New And “Improved?” Dog Breeds

I’d like to introduce you to the newest member of my family. Zoe is her name. She is a Labradoodle. That is a Labrador mixed with a Poodle. They are very popular and if lucky, you can get one that has inherited Poodle hair rather than the shedding version.

Zoe is definitely more Poodle than Lab, so maybe she’d be more of a Poodlabrador? It’s all so confusing. To complicate things, Zoe’s Dad is a Rottweiler. So, I’m left deciding on an appropriate breed name.

I could call her a Rottilabradoodle or a Rottioodlab or even a Labradoodlweiler. I know that she doesn’t care, but I know what it’s like growing up with an unidentifiable heritage.

Come to think of it, her brother (not genetically) is a Yorkie/Maltese/Shitzu blend. hmmm. . . I definitely live in a multicultural or maybe that’s multibreedural environment.

-- Make Your Dog Healthier Now --

Does Your Dog Understand “No”

Shortly after bringing home a new dog, I often hear clients say that they tell their dog “no” and it doesn’t listen. I think this is more of a communication barrier than a lack of intelligence on the part of the dog.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if by raising our voice we could say anything to anyone whether they speak our language or not and they would instantly understand?! So, when you feel the need to yell “NO!” Ask yourself if the dog really knows what you’re expecting.

Once they do get it, try following the correction with something that is positive for the pup. None of us like to be yelled at all the time!

-- Make Your Dog Healthier Now --

Should Dogs Be Allowed On The Furniture?

My answer to that question - it depends. I don’t allow my dogs on the furniture because there would be no room left for a human. If you have dogs with aggressive or dominant tendencies, I would suggest that they not be allowed on the furniture.

If through training and behavior modification they have a change of attitude, then you may allow them on the furniture but by invitation only. This also applies to allowing them to sleep with you. It’s YOUR bed and you might allow them on it and you might not.

Consistency is extremely important while your dog is being trained. It is also important to give them a place (bed or crate) where they can be a part of the family. Remember, when a new puppy or adult dog comes into your home, they need to be shown that they are living with you and that there are rules and guidelines that they must abide by.

You won’t hurt their feelings. It’s quite the opposite. By expecting and demonstrating mutual respect, you can share your home with your canine companion and maintain peace in the kingdom.

-- Make Your Dog Healthier --