Smart Dogs can be Obedient Dogs

According to Stanley Coren, author of “The Intelligence of Dogs,” some breeds have a “working intelligence” and are more likely to be trainable and obedient.  Intelligent breeds do require attention and activity, because they get bored easily and can become destructive if not given proper channels for their energy and inquisitiveness.  They also need adequate training and consistent human leadership to take the proper family role. 

These are the top ten most obedient breeds:

·         Border collie.  This is an energetic, medium sized dog who needs stimulating activities and active outdoor play.  It can be kid friendly if well socialized.  Life expectancy is 12-15 years.

·         Poodle.  A standard poodle is medium to large, although there are toy and miniature varieties as well.  It is a cheerful, but low key breed.  It dislikes being alone, and is excellent with kids. Life expectancy is 12-15 years.

·         German Shepherd.  This is a large, protective breed, loyal to family and doesn’t like being left alone.  It is courageous and wary of strangers.  It needs regular, challenging activities.  Life expectancy is up to 13 years.

·         Golden Retriever.  This is a medium to large, well-mannered breed.  It is charming, playful, and loves children and everyone else.  It needs regular exercise.  Life expectancy is 10-12 years.

·         Doberman Pinscher.  This is a medium, powerful, energetic breed.  It is affectionate and naturally protective, needing proper socialization to avoid willful behavior.  It needs regular exercise but is cold sensitive.  Life expectancy is up to 13 years. 

·         Shetland Sheepdog.  This dog is small and docile.  It loves people and is affectionate, but will need socialization to get along with children.  Keep this dog on a leash because it loves to chase cars.  Life expectancy is 12-15 years.

·         Labrador Retriever.  This is a large water dog with a high need for exercise and activity.  It is good natured, reliable, and playful.  It is a loyal family dog, but needs training.  Life expectancy is 10-12 years.

·         Papillon. This dog is also called Toy Spaniel. It is small and good with children, with a friendly personality. It and can be playful and affectionate, but is prone to excessive barking.  Life expectancy is up to 16 years.

·         Rottweiler.  This is a powerful breed known for its courage and protective instincts.  It requires early training and can work well with children, but is wary of strangers.  It craves exercise and activity.  Life expectancy is 10-12 years.

·         Australian Cattle Dog.  This breed is small but loyal and protective. It is energetic and does best when it has stimulating or work to do. It is trustworthy with children but suspicious of strangers.  Life expectancy is 12-15 years.

Source:  DogBreed Info Center. 

Halloween tips from Maizie the dog

Even if you or your kids like dressing crazy, going to parties, or begging for candy, Halloween is not so much fun. We dogs don’t like strangers to begin with, and there are some really strange characters wandering the streets during trick or treat. Here are some ideas to keep us pets safe on Halloween.

• Keep us inside. There are a bunch of crazies out there who like to pull mean pranks on Halloween. We’d rather be with you.

• Keep us in another room. I want to greet everyone who comes to the door and protect you from all those strange characters. Let me stay somewhere more quiet and peaceful.

• Keep the treats out of reach. I’ll eat anything that smells good, and I don’t have hands to unwrap it. I know that chocolate is bad for me, but I can’t help but be curious. Remove the temptation!

• Keep candles and jack-o-lanterns out of the way. I can’t control my tail, and half the time I’m too excited to watch where I’m going. I don’t want to get hurt or start a fire.

• Don't dress me up! I know you think we look cute, but costumes are sometimes dangerous, uncomfortable and our friends make fun of us.

• Take me for a walk or a run before dark. It's so much nicer to have had some exercise before the festivities begin so if I have to be in another room by myself, at least I can take a much needed nap.

Enjoy the holiday, and stay safe!

How are a Dog Trainer and Dog Walker alike?

Both can help you with behavior problems.


According to Andrew Daigle of the Dog Training Advice and Tips website, “Lack of exercise is the root cause of many behavioral problems among dogs.”

In other words, just like us, dogs need exercise for physical and mental well-being. Not only that, but regular exercise expends the energy that might be used to chew shoes or create holes in furniture.

Daigle recommends 60-90 minutes a day of walking for your dog, divided up into morning and evening sessions. If you’re like me, you don’t have that kind of time every day, or your schedule varies too much to build in a regular routine.

Although it is ideal to set your dog up with a professional obedience trainer at about 16 weeks old, any dog can benefit from a regular walking routine. That’s where your local dog walker comes in.

Dog walkers can vary from the teenager next door to a seasoned professional. Either way, you’ll get what you pay for. Can’t afford it? Can you afford to replace that $100 pair of designer shoes? Can you afford to spend every morning and every evening tied to the other end of a leash? Your time (and your dog) is worth enough to hire someone to help you keep your “best friend” in the best shape possible.

Not to say you shouldn’t spend time with your dog from time to time... but a little help once in a while can go a long way to make your relationship with your dog a pleasure rather than a burden. Let Leashrly Life help you take better care of your dog, with dog obedience and dog walking available.

Caring for your dog in the summer II

Sunscreen
Boston or Bull Terriers, and other white, shorthaired dogs or dogs with pale ears or noses need special care in the summer months.  If your dog is white or has a pale nose or ears, buy some sunblock for your pet. Apply it to vulnerable spots every day. Because dogs have a natural inclination to lick off anything that is applied to their fur and skin, use a sunscreen that is known to be non-toxic to dogs. Your vet will be able to advise you if you are not sure which product to buy.

Swimming
Many dogs love the water. If your dog has never been swimming, try slowly introducing him to a lake, a pond or a pool. Get in the water with your dog as he builds confidence. Throw a toy or a stick a small distance away from you and encourage him to retrieve it. Or, bring another dog with you who loves the water and watch as your pet learns to swim by keeping up with his friend. If you want to be even more comfortable, purchase a life vest made especially for pets. The vest has handles to help you lift your dog into and out of the water. Finally, don't forget to rinse your dog with clean, fresh water after he's been swimming to be sure to get off any chemicals or bacteria.

By following these simple guidelines (including those regarding heat and hydration), you and your pet will surely have a more fun and safe summer!