I get many questions about how the fulfillment formula – Exercise, Discipline, then Affection – changes as the dog age and doesn’t require as much physical activity and energy draining. Here are some tips to keep in mind as your dog enters his senior years.

I always stress how important it is to get a dog that fits your energy level and lifestyle, but at some point, even the highest-energy dogs that are in great health will slow down as they enter their senior years.

Nothing is more important than prevention, so it’s vital that you provide exercise, a nutritious diet, and supplements as needed and recommended by your vet throughout your dog’s life. Alternative medicine treatments, like acupuncture, are becoming increasingly popular for all kinds of conditions, especially arthritis, which is common in older dogs who have been very active.

Swimming is an excellent activity for dogs of all ages, but it is particularly good for older dogs because it is low-impact and easy on their weakening joints and muscles. Swimming also builds strength, is suitable for their conditioning, and is naturally relaxing and comforting to most dogs. Also, consult your vet about the best joint health supplement for your dog. I recommend Vetz Petz Antinol because it contains a unique PCSO-524, which has been scientifically and clinically tested and proven to support joint health.

When we think of aging, we think of medical conditions. But for many dogs, they age without any sign of illness at all. When Daddy was a senior, he had minimal physical desires. He would get tired walking from my house to the neighbor’s house – it was like walking miles and miles for him – and we celebrated that walk the same way we did when he was younger, and we’d return from a two-hour Pack Walk. 

As he aged, it was not so much about the time spent walking but about allowing him to stay where he wanted to be. This was his revised fulfillment formula. Daddy still wanted to be outside and experience nature, but he didn’t need to do it with the one, two, and three-year-old pups. He could do it right in the backyard.

Tailoring the fulfillment formula as a dog ages to fit his needs is something that many humans have a hard time with. It’s no different than the fears we have about aging as humans. But this is a natural part of life, and honoring that life is keeping your dog.

You don’t have to feel like you’re no longer giving the dog rules, boundaries, and limitations if you, for example, bring them their food instead of making them come to the kitchen or the yard to eat. “Room service” at this stage of life is acceptable. Remember that their body doesn’t match the mind anymore – they might have trouble controlling their bladder, which isn’t something to punish. It results from the kind of care we provide our dogs in this country and worldwide. You’re not going to see a 14-year-old dog in a third-world country very often; they don’t have the same kind of care and nutrition.

Remember that you don’t need to provide stimulation at this senior stage of life. What you want to provide is relaxation. Give the dog a massage, help them when they need it (like using a ramp as you would for an older person who has difficulty getting upstairs), and be patient. Enjoy this time and celebrate their life!

Understand Your Dog's Mobility

Sadly, witnessing your young pet age and struggle to move is disheartening. However, mobility issues are not necessarily an excuse for giving up on them. Elderly canines can and should still experience rewarding lives, even though they may experience challenges getting around. Provided proper maintenance and upkeep, a senior dog’s lifespan can be prolonged rather than cut short in the presence of mobility predicaments.

Signs of Decreased Mobility in Senior Dogs

• Struggles to jump and climb
• Shows stiffness or pain
• Slowed walking or limping
• Slips when walking around or getting up
• Struggles to sit and stand
• Timid to participate in usual activities
• Favors a limb

Tips for Exercising Senior Dogs

It’s essential to remember that as dogs age, their needs change; they need shorter but more frequent sessions of gentle exercise tailored to their overall health and ability.

Get the OK

Initially, visit your vet. Your senior pooch requires a complete physical exam to ensure he is fit enough for escalated exercise. Before adjusting your pup’s lifestyle, serious metabolic disturbances such as heart conditions, diabetes, and aging difficulties like osteoarthritis need to be disregarded or regarded as causes of inactivity.

Choose Lower Impact Activities

Exercising is essential for senior dogs both to keep them physically active and help with common age-related ailments. However, their ability to perform vigorous or high-impact exercises may diminish as they age. This makes it important to prioritize low-impact activities that are easier on their joints and muscles while still providing the benefits of physical activity. Examples include:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Brain games
• Balance exercise
• Nose work

Walking a Senior Canine

Going for a walk is an exceptional, mild-intensity exercise that benefits your pup’s physical and mental well-being. As your canine companion grows older, you need to consider how fast you walk, the climatic conditions, and how your dog appears to feel during and after exercise. Elderly canines are particularly receptive to changes in temperature—either excessively hot or cold—so taking steps to ensure they are comfortable during your stroll is essential. Please take note of the weather and period of the day to stop them from being subject to overheating or frostbite. If you observe that your pup is sore after the stroll, you may want to backtrack (literally!) and cut down on the duration of your trips.

Incorporate Fun and Games

Senior canines can still have fun, and all you need to do is adjust the activities for their tender joints and slower reflexes. Here are some game ideas you can start playing with your older dog today.

• Hide-and-seek
• Fetch (shortened)
• Three cups and a treat
• Water games, especially fun in the summer!

Take Breaks in Between Exercises

Exercising a senior dog requires more caution and gentleness to prevent possible injury and fatigue. Older canines should not be pushed too hard, as they may not have the same energy they did when they were younger and more energetic. It is essential to give the older dogs plenty of breaks to catch their breath between exercises, preferably in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight.

By monitoring how far your senior dog can go without appearing tired or stressed, you’ll know when it’s time for them to take a break and restore their energy levels. This way, appropriate exercise can still be had while keeping your older dog safe and comfortable. 

Mix Things Up

Maintain your canine companion intellectually engaged and animated, as well. Always walk different paths. Don’t consistently entertain the same activities:

• Teach a new trick
• Meet new dog friends
• Buy other toys and switch them out
• Check out the local dog park

Warm Up & Cool Down for Outdoor Exercises

Warming up and cooling down is an essential part of outdoor exercise for senior dogs. Gradually increasing your pup’s activity in a controlled setting will help them safely get their body temperature up and prepare their muscles, tendons, and ligaments for activity. It’s essential to give your dog time to cool down after they’ve also finished exercising, and this can help speed up the recovery process and reduce any aches or pains afterward. Slowing down gradually when you’re done with your walk is a great way to ensure your senior pup has the best outdoor experience!

Create Indoor Exercise Routines

Indoor exercise options, such as interactive playtime, playing mentally stimulating games, stretching, and introducing scenting activities, can all help to keep senior canine companions in shape without putting undue strain on their aging bodies.

Cross-Training Senior Dogs

Cross-training enables certain body parts to relax as you concentrate on making muscles in different places. Canine yoga, doggy Pilates, and other activities are soaring in popularity due to their countless mental and physical advantages to dogs of any age.

Safe Swimming for Senior Dogs

Suppose you have access to a place to swim that allows canines, it is the perfect way to get a workout. Swimming is lightweight on the body, particularly the joints, yet maintains its status as a powerful total-body exercise. Swimming provides a secure, simplified approach to permitting your dog to add strength to the body without discomforting the bones and joints.

Monitor Senior Dog Exercises Closely

Do NOT Push Your Older Dog Through Pain

It would be best if you had a conversation with your veterinarian about the measures you can take for pain management. The fact is that dogs are not usually vocal about their chronic distress; they go on as usual. Consequently, it is in your hands to be aware of the indicators.

Reevaluate the Exercise Program

Continually modify and adapt any exercise regimen to your dog’s specific situation and changing capabilities. If it means your canine gets tougher and can do more or becomes weak and needs to do less. Ultimately, the objective is to delight in one another’s companionship and have a good time while striving for a healthier senior dog.

Signs of Too Much Exercise for a Senior Dog

• Excessive breathing or salivating, mainly if their tongue/gums are a strong red or blue. Dogs pant in warm temperatures, which is used to cool Fido down, but it is not appropriate to work out with any dog outside when it is hot, especially an elderly one.
• Sneezing or wheezing. This can indicate cardiac ailments, pulmonary issues, or something called ‘Tracheal Derangement’ (usually frequent in smaller breeds). Constant coughing can create respiratory troubles, so if your senior canine begins to cough while working out, it’s time to bring the session to a close.
• Slowing down or wanting to stop playtime. This is a definite cue that your elderly canine has had enough for the day, and it’s time to rest.
• Limping or weak limbs. You must immediately stop when an aged dog favors a single limb during physical activity. If the pain does not resolve within a day (or if it does but then reappears), you need to take your pooch to the veterinarian to ensure there isn’t any severe injury or irritation.

The Importance of Senior Dogs Remaining Active

Caring for a senior dog is a special way to pay homage to their years of loyalty and love. For an older dog to remain healthy and happy, it is essential to find ways for them to stay active. Daily exercises such as playing fetch or brisk walks will help keep bones strong and joints limber. Even indoor activities like hiding treats around the house can provide mental stimulation and entertainment. Not only will exercise support your senior dog’s physical well-being, but it can also keep them mentally sharp while they age gracefully.

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As a conscientious dog owner, you work hard to fit their daily walks into your schedule. It doesn’t matter if you have to get up early or do it after the sun has gone down because it’s about what’s best for your dogs. This attitude is to be applauded, but don’t forget about safety!

A Reliable Leash and Dog Collar

You want to ensure the leash and collar are appropriate for the size and strength of your dog. The last thing you want is for him to break free and try to run across a busy street or go after another dog or a person because the leash snapped or the collar slid off. Check the state of your dog’s collar and leash regularly, inspecting them for any damage or rust on the hardware (D-ring and leash clasp) or rips in the fabric. Replace them at the first hint of possible failure. Also, avoid using variable length leads, and check your local laws. In some jurisdictions, there is a maximum allowed length of the leash. For example, city law in Los Angeles limits leash length to six feet.

Reflective Clothing

If you walk your dog in darkness or inclement weather, you owe it to yourself and your pup to stand out to drivers. One of the best ways to do this is by wearing a reflective running vest, and you may also want to invest in reflective dog clothing.

LED Lights

Not into dressing your dog in reflective clothing? Try something with an LED light. For humans, there are wearable bike and running safety lights. For dogs, Cesar recommends the Bright Light Leash & Collar because it provides an LED light to make your dog visible and position it where it can be seen. Even better for you, the light is solar powered and USB chargeable!

Comfortable Walking Shoes

When our feet hurt, so do the rest of our bodies. So take care of yourself by ensuring the shoes you wear on your dog walks are the correct size and fit — and that they are proper walking shoes, not sandals or heels. Also, ensure they have no-skid soles or a decent tread to reduce the chance of slipping and falling or off your dog suddenly pulling you off your feet. Of course, dog-walking safety isn’t just about gadgets. Changing your route will confuse anyone trying to keep tabs on you; telling someone where you’re going will alert them to help if you don’t come back, and walking with others can help deter predators. Plan and your dog walks are much more likely to be peaceful and relaxing, helping you maintain a Pack Leader’s calm, assertive energy!

Dog Walking Bag

Are you looking for a way to make dog walking more manageable and efficient? Then you need a dog walking bag! This essential piece of gear can help you carry all the supplies you need while out on a walk, and it’ll make walks much more organized and stress-free. Once you find a bag that works for you, here are some suggested items to include in your walking bag.

Emergency Card

You must always be prepared for an emergency if you’re a dog walker. That means having an emergency card with all your contact information. Suppose something happens to you while walking dogs. Someone will be able to get in touch with your clients quickly. An emergency card can also help if you get lost or stranded somewhere. Information to include on the card is your name, contact information for two people, the number of dogs you are walking, and the dogs’ names. So make sure to carry one with you whenever you’re walking dogs!

Phone

Most people don’t go anywhere without their phones these days. However, you might consider leaving the device home if you take your pup on a quick walk around the block. Having your cellular phone is essential if you need to reach emergency services or get lost. Update your contacts to include ICE (in case of emergency) contact information that EMS personnel can retrieve should anything happen to you.

Spare Leash & Collar

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Waste Bag

Carrying a waste bag for your dog should be a no-brainer. Again, even if you’re only going for a quick walk. Respect your community and neighbors and clean up after your furry friend.

Spare Leash & Collar

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Waste Bag

Carrying a waste bag for your dog should be a no-brainer. Again, even if you’re only going for a quick walk. Respect your community and neighbors and clean up after your furry friend.

Wet Wipes

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Dog Treats

Keep a small bag of your pup’s favorite treats broken into smaller pieces for training and rewards. If you walk several different dogs daily, consider carrying a few kinds of goodies.

Photo Of Dog

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Flashlight

A flashlight in your walking bag is helpful for a few reasons. If you start your walk at dusk and are still walking when the sun goes down, a flashlight will help you to see where you’re walking and for others to see you. If there’s an emergency and you’re lost without a cellular signal, you can use the flashlight to alert emergency responders to your location.

Clicker

If you have trained your dog to respond to a clicker device, it would be great to include one in your bag for when you are out and about for a few hours or a few days.

Immunization Records

In the case of an unfortunate incident, it would be helpful to include all updated immunization records, including rabies certification, either on your phone or printed out and kept in a plastic bag. Also, remember that some events and hotels require this information upon check-in.

Water

Some products on the market allow you to carry a water bowl for your pup. Keeping your dog properly hydrated, particularly on hot days, is essential for safety. A collapsible bowl and water bottle are two critical items to keep in your walking bag.

What safety essentials do you always take on the walk?

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Prevention Tips for Both Types of Pests

Dogs who pull on their leashes can be a significant annoyance, not to mention a danger to both the dog and the people around them. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to stop your dog from pulling. In this post, we’ll go over some of the best techniques for breaking your dog of this bad habit. Ready to learn how to stop your dog from pulling?

Stopping your dog from pulling requires making sure you have good foundational behaviors in place, obedience training, and plenty of positive reinforcement.

While it is frustrating to have a dog that pulls at the leash, change is possible!

Basic Obedience

Dogs are amazing creatures and make great pets, but they require basic obedience training. If you don’t take the time to train your dog, they may end up being disruptive and challenging to live with. A well-trained dog is happy, so investing in basic training is worth your time. Training a pup to sit, stay, come, and heel might seem too simple. However, if they can master these commands, everything else will fall into place.

Sit

Teaching your dog to sit is a basic obedience command that all dog owners should know how to do. It’s one of the first instructions that most dogs learn and one of the easiest to teach. There are a few different ways to teach your dog how to sit, but whatever method you choose, persistence and patience are key. Keep at it; your pup will sit like a pro before you know it!

Stay

Teaching your dog to sit is a basic obedience command that all dog owners should know how to do. It’s one of the first instructions that most dogs learn and one of the easiest to teach. There are a few different ways to teach your dog how to sit, but whatever method you choose, persistence and patience are key. Keep at it; your pup will sit like a pro before you know it!

Come

Dogs are known for being loyal creatures that love to please their owners. One of the most basic commands a dog can learn is “come.” This command can be handy in and out of the home and for keeping your dog safe while giving them more freedom throughout their daily life.

Heel

With this command, you’ll get more out of every walk because your furry friend won’t lag or pull you forward. Heeling provides a safer dog-walking experience because it reduces the risk of chase and accidents. Dogs that know how to heel are less likely to run into the road and eat toxic materials.

Offer Rewards & Affection

When training your dog, it’s important to offer rewards and affection, particularly when they have walked calmly on the leash. Rewards will motivate them to obey your commands, while affection will help create a bond between you and your dog. Using both of these tools ensures that the training process is a positive experience for both of you.

Do It Immediately

Your dog is like any other human being; they live in the moment. So when responding with treats and affection, you should do so immediately because your pup will most likely not remember what caused this reaction later on down the road!

Eventually Wean Away from Using Treats

When you first start training your pup, use treats as an incentive. Eventually, weaning off these incentives is essential so that they no longer depend on food for their actions but rather prefer doing what we want just out of love and affection!

Consistency is Essential

Your dog is like any other human being; they live in the moment. So when responding with treats and affection, you should do so immediately because your pup will most likely not remember what caused this reaction later on down the road!

Patience is Needed

The process of training a dog can take patience. A dog is often said to be a “man’s best friend,” which is especially true regarding training. Putting in the time and effort required to train a dog properly can result in years of companionship and enjoyment. Though there may be times when it feels like you’re not getting anywhere, continued patience will eventually pay off.

Keep on Correcting

Positive reinforcement is a great way to train your dog, but it’s critical not to make the mistake of thinking you can’t say no. You should correct the behavior if they misbehave and go against what we want them to do.

When you discipline your dog, the goal is to correct their actions while teaching them what it means for things that do not work out well. You want them to understand that certain behaviors have consequences, including being corrected with a positive tone or redirection.

Tools to Assist

Chances are you’ve had to deal with your dog pulling on the leash, and it can be frustrating and challenging to walk your dog when they’re continuously tugging at the leash. Luckily, there are some tools you can use to help train your dog against pulling.

Gentle Leader

The gentle leader moves your dog’s head and body back towards you when he pulls. The nose loop is a great way to stop your dog from barking and pulling while still allowing him the ability to breathe. Using a gentle leader, you can refocus his attention on what’s important and away from distractions.

Halti Collar

The Halti is a popular head collar because it tends to fit more loosely than other styles. This means that your dog might tolerate the device better, and though they all need time to get used to any trainer, some may respond positively if there’s less restriction on their movement.

Get Professional Help

Owning a pet dog can be a wonderful experience. However, owning a pet dog and training that pet dog yourself can sometimes be two very different things. That’s where professional dog trainers come in; they can help you prepare your pet dog to behave in the way you want them to, and sometimes in ways that you may not have even thought possible. Here are some reasons why professional dog training can benefit you and your pet pooch.

• You Will Learn How to Better Communicate with Your Pup
• Your Dog's Mind Will Stay Active
• You Will Learn More About Your Dog
• Better Behavior
• You and Your Dog Will Have More Fun Together

Many techniques and tools are available to help you train your dog not to pull. We’ve highlighted a few of the most important ones, but finding what works best for you and your pup is essential. Remember to offer lots of affection and rewards as favorable reinforcement. If you need more help than what is provided here, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer. With patience and perseverance, you will have a well-behaved pup who walks nicely by your side in no time! What technique have you found helpful when training your dog not to pull?

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A local dog park is an excellent place for many reasons; however, not all dogs will thrive in this environment. If you’re planning on bringing your pup with you when visiting friends or going on a hike, then make sure they are socialized at home first! Consider these tips before taking your pet somewhere where there may be other canines without supervision- it’ll save both parties from unwanted interactions later down the line.

Common Dog Park Rules

Park rules will vary from one place to another. These rules should be posted conspicuously near park entrances; if not, ask about them before bringing your dog to the neighborhood park. Below are some of the most common rules.

• No dogs may be left unattended.
• Dogs need to be adequately trained.
• Dog owners should keep their pets on a leash when visiting the park.
• Direct supervision is required at all times.
• Any aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people is unacceptable.
• Dog owners must clean up after their dogs.
• Don’t let your pet eat anything inside the dog park.
• Dogs over the age of six months must be spayed or neutered.
• People shouldn’t smoke while walking around a dog park.
• All dogs (including puppies) must be current on vaccinations.

What is Appropriate Dog Park Behavior?

Not all dogs are suitable for dog parks, and some aggressive canines may cause trouble if left alone in an uncontrolled environment. Socializing them in a safe space is wise. Consider the following tips before venturing out to the local dog park.

Be Calm and Friendly

No one wants to hang around a bully or obnoxious pup. Train your pet to be friendly and calm in all situations. Pet owners, park goers, and the general public will appreciate the time and attention you give to training your dog in this manner.

Not Attack Other Dogs

If your dog provokes easily, is fearful, or aggressive, the dog park is not an appropriate socializing venue. A threatening pup needs to stay home for the safety of other pets, owners, yourself, and your furry friend.

Possess Good Manners

It should go without saying; however, some pet owners think it’s cute when their pup hops into a stranger’s lap or jumps on children. This behavior is not appealing, and some people can be easily upset by this happening.

Responsive to Basic Instructions

Your dog should be able to respond to basic cues to prevent an out-of-control situation, such as coming when called, being told to sit, or being asked to leave it. If they cannot obey these basic commands, the park will need to wait until proper training occurs.

Limit Dog’s Barking

For the comfort of other park users and neighboring homes of the facility, barking should be kept at a reasonable level. Barks of joy are normal and acceptable but should still be infrequent. Once aggressive, non-stop barking begins, you should leave.

Dog Owners Should Only Bring Healthy Pets

Just as you would not send a sick child to school, only healthy dogs should be at the park. You would not want your pup to cause other puppies to get sick. Allow your pup to rest, recoup, and before you know it he will be back to his usual self.

Watch Your Pup

It may be tempting to let your dog run the park, but he’s your first responsibility while you’re at the facility. Put your phone away and keep your eyes on your pet for his safety and enjoyment. Talking to another person is a distraction if you cannot maintain visibility on your pet.. Pay attention, and react quickly!

Things To Pay Attention To

Consider these points when you plan an outing to the park. Knowing the personality and how they will react to certain situations is essential for your pet’s safety and others who will be there. The more you are aware of how your four-legged friend will respond will help you to respond accordingly.

Be Aware of Hormones

Dogs who aren’t neutered or spayed are more likely to get into trouble. Canines that aren’t fixed are usually not even allowed at dog parks.

Your Pup’s Body Language

Dogs’ ears are sensitive. Pups stay alert by having their ears perk up when excited. When content, their tails will wag, and their bodies relax. Hackles may rise if a dog is feeling aggressive. Be aware of these noticeable cues when approaching other pets or animals,, and be sure to give space.

Listen to Other Pawrents

Even though sometimes we think our dogs are good, other parents might not appreciate some of your best friend’s behaviors. Things like jumping or biting are great examples of not welcome actions. If a pet parent has expressed that your pup has done something they aren’t fond of, respect them and respond positively.

Interacting with Other Dogs

Dogs should always be supervised when playing with other furry pals. When meeting other pet owners, ask them questions about their dog. Be careful when meeting new pups because some are aggressive towards others. Sometimes it is difficult for pets to get along with other animals. Respect the owner’s wishes if they want to spend time alone with their canine.

Know Your Dog’s Personality

Dog parks can be great places for dogs to meet others, but there are some things you should consider before taking your pet.

• You may want to take your dog to a small local park before going to a bigger one. You’ll want to see how your canine reacts to other dogs.
• Avoid large groups of people when you bring your dog to a park.
• If your dog seems anxious about meeting new dogs, try a slow introduction.
• If your pet starts getting overly excited, you may want to leave the park. If he gets too excited, he may start acting aggressively toward other dogs.
• Leave the park and return another day if your furry friend gets scared or nervous.

How to Stay Safe

Dogs should be kept safe when visiting dog parks. You don’t have to hover around them the entire time, but here are some universal ground rules to get you started.

• Don’t let puppies who are too young to get vaccinated go to the dog park.
• Refrain from taking older pets to dog parks if they have trouble moving around.
• Keep your first visit short and sweet.
• Dogs are loyal pets who deserve to be treated well. When you take your dog out to play, spend quality time together.
• Dogs should always wear a leash when being walked around public areas.

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In addition, dogs often show aggression when they are afraid. While it might be tempting to know how to work with an aggressive dog and gain their trust, this is not always possible if there is genuine fear in the animal. Sometimes it’s best to give a scared dog space instead of interacting with them.

How to Tell If a Dog is Scared

First, you must learn how to tell when a dog is scared. Sometimes you can pick up on their body language that they aren’t comfortable with your presence, but many dogs will try and hide any fear they have for you.

Dogs are only able to communicate fear and anxiety through their body language. So as a dog owner, it is crucial to recognize the signs of fear and react accordingly.

• Tucking their tail between their legs
• Avoiding eye contact
• A body language that is still or frozen
• Growling
• Shaking/trembling
• Raised hair on the back of their neck
• Panting
• Trying to hide
• No control over bladder

These are the most common signs of dog anxiety and fear. If you see these signs in your dog, let them know that you are their friend! This way, they can feel more comfortable around people and not act out when they are uncomfortable.

Tips for Approaching a Scared Dog

When you approach a dog who is afraid or shy, the first step should be to look at their body language. If they have tucked their tail between their legs and show signs of fear, then respect the dog’s space.

Stay in the area and let them know that you are there for them by communicating with your body language.

Be Aware of Your Positioning

Try standing to the side of the dog who is scared, rather than directly in front of them. This way, you can avoid getting in their area and not appear as a threat. As dog lovers, we are eager to make new friends, but sometimes we must remember that not all dogs will be immediately friendly when we come into their space.

Avoid Eye Contact

For humans, eye contact is a sign of respect and trust, but it can appear more threatening for dogs. When meeting a timid or scared dog, try not to make direct eye contact with them at all. Instead, look around the dog’s face and let them know you are there by talking in a gentle tone.

Sitting Down is Often the Best Approach

If you see a dog who appears to be scared, try sitting down and looking at them from their level. Doing this shows that you are not an immediate threat and want to get closer so they can decide on how to proceed.

Move Slowly

If you get the dog’s attention and they look at you, continue to keep your movements slow. Dogs can be very sensitive to how we move, so taking it slow will show them that you’re not here to cause any harm.

Don’t Force It

Lastly, be sure never to force a dog to get closer if they don’t want to. If you see the dog not responding to your other efforts, it is best to back off and try again later.

Be patient with the dog and give them time to realize that you have their best interest at heart.

You never want a dog who is afraid to feel agitated or threatened when meeting new dog-loving friends!

Walking With a Fearful Dog

When walking a fearful dog outside, try to communicate with them softly throughout the walk. This dog is already nervous, so your tone should be gentle and quiet. Yelling at anything could spook them further.

Keep Them on a Leash

Leading the dog with the leash will keep your dog in closer contact with you at all times, and they will feel more confident to explore. When using a leash, you should always try to avoid quick movements and walk at their pace.

Let Them Do What They Please

As you walk, let the dog explore and sniff at their own pace. You do not want to go so slowly that you are holding them back, but if they stop to look at something, just let them be.

Exploration will let them get comfortable with the environment and more familiar with your walking route.

After the first walk, timid dogs will often greet you with less fear during your future visits. They’ll move closer and will be more willing to walk around you. Even most dogs that act defensive or aggressive at first are still open to building a relationship; it just takes patience and time.

Gaining a Dog’s Trust

Your dog’s trust is an important thing to have when you are a dog owner. If a dog does not trust you, they can lash out in anger or become aggressive towards you when you’re least expecting it.

But it can be hard to gain a dog’s trust, especially when they are timid or scared of people. Some dogs may have had bad experiences in the past, such as being abused by their previous owner. If you want your dog to love you and trust you unconditionally, then we recommend trying out these strategies.

Make a Good First Impression

If you’re meeting a friend’s dog for the first time, be sure that the dog is aware that you are friendly to its owner and has had an excellent first experience with you. If not, it might be best to leave the dog alone for now and let it come to you.

Once you get a chance to meet the dog, try sitting down next to them. You can try simply talking to them in a friendly tone and let them move freely.

Remain Calm and Assertive

Dog’s can read our energy and body language very well, so if you can remain calm and assertive, they will see that you are trustworthy. Being assertive means being extremely patient with the dog, especially if they appear scared.

Do Some Dog Activities

Whether you are watching a dog for a friend or dog-sitting, you can give the dog a reason to trust you. Doing their favorite dog activities together, such as running or playing fetch, is a great way to let them become comfortable around you.

Playing will allow the dog to see that you’re there to have fun with them and not just be another person they need to avoid. Ask the owner what their favorite activities are and try doing them if they seem ready!

Avoid Comforting Them

Whenever you encounter an anxious or timid dog, it’s natural to comfort and calm them. Though this is well-meaning, you are inadvertently rewarding their behavior and validating it for the future.

It would be best if you quietly ignored a timid dog’s nervousness and instead offered him something that interests him, like a squeaky toy. Once they are distracted by it, praising them will grow their confidence and strengthen your bond.

With these tips, you will be sure to show the dog how much they are cared for and that your presence is something they do not have to fear!

The post How To Meet A Timid Dog & Gain Their Trust appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Just like people, dogs get bored with the same old everyday routine. Keeping them mentally challenged and constantly exposing them to new things is just as important as taking them for walks and exercising them. Bored dogs develop destructive behaviors and take their negative energy out on things like your furniture.

Here are some creative ways to stimulate your dog’s mind so they don’t get bored and misbehave.

Ways to Challenge Your Dog’s Mind

Work on a New Trick

Every time you engage your dog in a training session, you are providing him with a mental challenge. Search around for new tricks to work on. If you’re ready to move past the basic commands, check out books, scan the Internet, and ask a trainer for ideas for new tricks and training ideas.

“My dog, Vince just recently turned 4-years old and I finally enrolled him in obedience school. It has changed both our lives. Now on days where I work him on new tricks and such, I have noticed that his temperament has calmed down. Challenging him mentally makes him much less anxious in general and he has become more relaxed around other dogs. Vince is proof that old dogs can definitely learn new tricks.” – Sara Hicks

Play with Interactive Games or Toys with Your Dog

Purchase a doggie board game or a canine puzzle to challenge your pup. Engage your dog in a game of Dog Memory or Dog Dominos. Give your dog one of the many toys that allow you to hide treats and objects inside and engage your dog to figure out how to work them out.

“This sounds silly but I bought this board game that I saw at the store for my dog Snickers and I to play together. I put treats underneath a peg and she has to figure out which ones to lift up in order to find where the treats are. There is another version where I cover up the treats with this piece of plastic and Snickers has to spin the board around to uncover the treats. It really challenges her and I see her brain working so hard to figure everything out.” – Donna Marr

Run Errands with Your Dog

Even a quick run to the mailbox, a stopover at a friend’s house, or a spin through the car wash will place your dog face to face with a variety of stimulants.

“Even just taking Ryker for a car ride or to the car wash is stimulating for him. He gets to see lots of different sights and sounds and experience new situations. He loves going and gets so excited. And I can see his brain working as it takes it all in. And when we come home, he falls right asleep, even though it wasn’t physically taxing.” – Jennifer Brody

Give Your Dog a Job to Do

Dogs are bred to complete tasks such as hunting and herding. When they aren’t able to fulfill these types of duties, they can get restless. Engage your dog in a game of Frisbee. Get him involved in a sport like agility or Flyball. Take him for a long walk, hike, or swim. Find jobs that fulfill your dog’s breed. If you have a retriever, for example, nothing will leave it more satisfied than a hearty game of fetch.

“I can take my dog for a walk or a run, but the thing that really makes her the happiest is a hearty game of fetch. I take a tennis racket to the dog park and hit a ball as far as I can. She will bring it back to me over and over again like it’s her job.” – John Kurmai

Introduce Your Dog to New Faces

Every time your dog meets a new person or fellow canine, they are introduced to new sights, sounds, and butts to sniff. Taking you pup to places like the dog park will provide him with ample opportunity to engage his senses.

“I frequently take Bruiser to the dog park, which he absolutely loves! Bruiser constantly meets new friends there and finds people to sniff and get petted by. This has really made him listen better, less anxious and truly more satisfied.” – Kat Malkowych

Give Them New Toys and Rotate Out the Old Ones

You wouldn’t want to play with the same thing every day would you? Then you shouldn’t expect your dog to continue to love the same toy that he’s had for months. Give him a toy to play with for a few days and when he grows bored of it, replace it with another one.

“Moogly has so many toys but still gets bored. It’s ridiculous! I am constantly bringing new toys into the house but he has a short attention span so they only keep him entertained for a while. We started keeping all of his toys in a bin in the closet and rotating them out. He has so many now and we’ll change up a new toy with one that he’s had for years and that he may have forgotten about. He loves this and whenever we switch them up, he is just as excited as when he gets a brand new toy.” – Katie Adams

We’d love for you to share your ideas for stimulating your dog’s mind below!

Share the fun with your pack. Check out Cesar Millan’s line of dog toys.

The post 6 Great Ways To Challenge Your Dog’s Mind appeared first on Cesar's Way.

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The post How To Housetrain Your Puppy appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Here are a few guidelines you should always keep in mind to help respect the rules, boundaries, and limitations set by other dog parents.

1. If the Pack Leader asks you not to let their dog jump up on you or sit in your lap, comply — even if you don’t mind
   You may enjoy some time with a nice lapdog, but you’re hurting their ability to maintain the household rule for other guests who may not only dislike the behavior but actually be allergic.
    
2. Never feed someone else’s dog without permission
   Food is a very powerful motivator for dogs. It can bring out negative instincts and behaviors in an otherwise well-behaved pup. And of course, you can’t know what allergies or food sensitivities this dog may suffer from.
    
3. Always practice “no touch, no talk, no eye contact” when meeting a new dog
   This includes even a cute, cuddly one that’s rushing up just begging for love. It can be hard, but remember, by giving the dog attention while he’s in a hyperactive state, you are reinforcing that state — not something that’s in the best interest of the dog’s safety.
    
4. Don’t stick your hand in front of the nose of a dog you don’t know
   Many people mistakenly believe they are helping the dog to smell them — but this dog can smell you from much further away. It’s not only unnecessary, but unsafe.
    
5. Don’t yell at someone else’s dog
   In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to use our words to try to deal with a dog’s problem behavior, but that will only cause the situation to escalate. Exuding calm-assertive energy will always get you further.
    
6. Don’t encourage puppy bites
   Yes, they’re adorable, and yes, they don’t hurt (much). But you’re reinforcing the behavior. Imagine what that will mean when the dog is full grown. Help the Pack Leader by redirecting that behavior towards toys instead.
    
7. Don’t leave your dog off-leash
   Unless, of course, it’s an off-leash dog park. Yes, your dog may be trained, balanced, and completely well-behaved, but that doesn’t mean other dogs will be. In fact, the other dog may be undergoing rehabilitation for an issue, and your curious and otherwise friendly dog interferes with that. Or it simply may make the other Pack Leader nervous — hurting their ability to maintain that crucial calm-assertive energy — because they simply don’t know how in-control your dog will be.
    
8. Do teach your children about the right way to meet a dog
   This isn’t just a matter of respecting other Pack Leaders; it’s about safety. Not all dogs are ready and willing to meet children, and if your child approaches for a hug, he or she may get bitten instead. Children should always ask first before touching a dog, and then, if permission is granted, allow the dog to approach the child instead of the other way around. Start early; even toddlers can start to pick up on these valuable lessons.
    
9. Do secure your gate
   Accidents happen. Even if you are responsible, your dog can get loose. But here’s the key: once it happens, figure out why and how. Take steps to fix the issue as soon as possible, and before allowing your dog out in the backyard again without supervision.
    
10. Do help dogs wandering your neighborhood
    As a Pack Leader, you are a part of a community. Help your fellow dog lovers by keeping an eye out for dogs that may have gotten loose. Again, even the most caring Pack Leader can struggle with a devious escapee or accidentally leave a gate unhinged.

    Put your safety first, but if you can do so safely, please intervene. If you are unable to help — for whatever reason — you can still let the owner know the dog’s last-known whereabouts by posting a message on your neighborhood’s Facebook page, the NextDoor social network, or other community message boards.

When in doubt, ask. Most Pack Leaders won’t mind explaining what you can do to best help them on their journey towards raising a well-behaved, calm-submissive pup, and you’ll gain both a canine friend and a grateful human one as a result.

Did you know that Respect is one of the many things our dogs can teach us? Find out how in Cesar’s new book, “Cesar Millan’s Lessons from the Pack,” available now!

The post How To Respect Your Fellow Pack Leaders appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Teaching your dog how to fetch seems like it should be one of those things that’s so simple it requires no real thought or effort. After all, dogs love both playing and pleasing their humans, and fetch involves both of these things — you should just be able to do it, right?

Short answer: nope.

While there are some dogs that just seem to intrinsically understand the game and will automatically chase and retrieve whatever object you use the first time you try, most do not. Either they sit and stare at you, wondering why you would choose to throw away a perfectly good toy, or they chase after the object but don’t “catch” it, or bring it back.

So what can you do to help your pup learn the game like a pro?

Here Are Six Tried and True Tips

Start with Chasing

If your dog is of the “sit and stare” variety, your first goal is to teach him to chase after the object you want him to fetch. Generally speaking, there are three ways to do this, depending upon what motivates your pup: you can offer him affection, treats, or play for retrieving the chosen object. Whichever motivator you use, the process is basically the same. Encourage your dog to go after the item you want him to fetch. When he grabs it, reward him with his motivator of choice, then take the object away. Repeat this a few times, then toss the object a short distance. When he goes for it, immediately reward him again. Repeat the process until you can reliably toss the object and get him to chase it.

Add Extra Motivation

Want to encourage her to give chase even more? Try holding her back after throwing the toy. She’ll naturally tug against you, especially if you offer verbal encouragement while still holding her back. Once you finally let go, she’ll be after the object like a rocket.

Retrieving

After your dog chases the object, the next step is getting him to actually bring it back to you. There are a number of different things you can do depending on your dog’s behavior. If he won’t bring the object back at all, it can help to use a second toy. Once he’s “caught” the first one, show him the second and throw it in the opposite direction. He probably won’t carry the first toy with him, but it will at least get him accustomed to the idea of running back to you after he’s caught the object. After he masters this, try calling him to come back to you while he’s holding the object and asking him to drop it. If you show the second object, he’ll likely drop the first one to chase after it. Eventually, he’ll learn that if he comes back to you and drops the object, you’ll throw it again.

Avoiding “Keep Away.”

For dogs that like to catch the object and run off with it, a rope can help. Once she catches the object, wriggle the line and pull it towards you or run away from your dog with it. This should encourage her to follow you. Even if she doesn’t, reel the rope in and praise her when she gets close, then toss the object again and repeat. Do this for a few weeks and your pup should come to you naturally.

Getting the Object Back

If your dog stops and drops the object before reaching you, back away while saying “All the way,” or “Bring it.” Once he reaches the spot where you were originally located, go to him and offer praise, then toss the object again. If the issue is that he won’t let go, tell him to drop it and put a treat by his nose. Most dogs will drop the object to go for the treat.

Pick Something Your Dog Likes

Perhaps the most important rule of all — your dog isn’t going to chase after something unless she actually wants it, so feel free to experiment with different objects (balls, Frisbees, sticks) until you find one that she’s interested in.

What tricks can your dog do? Brag about your pooch’s skills in the comments.

The post 6 Steps To Teaching Your Dog To Fetch appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Many owners think “play” means letting their puppy run wild, but play sessions can be productive and fun too with some focus that allows a mental component in addition to the physical. A dog plays two ways – first as a dog, and second as a breed. Channeling that energy and knowing the difference is the key to making it a positive learning experience.

Here are Cesar’s Best Tips for Mind Tricks You Can Play with Your Dog

Stimulate the nose

All dogs can track using their most powerful sense – their nose. Make a game out of hiding their food or play hide-and-seek with treats. You can build obstacle courses for your dog out of boxes, sturdy containers, and portable stairs. Rub the scent in scent in various spaces, hiding the meal or the high-prized treat in the toughest place to find. It encourages the dog to problem solve and as a result, builds confidence too. Think of this as a sort of Easter egg hunt for the dog. You can hide treats and high-prized toys all over the house or yard even! I’ve played this “game” with all of the pups I’ve raised over the years.

Use your imagination.

You don’t have to spend a ton of money on toys or tools. Remember when you’re a kid and you built fortresses in the family room out of sheets and chairs and sofa cushions? You can do the same with your dog and create an agility course at home. Use treats to lure the dog by scent into the area and activity you want them to perform. Be patient. They might not get it right away, but as with any sport, practice makes perfect! Remember that all kinds of toys sold in stores can be made at home too. Treat balls are a lot of fun, but hiding kibble in an empty plastic water bottle can be just as exciting. The dog doesn’t know the difference. This can be a challenging way to feed them too because it forces them to problem solve and earn their food. I know some dogs that learn how this works so quickly that they realize if they put the bottle in their mouth and turn their head, all the food comes out at once!

Play like a dog.

All dogs love to run and chase things (even if they don’t naturally retrieve, all dogs can learn). One game I like to play: Tie a string to the end of a long stick, then tie a soft stuffed animal onto the string. Dangle it in front of your dog to catch their eye contact and attention. To make it even more interesting, stuff it with a treat or rub it with the scent of a treat or food. Instead of moving it frantically, which is our natural human inclination, move it slowly, stopping and starting again. This encourages the dog to focus the excitement and leave you in control – the faster you go, the more you drain their physical energy; the slower you go, the more you challenge their mind. Additionally, it nurtures their natural prey drive in a focused, disciplined way that is fun for them and you.

Discipline can be fun too!

One of the ways people often teach a puppy their name is to play hide-and-seek, literally, not just with a treat. Once a dog has learned the “stay” command, this becomes a really fun exercise. It’s also a way to teach “come” with the word “come” or whatever sound you choose, a whistle for example. It works like this: you say “stay” and then go hide in another room or behind a tree or wherever. Keep the proximity close at first and then gradually increase the distance. When you are in your hiding place, make the come sound or say the word. Then patiently wait for the dog to find you. Don’t say his name or the command again. Give their mind a chance to work it out. When he finds you, reward him with a treat. It’s that simple. They’ll get better and better at it and once they do, you can move to larger areas like a park.

Tug of war — but be aware of the risks.

With the amount of ropes and toys available that encourage tug of war, it’s not surprising that so many dog owners play this game with their dog. However, you need to be aware of the risk. It’s a game that brings out the predator in your dog and can be unhealthy for your relationship if you don’t have trust and respect to begin with. You need to have control over your dog’s power and instincts before you can engage in a healthy game of tug of war with them.

How do you stimulate your dog’s mind? Tell us in the comments.

The post How To Stimulate Your Dog’s Mind appeared first on Cesar's Way.