Happy Walks for Happy Dogs
We finished the year rather wet, but the dogs still love getting out in the fresh air for a run and explore.
Always Learning
It’s been Penny and Brian learning this week. We’re muzzle training in preparation for scary things, such as vet visits, helping to keep everyone safe. Using a different object to start with means that if the dog has a scary experience, it’s not linked to the presence of a muzzle. Flowerpots allow treats to be pushed through the holes in the bottom. For extra duration, we used squeezy cheese so that the dogs get used to having their faces in the container for longer. Both Brian and Penny think itself great fun! Thank you to Chrysalis K9 for the tip!
Thought for the week – quiet spaces
Busy holiday households can be overwhelming for dogs so get them a quiet space that they can retreat to. This could be a separate room, or even a crate set up in the quietest corner, covered with lots of blankets to make a cosy den (leave the door open). Some dogs may withdraw when overwhelmed, making it easy to spot that they’re upset. Others may go hyper or manic, and they equally need help to calm down. They may benefit from a human sitting quietly with them in the quiet room to help them calm down and self-regulate. (This is probably one of the few times that I would recommend playing games on your phone when you’re with your dog!)
Previous posts:
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, getting into shape, and snack to your heart’s content.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, muzzle training with a flowerpot, and a quiet space for the holidays.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, why long nails are like high heels, and give your dog some scraps.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, doggie emotions and the Cuddles cue.
- Heather’s Happy Dogs: Weekly walk photos, resource guarding update, and cold smells.
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