Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Luna-cy! Top Pet Name for Puppies and Kittens Unseated After Ten Years At the Top!

BARKS! My disclaimer: I pawticipate in affiliate marketing with PetPlan. If you click a link to visit their site or make a purchase, it is pawssible I will receive payment. We do not know details about your purchases or your visit to the website. 

           Petplan pet insurance reveals 
2017’s most popular names for new furry family members

WOOF! Annual “Most Popular Name” lists most often focus on babies — but what about fur babies? I
n an effort to give pets a place in the popular name game, Petplan pet insurance dug into their database of protected pets to see which names were most popular for new puppies and kittens in 2017 — and found that one name’s reign of dominance ended after more than a decade at the top.

After ruling Petplan’s Top Names list since the company wrote its first policy in 2006, Bella has been knocked from atop her scratching post and Luna is now the most popular name for Petplan-protected pets under a year old. While it’s always a bit of shock when a contender is dethroned, trends within the last three years indicate that Luna has been consistently clawing her way to the top of the Top Ten.

Calico Cat
(C) Allen Pearson
“When Shakespeare wrote, ‘What’s in a name?’ he definitely wasn’t thinking in terms of pets,” says Natasha Ashton, co-founder and co-CEO of Petplan. “Pet owners take their pet names very seriously. After all, they often say a lot about a pet parents’ personality — or that of the pets themselves.”

Petplan reporting analyst Leo Lanahan notes that while naming trends happen year to year, it’s pet names like Bella and Luna that endure. “Sometimes we’ll see a spike in a name’s frequency due to a pop culture reference or a celebrity in the news,” says Lanahan. “But usually, people tend to stick with the classics. I guess good pet names never really go out of style.”

The Top 10 Pet Names for 2017
Here they are — Petplan’s ten most popular names for pets under a year old in 2017, along with results from the previous year:

Top 10 Names for 2017

1. Luna

2. Bella

3. Charlie

4. Lucy

5. Max

6. Cooper

7. Daisy

8. Bailey

9. Molly

10. Oliver*

2016’s Top 10

1. Bella

2. Charlie

3. Luna

4. Cooper

5. Daisy

6. Max

7. Lucy

8. Molly

9. Oliver

10. Penny*

(C) Allen Pearson



In addition to the upset by Luna, Petplan saw a huge jump by Bailey, who pawed his (or her) way into the top ten. Meanwhile, Penny — who pounced from No. 28 to No. 10 last year — just missed the cut, coming in eleventh place. Better luck next year, Penny!

Here’s a look at species-specific contenders from Petplan’s most popular pet names of 2017:





Top 10 Dogs for 2017


1. Luna

2. Oliver

3. Charlie

4. Lucy

5. Daisy

6. Leo

7. Bella

8. Jack

9. Max

10. Milo*

Top 10 Cats for 2017

1. Luna

2. Bella

3. Charlie

4. Lucy

5. Cooper

6. Bailey

7. Max

8. Daisy

9. Molly

10. Buddy*

Honorable Mention
Petplan also gave bark-outs to a few unusual names worthy of recognition. There’s only one of each in the Petplan database, but they get a paws-up for creativity:

1. Professor Grover Fluffypants

2. Uma Furman

3. Charlie Brown McBearface

4. The Barks: Bark Twain, Bark Ruffalo and Bark Wahlberg

5. Brown Puppy*

“From the sublime to the ridiculous, it’s clear that pet lovers put a lot of time into naming their furry family members,” says Ashton. “Of course, once those new arrivals start piddling on the floor and chewing up the furniture, their names will all be mud anyway.”

*According to Petplan claims data 2016-2017

ABOUT PETPLAN
Petplan has built an industry-leading pet insurance policy for pet parents who demand a higher pedigree of care for their best friends. We’ve leveraged 40 years of global experience to create completely customizable coverage pet parents can feel confident in, and world-class claims service — 24 hours a day, every day.

Petplan’s innovative approach to pet insurance has been recognized by Forbes, Financial Times, Bloomberg, Inc. magazine, Smart CEO, the Communicator Awards, Ernst & Young and many others.

Petplan policies are underwritten in the U.S. by AGCS Marine Insurance Company, a member of the Allianz Group (rated A+ A.M. Best), and XL Specialty Insurance Company; and in Canada by XL Specialty Insurance Company-Canadian Branch. XL Specialty Insurance Company is rated A+ by S&P as of 2017. Coverage may not be available in all jurisdictions. For more information about Petplan pet insurance, visit See how PetPlan Pet Insurance Compares to Others or call 1-866-467-3875.

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

National Love Your Pet Day- Every Day- All Day

Dog Adoption
(C) Allen Pearson
WOOF! I heard on the radio last night today is "National Love Your Pet Day!" A day to celebrate the pawsomeness of your pet!

If you didn't share extra lovin's with your pet this morning before heading to work, stop on the way home and buy some special treats, an expensive toy or two and rush home to spend the entire evening giving your pet all the attention they want. Take them for that extra long walk they enjoy so much!

WOOF! Pawlease share in the comments below how you will celebrate the day!

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Off The Leash Cartoons

Dog Humor

(C) Ruppert Fawcett, Off The Leash Used by Permission

I paw and bark my thanks to Off The Leash Dog Cartoons for sharing their pawsome artistic talents with us.

Monday, February 19, 2018

The Dogs Of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln

Mount Vernon, George Washington's Home
"George Washington's Home, Mount Vernon"
(C) Allen Pearson
WOOF! Happy President’s Day! Hope you have a day of fun planned with your family and friends! BARK! Be certain to take your dog along! WOOF!

Paws, I thought it would be interesting to share a bit about George Washington and Abraham Lincoln’s dogs. While researching information for this article, I found quite a bit of detail about the dogs in their lives!

Barkingly, George Washington had many dogs while at Mount Vernon. The dogs were owned by George and Martha Washington, grandchildren, friends, and slaves who lived on the estate.

I have to pawnder what type or breed or kind of dogs George Washington would have. After all, this was way back in the good old days. I’m thinking even further back than Dads childhood days. So am guessing the dogs didn’t have the best of everything like we dogs often do today.

Mount Vernon George Washington's Home
"George Washington's Home,
 Mount Vernon"

(C) Allen Pearson
My inquisitive doggy mind determined to learn more, found that the Mount Vernon estate was host to a wide variety of pawsome dogs from nearly every group recognized by the American Kennel Club including Hounds to Non-sporting Dogs to Sporting Dogs to Terriers to Working Dogs. Washington kept a kennel for his dogs about 100 feet away from the family vault.

Barks, a pawful and more says Washington’s dogs were used dogs for hunting. He is often credited by the American Kennel Club with helping to develop the American Foxhound breed!

Barkingly, throughout the years, Washington acquired or was given a “Coach Dog,” a Spaniel, Terriers, and a Newfoundland. “Coach Dog?” The term refers to a type of dog rather than a specific breed. It could have been a Dalmatian as it often referred to as a breed of white dog with black spots. WOOF!

When Washington traveled, he left instructions for the butler to care for the dogs. WOOF!  When one of the dogs was expecting a litter of pups, Washington’s butler was in attendance! BARKS!

According to the pawsome website www.mountvernon.org, barkingly, the most hilarious story of  Washington’s having dogs in the home occurred with their dog, the beloved French Hound Vulcan!  “The mischievous Vulcan ambled into the Mount Vernon kitchen on the very day Mrs. Washington had ordered a fine ham for dinner. Excited about this menu, Vulcan sunk his teeth into the savory prize and carried it cleanly away as the kitchen servants chased after him.” WOOF! Can’t say I blame him- I did that with a chicken! BARK! 
"Site of Abraham Lincoln's Boyhood Home"
(C) Joe Shlabotnik, Flickr Creative Commons

Barks! Abraham Lincoln had a dog named “Fido!” He was a yellow mixed breed who seemed to be Lincoln’s companion too. He went everywhere Lincoln went! Fido could be found waiting outside a barber while Lincoln got a trim! Or, you would often see Fido carrying packages from the market back to the house- Dad, don’t get any ideas!

Barkingly, when Lincoln was elected President, the noises of the local celebration, booming cannons, loud fireworks, ringing church bells, and the excitement of the community proved to terrify Fido and be too much for him. This caused Lincoln to make arrangements for Fido to stay with a family friend, John Roll and his family. Barkingly, the friend promised to return Fido to them when they returned from Washington.

WOOF, Fido had the run of the Lincoln household. Bark, like me at mine! When Lincoln left him with the Rolls, he specified that Fido was to be all to come into the Roll family home, even if his paws were muddy and not be scolded.  ARF! Since the Lincolns shared table scraps with Fido at mealtime, the Rolls should do the same. BARK! Fido had a favorite sofa which was taken to the Roll home too!

When Lincoln was assassinated, the Roll family brought Fido along with them to the Lincoln family home in Springfield to pay respects! Ironically, a  few years later, Fido was being his pawsome playful self with a drunk man who in a drunken rage, thrust a knife into him. Fido met the same fate as his pawsome master, Assassination!

Barks! However you celebrate President’s Day, may it be a blessed one! BARKS!

"Lincoln's Home in Springfield, Illinois"
(C) Matt Turner, Flickr Creative Commons

Sunday, February 18, 2018

Prayer Pups!


© Prayer Pups, by Jeff Smith, Used by Written Permission

His Mercy!
by Jeff Smith

"When God our Savior 
revealed His kindness
and love, He saved us,
not because of the righteous things
we had done, 
but because of His mercy.

 – Titus 3:4-5

I paw and bark my thanks to Prayer Pups and Jeffrey Smith for sharing their pawsome artistic talents with us. 

All content and characters © 2018 Jeffrey Smith. All rights reserved. Used by Permission, Prayer Pups by Jeffrey Smith

Friday, February 16, 2018

Friday's Friend! Dog Adoption, Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League


Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League Creative: Allen Pearson

WOOF! My pawsome friend "Great Dane Dame" of the Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League stopped by this week with a handsome Merle Great Dane for you to meet! Eddy!

Eddy has made pawsome strides in his foster home. He is learning to be a most pawsome dog!

Merle Great Dane
Photo Credit: Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League
Creative: 
Allen Pearson
Eddy is full of puppy-like behavior with the normal inquisitiveness!  He loves going to the dog park and the doggy day care. He loves playing but plays a little rough for smaller dogs! Barkingly, he can be mouthy when playing but is never aggressive! He is just one huge goofy guy who loves to run. 

Eddy is completely house and crate trained. He is learning to fetch and play ball!

Eddy is a most affectionate Dane and will shower his humans with doggy kisses and cuddle in your lap, against your legs or by your feet! He is pawsitively a family dog and loves mini-humans. Due to his size he will not be place with young mini-humans.

Eddy will make an excellent addition to an almost any home but needs an active home to burn off puppy energy will be best! He will require a large fenced yard due to his energy level.

WOOF!

If you would like to learn more about the processes and produres in adopting a Great Dane and pawssibly meet or adopt Eddy, pawlease visit Mid-Atlantic Great Dane Rescue League Adoption Procedures!




Friday's Friend! Cat Adoption, PetConnect Rescue

Cat Adoption
Photo Credit: PetConnect Rescue Creative: Allen Pearson

My pawsome friend "Cat Lady" brought by a most beautiful cat for you to meet!  Zada!

A petite lady with a pawsome sweet disposition and a purring motor that doesn't quit! She is a dedicated lap cat who will make a great companion for life!  MEOW!

Zada likes to follow her foster mom around the house from room-to-room patiently waiting for the next task! Meowingly, sometimes she will curl up around for foster mom's feet or on her lap!
Cat Adoption


Zada is very easy-going sweetheart of a cat who will make the transition to a "Forever Home" with her humans to love on quite smoothly!  MEOWS! She will be great for the first time cat owner though pawfectly pawsome for anyone!

Zada has met other adult cats, dog and mini-humans and takes all newcomers in stride! She may be adopted as your-one-and-only or with another companion animals!

A few notes from my friends at PetConnect Rescue: Cats adopted through PetConnect Rescue must be indoor only, and may not be declawed (unless already declawed at the time of rescue).

The first step in approving adoption applicants is to complete a Veterinarian check. Vetting of current and past pets is very importantso they will be speaking with the Veterinarians(s) listed on your application to ensure that your current and previous pet(s) are kept up to date on vaccines (including rabies), spayed or neutered and examined annually by your Veterinarian.

If you would like to learn more about cat adoption, pawlease visit the PetConnect Rescue Adoption Guide!

If you would like to meet or apply to adopt Zada, pawlease complete the PetConnect Rescue Adoption Application! Once submitted, one of their Adoption Coordinators will contact you!

Maybe you pawsitively love cats but are not able to adopt right now.  Why not sponsor Zada? Donations will help offset the costs of Zada's care. Any extra funds raised will be used to help other PetConnect Rescue animals.

If yoou would like to sponsor Zada, CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!
Cat Adoption



Friday's Friend! Dog Adoption, Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.

Black Labrador Retrievers
Photo Credit: Lab Rescue Creative: Allen Pearson
WOOF! I am so pawleased to share that several of the Labrador Retriever pairs who drug “Lab Lady” from Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc. gleefully and rather dapperly, got adopted. They found humans to love and their “Forever Homes!”  WOOF! WOOF!! Barkingly grand to be able to share this news with you!

This week, “Lab Lady” brought by two pairs of Labradors who are still looking for their “Forever Homes” and humans to love! These Labradors are bonded buddies who may have grown up together or met along the rescue way and became close and need to be adopted together.  The old saying, which I love to paw and bark, is very pawsomely true when said about bonded dogs, “Two are better than one!”  WOOF!

If you are looking for pawsome dogs to add to your life, two will make your human life quite pawsome!

Barkingly, these Black Labrador Retrievers are recommended for mini-humans ages 8 and older. They have no history with cats!

If you would like to learn more about these Labrador Retrievers, pawlease visit Lab-Pairs!

If you would like to meet or apply to adopt either of these pairs, pawlease complete the Lab Rescue Dog Adoption Application.




Friday's Friend! Dog Adoption, Operation Paws for Homes

Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Homes Creative: Allen Pearson

My pawsome friends at Operation Paws for Homes have been pawfully busy this week with the dogs in their care. They brought by three dogs for you to meet! WOOF!

Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Homes Creative: Allen Pearson
The first friend for you to meet is Potcake Cece! She came all the way from the Turks & Caicos after weathering Hurricanes Maria and Irma to find a human to love and a "Forever Home!"

Cece is a long-legged 1-year-old Shepherd mix who loves to hang out with her humans. She's a pawsomely happy gal and is loyal and loving. She likes following her human around giving kisses and rolling over on her back for belly rubs!

She is good with dogs she's met at her foster home. She is a bit wary of strange dogs and might be afraid of large dogs so her foster human is working on her with this. WOOF!

Cece is treat motivated which will help with training. She knows some basic commands like "sit," "down," and "no!"

Cece will sleep in her crate through the night and is mastering her house manners!

Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Homes Creative: Allen Pearson
Cece is looking for a "Forever Home" where she can have access to a yard to take care of "business" without having to be leashed and walk past strangers to do it. WOOF!  I know so embarrassing! woof!

Cece may enjoy having a pet playmate too. She's still learning about life in the USA so if she's left unsupervised, she may chew on inappropriate items.

If you would like to learn more about dog adoption, pawlease visit Operation Paws for Homes Adoption Guide!

Interested in meeting, or applying to adopt, this pawsome gal Potcake Cece? Pawlease complete the Operation Paws for Homes Dog Adoption Application!  WOOF!

BARKS! My next pawsome friend for you to meet is Rowlf!

Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Allen Pearson Creative: Allen Pearson

My friend Rowlf is a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever and pawssibly Doberman Pinscher mix. And, maybe some Hound too! WOOF! A pawsome mix of breeds, I'd say! 

Rowlf is friendly with the humans he's met! He's  gotten along with other dogs he's met but has a strong prey drive so he needs a home without cats and other smaller critters! WOOF! 
Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Allen Pearson
Creative: 
Allen Pearson

Friendly with people he's met with his foster family in the home and on the go. He has lots of energy and gets easily excited but can be shown how nice it is to be lazy sometimes.

Rowlf is a super smart guy who some basic commands and is learning a few others. He likes going for rides, is housebroken and crate trained. He's pawsomely respectful of household rules. Barkingly, he's controlled himself around counter tops! WOOFs!!

Rowlf pawsitively LOVES treats which makes training super fun for him. 

If you would like to learn more about dog adoption, pawlease visit Operation Paws for Homes Adoption Guide!

If you would like to apply to meet or adopt Rowlf, pawlease complete the Operation Paws for Homes Adoption Application!

Meet my newest friend Count Rugen! WOOF!! Don't worry, he's not going to suck your blood! Bark! He may cuteness or lick you to death but that's it. 

Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Homes Creative: Allen Pearson

What a face! He has such a pawsome smile! 

Count Rugen is around 3-months-old and appears to be a Labrador Retriever mix! 
Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Homes
Creative: 
Allen Pearson

He seems to like the neighborhood mini-humans and loves other dogs! He is food-driven so training him and teaching new tricks should be really fun. 

Count Rugen is your typcial puppy, play, sleep, play, sleep. He is the biggest and bestest cuddler as he just loves to lay on his human's lap while watching TV!  WOOF!! 

If you would like to learn more about dog adoption, pawlease visit Operation Paws for Homes Adoption Guide!

Interested in meeting or applying to adopt Count Rugen? Pawlease complete the Operation Paws for Homes Dog Adoption Application

WOOF!


Dog Adoption
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Homes
Creative: 
Allen Pearson







Tuesday, February 13, 2018

National Adoption Weekend, February 16-18, 2018, Petsmart

"Dog Adoption!"
(C) Allen Pearson
Barks and Woofs! We are not affiliated with PetSmart or PetSmart Charities. I have not received payment, treats or food to share this post. I support dog and cat adoption and want you to know-

WOOF! and a good hearty MEOW! Are you looking for a furry companion? A new best friend to bless your live with their pawsome presence and pawsomeness?

PetSmart and PetSmart Charities will be hosting a National Pet Adoption Weekend, February 16-18, 2018 at your local PetSmart. 

PetSmart Charities works with local animal welfare organizations to host these adoption events. The dogs and cats attending the events will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption.

One of the organizations I paw about in my work will be attending these events. To learn their schedule, click on their links:  Operation Paws for Homes - Adoption Events.

Since 1994, PetSmart Charities has helped 7,847,574 pets find their "Forever Homes" and humans to love.

If you would like to learn more about the National Adoption Weekend, pawlease visit PetSmart Charities!

"I'm Waiting! Are You Coming?"
(C) Allen Pearson





Monday, February 12, 2018

This Valentine’s Day Better be Safe than Sorry! (Guest Post)

Valentine's Day, the day on which the whole world celebrates love, should always be memorable and not in any way disastrous for anyone, especially the furry members of your family. Some of the common gifts that one receives during Valentine's Day are chocolates, flowers, and baked goods like cookies with chocolate chips or nuts. If you forget to secure these items in an area that is not accessible to your dog, your dog is sure going to get at it. Dogs are curious by nature and if they see something new or smell something new in their surroundings, they are going to go after it. Once they realize that what he smells is edible, it's difficult for him to stop himself.

Did you know that lilies are poisonous to dogs and cats? Dogs love to eat flowers and might eat lilies and get seriously harmed. If your dog tries to chew the roses that have thorns, he can injure himself. Chocolates have a high amount of sugar and hence are very harmful to your dog's health. 

Well, the list is never-ending, and as a pet parent, it is extremely important for you to make sure that your pet is safe during Valentine's Day. This infographic lists a number of safety tips for pet parents to have a safe and pet-friendly Valentine’s Day.

 20 Valentine’s Day Safety Tips for Pet Owners [Infographic]
Infographic provided by TopDogTips


About the Author:
Sarah is the pet food expert at Top Dog Tips with years of experience in working, writing and researching the pet food industry, specific dog food brands and the basics of canine nutrition. She's written numerous evidence-based articles about the myths and facts of how, why and what we use to feed our dogs.


Friday, February 9, 2018

Friday's Friend! Dog Adoption, Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.

Labrador Retriever Adoption
Photo Credits: Lab Rescue  Creative: Allen Pearson

"Lab Lady's" visit this week was so pawsomely funny! She came by with several bonded pairs of Labrador Retrievers for you to meet. Well, you know how we Labrador Retrievers are, we just want to have fun.... we want to enjoy life to the fullest and make a humans life much better simply because we are with them! WOOF! Of course, all of the Labradors were barkingly happy to be out and about. So, they pulled on, whirled, twirled and otherwise gave my dear friend "Lab Lady" a good workout! WOOF! I loved watching my friends having a blast with their human!

"Lab Lady" brought by several friends who are bonded buddies either by growing up together, meeting along the way to finding Lab Rescue but either way, they are looking for humans to love who will adopt both of them together so they can continue to be the pawsome dogs they are and make their humans live pawsome.

Some of the Labradors are good with other dogs while others may need slow introductions or not at all. Some get along with cats while others have no history. Most of them are recommended for mini-humans and recommended for ages 10 or older.  These Labradors cover the Labrador rainbow of Black, Chocolate, and Yellow! WOOF!

Either way, if you would like to meet these pawsome guys and gals to learn more about them, and pawssibly adopt them, pawlease visit Lab Rescue - Pairs.

If you would like to meet or adopt a pair, pawlease complete the Lab Rescue Adoption Application.  Say "BARK!" to "Lab Lady" for me!

WOOF!

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Noah's Houndisms:Walking Your Dog!

"Noah Walking His Human"
(C) Allen Pearson

"Put Down the Device and Walk With Me!"

When my human gets the pleasure and honor of being seen with me in public, I expect for him to pay attention to me, not his device. WOOF!!

For one thing, what if a huge creature comes our way, and well, I might need his help. Or, if a human is allowing his dog to walk off-leash, which is illegal in our area, it could become a distraction for me or the dog could bother my human. Barkingly, it is safer for him to pay attention to what's going on around us so he can be prepared to do what he needs to do! Barks. The list can go on... 

When I walk my human, I am giving him time to bond with me. We discuss the problems of the universe and I give him all the right answers, we sniff a few places along the way to see who has been there and what's going on with who and we get pawlenty of good healthy exercise. Barkingly, I love hanging out with my human it is a pawsome time.  

Leave your device in your pocket and ignore it for the short time you are walking your dog. After all, to us dogs, the time is infinite and barkingly special and goes on forever. While for you, it may only be a few minutes, it's so much more. Find that time with your human - make them put down the device!

Monday, February 5, 2018

How to Train a Rescue Dog by Positive Reinforcement


(C) Allen Pearson
I have met a lot of pet parents who bring home either purely bred dogs or rescued ones. They swear on being very caring and understanding towards their dogs. They are always complaining to have failed in getting real results from all the training techniques. Huberty’s opinion of Nina in The Wrong Dog is nothing different!

There are several faces to the argument:
  • They spoiled their pet with a lot of love; so he listens to the owner no more
  •  They have become harsh during the training process, or have not rewarded their pet correctly and consistently.
  • They focus on the weaknesses. They are hitting the dog at his weakest link.
No one likes to be degraded. So, being a trainer, teacher, and a parent, you have to be encouraging for the positive aspects. It doesn’t mean that you keep your eyes off of the negative behavior. Train them with those too, but gradually and slowly. That’s what Positive Reinforcement is all about!

This short step-by-step guide will help you understand the complexities of your dog’s behavior and ways to train him by positive reinforcement.

1. Consider The Breed:

(C) Allen Pearson
Before you bring home a rescue dog, begin with the research on different dog breeds, their genetics and behavior traits. Once you get familiar with the good and bad points of your future fido, everything else gets easy.

Stephen R. Covey isn't wrong when he says: Seek first to understand, then to be understood.

Rescue dogs come with a whole range of behavior issues so figure out the genetics, focus on the strengths, and slightly hit the weaknesses to keep them on track. For the flaws, you have to be vigilant forever, and the dog will require lifetime training and appreciation.

Coming to the genetics, small dogs have a GREAT attitude, and an inclination to get easily spoiled. Large breed dogs have aggression, over-protectiveness, and dominating manner, which requires training to an extent only.

2. Consider The Previous Environment:

Next step involves detailed research on the previous owner, his training methodology, and his general behavior. Dogs often pick up after their owner’s attitude. Depressing surroundings at an early stage can make the dog gloomy, and disinterested. Aggressive owners promote the development of aggressive dog child or submissive ones. Here, again your understanding matters more than your dog’s. Invest in indestructible dog toys to let them give an outlet to their anxiety and aggression.

Avoid mimicking the behaviors of previous owners. Continue to train by positive reinforcement and encouragement. Give your pooch confidence, love, and care. Never overdo anything because your dog may misinterpret your actions and may take your commands for granted.

3. Checklist:

Prepare a check-list that has all the details of strengths and weaknesses of the rescue dog. It should detail the best and worst behaviors found in the dog. It should distinctly categorize the easily malleable behavior and other hard-wired behaviors ingrained in the dog’s mind since puppy times.

Differentiate between the genetically inherited traits and environmentally inculcated behaviors. The significance of checklist is that you will have a clear idea of what your dog is capable of and what’s out of question. Your expectations will be realistic and achievable.

4. Positive Reinforcements:

Positive reinforcement means rewarding the positive behaviors of the dog. You should be careful in making immediate connections between the desired behaviors and the rewards. Dogs understand your actions more than your words.

Motivate, appreciate, and give confidence to your new pet baby (even if he’s a grown up)

Target the environment induced traits first by positive reinforcement. Encourage, train, and be consistent.

The Do’s And Don’ts of Treat Training:

For effectiveness of positive reinforcement, and to avoid behavioral problems, keep in mind some of the do’s and don’ts at your fingertips.

The Do’s of Positive Reinforcement:
  • Immediately reward the dog for positive response (when in action)
  • Keep the training session short, fun, and positive
  • Phase out treats gradually
  • Switch between material and non-material rewards (the treats and praises)
The Don't’s of Positive Reinforcement:
  • Don’t get inconsistent with treat training
  • Don’t let the dog forget the lessons learnt! Maintain successful treat training by having “Revising Sessions.”
  • Don’t give complex commands, keep them to the point.

5. Train for Desired Behaviors:

Now that you two have become best friends, you can teach him to change some undesirable habits for you. At this stage of the dog-owner relationship, your dog will ‘want’ to make you happy at all times. Win-win situation! Right? Win the dog first, and let him win you later.

Having trouble with keeping him on the leash? Or the rescued dog appears fearful and anti-social? Whatever may be the behavior issue, you should remember that your dog had a tough time so he needs some time and space. Let him be himself for a while. Nudge him every once in a while in the beginning. Let him feel the freedom again! Accept him entirely rather than being critical at all times.

Think from the dog’s perspective because they have emotions too!!

6. Know The Limits:

Do you like anyone to change you entirely? Don’t you love getting accepted for what you naturally are? Yeah, here’s the key for you. You can’t change everything. For example, if a German shepherd doesn’t know how to flee from challenging situations, you cannot do anything about that. In contrast, a Labrador may flee from similar situations.

Limits also include your behavior to be similar to the dog’s previous owner in any way. Try not to make your dog uncomfortable, and wrongly interpret your behavior. It’s a tricky part!

7. Give Surprises:

Your newly rescued dog would love lots of surprises and treats to keep him happy and satisfied. Show your love and appreciation by giving surprises. Visit the dog’s favorite places. Give him his favorite food. Rescue dogs need a little more pampering to restore their faith in humans and humanity.

Tip: Never give the surprise when your pooch is engaged in unwanted behavior.

8. Make Time For Him:

Now that your dog is well-trained and well-behaved, it doesn’t mean that he requires no more behavior training. Your time and attention will keep him on track. If he lost interest in you and found you busy at all times, he may stop trying to make you happy by behaving well.

Never ignore your fido as most rescue dogs have been overlooked in their past, and they may take your behavior negatively too. Ignoring the rescue dog in crowded places can negatively impact your dog’s mind. He may indulge in unwanted behaviors to get the attention afterward.

Dog Training is a lifelong process. Positive reinforcement should be the spark forever. We, as dog parents, have to change our thought processes a little bit before we own a dog. It’s a great responsibility, and a lot of things get missed out. But, making a positive difference in your fido’s life will bring positive changes in your life too.

About the Author:
James has a black lab named Diana, who inspires his writings in LabradorTrainingHQ.com. A nutritionist by profession, he's an advocate for balanced meals that have the right vitamins and minerals, whether they be his or his dog's.

Friday, February 2, 2018

Friday's Friend! Dog Adoption, Operation Paws for Homes

Shepherd, Coonhound, Boxer Dog Adoption
"Treeter"
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for Home Creative: Allen Pearson

WOOF! Meet my friend "Treeter" from Operation Paws for Homes!

Treeter is a sweetheart! She is around 2-years-old and is said to be a Shepherd, Boxer and maybe Coonhound mix!

Treeter is a bouncy, prancy, loyal, joyful gal who believes in living life wholeheartedly. She loves to share her affection, hugs and kisses, to all the humans she meets.

Treeter is house and crate trained. She will settle in her crate to sleep at night. She has pawsome house manners. She loves having a dog bed close to her human too. If you rub her chest, she'll fall asleep next to you!
Shepherd, Coonhound, Boxer Dog Adoption
"Treeter"
Photo Credit: Operation Paws for HomeCreative: Allen Pearson

Treeter is calm most of the day but will need an outlet for her pawsome energy or it can become bottled up. WOOF! 

Treeter knows some basic commands but she easily forgets when she thinks the humans might have forgotten. Woof- will have to remember that one! 

Treeters energy level makes her more suitable for adult households with mini-humans age 13 or older. She will thrive and be-the-bestest-dog-ever when every member of the family helps reinforce her boundaries! 

Barkingly, she has a prey drive so no small little furry critters in the home.  WOOF!! 

Interested in learning more about dog adoption? Pawlease visit the Operation Paws for Homes Adoption Guide.

Interested in applying to adopt or meet Treeter? Pawlease complete the Operation Paws for Homes Adoption Application

Friday's Friend! Dog Adoption, Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.

Black Labrador Retriever, Great Dane Adoption
"Benjamin"
Photo Credit: Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.
Creative: Allen Pearson

My friend "Lab Lady" stopped by this week with a most interesting character for you to meet. Meet Benjamin!

Benjamin, a 1-year-old Black Labrador Retriever, is looking for a "Forever Home" in a suburban or rural single-family house with a fence! He isn't used to the noises of the city!

Benjamin enjoys going to the doggie daycare where he gets along with other pups. He is a high energy pup who needs a human to drain his energy mentally and physically! He will need regular exercise more than just two walks a day!
Black Labrador Retriever, Great Dane Adoption
"Benjamin"
Photo Credit: Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.
Creative: Allen Pearson

Benjamin is learning how pawsomely cool it is to hang out with humans and to love being scratched and hugged!

Benjamin knows some basic commands. He is eager to pawlease his humans too! With his youth, he will have a training addendum attached to his adoption! Barkingly, he's made great strides with his leash skills! He loves chasing balls and chewing on toys!

Benjamin is crate trained and quiet through the night. He is house trained too.

Benjamin is great with other dogs and good with cats. He is recommended for mini-humans ages 10 and older.

Interested in meeting Benjamin. learning about dog adoption and applying to adopt him? Pawlease complete the Lab Rescue Dog Adoption Application.
Black Labrador Retriever, Great Dane Adoption
"Benjamin"
Photo Credit: Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.
Creative: Allen Pearson






Friday's Friend! Cat Adoption, PetConnect Rescue

Cat
"Romeo!"
Photo Credit: PetConnect Rescue Creative: Allen Pearson
A pawsome week it's been and it's always barkingly great, er purringly great, to catch up with my cat friends and "Cat Lady" from PetConnect Rescue! This week, she has brought a pawsome guy named Romeo for you to meet!

Romeo will sweep you off your feet with his strikingly handsome good looks. He will steal your heart and give pawlenty of love too! Meows! His excellent social nature and charm is irresistible!  He will even chat with you sharing a jovial banter! Purrs!

Romeo will snuggle with you as you read a book or while watching a movie! He loves to contort his pawsome self into nearly any place just to be near his humans!

Romeo's pawsome self-full of love is waiting for the pawfect human to come along and adopt him! Enjoy Valentines Day with this loving fella!

If you would like to learn more about cat adoption, pawlease visit the PetConnect Adoption Guide.

If you would like to apply to adopt Romeo, pawlease complete the PetConnect Rescue Cat Adoption Application!
Cat
"Romeo!"
Photo Credit: PetConnect Rescue Creative: Allen Pearson