Tips for Physically Handling Your New Puppy or Dog

Bringing a new puppy or dog into your home comes with responsibilities that extend beyond basic training and care. One crucial aspect is preparing them to be physically handled by various people—not just yourself, but veterinarians, groomers, and dog trainers.

By introducing your furry friend to different forms of physical handling from an early age, you can foster resilience and trust and reduce stress and anxiety throughout their lives.

Here are some essential tips and techniques for handling your new puppy or dog to help them become comfortable with necessary grooming, training, and medical procedures.

Start With Gradual Introductions

Start by introducing your puppy or dog to gentle handling in a calm and controlled environment. Begin gently touching their ears, paws, tail, and other body parts, rewarding them with treats and praise. This helps them associate positive experiences with physical touch and prepares them for future physical contact with people.

Practice Paw Handling

Regular nail maintenance is essential for dogs, and acclimating your pup to this process early on can help them get used to this practice.

Gradually expose them to the sound and sensation of nail clippers while rewarding them at each step. Practice holding and handling their paws for extended periods, gradually increasing the duration. This helps your dog become accustomed to slight discomfort and promotes compliance during grooming sessions.

Eventually, you should be able to trim your dog’s nails or have a groomer or vet trim them without your pup becoming stressed or anxious.

Use Gentle Restraint Techniques

Teaching your puppy or dog to tolerate gentle restraint is crucial for veterinary visits, administration of medication and injections, or any necessary medical procedures.

Start by gently holding them for short durations and reward them with treats. Gradually increase the time spent in this position. Associating restraint with positive experiences helps them understand that cooperation leads to reduced stress.

Never force your dog to be restrained—this can lead to injury for both you and your animal and may frighten them, making them more anxious to be restrained in the future.

Create Positive Associations With Equipment

It’s not unusual for dogs to be fearful or anxious about unfamiliar equipment such as grooming tools, medical devices, and even collars and leashes. Introduce these items gradually, allowing them to sniff and explore them before attempting to use them on your dog.

Pair the presence of these tools with rewards, ultimately creating positive associations, reducing anxiety, and promoting compliance during their use. You can gradually work up to using these items on your dog. For example, start with a couple of gentle brush strokes with a grooming brush and then reward your pup with treats.

Other Tips When Getting Your Dog Used to Physical Handling

• Start early. Whether you’re adopting a puppy or an older dog, start helping your pup get used to physical handling as soon as possible with gradual introductions.

• Be patient. New things take time to get used to. Remember to be patient, use positive reinforcement, and take things slow when getting your dog used to physical handling.

• Stay consistent. Through consistent training, you help your dog understand that temporary discomfort can be alleviated through trust, compliance, and the reassurance of familiar handling methods.

Remember, initial stress or discomfort experienced during training will result in long-term benefits, ensuring a calm and cooperative dog during grooming, vet visits, and other necessary procedures.

Get More Tips From Nova Pack Dog Training

Preparing your new puppy or dog to be physically handled and tolerate a small amount of discomfort is vital to their well-being. By implementing these tips and techniques early on, you can establish a foundation of trust and comfort. Get more physical handling tips for your new puppy or adult dog by booking a consultation with Nova Pack Dog Training today!

How Much Freedom Is Too Much Too Soon for a Puppy or New-to-You Dog?

Giving a puppy or new dog freedom is an exciting prospect. It allows them to explore their surroundings, become comfortable in their new home, and develop a sense of independence. 

However, it’s important for pet owners to understand that too much freedom too soon can have a negative impact on a dog’s behavior and, ultimately, their relationship with their dog.

So, how can you determine how much freedom is too much too soon for a puppy or new-to-you dog? 

Start Slow: Sudden Freedom Can Cause Problems

The problem with giving a dog too much freedom early on is that they may not yet understand boundaries and rules in your home.

Without proper guidance, your pup can engage in unwanted behaviors such as chewing on furniture, counter surfing, and going to the bathroom in the house. These behaviors can frustrate pet parents and lead to strained relationships with their furry companions.

The trick is to gradually extend the amount of freedom that your dog has while keeping boundaries in place. For example, start by confining them to a small, safe area of the house, such as the kitchen or a gated-off room. As they demonstrate good behavior and obedience, you can slowly expand their access to other areas of the house.

This gradual introduction allows them to learn and understand acceptable behavior in different areas of the home.

Crate Training for a Safe Space

Crate training can also be an effective way to regulate your dog’s freedom. A crate provides a safe and secure space for them when you are unable to supervise them closely. It serves as their den, a place where they can retreat and feel calm.

When used appropriately, a crate can be an invaluable tool in preventing unwanted behavior, ensuring safety, and teaching your dog to be independent. 

Use a Leash in the House for Training

If you notice that your dog is struggling with their new freedom, such as having anxiety when out of the crate at night or getting into things they shouldn’t be during the day, it’s essential to address the issue promptly.

One effective approach is to keep them on a leash in the house when they are out of the crate. This way, you can quickly respond to any unwanted behavior and redirect their attention towards more appropriate activities.

Freedom Isn’t Limited to Indoors

Leaving a dog outside unsupervised—even if you have a fenced-in backyard—is not a solution for dogs who don’t do well with too much freedom in the house.

Dogs left unsupervised in a yard may develop bad habits, such as excessive barking, digging, or fence jumping. Additionally, they may be exposed to various dangers, such as toxic plants or wildlife, or even escape the yard.

A dog should still have boundaries and rules when outdoors to ensure its safety and good behavior around other people and animals.

Every Dog Is Different: Consider Freedom on an Individual Basis

It’s important to remember that not all dogs can or should be allowed complete freedom in a home.

Some may have a natural tendency towards destructive behavior or difficulty with self-control. There’s nothing wrong with dogs that can’t be left unattended in a home—they may simply need more support or structure when you’re away, which is where crate training can help.

By recognizing your dog’s individual needs and capabilities, you can make informed decisions about the level of freedom they can handle.

Find the Right Balance for Your Dog With Nova Pack Dog Training

Providing too much freedom too soon for your dog can lead to behavioral challenges that you’ll spend more time correcting later on, so it’s essential to take this process slowly and understand your dog’s unique needs. Find the right balance between freedom and boundaries for your pup with Nova Pack Dog Training. Contact us to schedule an in-home consultation today!

What to Know When Adopting a Rescue or Shelter Dog: Tips for Helping Your Pup Adjust

Adopting a dog from a rescue or shelter helps animals in need find good homes and prevent unethical dog breeding. Not to mention, adoption fees are generally much more affordable than buying a new puppy.

However, bringing a dog home from a shelter or rescue isn’t without its challenges. Shelter dogs can have trouble adjusting to a new home, so it’s important to know what to expect and how you can help your new family member settle in.

Here’s what to know when adopting a shelter or rescue dog, including some of our top tips for a healthy and happy pup.

The Shelter Environment Can Create Behavioral Challenges

Most dogs need support when adjusting to new environments. This is true whether you buy a puppy or rescue an adult dog. When adopting a dog, they may have come from a shelter environment that encouraged certain behavioral problems.

For example, some shelters coddle dogs, which can create an animal that is overly dependent on you, creating issues with separation anxiety. Shelters may also give dogs too much mental and physical stimulation, which can cause hyperactive or hypervigilant dogs with no “off” switch.

It’s also possible that the shelter or rescue knows about certain issues with a dog but won’t disclose them in an effort to encourage adoption, or will give future owners unrealistic goals for their new dogs. 

How to Give Your Rescued Dog Their Best Life

So, what can you do when you have your heart set on adoption but are concerned about potential challenges with your new pet?

• Know before you adopt. Get as much information about the animal as you can before adopting. In many cases, shelters may have limited information about a dog, especially if it was found as a stray. However, don’t this stop you from asking plenty of questions, especially of shelter staff who interact with the dog every day.

• Make a plan. Have a plan before your dog comes home. Set their crate up away from people to help prevent separation anxiety, know what activities will or won’t be allowed, and what their routine will be. The more prepared you are, the easier your dog’s transition will be.

• Have help available. Working with a professional dog trainer can help you help your dog settle in and reduce their anxiety and potential behavioral issues when adjusting to life at your house. A dog trainer can help you teach your dog rules, set boundaries, and properly socialize with other people and animals. 

• Be patient. Remember that rescue dogs can take more time to adjust to their new life, so it’s essential to be patient. A dog trainer can help you understand your dog’s behavior so you can adjust yours accordingly and help them settle into their new environment with ease.

Schedule Your Training Consultation With Us

Nova Pack Dog Training understands that every dog is different. We have experience working with rescue and shelter dogs of all breeds and with all types of behavioral challenges, whether your dog is fearful, aggressive, or anxious. Schedule a training consultation with us today to help your pup live their best life! 

Dog Care 101: The Basics of Properly Caring for a Dog

Inviting a furry friend into your life is a big decision. Dogs not only require daily physical care but also mental stimulation to be happy and healthy.

Whether you’ve had your canine for some time now or are getting a new puppy soon, it’s never too late to review the basics of properly caring for a dog.

Let’s review the categories of canine care so you can help your fur baby thrive!

Grooming: Brushing, Nail Trimming, and Cleaning

Dogs need support to properly maintain their skin and coat health, ear health, and oral health.

Bathe Your Dog, But Not Too Often

Just like humans, dogs need to bathe, but not as often as we do. Every dog is different—some dogs may be able to go a month without a bath; others can go two or three months. Dogs with medium or long hair may need more bathing than dogs with short coats. Use a mild shampoo (fragrance-free is best) and rinse thoroughly.

Brushing Is Important for a Healthy Coat

Brushing your dog is important to help them shed loose fur and remove dirt and debris from their coat. Long-haired breeds are more prone to fur matting and need more brushing and special tools than short-coated dogs, which do well with a rubber brush. Medium and long-haired breeds may also require occasional trimming or professional grooming, especially around the eyes, ears, and sanitary region.

Ear Cleaning to Prevent Irritation and Infections

It’s essential to keep your dog’s ears clean, but never insert anything into their ear canal. You can use a clean cloth or paper towel and a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to gently wipe their ears. Floppy-eared dogs may need more maintenance to prevent ear infections and irritation.

Nail Trimming for Comfort

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed prevents overgrowth that can cause discomfort and even impair their ability to walk and run. Avoid cutting the nails too short or into the quick, as this can cause bleeding and discomfort for your dog. Some dogs do better with having their nails trimmed by a groomer or at the vet.

Yes, You Do Have to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Your dog’s teeth are subject to problems just like yours are. It’s important to brush their teeth using a veterinarian-recommended toothbrush and toothpaste a few times a week. This activity can take some work to get your dog used to. Many veterinarians also offer teeth cleaning under sedation for a more thorough job.

Feeding Your Dog a Balanced Diet

Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential, but the best diet for your dog can vary. Some dogs have sensitive stomachs and may require prescription food, while others do well with plain kibble or wet food. Other dog owners choose a raw food diet for their canines.

Ask your dog’s veterinarian which food and type of diet would be best for them and how much to feed them to maintain an optimal weight. It’s also crucial to always provide clean water to help your pup stay hydrated, especially in higher temperatures.

Keeping Your Dog Healthy With Annual Vet Check-Ups

Vet visits are a crucial part of keeping your dog healthy. If you have a puppy, they will need a series of vet visits to ensure they get all necessary vaccinations. However, once your dog is fully vaccinated, annual vet visits are generally fine. Dogs with special health concerns may need to see their doctor more often.

It’s important to monitor your dog for any issues like lethargy, lack of appetite, changes in behavior, or changes in urine or stool. If you have concerns about your dog’s health, don’t hesitate to follow up with your vet.

Training and Exercising Your Dog

Your dog needs daily mental and physical stimulation. Exercise, training, structured play, and walks are all important, depending on your dog’s age and activity level. You can adjust the intensity and duration of training and exercise based on your specific pup.

Types of play and training include obedience training, teaching tricks and problem-solving, and basic commands. It’s also vital to properly socialize your dog at a young age. Socialization and environmental work can help prevent fear and aggression in dogs, especially as they get older. 

Start the Training Process With Nova Pack

Need support with training your dog and helping them adjust to life in your household? Whether you have a young puppy or an older dog, it’s never too late to help them learn and thrive. Contact Nova Pack Dog Training today to schedule an in-home consultation with us!

The Balance: Reward and Correction

If you’ve ever trained a dog, you know that successful training requires a balance between reward and correction.

Positive reinforcement motivates good behavior, while correction teaches boundaries and expectations. Finding the right balance between these methods is essential for effective training and building a strong bond between you and your dog.

How can you strike the right balance between reward and correction for successful dog training? Here, we outline a few helpful tips for you to get started.

Understanding Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog for good behavior, creating a positive association with a specific action or command. Treats, praise, toys, and affection are common rewards used to encourage desired behavior.

When incorporating positive reinforcement, consistency and timing are crucial. Rewarding your dog immediately after they exhibit the desired behavior reinforces the connection between the action and the reward.

Implementing Corrective Action

Correction is necessary for discouraging undesirable behaviors in dogs, such as barking excessively, jumping on people, or pulling on the leash. Correction may also be referred to as punishment.

However, it’s important to remember that correction or punishment is different from abuse. Abuse creates fear and anxiety and damages the trust between you and your dog. Examples of potential abuse include hitting a dog, spraying them with water, or administering a shock with an electric collar. These are all actions that can make the undesirable behavior worse.

In addition, putting an e-collar on the dog and pressing the button to administer a vibration or shock doesn’t properly condition your pup to behave how you want them to.

So, what does corrective action look like? Here are a few examples:

• The absence of pressure, such as using a prong collar for leash walking, is a type of corrective measure for dogs who pull on leashes. 

• Using a firm voice to let your dog know the behavior is not allowed. 

• Withholding attention when the dog engages in inappropriate behavior. 

• Setting rules, limits, and boundaries for the dog and enforcing them.

Use gentle but firm corrections, such as verbal cues or physical corrections, or redirect their attention to correct their behavior. For many dogs and their owners, this is a delicate process that is best done with a professional dog trainer.

Using Consistency and Clarity in Commands

Clarity and consistency in issuing commands are fundamental to successful training. Dogs thrive on clear communication and expectations. Ensure that everyone in the household uses the same commands and techniques to avoid confusion for the dog.

When your dog understands what is expected of them, they are more likely to exhibit the desired behavior. Inconsistent training methods can lead to confusion, making it difficult for dogs to understand what is being asked of them and hampering their progress.

Identifying Individual Motivations and Triggers

Every dog has unique drives and motivations. Understanding what motivates your dog and recognizing their triggers is key to creating an effective training program.

For example, some dogs are highly food-motivated, while others respond better to toys, playtime, or verbal praise. Tailoring rewards and corrections to match your dog’s personality and preferences can maximize the effectiveness of your training efforts.

In addition, identifying triggers that cause unwanted behaviors allows you to proactively manage or redirect your dog before problems arise.

Finding the Proper Balance

The right balance between reward and correction is essential for effective dog training. Focusing too much on positive reinforcement and not enough on corrective measures can create a dog who is overly focused on praise and treats and less focused on boundaries. 

Training is not just about helping your dog understand acceptable versus unacceptable behaviors. It’s also about creating a strong foundation of trust and confidence in your dog. By understanding your pup’s unique motivations and triggers, you can create a positive and successful training experience.

Train Your Pup With Nova Pack Dog Training

Balancing reward and correction is an ongoing process when training your dog. Let Nova Pack Dog Training help you strike that balance with professional dog training. By focusing on each dog’s individual needs, we help pet parents successfully establish rewarding relationships with their dogs while improving their behavior!