Lesson from Sugi: When guiding a dog to overcome a fearful place or object, don’t use frustration, anger, force. Relax the leash! Allow the dog to come to the object or place through his choice using reward and praise. Sugi says, “Just give me a minute while I make sure it’s safe…OK” Story: One evening…
Lesson from Tom: If a dog is experiencing back or leg pain, the first diagnosis from a vet may not be correct. Don’t only look for disease, pay attention to play habits and if there are repetitive movements that may be causing strain or muscular injury. Alternative medicine treatments and reducing repetitive intense movements (such…
Lesson from Sugi: When getting a new dog, find out about the dog’s history. Sometimes bad experiences from the past will manifest in the present as fear of objects, people or other dogs. If you suspect a history of distress or trauma, he will need to receive extra understanding and patience delivered with calm leadership! Sugi…
Lesson from Tom: Your new dog, especially a puppy, needs time to adjust to a completely new environment. This may be the first time the puppy is away from mom and siblings. She needs love and comfort without distress in order to make this transition easier. Tom says, “Don’t leave me alone at night, I’m…
