It’s ok! We’re here to help. We speak a little dog and can help translate for both of you. It’s probably just a miscommunication! And we are here to help get you both speaking the same language! Woof!
Connect with the PAWpundance training team and other members of the dog community to discuss better ways to communicate with your furry house guest.
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This is a fun video. Bailey and I are in my bathroom. I recorded him in slow-mo.
How cute is a frenchie puppy in slow-mo in a see of toys playing fetch??
I already wrote about fetch in a previous slow-mo about Bailey so this one is just to enjoy!!
If you have questions about how to play fetch or how to get your dog to play fetch or when to start etc... whatever your question maybe... please ask!!
Your pup is never too young to learn.
Fetch is better exercise than a walk and if you live where weather can be a factor (extreme cold in winter or hot in summer) then fetch can be a great way to burn some energy.
It's a cognitive release as well as physical so that makes it so great and doesn't have to be long distances, even just a good jump can make the dog happy.
There is a new issue that is being observed were the dogs seem like they are in hyperdrive. And if your dog is like this, you know what I mean. There is no amount of "burning off energy". Playing just winds them up even more.
So as the theory goes, it's like their "prey drive" is enacted and they transferring some old instincts to hunt into playing or chasing their ball or destroying their toy. This becomes a bit of an issue when you see a dog that is chasing their own tail. This dog is so hyped up, he's literally chasing his tail. And it's not cute or an idiom or fun. It becomes a very real behavioral problem.
This is a dog that is in crisis mode and is ready to tear something apart to the point of self mutilation (licking until he draws blood).
So back to fetch - if your dog is getting all wound up, playing fetch all day will continue to elevate this emotional state. But tossing the ball for your dog "x" number of times (3 is the magic number for my blue heeler) then asking for calm behavior - taking the ball to the couch to chew - no more attention until he gives me calm behavior. Once he lays down on the couch (his spot), then I will pet him and give him the attention that he likes - and the snuggles he enjoys. Every time he gets a little crazy, I pick up his ball, 3 tosses and then calm behavior.
And that is how I live in downtown with a blue heeler - without getting nipped in the rear every time I walk by... And yes - There was a time before fetch. Ouch!!
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We want to see your furbabies!
We’re here to assist with any questions you may have about training, behavior, and more. At PAWpundance, we believe in blending knowledge with a bit of fun—expect plenty of paws, puns, and maybe even a dance or two! Together, let’s enjoy some laughs and build stronger relationships with our pups.
Our Philosophy:
We’ve invited another species to live in our homes, and our dogs are much more than accessories; they’re our guests. They don’t speak our language, and like in the movie E.T., we don’t want to be the intimidating figures trying to coerce a scared, confused being. Instead, we want to be like ...
Eye Contact, Eye Contact, Eye Contact!
Reward every glance. Start by reinforcing brief glances, then encourage your pup to hold your gaze a bit longer. Gradually phase out your part of the eye contact—your pup will learn to watch you and adapt to your movements naturally. This approach helps them learn to walk with you without relying on leash cues.
Remember, the leash is purely for safety—not for communication.
Take a look at this video with Meghan and Buckee. Buckee is watching Meghan closely, and she rewards him by making eye contact, smiling, and offering treats. Meghan also looks forward occasionally, teaching Buckee to walk with her in sync.
Notice that Buckee is a reactive pup, so the leash is essential for safety, especially if he responds to something unexpectedly. However, it’s only used for physical control when necessary. When Buckee refocuses, Meghan reestablishes instructional control, and they continue their walk together. She does a fantastic job of engaging with him! In ...
Loose-Leash Walking Tip:
Where you reward makes a big difference! Try using the hand on the same side as your dog when giving treats or praise.
When you reach across your body to reward with the opposite hand, it draws your dog’s nose in front of you, encouraging them to move ahead and potentially start pulling.
In the video of Meghan and Domino, Meghan holds the leash with her left hand while Domino walks on her right. She rewards him by petting and giving treats with her right hand. This keeps Domino walking by her side on a loose leash, rather than in front, pulling her along.
Next time you’re out walking with your pup, try rewarding with the hand on the same side as your dog.
https://twitter.com/wholedogjournal/status/1295508215740932098?s=21
How to teach you pup to be a good dining companion! What a great skill!
https://twitter.com/wholedogjournal/status/1292609106637987840?s=21
This is about counter-surfers, but I love the description of trying to shame dogs. This author, Pat Miller helped me understand this concept in her book the Power of Positive Dog Training.
If you’re still on Twitter, the Whole Dog Journal is a great group to follow. Lots of fantastic info!
