Why I CAN'T work with everyone who reaches out to me

I get a lot of inquiries from clients who are seeking answers, solutions, and understanding of why their dogs are acting in certain ways, showing aggression, having severe anxiety, or are just generally not well-behaved. While some of these issues may be genetic, most of them can be addressed and improved through training. However, the key factor that determines whether I can work with someone is their willingness and ability to change themselves.

In order to make significant changes in a dog's behavior, it is crucial to get the humans involved to recognize their own role in the situation. Often, we humans unknowingly contribute to the problems with our dogs, and when combined with the dog's genetic predispositions, it can lead to undesirable outcomes. Therefore, to bring about effective change in a dog, it is essential for the humans to acknowledge where they have gone wrong and how their current interactions with their dogs are reinforcing and exacerbating the problematic behaviors.

Unfortunately, not everyone is willing to accept responsibility for their dog's actions or make the necessary changes in their own behavior. Some individuals refuse to acknowledge their role in the situation, preferring to believe that their dog's behavior is beyond their control or that it should not be altered. When I hold people accountable for their behaviors, such as mindlessly playing fetch without considering the consequences, they often respond with statements like, "But he enjoys it!" While it is true that dogs have natural instincts to chase and catch, allowing a dog to indulge in these behaviors without any controls or leadership can lead to further problems.

To effect meaningful change, you must be willing to change your own actions. It may require making yourself and your dog uncomfortable at times, and I will hold you accountable throughout the process. If you are seeking someone who will only provide positive reinforcement without addressing the underlying issues, then I am not the right fit for you. I am here to give you the truth and provide a comprehensive approach to solving the problems you and your dog are facing. However, if you are unwilling to change and simply want a quick fix without addressing the root causes, then I am unable to work with you.

Working with dogs and their owners is a collaborative effort that requires a commitment to growth, learning, and change. I have a responsibility to the dogs and to their well-being, and that includes ensuring that their owners are willing to make the necessary adjustments. Therefore, I carefully select the clients I work with based on their openness to change and their commitment to the long-term well-being of their dogs. This is why I cannot work with everyone who contacts me.

Crate Training: Setting Your Dog Up for Success, Safety, and Well-being

Bringing a new puppy or dog into your home is an exciting experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One essential aspect of responsible dog ownership is crate training. While some may see it as confining or restrictive, crate training provides numerous benefits for both you and your furry companion. In this article, we will explore the importance of crate training, including its benefits for behavior, housebreaking, and overall well-being. Additionally, we will delve into the potential hazards and dangers of not providing your dog with the structure and guidance that crate training offers.

1. Safe Haven and Comfort: A crate serves as a den-like space where your puppy or dog can retreat when they need a break or some alone time. Dogs have an instinctual desire for a cozy and secure space, and a crate fulfills this need. When introduced properly, a crate becomes a safe haven where your dog can relax, sleep, or seek solace during times of stress, ensuring they feel secure and protected.

2. Housebreaking Made Easier: One of the primary reasons crate training is essential is it’s significant contribution to successful housebreaking. Dogs have an innate instinct to keep their sleeping area clean, and crate training takes advantage of this instinct. When properly sized, the crate becomes a temporary living space that encourages your dog to hold their bladder and bowels until they are taken outside. By establishing a routine and gradually increasing their freedom within the house, you can effectively housebreak your dog while minimizing accidents and frustration.

3. Prevention of Destructive Behaviors: Leaving a dog to figure out what they shouldn't do can lead to destructive behaviors that cause havoc in your home. Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and without proper guidance, they may chew on furniture, shoes, or other valuable items. Crate training allows you to control your dog's environment and limit their access to potential hazards, reducing the likelihood of destructive behavior. Over time, as they learn proper manners and gain maturity, you can gradually expand their freedom in the house.

4. Protection from Household Hazards: Leaving a dog unattended to figure things out on their own can expose them to a multitude of household hazards. Dogs are naturally curious and may explore areas that pose risks to their health and safety. Without proper supervision, they may ingest toxic substances, chew on electrical cords, or get entangled in potentially dangerous objects. Crate training provides a controlled environment, limiting your dog's access to potential hazards and reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

5. Avoiding Aggressive Interactions and Accidental Escapes: If left unsupervised, dogs may have negative encounters with other household pets or even with unfamiliar animals or people who enter your property. This can lead to aggression, fights, or even legal consequences. Additionally, a dog left to roam freely without proper training and boundaries may find ways to escape from the house or yard, putting themselves at risk of getting lost or involved in traffic accidents.

6. Separation Anxiety and Stress Reduction: Leaving a dog unattended without any structure can contribute to the development of separation anxiety and other stress-related behaviors. A crate, when introduced correctly, can help alleviate separation anxiety by providing a secure and familiar space for your dog to feel calm and relaxed when you're away.

7. Veterinary and Grooming Benefits: Not crating your dog can lead to difficulties in managing their health and grooming needs. Untrained dogs may become fearful or anxious during veterinary visits or grooming sessions, making it challenging for professionals to provide necessary care. Crate training helps familiarize your dog with confinement and handling, making veterinary visits and grooming sessions less stressful for both your dog and the professionals involved.

Crate training is an invaluable tool for setting your puppy or dog up for a successful, safe, and well-adjusted life. From providing a safe haven and aiding in housebreaking to preventing destructive behaviors and reducing anxiety, crate training offers numerous benefits for both the dog and the owner. Additionally, crate training protects your dog from household hazards, avoids aggressive interactions, prevents accidental escapes, and facilitates veterinary and grooming procedures. By understanding the potential hazards and dangers associated with not crating your dog, you can make an informed decision that promotes a secure and harmonious environment for both you and your four-legged companion. Remember, patience and consistency are the keys to successful crate training, ensuring a lifelong bond and the well-being of your beloved pet.

How Well Do Dogs Tolerate Heat? Tips for Keeping Your Canine Cool During the Dog Days of Summer

Just like humans, dogs have varying abilities to tolerate heat and hot weather. While some dog breeds are naturally more adapted to warmer climates, others may struggle in extreme heat.

It's essential for dog parents to understand their pet's individual tolerance and take appropriate measures to ensure their well-being during the dog days of summer. 

So how well do dogs tolerate heat? Here’s what you need to know about dogs and high temperatures and how to keep your canine cool this time of year!

Breeds That Do Better in Warmer Weather (And Those That Don’t)

Some dogs tend to do better in hot weather. These include dogs with shorter coats and those that are more athletic or conditioned to the heat. 

However, dogs with medium, long, or thick coats—think huskies, shepherds, collies, or golden retrievers—are more likely to overheat. These dogs are not made for extremely hot temperatures without being acclimated or conditioned to them.

Dogs with thick coats have a harder time dissipating heat and may require extra care and attention during hot weather.

Other dogs that are more susceptible to overheating include those with short snouts, such as bulldogs, pugs, and even boxers. These dogs are called brachycephalic breeds, also known as flat-faced dogs, and they are particularly prone to overheating in very hot weather.

Remember that dogs have a base body temperature higher than ours—between 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit—so they can overheat faster than many people think.

The Age and Health of Your Dog Matter

When it comes to extreme temperatures, the age and health of your dog matter.

For example, puppies, elderly dogs, and those with underlying health conditions cannot tolerate heat as well as healthy adult dogs. If you have a senior dog, a new puppy, or a dog with a health condition, it’s essential to watch for overheating and take precautions to keep them cool.

Limiting time outside for these dogs in extreme temperatures and seeking shade is necessary to prevent heat stroke.

Know the Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Just like people, dogs can get heat stroke. This is a condition that occurs from overheating, and it can happen when your dog’s body temperature is too high. In fact, dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke than people, so it’s crucial to monitor your pup for signs when the temperatures are high.

Signs of heat stroke in dogs include:

• Appearing off-balance or unsteady, staggering, or “wobbling”

• Difficulty breathing

• Excessive panting or salivating

• Lethargy or weakness

• Pale pink gums or tongue

• Vomiting

Factors like humidity, access to shade, duration of sun exposure, and ventilation can all impact a dog's ability to tolerate heat. High humidity makes it harder for dogs to cool down through panting, while direct sun exposure can quickly raise their body temperature.

Know your dog’s limits when exercising them in hot weather, and if you suspect your dog has heat stroke, seek veterinary care as soon as possible. In the meantime, get your dog into the shade or air conditioning and use cool water or wet towels to help lower their body temperature.

How to Keep Your Fur Baby Cool and Safe

Fortunately, by following some simple tips, you can keep your fur baby cool and safe even during this hot time of year. You can do this by:

• Always providing your dog access to shade and cool areas.

• Checking for signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, weakness, or vomiting.

• Limiting outdoor exercise during the hottest hours of the day (generally between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.)

• Never leave your dog in an unattended vehicle.

• Providing cool, fresh water to drink at all times.

• Understanding your dog’s heat tolerance based on their breed, coat, and health.

• Using cooling mats, bandanas, or jackets to help them regulate their body temperature when outside.

Remember, every dog is unique, and it's crucial to observe their behavior and adjust their routine accordingly during hot weather. By being mindful of their needs and taking appropriate precautions, you can ensure your fur baby stays happy, healthy, and comfortable during the dog days of summer!

Why Is Professional Dog Training Important?

If you have furry family members, you know their behavior impacts your household as much or more than your partner and kids. Your dog needs to be able to live in your home comfortably, safely, and happily, and one of the best ways to accomplish this important goal is through professional dog training.

A professional dog trainer helps you understand your dog better and keeps you accountable for your role in your dog’s behavior and doing what is best for them. Here, we take a closer look at why having your dogs professionally trained could be the most important thing you do for your fur babies.

Give Your Dog Its Best Life

Professional dog training helps your dog understand which behaviors are acceptable and desired and which are not. Teaching your dog proper boundaries and socialization allows them to share more of your life and have more positive experiences.

For example, well-behaved dogs can generally have more freedom in the house and come on more outings with you and your family. While an out-of-control or anxious dog doesn’t make for fun family trips or long walks in nature, a trained dog that understands boundaries can get out into the world more and join you for more adventures—allowing you to give your fur baby their best life.

Better Understand Your Pup

Dogs, like humans, can be complex creatures. They have a particular social pack order and understanding of the world. Professional dog training helps you not just correct or modify your dog’s behavior but truly understand it. This understanding gives you the appropriate context for making behavioral modifications or requesting different behavior from your dog.

Working with a professional dog trainer helps you gain more experience and knowledge about your dog and can even help you with your future dogs. Understanding your dog’s behavior and how to work with them allows you to make positive changes that will result in a happier life for both you and your four-legged friend.

Keep Your Fur Baby Safe

Professional dog training is about more than having a dog who’s a model citizen. It’s about keeping your fur baby safe and out of trouble. Getting your puppy, adolescent, or adult dog trained can make them safer for you and your family to be around at home, outside or around neighbors, or even at a busy restaurant while you’re enjoying dinner.

Working with a professional to train your dog can:

• Help your dog feel more safe and secure since they know what is expected of them.

• Reduce your dog’s stress and anxiety.

• Channel your dog’s energy into focusing on tasks and commands.

• Improve your dog’s social skills and reduce reactivity around other animals or people.

• Build a stronger bond between you and your pup.

• Minimize the risk of harm by teaching your dog to come to you when called or stop a harmful behavior.

• Make vet visits, grooming appointments, and vacations easier. 

Are You Ready to Invest in Your Dog’s Future?

Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or have had dogs for years, it’s never too late to get started with professional dog training. If you’re ready to invest in your dog’s best and brightest future, contact Nova Pack Dog Training to ask a question, schedule an in-home evaluation, or learn more about our training process.

You Can’t Medicate Your Way Out Of A Behavior Problem

Behavior problems with dogs aren't anything new, but the treatments today are. Veterinarians, groomers, pet store employees, friends, family, and neighbors will tell you "how well-behaved" their dog is since they put them on medications to stop them from being an untrained dog. While medications can help MANAGE certain behavioral issues, it's important to understand their limitations and potential side effects.

There are several types of medications commonly prescribed to dogs for behavior problems, including:

Antidepressants: These medications are used to MANAGE anxiety, fear, and other related behaviors in dogs. Examples of commonly prescribed antidepressants for dogs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and clomipramine (Clomicalm). These medications work by regulating the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and behavior.

Anti-anxiety medications: These medications are prescribed to reduce anxiety in dogs and can be beneficial in cases of separation anxiety, noise phobias, or generalized anxiety disorders. Examples include benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax) or tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline (Elavil).

Sedatives: Sedatives are used to calm dogs in specific situations or for short-term use. They are often prescribed to MANAGE situational anxieties such as travel or veterinary visits. Commonly used sedatives for dogs include acepromazine, dexmedetomidine (Sileo), and trazodone.

Behavior-modifying drugs: These medications target specific behaviors and can be used in conjunction with behavior modification training. For example, medications like clonidine and buspirone are sometimes used to address certain types of aggression or hyperactivity in dogs.

But the issue isn't the medications themselves; it's the fact, and I do mean fact, that just like the old school training methods of decades ago, the pills, tablets, injections are just suppressing the problems, not addressing them.

We have this idea as human beings that we can take a pill and feel better instantly, which in the case of a headache could be true. Although when it comes to something like depression, a pill alone won't do the trick. You need to do a lot of work with a professional who knows what you're dealing with, how to address it correctly, when medication can help, as well as when the risk of adding an anti-anxiety medication could be a fatal mistake.

When it comes to us, we can understand that a pill will make you feel weird, different, better, or worse for periods of time, dogs simply can't. They have no way of knowing why suddenly they feel funny, drunk almost, and sometimes that can lead to the dog biting more randomly, and more severely when the issue of fear, aggression, defensiveness is just medicated.

I am not a proponent of medicating dogs for behavior problems at all, but I am not a veterinarian. Do some dogs I see benefit, sure, to some extent, but I haven't seen a fearful biter or a forward aggressive dog look worse when no medication is given, and the dog is given clarity in their lives, rules, boundaries, and building upon the relationship with their humans having mutual trust and respect.

If you and your veterinarian have already put your dog on medication, I am not saying to just stop giving it; that can be very dangerous to go cold turkey. But if that solution works well enough for you, stay the course. I'm just giving my opinion based on experience with many dogs, having worked with trainers and behaviorists who trained dogs for decades, who never had the option of medications and never needed them anyway. Train the dog, learn why they have the issues they have, whether it’s genetic, or learned behaviors, and improve yourself to help the dog get better.