Dog crates are an important – and necessary – piece of dog training equipment. Here, the benefits of using a crate, as well as tips for utilizing this tool, will be discussed.
Why Use a Crate?
There are many reasons to use a crate. First and foremost, dogs are den animals that feel safest in small, confined areas. A crate provides a safe place for your pet to relax and retreat when life becomes chaotic. Additionally, crates are the safest place for your pet during travel, particularly during long car rides or trips on an airplane. In the house, crates provide an area to keep your pet safe while you are away, and to prevent destruction to furniture and upholstery. Finally, a crate is the easiest way to potty train a dog or puppy.
There are numerous times when a crate should not be used. These include as a form of punishment, or as long term “storage” in place of appropriate exercise and training.
Choosing a Crate
Crates can be manufactured from a variety of materials. The most common crates are made from wire, and this option provides the greatest amount of visibility and ventilation. Plastic, hard-sided crates are commonly used for travel and are more den-like than wire crates. Soft-sided crates are great for dogs that need a quiet place to sleep and are not prone to trying to chew their way out. For hunters or people who transport their dogs frequently, aluminum crates or Ruff Tough Kennels provide superior protection.
The size of your dog’s crate is an important consideration. Many first-time pet owners assume that the largest size crate as possible is best. However, when it comes to their den instincts, dogs prefer to relax in small, enclosed spaces. If your dog is ever put on bed-rest, a smaller crate will be necessary, as opposed to one that your pet can move around in. Finally, when it comes to potty training in a crate, small is best. Otherwise, your dog may learn to eliminate in one corner of the crate, and sleep on the clean side.
Therefore, the crate that you choose should be just large enough for your dog to comfortably stand up and turn around. If you are training a puppy that is expected to keep growing, look for a crate with a divider that allows you to expand the usable area as your pet grows.
Teaching Your Dog To Enjoy the Crate
The key to training your dog to use a crate is to associate the area with positivity. Make the crate as comfortable as possible by adding a soft crate mat or chew-proof bed. You can also include an interactive toy in the crate, such as a KONG or other indestructible item.
You should start slowly when crate training your dog, and not simply place your pet in the crate and walk away. The crate adjustment process can take a few days, but having patience is well worth it.
Begin by leaving the door to the crate open and providing praise when your dog is in the vicinity of the open door. Next, toss treats into the crate and provide profuse praise when your pet walks into the crate to retrieve them. You can also toss toys into the crate for your pet to fetch. Again, positive associations are key. As your dog becomes more comfortable with the kennel, begin feeding meals inside the crate. Gradually begin closing the door to the crate while your dog is inside, and leaving him or her there for increasing amounts of time. Once your dog has shown that he or she is comfortable with crated meal times, begin placing your pet in the crate for short durations throughout the day, again providing plenty of praise as you do so.
Some dogs will protest the crate at first. For these animals, it is important that you never let them out of the crate if they are whining or crying, as they will continue this behavior since it has been reinforced. Always wait for the dog to quiet down before opening the crate door.
When you leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time, it can be helpful to provide a boredom busting toy or treat, such as a peanut butter filled KONG or a puzzle game. This type of reinforcement can also help your pet view the crate as something to look forward to being in, and not a reminder that you are gone.
Potty Training Your Dog with a Crate
Once your dog has been properly acclimated to the crate, you can use this tool for potty training. The crate works well for this purpose because dogs instinctively will not potty where they eat and sleep.
Whenever you are unable to keep an eye on your dog or puppy, he or she should be in the crate. It is important to note that your dog’s bladder capacity should be kept in mind, and it is unfair to expect your pet to be able to hold it for long periods of time. As a general rule of thumb, a puppy can hold his or her bladder and bowels for as many hours as it is months old. For instance, a 3 month old puppy needs to be let out at least every three hours.
The key to dog training is consistency. While you are in the house you should look for signs that your pet is going to eliminate and then immediately move your dog outside and praise him or her for pottying outdoors. However, if you will be unable to keep close watch on your dog while you are cooking or cleaning, for instance, your pet should be crated.
After an hour of being in the crate, take your puppy outside (preferably to the same area each time), give the “go potty” command, and wait until your dog eliminates. Afterwards, provide praise and a treat. If your dog does not potty, return him or her to crate without providing praise, and repeat the process in 20 – 30 minutes.
After your dog successfully potties outdoors, repeat the supervision or crating process. Consistently using the crate to keep your dog from having accidents indoors will speed up the potty training process and reduce the number of accidents in your home.
Did you know that one of the biggest hazards to your dog’s health might be lurking outside your back door – or even in your home? Here, common plants that are poisonous to dogs are discussed.
Sago Palm
The sago palm is most often found in the southern states, as it thrives in hot and humid climates. However, it can also be found indoors. The entire plant is poisonous to pets, with the toxins concentrated in the seeds. Symptoms of sago palm poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, seizures, collapse, jaundice, and black stools. Treatment includes induced vomiting by a veterinarian, as well as IV fluids and supportive care, depending on whether any internal organs were affected.
Lilies
Certain species of this springtime plant are highly dangerous to dogs, including the peace lily, calla lily, amaryllis, autumn crocus, giant Dracaena, palm lily, and lily of the valley. A dog that has ingested lilies or its bulbs will show signs of vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, and kidney disease. When caught in time, kidney damage can be prevented or reversed, but dogs will require a lengthy stay at the vet, as well as IV fluids and medication.
Cardiac Glycosides
Dogbane, milkweed, foxglove, and kalanchoe plants all contain a compound that is used in heart medication, such as Digitalis. Consumption of these plants results in vomiting, drooling, changes in heartbeat, electrolyte imbalance, tremors, and seizures. Dogs that have ingested cardiac glycosides must be taken to a veterinarian right away in order to stabilize heart rate and blood pressure.
Blue-green algae
If you have a pond or other water freshwater feature in your yard, you must beware the risks of cyanobacteria for your pets. Even a few licks of the bacteria can have severe consequences for your dog, such as liver failure and the development of neurological disorders. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, black stool, dehydration, shock, seizures, jaundice, disorientation, paralysis, difficulty breathing, and death. A Dog that has consumed blue-green algae require immediate care, as toxicity can result in death in as little as 3 – 4 hours.
Araceae Houseplants
Houseplants from this family include philodendron, pothos, dumb cane, arrowhead vine, sweetheart vine, devil’s ivy, elephant ear, umbrella plant, and mother-in-law’s tongue. They are poisonous because of the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals they contain. When ingested, these crystals cause mouth pain, drooling, mouth swelling, and vomiting. However, these houseplants are not as poisonous as other plants on this list, and most symptoms can be treated at home with plain yogurt, which neutralizes the damage caused by the calcium oxalate crystals.
Soluble Calcium Oxalate-containing Plants
Plants that contain soluble calcium oxalate crystals such as english shamrock, rhubarb, and tropical star fruit can cause life threatening reactions by changing an animal’s blood chemistry. Signs of calcium poisoning include drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, abnormal urination, and tremors. Blood tests and IV fluids will be necessary for your pet.
Corn Plant and Dragon Tree
These plants contain saponin, which acts like a surfactant to hinder your dog’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. Symptoms include dilated pupils, vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, and lethargy, but corn plant and dragon tree are otherwise not extremely dangerous.
Spring Bulbs
Bulbs are attractive to dogs because they mimic many favorite toys. However, daffodils, tulips, and hyacinth can all cause vomiting, diarrhea, and intestinal obstruction. See your animal hospital Veterinarian if ingestion occurs. Treatment includes induced-vomiting, IV fluids, and supportive care.
Please note that this is not a complete list and if you dog shows any abnormal signs after ingesting anything, seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
Are you boarding your dog for the first time and unsure of what to expect? With these six tips you can have a worry-free vacation while your dog is happy, healthy, and comfortable at your favorite kennel.
Call Ahead
A week before your departure confirm with the kennel the days and times you will be dropping off and picking up your dog. If there is any change in your plans be sure to call ahead and let them know. Always be respectful of the kennel workers when making arrangements to drop off and pick up your pet and never expect to arrive outside of regular business hours.
Make Your Dog Feel at Home
Most boarding facilities will allow you to bring comforts from home for your pet, such as a favorite blanket, dog bed, or toys. If your dog is prone to destruction when he or she is bored it might be best to avoid bringing a bed; however, familiar items can also help ease stress. If you are worried your pet might have separation anxiety in your absence, consider leaving a t-shirt or blanket with your scent.
Pack Your Dog’s Food, Treats, and Meds
Dogs thrive on routine so it is important to make sure as few things change as possible. Provide enough food for your dog’s entire stay, plus a couple additional portions just in case your travel is delayed. You can ensure your dog has enough food by pre-portioning his or her meals into individual baggies. You can also provide a small bag of your dog’s favorite treats. If your pet requires medication, include detailed instructions for your dog’s care, making sure to list even the details that might seem obvious.
Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet
You might feel sad saying goodbye, especially the first time your dog is being boarded. However, a tearful goodbye could cause stress and anxiety for your pet, so it is best to treat your departure as if it is nothing out of the ordinary.
Provide Emergency Contact Information
Double check the phone number the kennel has on file in case of emergency. If you will be unreachable during your vacation provide the name and number for someone you trust who is able to make medical decisions for your pet.
Don’t Worry
Finally, do not worry about your pet while you are away. Remember that your dog is being cared for by a team of dedicated animal lovers who will put the needs of your pet first. Enjoy your vacation and don’t be surprised if your dog is tired when you return after a weekend full of fun!
Introduction to Gun Fire and Preventing Gun Shyness
Gun shyness in dogs is a top concern among hunters. In most instances, the problem is directly related to introducing gunfire in the wrong way.
Hunters should take a progressive approach when conditioning their dogs to loud noises. Wait until your dog is 8 months of age or older. Your dog should be mature, confident, marking well, and fired up about retrieving.
To begin, start with a .22 blank, popper, or a #209 primer. Place the popper in your training bag, and pull the trigger as you throw a bumper. Your dog will be more interested in the bumper than the pop, and will become easily conditioned to the sound. Over time, move closer to your dog during this exercise.
When you are confident that your dog is comfortable with the sound of the pop, move on to retrieving drills with a .410 shotgun. This type of gunfire is ideal, because it is not too loud for these initial encounters. Enlist the help of a friend, and have him or her stand at a distance from you and your dog. This person will toss a bumper in the air, and then fire the gun. Again, your dog should be more interested in the flying bumper than the sound of the gun, and conditioning should be easy at this point. Enthusiasm and positive praise from you or the handler is also important.
When introducing your dog to gunfire, be progressive in your approach and make haste slowly. Being conservative throughout this process is far better than delaying your training – and possibly your hunt – while you overcome gun-shyness.
Bull Valley Retrievers There is no doubt that a well-trained dog is a luxury, whether your dog’s purpose is household companion or hunting partner. At Bull Valley Retrievers, dog training is available to meet the needs of any dog owner. For every dog, a solid obedience foundation is crucial. Obedience training is available to teach your companion pet everything he or she needs to know in order to harmoniously coexist with your family. Your dog will learn: • Basic obedience • Recall • Sit • Stay • Heel In addition to the above lessons, Bull Valley Retrievers can provide one-on-one training to help solve specific problems you are experiencing with your pet, or to help you better understand the training and communication process. All obedience training programs are tailored to the individual dog and his or her needs. This extended-stay format ensures every aspect of your dog’s behavior is observed and modified appropriately. Most dogs require 4 – 6 weeks of obedience training, but individuals may vary. For one-on-one sessions, hour long appointments can be scheduled at a Bull Valley Retriever location, in your home, or at an off-site area. In addition to the board and train obedience format, puppy primer and jumpstart programs are available to get your puppy started on the right track. The puppy primer is suitable for dogs aged 2 – 5 months, and the puppy development program is for dogs aged 6 months and older. These programs can be performed as extended stay or as individual sessions. All breeds and ability levels are welcome at Bull Valley Retrievers.
Besides obedience and companion training, hunting and gun dog preparation are a passion for the staff at Bull Valley Retrievers. Types of Hunting and Gun Dog training includes:
• Hunt Test Training • Upland Training • Waterfowl Training • Companion Gun Dog Training • One-on-One Training • Shed Hunting
You can expect your dog to first receive a solid foundation in obedience before moving towards specific hunt/gun dog skills such as force fetching, e-collar conditioning, beginning blinds, steadying, and advanced training. All levels of AKC and UKC Hunt Test training are available. For the companion gun dog, socialization and exposure towards various situations encountered in the field will be covered, as well as scenting, tracking, force fetching, and delivery to hand. In addition, one-on-one training sessions can help you work through specific problems you may be experiencing with your dog and are performed in a field-setting, on the Bull Valley Retrievers training grounds, or in your home. Each training program is geared towards the specific strengths and weaknesses of your pet, working within his or her ability level. The staff at Bull Valley Retrievers understands that not every dog will be a Field Champion, and each training program is designed to bring out the very best of each dog’s natural abilities. No matter what type of training you choose, you can rest assured that only a limited number of dogs are on the premises at any given time, ensuring your pet receives all the attention and custom training that he or she deserves. After your dog has been trained – either for hunting or general obedience – you and your family are encouraged to spend time at Bull Valley Retrievers to learn the commands and the proper way to communicate with your dog. While your pet is involved in the extended-stay program, you are welcome to visit him or her at any time to observe its progress.
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