How to Talk to Your Dog Through Calming Signals

August 13, 2015 by Fanna Easter

Using Calming Signals to Talk to Your Dog

Do you ever wonder what your dog is trying to say to you?

Well, dogs have a universal language that allows them to communicate with each other as well as humans. Some parts of this language have been understood by people for a long time, such as a dog growling or the positions of their tails and ears.

Other aspects of this canine language are so subtle they’re still being discovered and interpreted today. Some of these subtle body gestures were given the name “calming signals” by Turid Rugaas, a noted author and lecturer on the subject of canine body language. Ms. Rugaas identifies these body gestures in her book “On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals.” In her book, she identifies specific body gestures and behaviors that dogs use to communicate with one another.

Understanding Your Dog’s Calming Signals

Being able to recognize what your dog is trying to communicate to you will create a better relationship between you and your dog. You can do this by learning how to read the signals your dog offers. These calming signals are often given from a dog to calm nervousness and fear when he feels threatened by dogs and/or people, which can easily be overlooked or misinterpreted by humans.

Dogs, by nature, are conflict-solving animals and will usually attempt to defuse conflicts before they become serious. Sometimes, this is facilitated by offering calming signals. For example, when a dog turns his head away from you, it could mean he feels stressed due to the tone of your voice. By looking away, the dog tries to avoid conflict.

Many humans may misinterpret this calming signal and believe the dog is ignoring them, which could actually escalate the situation. If you, the owner, recognize this calming signal and removed the conflict (i.e. changed the tone of your voice), you’ll find your dog looks back.

Some dogs will soften their eyes when a person or another dog tries to engage in a direct stare. This is to let the person, or other dog, know they’re not trying to be offensive or cause a conflict. Some calming signals are much more subtle, such as licking their nose, flicking their tongue, yawning and walking, or moving slowly. You’ll notice that sometimes your dog will walk or move very slowly when you holler at him to come to you. This is to encourage you to calm down unlike the common misconception that the dog is being intentionally disobedient “because he knows he’s in trouble.”

Common dog calming signals include:

• Head turning
• Softening of the eyes
• Licking the nose
• Flicking of the tongue
• Freezing
• Walking or moving slowly
• Yawning
• Sniffing
• Curving when walking
• Lying down

RELATED: Dog Socialization Tips

Guidelines When Using Calming Signals

You, as the owner, can use these signals to communicate to your dog just as he is using them to communicate with you. For instance, if your dog makes direct eye contact with you in a not-so-happy fashion, you can turn your head away to show your dog no immediate threat, as we don’t want to escalate the situation.

When your dog jumps on you, simply turn your back to let him know this behavior is not welcomed. If you’re dealing with a fearful dog, walk and move slowly to let the dog know you mean no harm. You’re really just talking to your dog with body language, which speaks louder than most words to him.

Conclusion

To become more fluent with calming signals, I invite you to read the book mentioned above written by Turid Rugaas as well as begin observing your dog as he interacts with other dogs and in different situations.

Rescue Dog Training Tips: Let Their Past Go

August 12, 2015 by Fanna Easter

You Can Train Rescue Dogs

Assuming all rescued dogs are unable to learn is hogwash. Recently, a friend asked if a rescue dog with a history I cannot disclose is easier to adopt. Hmm good question. Before I could chime in, I was alarmed at many misguided recommendations by well meaning individuals.

Then I became angry. What about all the wonderful dogs found wandering the streets? They have no known history, so are they not adoptable? Plus, many dog owners limit their rescue dog’s abilities and talents due to their dog’s past.

Whoa, let’s chat about this very emotional topic. As always, I have an opinion.

Can Your Dog’s Past Haunt Him?

Yes, I believe it can.

During dog training class, many of my dog training clients brokenheartedly shared: “My rescue dog was severely mistreated, so he’s unable to (fill in the blank).” My eyes widened every time and then I replied as delicately as possible, “Don’t allow your dog’s past to haunt him. He can learn anything. It just takes some skill from me and you.”

Dogs are extraordinary creatures–so complex and so forgiving. They’ve proven time after time–even after living in deplorable conditions–they bloom into darling companions when placed in a safe, trusting and rewarding environment.

Many years ago, I was part of a rescue effort to remove a Rottweiler that had been tied to a tree all his life surrounded by dead and decaying goats as his only food source. This dog had every excuse to hate mankind. He was treated horribly. But as we approached, I could see his face softening and kindness pouring from behind his eyes. Once cleaned and fattened up, he was adopted by a lovely couple that immediately began teaching him polite manners, and eventually became a therapy dog. Yup, if someone judged his past, he would’ve never left the shelter.

Now, past bite histories can linger and some should. Before condemning a dog, experts need more information before assuming anything. Who did he bite, where and why? Many times, a dog’s past is so diluted. These answers are essentially worthless. They should never be discarded, but investigated.

RELATED: Adopting a Rescue Dog

What is the Dog Saying?

Instead of listening only to a dog’s past, it’s important to look at the dog’s current behavior in his new environment. What is his body language saying? Experts will expose him to different situations and watch his reactions and choices. This is the real test. Decisions are made after evaluations by experts.

Now, dear reader, I won’t fool you with promises of fairytale endings and pots of gold, as some dogs reveal themselves during evaluations and it’s not all roses and sunshine. When dangerous behaviors rear their ugly heads, it’s up to rescue experts to decide if these behaviors can be modified and if the dog can be safely placed in a home. Sometimes, hard decisions are made for the safety of people, dogs, communities and other pets (yes, mother nature can be cruel).

Back to my point: I think it’s unfair to deem dogs with unknown histories unadoptable. Always evaluate the dog first, and then make a decision.

Let It Go, Shake It Off

Recently, I saw a Saturday Night Live skit floating through several online communities and I’ll admit, I laughed. Dog owners were discussing their rescue dogs and trying to outdo each other’s rescue story. Trust me, I’m not giggling at the terrible situations dogs had to endure, but I am chuckling at dog owners claiming to have the worst rescue story. Why did this strike a cord, you may ask?

Because it happens every day. Someone is always trying to prove her dog was neglected more than another person’s dog. At first, when I heard this badge-of-honor banter, I was horrified and truly offended, but now I know. After many years of experience, it’s human nature. I just shake it off and listen to the true meaning that is they’ve opened their hearts to a dog in need.

This, my friends, is how a dog’s history can circle around and haunt him again. Don’t hold on to your dog’s painful past. Let it go and move forward by teaching your dog fun and new behaviors–the sky is the limit. Next time a friend says, “My rescue dog can’t do (fill in the blank) because he’s a rescue,” ask her to shake it off . 🙂

You may also like: Defensive Dog Aggression

What to Do When Your Dog Hates Your Spouse

August 11, 2015 by Fanna Easter

My Dog Hates My Spouse

When your dog hates your spouse, the entire relationship dynamic is shaken. In a nutshell, this is resource guarding. Your dog sees you as a valuable resource (i.e. you provide food, water and shelter) and wants to keep it that way.

To combat this dog behavior, your new household motto should be “everything fun comes from your disliked spouse.” By pairing fun things with your spouse, your dog will learn your spouse is actually quite nice. Think of it this way: when the disliked spouse is around, all good things rain from the sky. When the spouse leaves, all fun stops.

Regardless of your dog’s history, he can certainly learn to trust and bond with new people.

Quick Note for Favored Spouse

By pairing fun things with your spouse, your dog will begin to befriend him, so prepare yourself. Many times, this process is halted because the favored spouse becomes jealous. Her dog is now lying on her spouse’s lap and she feels left out and–dare I say–abandoned. When these emotions stir, tell yourself it’s the right thing to do for your dog and your spouse. Refrain from making snarky comments and, instead, admire and encourage your spouse for bonding with your dog.

Your dog will still adore you and much more so because you’re teaching him how to bond with others, which is a priceless gift. Plus, it’s not fun being left out. As your disliked spouse can attest, it’s downright degrading. Support and encourage your spouse and, of course, still cuddle with your dog. 🙂

Your Dog is Not Protecting You

Some people feel protected and safe when their dogs growl or charge at other people, but it’s actually quite disabling to your dog. You’re teaching your dog to fear everything, so he’s constantly lashing out. Your dog’s living in a constant state of fear. Plus, dogs of all sizes can cause real harm, so encouraging this misguided behavior is downright dangerous. What if a child or elderly person approaches you and your dog tries to bite? You will be held liable per strict laws pertaining to dog bites and you can lose your dog. It’s not fair to your dog.

RELATED: Submissive Urination in Dogs

Training Your Dog to Like Your Spouse

Your Dinner is Served

Going forward, the disliked spouse should serve your dog’s meals. To make it extra fun, try adding some canned food or dollop of yogurt. If the favored spouse is preparing meals when the disliked spouse is not home, then skip the extra food stuff. Save the lusciousness for meals served by your spouse to continue pairing good things with the disliked spouse.

Shall I Feed You Hot Dogs?

Ask your spouse to teach your dog new tricks and reward with high value treats, such as hot dogs. When your dog comes when called in the backyard, your spouse should reward with a jackpot (giving two to five treats at once).

Prepare peanut butter stuffed toys for your dog to enjoy when your spouse is around. Purchase new toys and keep them hidden until your spouse arrives home. Interactive games are awesome. Your spouse and dog should play “find the treat.” Just remember: all fun should come from your spouse.

Long Walks

This is actually a great way to bond with a new dog. You’re both in a new environment with space between you. Dogs find choices just as rewarding as treats, and during walks, they can choose the space between you. The favored spouse can tag along, but ask the disliked spouse to hold the leash so he can encourage your dog and reward good behavior.

Don’t Force Love

Your spouse should build trust with your dog and forcing any type of contact can certainly fracture all trust within seconds. Move at the dog’s pace. If he quits playing, then the game is over. Don’t push it.

If your dog charges or growls at your spouse, don’t punish this behavior. It’s like teaching a child never to say “no” when he’s scared. Boundaries are important in life, so respect your dog’s boundaries too. Instead, your spouse should turn away and ignore your dog. However, there are consequences to actions. Rather than letting your dog march back to you after charging at your spouse and lie back on your lap, crate your dog in another room with a yummy food stuffed toy while you and your spouse enjoy alone time.

If It Gets Worse or Bites Happen

Disliked spouses should not endure biting or constant threats. It’s not fair to your spouse or dog. Plus, you’re allowing your dog to practice unwanted behavior, which makes it much worse. Partner with a professional dog trainer or veterinary animal behaviorist for guidance.

Dog Breed of the Week: Chinese Crested Dog

August 6, 2015 by Fanna Easter

Meet the Chinese Crested Dog

What a traveled dog breed! Chinese Crested Dogs are difficult to trace back to their hairless origins because they’re basically mutations resulting from many other breeds all over the world. Someone enjoyed their naked appearance, so he began selectively breeding for less hair.

Today, there are two varieties of Chinese Crested Dogs: hairless and powder puff. Now, the hairless version is not truly without hair. They usually have tiny tufts of fur placed on their head, feet and tail almost appearing equine. Powder puff varieties have more hair and interestingly it’s a recessive gene.

Chinese Crested Dogs are part of the AKC Toy Group, meaning they were bred as a companion dog. However, don’t let their petite and pretty looks fool you. They’re fierce ratters too!

Size and Temperament

Cresteds stand at about 11″ to 13″ tall at the shoulder and weigh between 5 to 12 lbs. They’re perfectly sized as a lap dog. Due to their small size, children should be taught how to pick up, hold and carry these dogs gently to prevent injuries. They are gentle, playful dogs that are tolerant of other pets (probably not rodents) and strangers, and truly love to be with their humans.

Health and Dietary Needs

Chinese Crested Dogs have a 13- to 15-year lifespan. As with all pure and mixed breed dogs, they have some health issues. Major health concerns include PRA and glaucoma (eye disease), deafness, seizures and patellar luxation (moving kneecap).

Finding a Chinese Crested Dog rescue or breeder may require a bit of commitment, as they’re not as common as other breeds. If you decide to purchase a Crested, it’s vital to find a reputable breeder that health tests all parents and grandparents before breeding to ensure healthy puppies and adults. If you choose to rescue a Chinese Crested Dog, ask your veterinarian to examine your Crested’s eyes, check for hearing and feel his patellas (knees).

As with all dogs, feeding your dog a nutritious high quality diet that meets his specific needs will help him live a longer, healthier life. Your veterinarian can help you choose the right diet for your dog.

RELATED: Homemade Diets for Dogs

Dog Grooming Needs

No hair, no fuss, right? Well, that’s not exactly true. Hairless Chinese Cresteds need regular skin care, such as regular bathing with a gentle shampoo, to keep clogged pores to a minimum. Don’t forget moisturizer and sunscreen. Their skin is constantly exposed to harsh elements, so it’s crucial to protect their skin. Powder puff and hairless versions should be brushed every day or two to prevent mats and tangles. Don’t forget: hairless varieties have tufts of hair that tangle easily.

Nails, Ears and Teeth

Check and trim nails regularly. Keeping them trimmed with clippers or a grinder will help prevent overgrowth and cracking, which can be very painful. Don’t forget to peek inside their ears too. They should be clean and odor-free.

Brushing your Chinese Crested Dog’s teeth is really important. They tend to have thinner enamel and irregular dentition. By brushing regularly, you can help prevent tooth loss or decay.

Exercise and Dog Training Requirements

A Chinese Crested Dog’s exercise requirements are minimal. However, they love to be involved in whatever fun their owner is having, so be prepared to have your fun friend tag along on walks and outdoor games. If it gets cold where you live, your Crested will need a sweater, as the breed has a low tolerance for cooler temperatures. If it gets too cold for him outside, indoor games of fetch and obedience will be more than sufficient for his daily exercise.

These little dogs are wickedly smart! Enroll in positive reinforcement group training classes and try agility and other fun sports, such as lure coursing, barn hunting (locating rats) and, of course, spending lots of time with you. Always keep it positive and fun just like their personality!

Conclusion

The Chinese Crested Dog is a fun, spirited and sensitive dog that can make a great addition to your family. If you’re considering one of these unique dogs, please do as much research as possible to ensure they are a good fit for you. I also invite you to visit a couple of the links listed below.

Sources:
www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chinese-crested
chinesecrested.rescueshelter.com/USA

Training Your Dog to Sleep Outside His Crate

August 5, 2015 by Fanna Easter

How to Teach Your Dog to Sleep Outside His Crate

How to Teach a Dog to Sleep Outside Crate — arenacreative/iStock

Several years ago, a concerned dog owner consulted me because his dog had a tough time settling down. However, when put in his crate, his dog blissfully passed out and snored. Hmm! So we just needed to teach his dog how to relax and self-settle outside of his crate and in different locations.

Now, don’t let this deter you from crate training future puppies and dogs. Crates are a very valuable tool, if used correctly.

Start Crate Transitioning

Once your puppy or dog is potty trained and chewing is a distant memory, meaning she doesn’t require constant supervision, it’s time to start teaching her to relax outside of her crate. If, at any time, a potty accident happens, it may be too early. Take a few steps back and use a crate when your dog is unsupervised.

Teach Your Dog to Self-Settle

Plan ahead by walking or playing with your dog before a family evening at home. After dinner, everyone (dog included) should pile into the living room and pop in a movie, sit back and get comfy. If needed, block doorways with temporary gates, so your dog stays with you instead of wandering away.

The first few nights, give your dog a food stuffed toy, so she has something to do quietly while the family winds down. Usually, a tired and recently fed dog will lick her toy until empty, plop over and fall asleep. After a few minutes, some dogs wake up, look around with a startled expression (they are not crated), and plop over and fall asleep again (whew, it’s safe). Some dogs just get up and pace.

Use a Tether

If your dog is having a tough time settling in for family movie night, ignores her toys and paces, it’s time to use a tether. By using a tether, your dog learns to stay in a confined area and sleep outside of her crate. Never tether her and leave, or she’ll panic, chew or break the tether anchor.

Before using a tether successfully, you’ll need to try a few tricks. Choose a corner location where two walls join to mimic a den-like environment. Now, leash your dog to a six-foot leash and tether to the bottom of your chair, moving your chair if needed. Once leashed, give her a super yummy food stuffed toy, or click and treat when she lies down quietly. Be prepared. This may take a few minutes. If using high value treats, it’ll help the process move along quicker. After a few minutes, she might lie down for awhile and then stand up and start pulling on her tether. Just click and treat (or refill her toy), so she learns to relax.

Plan to teach your dog how to self- settle during several movie nights. It may take a few practice sessions. For additional tips on choosing, anchoring and weaning dogs from a tether, check out this article.

By All Means, Keep Using a Crate

Yes! Still utilize dog crates when you’re away from home or rowdy visitors swing by. Crates should be your dog’s personal spa area. Just remember to spend a few extra minutes teaching your dog how to relax outside of a crate too.

How to Talk to Your Dog Through Calming Signals

Using Calming Signals to Talk to Your Dog