2010
Dog behaviour and dog training articles written by Nick Jones MCFBA.

A guide to introducing your dog to a new crate

16/06/2010 00:58 Filed in: Tools of the trade
If used correctly your new dog crate will become a much-loved den for your dog, incorrectly used they can encourage neglect and lack of training in a lazy or negligent owner.

The main value of a crate is in providing your dog or young puppy with a safe place to rest and to encourage house training particularly overnight. A crate can create a cosy den for any dog to enjoy but there are dos and don’ts of which to be aware. Read More...

Introducing a muzzle to a dog

26/05/2010 15:53 Filed in: Tools of the trade
It is vital that your dog perceives the muzzle as a positive experience. Quite often the dog’s first encounter with a muzzle is in a stressful and fearful situation, such as the vets because the dog may become aggressive or difficult to handle because of fear, panic, or injury. Read More...

The use of food for training

16/05/2010 18:44 Filed in: Your dog and food
I am constantly surprised at how people are concerned when using food to reward a dog for desirable behaviour.
I hear terms such as 'Bribery' and 'Corruption'. It's neither!

Read More...

Introducing the dog to your baby

24/01/2010 22:45 Filed in: Lifestyles
Preparations should begin months before the baby arrives. If your dog does not know how to sit, stay, lie down, or come when called, it should be taught to do so.

Read More...

How to greet Your dog

20/01/2010 12:27 Filed in: Dog behaviour
This is an interesting area to look at and address, as I am frequently asked this. In my work as a dog behaviourist, I see simple over exuberance right through to a standard poodle that I remember leapt on my back with all four feet (at the same time!) as if in a circus show as I walked along the hallway into the lounge… I very nearly fell forward on my face!

Read More...

Ignoring your dog and knowing when

20/01/2010 12:26 Filed in: Dog behaviour
I cannot emphasise enough that the behaviour you mark with attention (even negative attention can mark it) will reinforce the behaviour and you're likely to see more of it. Simple.

 Read More...

Nervous aggressive behaviour

20/01/2010 12:23 Filed in: Dog behaviour
This is usually the result of a dog that has had insufficient socialisation in its formative months and years, and/or a negative event with another dog. This can happen on a number of occasions, leading to an even more fearful dog as time progresses. Some dogs seem to have a demeanour that attract other dogs, and for some of those dogs to attack it.

 Read More...

Choosing a dog behaviourist / dog trainer

20/01/2010 12:21 Filed in: Tools of the trade
Prospective clients, please be sure to thoroughly research anybody you are considering coming to your home. Yes, we all started somewhere as behaviour practitioners, we all had our first job(s). Mine was unforgettable-a Bassett called Elvis.

Read More...

Importance of doorways

20/01/2010 12:21 Filed in: Dogs around the home
The benefits of ensuring that the owner goes before the dog at doorways are three-fold.
Firstly, it shows and reinforces good leadership; secondly it keeps the dog calm as it may be leaving for a walk and lastly, it helps to develop 'good manners'.

 Read More...

Modern lifestyles and how they impact our dogs

20/01/2010 12:20 Filed in: Lifestyles
Everything is connected. All aspects need to be addressed in a calm and balanced manner to break free from the above. It's like building a house...we need to get the foundations in first, then think about the walls, roof and decorating in that order. Also, much like a house the dog needs constant maintenance.

 Read More...

Lead pulling

20/01/2010 12:19 Filed in: Dog behaviour
Your dog will have a strong association with the lead going on, going through the doorways and exiting the home, as these are all early signals of the walk itself. Once outside, your dog will be exposed to a mass of sensory input so you can imagine the effect this will have on your dog. It's your job to guide the dog's uncontrolled excitement into more manageable and calm behaviour.

 Read More...

General leadership

20/01/2010 12:18 Filed in: Leadership
I am often asked about the subject of leadership, as it does seem to be a current 'buzz word' at present. So, I would like to address some of the areas you can look at with your own dog that can help if you are experiencing any difficulties.

 Read More...

Exercising your dog continued...

20/01/2010 12:17 Filed in: Dog health
What better way to enjoy the great outdoors than to take your dog with you?
Exercising with your dog outside will lead you into some serious quality time together, helping to strengthen your bond with the dog, & leave you both feeling great.

 Read More...

Exercising your dog

20/01/2010 12:16 Filed in: Dog health
Not all dogs require a daily flogging until they come back wet and exhausted. I think it's just as easy to do too much as it is to do too little.

 Read More...

Dog aggression

20/01/2010 12:15 Filed in: Dog behaviour
As a full time dog behaviour specialist, my role is to help owners whose dogs are showing undesirable behaviour. In my work dog aggression is relatively common, falling into three broad categories: dog to dog aggression, aggressive behaviour towards people, and finally aggressive behaviour focused upon guarding food, territory or toys, etc.

 Read More...

Keeping your dog cool in the summer

17/01/2010 22:05 Filed in: Dog health
My old girl Amber used to know the phrase 'In the shade', and she would go to a cool spot and stay there when hot (quite sensible I thought)!. Little Pip the Border terrier however knows nothing of common sense and will stay in the intense sun until she is near to meltdown. As a result I keep her in the shade or in a well-ventilated cool room.

 Read More...