervigilance
Pacing
Moving away

How to stop dog aggressive behavior

If you observe aggressive body language or behavior, here is what you should do:

Manage the behavior by removing your dog from the situation before things escalate.
Any dog exhibiting aggressive behavior should have a thorough exam to rule out medical causes, especially if the behavior has a sudden onset. Michael emphasizes, “In many aggression cases there’s an underlying medical issue or a need for behavior meds or other support, starting with the veterinarian.”
After ruling out medical concerns, the focus is on emotions. Certified behavior consultant Pat Miller says, “Fear-related aggression is by far the most common presentation of aggression I see in my behavior practice.” If you believe your dog might be aggressive, it’s critical to seek professional help as soon as possible. The professional trainer will create a behavior treatment plan tailored specifically for your dog after an assessment.
In the meantime, prioritize safety. Manage your dog’s environment to protect people, especially children and other animals. Limit, or even eliminate, when possible, her exposure to triggers as much as possible until you can implement a training plan. This might include using exercise pens, baby gates or even putting your dog in another room to prevent exposure to visitors or delivery people. Feeling the need to react, even aggressively, is no fun for your dog, so give her a safe place to go. Add a food puzzle toy, to make it a good thing. If your dog is triggered by strangers, other dogs or outside critters, walk your dog in less busy areas at less busy times, and when critters are less active. Anticipate triggers when possible and set up your dog for success. Also consider properly training your dog to a well-fitted muzzle. Don’t just put the muzzle on her! Seek professional help, so your dog enjoys the muzzle for the long haul.
Prevent your dog from being exposed to what frightens her until you’ve got help and a plan on board. Pat says, “We don’t want to give our dog opportunities to practice the aggressive behavior … the more opportunities the dog has to practice the behavior, the more challenging it becomes to modify that behavior, so the longer the human waits, the greater the challenge.” Pat says to reduce stress and minimize as many stressors as possible, not just the immediate trigger. Make a list of things that stress out your dog and try to eliminate them where possible and minimize the others. Being less stressed means your dog feels better and is more receptive to learning.

Treatment for aggressive or reactive dogs

Because we look at behavior in the context in which it occurs, there’s no one-size-fits-all method of treatment.

Modern approaches to treating aggression are based on:

discovering the underlying causes of aggressive behavior
addressing the underlying causes so dogs can learn healthy ways to cope with fear, stress and anxiety.

Today’s treatment plans vary but often include counterconditioning and desensitization, which work to change how dogs feel about triggers going from “Yikes, that’s scary!” to “Yeah! that’s cool!” Operant conditioning, such as the Look-at-That protocol, helps dogs learn to both engage and disengage from triggers voluntarily and calmly.

Many treatment plans also involve medications prescribed by a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist.

Newer approaches to treatment may also incorporate one or more of:

enrichment frameworks (ensure dogs’ needs are met)
relaxation exercises (teach calm behavior)
empowerment (encourage choice and control)
ethology (understand relationships between genetics and behavior)
errorless learning (prevent
undesirable responses)
canine cognition (incorporate problem-solving and
decision-making)
microbiomes (test and study the gut/brain connection)

Research on aggressive or reactive dog behavior

We’re also keeping our eye on research and studies like those of Darwin’s Ark, a scientific collaborative pairing professionals and pet parents. Part of that team, Dr. Jessica Hekman hopes to use canine genetic research to better understand the genes that affect aggression.

Dr. Hekman says, “We don’t currently have any genetic markers that are predictive of dog aggression. We don’t think we’ll ever be able to run a genetic test on a shelter dog to predict if he will be a safe pet, but we might someday be able to help breeders make better guesses about which dogs they should breed to produce safer pets.”

Remember: Your dog isn’t giving you a hard time; she’s having a hard time. Be your dog’s advocate and assemble a team of pros to help. And have compassion for your dog and yourself — treating aggression is tough stuff.

Teach this game

Look at That! is a counterconditioning protocol also referred to as the engage/disengage game. To keep your dog from getting too aroused in the presence of a trigger (like another dog), she learns to calmly look at (engage) and look away from (disengage) the trigger instead of reacting.

Here’s how to get started:

Use a marker — a word like “yes” or a clicker. Pair the marker with a million-dollar treat a dozen times so your dog knows the word/click predicts something awesome.
With your dog on leash, stand a safe distance away from the trigger, so she’s aware but not reacting.
When your dog looks at the trigger, use your marker and, as soon as she looks at you, give her the treat. Repeat at least a dozen times.
Gradually decrease the distance between your dog and the trigger, and mark and treat if she doesn’t react. Repeat several times before decreasing distance again.

Patience is key. You want your dog to be able to consistently look at the trigger without reacting at increasingly less distance. Here are a few tips:

If your dog doesn’t look at you and stays focused on the trigger or reacts, either go back to Step 1 and/or increase the distance between your dog and the trigger and start again.

Start with a low-level trigger in a low-stress, familiar environment.

Don’t get too close too fast — let your dog dictate the pace of progress.

When faced with an unexpected trigger, immediately head in a different direction to increase distance.

Consider training your dog with a Look cue or Emergency U-turn/Walk Away cue ahead of time for these types of situations.

If your dog is struggling and reacts from any distance, ask a trainer for help.

Get more information on this technique from our sister publication Whole Dog Journal at whole-dog-journal.com entitled How to Teach Your Dog To Just Walk Away.

Need a trainer or behavior consultant?

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