Just in time for holiday wish lists and New Year’s resolutions, the following canine basics will bring out the best in your bestie:
1. Guidance. No dog wants to get yelled at for breaking the rules. Setting consistent boundaries early in life — or early in your new relationship with an adopted dog — and committing to patient guidance will boost your dog’s confidence and willingness to cooperate. If you’re not sure where to start, plenty of excellent r+ (positive reinforcement) trainers are sharing their expertise online.
2. Consistency. Consistency applies to your dog’s daily routine, the house rules, and training. It also applies to your emotional state. Once upon a time there was a happy-go-lucky dog named Sadie. Occasionally she would curl up in a corner, quiet and withdrawn. Why? Because when her owner had a fight with his girlfriend, afterwards he would reach for his dog. Sadie would soak up her owner’s special attention and his mood like a sponge. She could not understand why she felt bad and was helpless to shake it off until her owner was happy again. Try to keep your dog’s everyday life as predictable as possible. Dogs love predictable.
3. Stimulation. Providing appropriate outlets for your dog’s talents and tendencies will ward off boredom along with undesirable behaviors. Regular walks, games of fetch, visits to the local dog park promote canine happiness in body and mind. R+ training sessions (including silly pet tricks) and puzzle toys can keep your pet’s mind sharp through all stages of life.
4. Socialization. The greater the number and variety of people, situations, and dogs your pet is exposed to early in life, the more well rounded and confident the dog will be. Canines are as individual as we are and some require more time, patience, and understanding than others. Tailor the socialization to suit your pet’s needs and limits.
5. Health Care. Dogs consume all kinds of stuff without recognizing the potential harms. And warm weather increases canine exposure to parasites and illness. Maintain your dog’s wellness by committing to regular vet checkups, feeding a healthy diet, and keeping up with flea and tick control. Your dog depends on you to stay healthy and strong.