Douglas P.'s profile

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answered a question What's the best way to start leash training my dog?

Your dog may be more food motivated than you think. In training we talk about the value of treats, low value treats might be the kibble they eat everyday, vs high value treats that include chicken, cheese, hot dogs, steak, etc.. It takes a bit of trial and error to find what you dogs likes most. My dogs like carrots, frozen bananas, string cheese, chicken to name a few. It's important that the treat be cut up into small pieces. Personally, I like Zuke's Mini Naturals. They are small, 3 calories, and ,most dogs like them. Try to avoid working with your dog after meals. It is best for to feed about an hour after training.

Start leash training in your backyard or in the house.Use a treat to keep the dog at your side. When the dog begins to pull, stop and have the dog sit. Use a treat to keep the dog's focus on you. If he keeps pulling, make a U-turn with the puppy on the outside of the turn and head in the other direction. Don't wait for the puppy, just go. Walk about 30' and make another U-turn. You may need to take walks that are a constant U-turn up and down the street for 15 mins.

Good luck.

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answered a question How to keep a dog happy in a cone for two weeks?

Dogs are very adaptable, so don't worry about her being unhappy. She will more than likely hit walls, furniture and human legs many times while wearing the cone. You may consider using the inflatable neck ring if she is having problems with the plastic cone. The best thing you can do is keep her focus on you with high value treats like chicken or cheese. Make sure she Sits or Downs before getting the treats.

answered a question Is Blue Buffalo a quality dog food?

I used to feed my dogs Blue Buffalo and it is a better than average dog food. I did find it expensive and when I adopted a third dog and took on two fosters, I also switched to Costco's Nature's Domain.

Here is a great resource for Dog Food choices.

http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/