What Did You Call My Dog? Correct Dog Breed Names

July 27, 2015 by Fanna Easter

Dog Breed Names

Don’t Let Adjectives Fool You

When someone describes a Mastiff as an English Mastiff, the little hairs on the back of my neck stand straight up. You’re probably asking, “Why? It’s just a name, right?” Well, it’s a mispronunciation of a proper noun (breed of dog).

With all the horrible things happening daily, why are my hackles raised by this issue? Is it because my name is mispronounced 20 times per day? Maybe.

Or it could be when someone adds a point of origin (English) placed strategically in front of a proper breed name (Mastiff), it implies a bit of superiority (my English Mastiff is better than your Mastiff). Yes, that’s it, especially when someone emphasizes the added adjective. Not only does it denote highbrow smarty pants, but it is also used to deceive. It’s a pet peeve of mine, as I’m sure you can certainly tell. 🙂

Before other countries begin a debate, let’s be clear: I’m talking about breeds of dogs recognized by the AKC and UKC. 🙂

It’s All Marketing, Folks

Another reason it rubs me the wrong way is adjectives are used by deceptive breeders to market their dogs to unsuspecting puppy buyers. Think about it: Chinese Pugs look and sound much more appealing than their proper name (Pug). Just reading or hearing the word “Chinese,” your brain secretly transports itself to Shanghai and you’re envisioning silk-wrapped Pugs trotting effortlessly along the Great Wall of China. Allow me to pop your bubble. 🙂

This is called marketing: someone is trying to sell their product by indulging in your secret need to possess something others don’t have. Before you blush, it’s normal human behavior. Sometimes, we fall for slick wording and advertising.

Reputable breeders use proper breed names because they’re part of a breed club, which helps develop the AKC and UKC breed standard. Now, this makes me swoon! These folks are preserving (or changing, depending on breed traits) and improving Pugs, Mastiffs and their chosen breeds.

Grammar Police

It’s Rottweiler and not German Rottweiler. In Germany, they’re called Rottweilers too–place of origin not included. If I had a penny every time someone asked if Sobek was a German Rott, I could pave Interstate 10 from beginning to end. Instead, I reply back, “Nope, he’s from Virginia.”

One time, some dog owners introduced me to their Imperial Royal Shih Tzu. Wowza! Personally, I think “Shih Tzu” is striking on its own (and it’s correct).

By the way, it’s Bull Terrier or Miniature Bull Terrier and not English Bull Terrier. While they originated from England, Stella Mae is a Miniature Bull Terrier born in South Carolina. 🙂

Beware of Adjectives & Mispronunciations

When clicking on a picture of Australian Peek-a-Poo puppies, understand their parents were a Pekingese and Poodle, and must’ve been born in Australia. If their address states Alabama or Wisconsin, it’s deceitful and false advertising at its best. Stay away.

By all means, if a dog breeder mispronounces a breed, run away. I’ve heard Bichon Frise called “B*tchs in freeze,” Shih Tzus pronounced as “Sh#t zoos,” Rottweilers referred to as “Rock wallets” and French Bulldogs labeled as “Frenchton Bulldogs.” Yeah, no. If a dog breeder or breed expert can’t pronounce a breed’s name correctly, they have no clue about breed standards.

To protect yourself, it’s vital to research your chosen breed and that means visiting AKC or UKC’s website for correct pronunciation of the breed and the breed standard. Check out tips on finding reputable breeders here.

WATCH: Proper Dog Breed Names: No Such Thing as “Chinese” Pugs or “English” Mastiffs

READ NEXT: Dog Breed of the Week: Great Dane

How to Help a Dog Cope After Divorce

July 24, 2015 by Fanna Easter

Divorce Dog Anxiety

It’s a Sad Time For Dogs Too

Dogs and Divorce — bit245/Deposit Photos

Divorces are brutal. They’re emotionally charged and cause massive disruptions within a family unit, including the family dog. Recently, a friend of mine went through a long divorce and was forced to move out and find a new home. The only things she had left were her clothes, some furniture and her beloved dog. So the process began for both of them, and even though my friend held her poker face firmly in place, her heart broke for her dog’s mourning.

Expect Your Dog to Mourn

Trust me, dogs know when disturbances ripple through a family. If a family member and her dog are forced to move, expect her dog to mourn. Similar to you, dogs have lost loved ones, such as other house pets, so this is their first time truly left alone.

As with humans, dogs enjoy predictability of daily routines and living within a familiar surrounding, so they need time to adjust. During the first week, your dog will become clingy. He wants to sit or sleep very close to you–you’re the one constant during this unfamiliar time. Indulge your dog’s needs and, honestly, you probably need your dog’s unconditional love right now too.

Huddle together, and you will weather the storm.

It Will Get Better

Keep Up the Normal Routine

Try to keep your dog’s daily routine as normal as possible and spend a bit of time playing and exploring the new yard and going for long walks daily. Take this time to enjoy your dog’s company with games of fetch or tug. This will keep you both occupied as time heals wounds.

Provide Your Dog With Food Toys

Start with leaving your dog home alone for short periods of time, such as leaving him to take a shower with the door closed while he chews on a bully stick. After a day or two, leave your dog inside, chewing on food stuffed toys while you mow the yard or work on a project in another room. You’re still there, but your dog is not velcroed to you. Plus, he’s learning that alone time is kind of fun with peanut butter stuffed toys.

Leave the House for an Hour

After a few days, run errands for an hour or so. It’s time your dog learns to enjoy being along while you are truly away from home. Don’t forget to give your dog something to do while you’re gone, so he’s not panicking. A nice long walk before you leave always helps too.

To drown out unfamiliar noise, play soft classical music in the background. Check out these tips for separation anxiety, which can promote confidence during this difficult time.

Postpone Bringing a New Dog Home

Many dog owners think it’s a good idea to adopt another dog, so your mourning dog has a friend. Before bringing home a new dog, it’s important to consider if you have enough time to care for two dogs. About 50 percent of the time, mourning dogs react negatively to a new dog in the household–they’ve already had enough disruption for now. Also, it’s not fair to the new dog since he’ll need adjustment time too and walking into an emotional situation can be scary. Wait until your dog has grieved, and then consider adding another dog when you’re both ready.

Within a couple of weeks, you’ll notice the twinkle return to your dog’s eye. This means you’re almost over the hurdle. There may be a few hiccups along the way, but you now have solutions to address them.

If It Doesn’t Get Better

Sometimes, it doesn’t get better. If your dog panics when left alone and tries to harm himself, seek guidance from a veterinary animal behaviorist. While your local veterinarian may offer some guidance, vet behaviorists are the experts in the field and can certainly help quickly.

If progress is moving slowly, but your dog is not panicking, there are a few calming supplements that can help along the journey. Always consult your veterinarian first, especially if your dog takes other medication.

We are cheering for both of you! There is light at the end of the tunnel!

Fake Service Dogs Do a Disservice

July 16, 2015 by Fanna Easter

The Problems With Fake Service Dogs

If you’re wondering where to find a service dog vest and paperwork, you probably want to bring your dog in public. As a dog lover, I totally understand. I would love to bring my dogs inside restaurants, hold them in my lap during flights, dodge airline pet carrying fees and landlord restrictions, but finding service dog paperwork to be able to bring your dog with you in public is wrong. Before you click past this article, please take a moment. Hear me out first, then make your decision. I’m not judging. Just allow me to explain the other side of the coin.

It Makes It Harder for Actual Service Dogs

Rigorously trained service dogs go virtually unnoticed in public places. They are quietly working. When they’re not working, they’re comfortably lying at their person’s feet. This is why they’re allowed in public places. They perform a specific task per ADA regulations for their disabled friend and mingle with society politely.

Untrained dogs that have acquired a service dog vest and paperwork by purchasing online do not perform a specific task for their owners, which is an ADA requirement. While some dogs are polite, the majority are disruptive–barking, growling and even lunging at other dogs, children and adults. These outbursts chip away at the well-respected and trained service dogs. Please, let’s not botch this up for them. Disabled people need their service dogs, so let’s preserve their right.

RELATED: Types of Service Dogs

Unfair for Your Untrained Dog

When polled, dog owners purchased service dog vests and paperwork online because they want to bring their dogs with them everywhere. For clarification purposes, when I mention untrained dog, I’m talking about a dog that has zero training or has only graduated from basic group classes with a dog trainer. In short, these dogs have not been exposed to stressful situations in small doses to teach polite manners per service dog training protocols.

Instead, untrained dogs are brought onto airplanes flooded with scary situations. Some dogs shut down while others become terrified and begin to bark, whine, howl and show other signs of discomfort in stressful situations. On a flight to San Diego, an adult Yorkie that was sitting on her dog owner’s lap had diarrhea and pooped all over her owner’s dress, seat, purse and other passengers in mid-flight. The entire plane smelled of feces. As the poor dog owner cleaned up the mess, she kept saying loudly, “This is not like her. She’s never done this before. She’s a service dog, you know.”

And Yes, We Can Tell He’s Not a Service Dog

Puppies drowning in large service vests, show dogs pulling on leash, dogs jumping on passengers, dogs having a hard time settling on a plane, dogs constantly whining under the table at restaurants don’t go unnoticed. It’s pretty obvious. Sorry.

Unfortunately, most offenses reported are due to dog aggression instances where untrained service dogs become afraid, begin to growl, lunge or even bite. During or after these fearful displays, you’ll hear his dog owner say, “Wow, this is not like him. He likes people and children.” He may tolerate people and children at home in a calm situation, but when exposed to them during stressful situations, he’s unable to cope.

Do know concerned citizens report these instances to authorities and the ADA with pictures and video.

Before You Order a Vest

Now that you’ve heard our side of the story and how untrained service dogs are detrimental to the public, hopefully I’ve convinced you to put down your credit card and make plans to keep your dog at home. It’s not that I think it’s unfair. It’s just morally wrong and you could face hefty fines and jail time. It’s not worth it.

If you do decide to move forward with the purchase, there’s an uprise, as millions of people are angry with fake service dogs. And these folks will report it. Many states have passed fake service dog bills, so there’s legal merit to stand on.

It’s not worth it.

READ MORE: Service Dog Certification

Service Dogs: Where to Look

July 15, 2015 by Fanna Easter

Where to Look for a Service Dog

There seems to be a humongous gray area within the service dog world. I discovered this black hole when a family member began her search for a diabetic alert dog, which became very personal. I jumped in to help her navigate between options, but I became so confused and frustrated. Even service dog training experts had differing opinions, so I gathered, compiled and made an informed decision on processes for finding a service dog.

While some may disagree, I whole heartily believe these options will help point you in the right direction. You still need to complete extensive research on your end, but at least you’re armed with valuable information to filter imposters.

My Family Member’s Story

My cousin has type 1 diabetes and, lately, her blood sugar levels have been constantly plummeting to dangerous levels for unknown reasons. Unable to identify the cause, her doctors suggested adding a diabetic alert dog to her family. The dog would alert her when her blood sugar levels begin to drop, so she is able to find a safe place and medicate.

Finally, she found help and began searching online. When she Googled “service dog,” several promising options quickly appeared. These promising options clearly explained that their service dogs cost upwards of $20,000 and she should hold a fundraiser to secure this amount, as insurance will not reimburse for service animals.

Does this sound familiar? Oh boy, I became angry. This didn’t sound right so I began my investigation.

Beware of Imposters

Unfortunately, there are so many swindlers who prey on people needing a service dog, which results in untrained frightened dogs and upset human partners. Reputable service dog organizations spend a minimum of one to two years searching for the perfect puppy and training a dog for specific needs, which causes a long waiting list. Imposters capitalize on these waiting lists with slick promises of quickly trained dogs that are guaranteed for life. And unfortunately, the service dog is riddled with them.

Let’s back up a minute and discuss service dog guarantees. Dogs are living beings, and you can’t guarantee behaviors–that’s not possible. Can you guarantee you’ll return all phone calls within 10 minutes? You can’t. Life gets in the way. But you can promise reliability, meaning service dogs are able to perform behaviors nine out of 10 times. If someone guarantees a service dog, that dog is not for you. Just as the old saying goes, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Where Can You Find a Service Dog?

With so much misinformation out there and no set guidelines or standards, where should you start?

Non-Profit Organizations

These organizations depend upon fundraising and donations, meaning they are not for profit. Dog trainer salaries, dog food, veterinary care and anything else needed depends on donated funds. This is a great option if your funds are limited. Most organizations do a great job training service dogs. Now, some organizations won’t place trained service dogs in other states, so this is something to consider while researching.

But, as with anything, not all non-profits are the same. Training is a huge part of any service dog organization. Without it, dogs lack required skills to detect low blood sugar, alert of any sights and sounds, provide comfort, and politely interact in public. Unfortunately, some organizations skip critical steps or use harsh training methods, so it’s important to do your homework first. Also, it never hurts to check the Better Business Bureau for complaints.

Service Dog Trainer

Not all dog trainers are able to teach service dog skills, so seek qualified individuals who use positive reinforcement, have completed service dog schooling, have acquired certifications and have previous service dog training experience. Check references of past service dog pet parents, and inquire on training methods and processes. Not only can service dog trainers assist with training, but they can also help select the right puppy and guide you through the process.

Finding the right service dog trainer is key! Everyone claims to be an expert, but it’s your job to verify first. Service dog trainers should have a complex understanding of animal behavior paired with experience teaching behaviors to a variety of dogs, including service dogs. To narrow down your search, check out this article on finding a dog trainer with an understanding of animal behavior.

If someone offers service dog training, he’ll likely note that on their profile, as this is a hot and lucrative topic lately. With so many service dog schools popping up, it’s difficult to recommend any since they’re still new. I haven’t personally witnessed their service dogs working.

Now, this option will likely cost more than a non-profit organization, so be prepared to spend several thousand dollars, as it takes a minimum of 1-2 years to train a service dog. You should not pay $20,000 though. That’s an absurd amount of money. Also, it never hurts to ask and check past service dog clients, and take a peek at their BBB standing either.

My Recommendation

Personally, I would choose a reputable non-profit organization because they more than likely have highly experienced trainers due to a higher demand. Plus, most organizations have met the stringent requirements to earn 501 (c) (3) status and won’t charge disabled persons seeking service dogs.

If you’re unable to find a reputable organization, then seeking an experienced and qualified dog trainer is an option–but always do your research. Unfortunately, there are no service dog standards, so choosing the right person or organization is key. For more information about service dog standards, check out the ADA’s website.

Please Inform Your Referring Doctor About Options

Many times, well meaning doctors recommend searching for service dogs online. However, they’re not aware of scams, reputable organizations or service dog trainers. Take a moment to inform them of options and explain how to locate a reputable service dog source. This is a great way to pay it forward for the next person in need.

And by gosh, donate to your local reputable non-profit service dog organization. They need every penny! 🙂

Choosing a Service Dog Organization

July 14, 2015 by Fanna Easter

Service Dogs: Researching Tips & Interview Questions

Yes, I’ll gladly share my research strategy, interview questions and best practices when narrowing down reputable service dog organizations and dog trainers.

With that said, be prepared to ask lots of questions, research, and then ask more questions. Resist the urge to choose an organization within the same day. Look around and become familiar with additional options, depending on your specific needs.

Step One: Locate Reputable Sources

Begin your search and don’t limit research to only online. Ask your local dog trainer, folks with your same needs and veterinarians for recommendations. Now begin by following up by researching online, reading websites and identifying legitimate organizations while weeding out imposers.

Narrow Down Further

For additional information, check out the American Disabilities Act (ADA) and Assistance Dogs International (ADI) websites for service dog requirements. ADI lists specific standards expected for service, hearing and guiding dogs. I would certainly print out and use that while interviewing prospective organizations and dog trainers. Plus, their program search option can narrow down ADI-accredited sources in your area.

Don’t forget to check the Better Business Bureau’s website to discover any complaints and resolutions, if any. BBB accreditation is good, but several complaints is not good and unresolved complaints is terrible.

Step Two: Prepare

Before reaching out to several organizations, read their requirements for applicants and familiarize yourself with their application process first. If you don’t meet the requirements, then it’s time to reflect–maybe a service dog is not the best fit.

If you decide to move forward, think through the process and prepare your thoughts and answers for each requirement because lack of preparation not only slows down the process, but it also wastes valuable time.

You’ll probably need references too, so start collecting letters of recommendation from colleagues and doctors. Let them know they’ll probably be contacted.

Gut Check

On average, yearly costs to properly take care of a service dog can range between $1,500-$3,000. Yes, sharing your life with a service dog is expensive. He or she needs regular grooming, annual vet visits, and pest and heartworm preventives. Before completing any paperwork, make sure you’re financially and emotionally capable of taking excellent care of your service dog.

Also, let’s chat about service dog expectations. Dogs are living beings and will make mistakes, so patience and understanding are important virtues. Having a service dog partner means regularly practicing learned behaviors, doing what’s best for the dog every time even in public and treating your dog with unbridled respect.

Step Three: Reach Out

After you’ve thoroughly read and understood applicant expectations, reach out by email or phone. Usually, you’ll receive a thank you email with additional guidelines, questions and processes. Don’t be discouraged. Many introductory emails provide FAQs that further answer your questions.

There will probably be a fair amount of paperwork. Before you become frustrated with additional red tape, understand that reputable organizations receive hundreds of daily requests. They need to be able to filter through applications quickly in order to identify applicants and streamline the process. Be patient and remember imposters offer instant gratification at a terrible price.

Plus, reputable organizations are looking for commitment. If you’re impatient when completing required paperwork, will you have patience to learn and work with a service dog? If not, then maybe a service dog is not for you.

Step Four: Ask Questions

After reading additional paperwork received during step three, ask any unanswered questions. Most reputable service dog organizations will answer the below questions on their website or documents, but still it never hurts to ask specific questions again. You’re still looking for imposters (many look legitimate online, but in person reveal their true intentions). Lastly, during the interview, jot down answers for easy reviewing later.

Important Questions

Q: What certifications and experience do your service dog trainers complete? How many service dogs are trained yearly?

A: Trainers should have extensive knowledge and have trained several service dogs. Now, not all dog trainers are able to train service dogs, so dig deep.

Q: What happens if my dog stops responding to cues? Or starts barking at other dogs?

A: Remember, dogs are not machines. They are living beings and may need issues addressed by a qualified dog trainer. Reputable organizations will send someone to your home to help manage or teach polite manners instead. Plus, it’s your job to continue practicing behaviors at home.

Q: Can I visit your training facility?

A: Yes! You should be able to tour a service dog facility. If not, they are hiding something–usually poor living conditions, lack of training and so forth. Plus, it should be required you travel to the training center or the dog trainers travel to you to learn how to work with a service dog.

Q: Should service dogs be protective?

A: No. Service dogs are trained to help with tasks. They should never growl, bite or attack. If an organization makes this promise or even states it, run.

Q: Will I have an opportunity to train with my service dog too?

A: Yes, it’s vital you learn how to work with your new service dog.

Q: Can I choose my service dog?

A: No. During the application process, reputable organizations will identify your needs stated by your referring doctor and application. Each dog is different. During the puppy raising phase and training process, experienced service dog trainers can identify the right match between you and the dog.

Q: What happens to retired service dogs?

A: Reputable organizations will place retired dogs into homes per applications and screening.

Q: What will my service dog learn?

A: Reputable organizations should quickly list required behaviors, depending on your needs. If they say, “We’ll work together” or “Let’s play it by ear,” they probably don’t have enough service dog experience, as they’re not familiar with service, hearing or guide dog needs.

Q: What is the cost?

A: Most reputable organizations will charge application and transfer fees while others won’t charge a dime. If you’re given a high price tag (ranging between $10,000 and even as high as $75,000), I would not recommend them.

Narrow It Down Further

Ask for references and check them out. Ask how the application, training and at-home work process goes. Is this organization readily available with any questions? Did they attend initial training with their new service dog? What are their thoughts on the organization? What is their experience?

Step Five: Choose

It’s time. By now, you probably have a favorite, so follow your instincts and move forward. Please share your experiences so we can help others. I most certainly hope these tips and questions help narrow down your service dog choices. 🙂

Good luck and stay in touch!