Letter To A New Puppy Owner
By Leah Morse
Dear New Puppy Owner,
Now that you have fallen in love with the perfect little puppy that you have carefully considered breed, pedigree and the best breeder possible, or maybe have spent many hours roaming shelter kennel rows, please consider all that you have done to finally get the new little, furry bundle of joy. Make a commitment to your new charge that you will do all in your power to keep him/her safe from harm, safe from fear, safe from trouble and give him/ her the best home possible.
Learn all you can about puppies breed or combination of breeds before you pick puppy up. Know the hereditary diseases, behavioral tendencies and trainability. Learn any special care your breed might require such as keeping wrinkle folds clean on the bully breeds, grooming techniques for wire haired breeds, sun protection for the hairless breeds etc.
Start by having all you need already waiting for new puppy, set up and ready to go. Don’t skimp on something you think you will pick up the last minute. Have the food that the breeder was feeding and take your time switching him on to the best quality food you can feed, if there is to be a change in food. Have puppies potty area picked out, a crate for sleeping and protection from all that a young puppy can get into, food and water bowls (preferably ceramic or stainless steel for better sanitation), chew toys that can’t be destroyed, a leash and collar and bedding. Take a towel and some toys with to the breeder’s house to let the litter-mates play on and with so that it will pick up the smells of the litter so you can put it in his crate to help his transition. Plan to take a few days off so you can bond with puppy and help him/her acclimate to the new surroundings and get to know you. Plan out a routine for puppy to help with this transition.
See your vet as soon as possible but not later than 48 to 72 hours after receiving puppy. Have all the necessary health records available so that your veterinarian can make the best recommendations as to which vaccinations, de-wormings and other health related suggestions that are necessary for your puppy and your area that you live in. Many health guarantees are void if you don’t.
Don’t allow cute little puppy to do anything that won’t be allowed as an adult dog. Puppies can learn to not get on furniture, not jump or mouth you from day one. Don’t wait, curb these unwanted behaviors early. Potty training will come easier if meals are planned out as 3 or 4 a day as opposed to free feeding. Keep in mind that the toy breeds need to eat frequently as they can have trouble with keeping their blood sugar stable. Be patient and don’t give puppy too much freedom.
Don’t wait, socialize, socialize, socialize and then socialize some more. The best time to socialize your puppy is from 8 to 16 weeks of age, and then again after 5 months. Expose puppy to as many positive experiences as possible. All races, sexes and ages of people including those in uniform, different accessories (ladies with big hats, older people with canes etc) should be included in your process. Think about where you will take your puppy throughout his/her lifetime and expose your puppy to anything that they might come across. This means car rides, bicycles, traffic, parks; big box pet stores are a great place to do this. Remember keep it as positive as possible. If something might be scary or too loud start from a distance and increase your treats and praise as you get closer to the new item or person. If you are going to be around farm animals, include safe exposure of these animals and I do emphasize safety first here as all animals can be unpredictable. Don’t soothe a frightened puppy, act indifferent but praise bravery or curiosity. Soothing and comforting will only re-enforce the puppies fear.
Enroll your puppy in a great puppy class, this way your puppy will have a fun place to learn manners but also have a place to socialize with other puppies. Puppy class and will help to develop puppies communication skills. Even if you are the best dog trainer in the world, a puppy class is a great place for socialization. Check out local doggy daycares. Leaving puppy at a great doggy daycare helps socialize your puppy and renders your puppy tired at the end of the day and less likely to get into trouble.
Crate train your puppy. Don’t think cage, think playpen or crib. No one thinks twice about putting our children in a play pen or crib as these items protect baby from things that could cause harm. A crate, used correctly, helps potty train and also saves the carpet, furniture, your shoes etc. Besides, sometime in puppy’s life he will need to be used to being in a crate, kennel or cage, such as at the groomers or the vet.
Handle your puppy and get him/her used to having teeth, ears and feet handled. You will be cleaning those ears, brushing those teeth and trimming those nails. Get puppy used to this early for later success. Daily gentle handling exercises should be an enjoyable experience for both puppy and owner and will further the bonding process. Start grooming early. Brushes, clippers, scissors and combs can be scary things if you don’t know what they are. Schedule a meet and greet with a groomer you find by referral if puppy will be visiting regularly.
Take puppy to the vet when he or she does not need to go to just get treats, weighed and make friends with the staff. If you only go when puppy is having unpleasant things done, the vet and staff will become scary and a bad place. Most vets will happily participate in this.
Last but not least, please, please train your puppy. Think of your puppy as an ambassador for his/her breed. Prevent dog bites and phobias by socializing as much as safely possible. A trained dog is more of a joy to own and a trained dog enjoys life more as well.
Sincerely
Your Professional Dog Trainer
Caring and Concerned Breeder
Leah Morse www.rmclassiccanine.com
What do you think about a letter like this for future puppy owners? We would like to hear from you at live@dogdoctorradio.com
Tags: Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine
____________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works. Leah can also be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Showing posts with label canine training. Show all posts
Showing posts with label canine training. Show all posts
Friday, May 14, 2010
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Raw Diet and "Legend"
Raw Diet and “Legend”
By Leah Morse
This is a part of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
November 13th, 2010 we received our most recent boxer, Legend. He was eight weeks old and delivered from Georgia after much research. This would be my first little puppy on raw diet; Story was almost a year old when I made the switch to raw. I could not imagine the puppy teeth and still developing jaws of an eight week old getting through bones. I am very lucky to have access to a good friend that could get large quantities of chicken necks ground up. We asked for about 20-pounds that we divided into half pound baggies and froze. The small portions were easy to handle on a daily basis. Though the breeder did her due diligence and sent the Eukanuba puppy food he had been eating we switched him onto raw immediately. There would not be any gradual change as I had read that it was not good to combine cooked with raw (except vegetables). Processed dog food is most definitely cooked.
The first day we offered the ground chicken necks to Legend. He was not sure what to do with it. We doctored it with a little bit of plain Horizon yogurt and just a sprinkle of the mixed supplement powder. I literally had to spoon feed him in the beginning, which I liked to do to help him want hands near his food bowl. Lots of encouragement from us with the spoon feeding (he had never had mushy food like this before) and he ate a decent small amount for his first feeding. Out to the potty area and Legend eliminated normal stool, even after the trauma of being taken from home and brought to a strange new house, strange new people and even weirder food.
We continued to feed the ground chicken necks to him through the next few days. He started to anticipate and get excited about it. Again, normal stool with white specks of digested bone with no sign of diarrhea was all that was found. We would give him raw hamburger meat periodically but thankfully (as beef is so much more expensive) Legend really preferred his ground chicken.
We started to see him grow and put on a little weight (a little weight is key as you do not want to grow puppies too fast!) At 11-weeks, it was time for another vaccination and a de-wormer. Ok now we had some diarrhea after the de-wormer but only for a day or so then back to normal stool.
I had never had a young puppy that had such consistent normal stool. Usually they would have episodes here and there but not Legend. His puppy hair started to become extremely shiny, His eyes were bright and he had the typical puppy energy.
At about 16-weeks I started to cut up chicken wings (separate into 3 sections) for Legend. I was amazed at how easily I could cut through them with kitchen scissors. Legend had no problem eating the wing pieces. I stayed with him and watched for several days to be sure he did not choke on them. Again, normal stool no problems.
Legend is now seven months old and getting ready for his first conformation show. He has developed nicely on raw diet. He has the silky high gloss coat that my adults have. He sheds very little and his red fawn coat has taken to a deep shiny red. As with my adults, he is a pleasure to touch as his fur is so silky.
I am very pleased with the results and have absolutely no regrets of starting a very young puppy on a Raw Diet.
Tags: Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine
_____________________
Leah Morse is the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine and a certified canine trainer. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works.
By Leah Morse
This is a part of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
November 13th, 2010 we received our most recent boxer, Legend. He was eight weeks old and delivered from Georgia after much research. This would be my first little puppy on raw diet; Story was almost a year old when I made the switch to raw. I could not imagine the puppy teeth and still developing jaws of an eight week old getting through bones. I am very lucky to have access to a good friend that could get large quantities of chicken necks ground up. We asked for about 20-pounds that we divided into half pound baggies and froze. The small portions were easy to handle on a daily basis. Though the breeder did her due diligence and sent the Eukanuba puppy food he had been eating we switched him onto raw immediately. There would not be any gradual change as I had read that it was not good to combine cooked with raw (except vegetables). Processed dog food is most definitely cooked.
The first day we offered the ground chicken necks to Legend. He was not sure what to do with it. We doctored it with a little bit of plain Horizon yogurt and just a sprinkle of the mixed supplement powder. I literally had to spoon feed him in the beginning, which I liked to do to help him want hands near his food bowl. Lots of encouragement from us with the spoon feeding (he had never had mushy food like this before) and he ate a decent small amount for his first feeding. Out to the potty area and Legend eliminated normal stool, even after the trauma of being taken from home and brought to a strange new house, strange new people and even weirder food.
We continued to feed the ground chicken necks to him through the next few days. He started to anticipate and get excited about it. Again, normal stool with white specks of digested bone with no sign of diarrhea was all that was found. We would give him raw hamburger meat periodically but thankfully (as beef is so much more expensive) Legend really preferred his ground chicken.
We started to see him grow and put on a little weight (a little weight is key as you do not want to grow puppies too fast!) At 11-weeks, it was time for another vaccination and a de-wormer. Ok now we had some diarrhea after the de-wormer but only for a day or so then back to normal stool.
I had never had a young puppy that had such consistent normal stool. Usually they would have episodes here and there but not Legend. His puppy hair started to become extremely shiny, His eyes were bright and he had the typical puppy energy.
At about 16-weeks I started to cut up chicken wings (separate into 3 sections) for Legend. I was amazed at how easily I could cut through them with kitchen scissors. Legend had no problem eating the wing pieces. I stayed with him and watched for several days to be sure he did not choke on them. Again, normal stool no problems.
Legend is now seven months old and getting ready for his first conformation show. He has developed nicely on raw diet. He has the silky high gloss coat that my adults have. He sheds very little and his red fawn coat has taken to a deep shiny red. As with my adults, he is a pleasure to touch as his fur is so silky.
I am very pleased with the results and have absolutely no regrets of starting a very young puppy on a Raw Diet.
Tags: Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works | Minnesota Dog Works | Rocky Mountain Classic Canine
_____________________
Leah Morse is the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine and a certified canine trainer. Leah writes a weekly blog for Denver Dog Works.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Ingredients for a Raw Diet for Dogs
Ingredients for a Raw Diet for Dogs
By Leah Morse
What Ingredients and Where to purchase for feeding Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (B.A.R.F)
This is a part of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
I don’t tend to supplement too much with feeding raw diet. The high quality nutrition that comes from feeding raw is more than sufficient. Due to the fact that the protein, minerals and nutrients are in their most natural state, combined with naturally occurring enzymes in the food that help with digestion. However there are a few things that I add as there is a lot of evidence that there is a benefit to do so.
I make a mixture of powdered alfalfa, kelp powder and bee pollen. I keep the majority of it in a clean glass jar but I also put a small amount in a salt shaker (no salt please) to make it easier to sprinkle a small amount on my dogs food. I use a very small amount as much of their nutrition is coming from the variety of veggies and meats and eggs.
Kelp Powder provides essential iodine. The further you live away from the coast the less iodine is present naturally in your environment. We as humans receive it in vitamins or salt that has been fortified with Iodine. Salt is not good for dogs. A great source of iodine is kelp powder a slight amount, a mere dusting is sufficient for a dog. Do your homework and find out what your dog’s needs are by weight to figure out proper amounts. Kelp powder is easily found at one of the many health food stores in the area.
Alfalfa powder is a terrific green food to add to your dog’s food. According to the analysis on the can of alfalfa powder that I purchased at Vitamin cottage, alfalfa is 20% protein and 15% fiber; plus it contains 16 amino acids, 13 trace minerals and 13 vitamins. Again a little goes a long way.
Bee Pollen Granules is also a nutrient rich super food. It supplies vitamins, amino acids; trace minerals and enzymes in a synergistic balance that provides optimum bioavailability, according to the NOW brand Bee Pollen Granules. Bee pollen contains all 22 elements composing the body.
Fish Oil is a good source of Omega 3 Fatty acids. There has been a recent scientific finding that suggests that fish oil aids in preventing cancer.
Vitamin C is a great supplement to use when stress is present. I have also heard veterinarians that have recommended Vitamin C to help prevent urine grass kill. I give the dose recommended for my dog’s weight per the raw diet books I have. Dr. Ian Billinghurst does a very good job at explaining the proper amount to give, in his book “Give Your Dog a Bone.:
Water should not be taken lightly. Filtered water is best, or at least the highest quality water available. The fewer chemicals the better, I say. I give my dogs’ filtered water.
Sunshine is also important as this helps to provide vitamin D, an essential nutrient for proper calcium utilization.
Again, I don’t supplement everyday but I do try to use everything regularly. I have combined all the powders in one big mix as it makes it easier to give. Fish Oil and Vitamin C are also given periodically. There is plenty of information out there as far as how much and how often.
Tags:Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
___________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Leah Morse
What Ingredients and Where to purchase for feeding Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (B.A.R.F)
This is a part of a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. It is a controversial way of providing nutrition for your dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding as frozen bones can severely damage teeth. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way since 2008, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
I don’t tend to supplement too much with feeding raw diet. The high quality nutrition that comes from feeding raw is more than sufficient. Due to the fact that the protein, minerals and nutrients are in their most natural state, combined with naturally occurring enzymes in the food that help with digestion. However there are a few things that I add as there is a lot of evidence that there is a benefit to do so.
I make a mixture of powdered alfalfa, kelp powder and bee pollen. I keep the majority of it in a clean glass jar but I also put a small amount in a salt shaker (no salt please) to make it easier to sprinkle a small amount on my dogs food. I use a very small amount as much of their nutrition is coming from the variety of veggies and meats and eggs.
Kelp Powder provides essential iodine. The further you live away from the coast the less iodine is present naturally in your environment. We as humans receive it in vitamins or salt that has been fortified with Iodine. Salt is not good for dogs. A great source of iodine is kelp powder a slight amount, a mere dusting is sufficient for a dog. Do your homework and find out what your dog’s needs are by weight to figure out proper amounts. Kelp powder is easily found at one of the many health food stores in the area.
Alfalfa powder is a terrific green food to add to your dog’s food. According to the analysis on the can of alfalfa powder that I purchased at Vitamin cottage, alfalfa is 20% protein and 15% fiber; plus it contains 16 amino acids, 13 trace minerals and 13 vitamins. Again a little goes a long way.
Bee Pollen Granules is also a nutrient rich super food. It supplies vitamins, amino acids; trace minerals and enzymes in a synergistic balance that provides optimum bioavailability, according to the NOW brand Bee Pollen Granules. Bee pollen contains all 22 elements composing the body.
Fish Oil is a good source of Omega 3 Fatty acids. There has been a recent scientific finding that suggests that fish oil aids in preventing cancer.
Vitamin C is a great supplement to use when stress is present. I have also heard veterinarians that have recommended Vitamin C to help prevent urine grass kill. I give the dose recommended for my dog’s weight per the raw diet books I have. Dr. Ian Billinghurst does a very good job at explaining the proper amount to give, in his book “Give Your Dog a Bone.:
Water should not be taken lightly. Filtered water is best, or at least the highest quality water available. The fewer chemicals the better, I say. I give my dogs’ filtered water.
Sunshine is also important as this helps to provide vitamin D, an essential nutrient for proper calcium utilization.
Again, I don’t supplement everyday but I do try to use everything regularly. I have combined all the powders in one big mix as it makes it easier to give. Fish Oil and Vitamin C are also given periodically. There is plenty of information out there as far as how much and how often.
Tags:Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
___________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, March 25, 2010
FAQ's Feeding a Raw Diet to Dogs
FAQ's Feeding a Raw Diet to Dogs
By Leah Morse
This is a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
______________________
I have now been feeding all of my dogs raw diet for some time now. I have some of the same questions frequently asked of me. There are many who want to explore feeding their dogs this way but, as I was, they are concerned about many facets.
FAQ #1: Won’t feeding your dog raw meat make your dogs mean or want to go kill things?
Answer: I have not experienced any kind of increased aggression. I have not seen my dogs become more motivated to hunt; they seem to be less interested. We actually had pigeons that were foraging on our property fairly close to us, not too long ago, and the dogs were all but completely disinterested. One of our dogs has always hunted mice but she doesn’t go out of her way to do this. I have done a lot of reading and have even read of people who regularly feed raw chicken and also keep live chickens and not had a problem with their dogs killing the chickens. If this were to happen, dogs are carnivores and they do have the instinct to stalk, kill and eat prey but it is not because they are now eating raw meat. Dogs are conservationist. Anyone who has ever trained can plainly see this. Dogs will only do what they absolutely have to do to get their reward. If we are providing their meals and giving sufficient amounts they have more lounging, napping and play time. If they are getting the protein that they need, for them it is better to conserve the energy. However, dogs being dogs, they love the chase, a wayward critter could cause prey drive to kick in simply because the creature ran away.
FAQ #2: Aren’t you afraid you won’t give them all that they need? The pet food companies have researched their product production and they add all of the supplements to the food.
Answer: Dogs have very simple needs. Giving a variety of meaty bones, organs and veggies along with some supplementation is easier than you think. Pet food companies cook their kibble at such a high temperature that the protein is changed and many of the vitamins and nutrients are made inactive from the processing. This is why they have to add the nutrients back into the food. Raw Meat and bones provide the best source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Some seasoned Raw Diet feeders state that no supplementation is necessary, others say add a small amount of veggies and natural supplements (kelp powder, alfalfa powder and bee pollen as opposed to an actual supplement) I do supplement veggies in my dogs diet as they tend to get a little constipated if I don’t. However, the skin and coat is the last to net nutrition from what a dog eats. I have never seen skin and hair health like I have seen on my dogs (not in 20 years of pet retail, 10 years of vet assisting and all of my experience with dog training) They look like they have been dipped in a clear coat of pure gloss, only dandruff if they are nervous (like at the vet) and very reduced shedding. If this is any indication of what is going on inside their bodies I have to ask what was missing in the commercial food. I have fed my children and kept them healthy; I will also feed my dogs and keep them healthy.
FAQ #3: What about cost? It must be expensive.
Answer: Actually it has worked out to be much cheaper. The commercial food I was feeding is $46.99 for a 30lb. bag. That works out to actually about $50.51 with Tax which then figures into about $1.69 a pound. I buy chicken necks and backs for .99 a pound and I have figured that I give about 50 cents or less to the amount of veggies I use. Even the supplementation that I do with the kelp, alfalfa and bee pollen, which is such a sparing amount, I spend just about the same. I don’t supplement every day.
FAQ #4: What about making your dog sick. What about Salmonella poisoning from the raw meat.
Answer: According to Dr. PitCaren in the DVD “Eat, Drink and Wag your Tail” Dogs have a more efficient digestive tract that can handle bacteria better. This is why they survive after eating a dead thing from the field, eating their stool or just licking their butts. Salmonella has actually been found on commercial dog food. We are more likely to get sick from handling so just be sure to follow proper meat handling protocol and sanitize, use stainless steel bowls or crocks that are dishwasher safe.
FAQ #5: I thought Chicken bones were bad for dogs!
Answer: They are if they are cooked. Chicken bones are surprisingly soft and easy for the dogs to get through. Cooking makes the bones change on a molecular level so that they splinter and become dangerous. Dogs have been known to choke on kibble. I will chop up bigger bones for my puppies so they don’t try to swallow something too large, but I have never had a problem and those that I consult have never had a problem. Once you start feeding raw chicken meat and bones or any bones for that matter, you will start to see white stool which is the digested bone.
More about feeding Raw Diet Next week.
Tags:Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
________________
Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Leah Morse
This is a series of blogs that I want to share my experience with learning to feed raw diet to my dogs. I am not suggesting that anyone follow these guidelines that I have chosen to do for my own dogs. I am just simply sharing the information that I have found and where I found it. I am simply sharing my experiences. I am not a veterinarian; I am also not a health care professional. This theory of feeding raw species appropriate diet can have serious health risks associated with incorrect handling, preparing and feeding. NEVER EVER FEED COOKED BONES! Cooking bones changes the molecular structure, they become brittle and may splinter which would injure or kill your dog! Do not feed bones that are frozen either, as they can and will ruin your pet’s teeth. All bones must be thoroughly thawed before feeding. Mixing raw meat with cooked meat can cause digestive problems. If feeding raw diet is your goal read as many books and literature as possible. Find people who are already feeding and have experience to have as mentors. Use your own good judgment, when in doubt, don’t do it. The ideas and opinions in this blog are my own and come from feeding my dogs this way, unless otherwise credited. I am by no means an expert, just sharing my own acquisition of information and observations from my own dogs. Take any ideas that I present here at your own risk and discretion. I, for one, have found it worth it.
______________________
I have now been feeding all of my dogs raw diet for some time now. I have some of the same questions frequently asked of me. There are many who want to explore feeding their dogs this way but, as I was, they are concerned about many facets.
FAQ #1: Won’t feeding your dog raw meat make your dogs mean or want to go kill things?
Answer: I have not experienced any kind of increased aggression. I have not seen my dogs become more motivated to hunt; they seem to be less interested. We actually had pigeons that were foraging on our property fairly close to us, not too long ago, and the dogs were all but completely disinterested. One of our dogs has always hunted mice but she doesn’t go out of her way to do this. I have done a lot of reading and have even read of people who regularly feed raw chicken and also keep live chickens and not had a problem with their dogs killing the chickens. If this were to happen, dogs are carnivores and they do have the instinct to stalk, kill and eat prey but it is not because they are now eating raw meat. Dogs are conservationist. Anyone who has ever trained can plainly see this. Dogs will only do what they absolutely have to do to get their reward. If we are providing their meals and giving sufficient amounts they have more lounging, napping and play time. If they are getting the protein that they need, for them it is better to conserve the energy. However, dogs being dogs, they love the chase, a wayward critter could cause prey drive to kick in simply because the creature ran away.
FAQ #2: Aren’t you afraid you won’t give them all that they need? The pet food companies have researched their product production and they add all of the supplements to the food.
Answer: Dogs have very simple needs. Giving a variety of meaty bones, organs and veggies along with some supplementation is easier than you think. Pet food companies cook their kibble at such a high temperature that the protein is changed and many of the vitamins and nutrients are made inactive from the processing. This is why they have to add the nutrients back into the food. Raw Meat and bones provide the best source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Some seasoned Raw Diet feeders state that no supplementation is necessary, others say add a small amount of veggies and natural supplements (kelp powder, alfalfa powder and bee pollen as opposed to an actual supplement) I do supplement veggies in my dogs diet as they tend to get a little constipated if I don’t. However, the skin and coat is the last to net nutrition from what a dog eats. I have never seen skin and hair health like I have seen on my dogs (not in 20 years of pet retail, 10 years of vet assisting and all of my experience with dog training) They look like they have been dipped in a clear coat of pure gloss, only dandruff if they are nervous (like at the vet) and very reduced shedding. If this is any indication of what is going on inside their bodies I have to ask what was missing in the commercial food. I have fed my children and kept them healthy; I will also feed my dogs and keep them healthy.
FAQ #3: What about cost? It must be expensive.
Answer: Actually it has worked out to be much cheaper. The commercial food I was feeding is $46.99 for a 30lb. bag. That works out to actually about $50.51 with Tax which then figures into about $1.69 a pound. I buy chicken necks and backs for .99 a pound and I have figured that I give about 50 cents or less to the amount of veggies I use. Even the supplementation that I do with the kelp, alfalfa and bee pollen, which is such a sparing amount, I spend just about the same. I don’t supplement every day.
FAQ #4: What about making your dog sick. What about Salmonella poisoning from the raw meat.
Answer: According to Dr. PitCaren in the DVD “Eat, Drink and Wag your Tail” Dogs have a more efficient digestive tract that can handle bacteria better. This is why they survive after eating a dead thing from the field, eating their stool or just licking their butts. Salmonella has actually been found on commercial dog food. We are more likely to get sick from handling so just be sure to follow proper meat handling protocol and sanitize, use stainless steel bowls or crocks that are dishwasher safe.
FAQ #5: I thought Chicken bones were bad for dogs!
Answer: They are if they are cooked. Chicken bones are surprisingly soft and easy for the dogs to get through. Cooking makes the bones change on a molecular level so that they splinter and become dangerous. Dogs have been known to choke on kibble. I will chop up bigger bones for my puppies so they don’t try to swallow something too large, but I have never had a problem and those that I consult have never had a problem. Once you start feeding raw chicken meat and bones or any bones for that matter, you will start to see white stool which is the digested bone.
More about feeding Raw Diet Next week.
Tags:Leah Morse | Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
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Leah Morse is a certified canine trainer and the owner of Rocky Mountain Classic Canine. Leah can be reached through our website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
The Evaluation Process for Your Dog's Training
The Evaluation Process for Your Dog’s Training
By Michele Forto
Some of you may be wondering why dog trainers perform evaluations on your dog. At Denver Dog Works we perform a thorough evaluation to determine your dog’s personality profile. Many people believe their dog is an “alpha”; this in most cases couldn’t be farther from the reality.
During the evaluation I will ask you specific questions and some that are not so specific all in hopes of getting a quick picture of how your dog behaves and how your dog interacts with you, your friends and family, the public, and other animals. All of these observations help me to develop a proper training regimen that will suit your dogs’ abilities and your lifestyle.
An experienced dog trainer can determine exactly the style of training and methods necessary to get your dog under control by simply working with your dog for five minutes. I like to get your observations and understanding as to why you think your dog is unruly, destructive and just plain out of control.
Recently I performed an evaluation for a couple with two golden retrievers. The dogs are both male and two and three years of age. As soon as (I’ll call them “a” and “b”) walked in the door dragging their owners behind them, running towards me and jumping on me, my counter and then immediately sniffing the floor, I determined that these dogs were highly excitable, distracted, and have no respect for their owners or the public.
The evaluation revealed that both dogs run the house, have no respect, no manners, mount guests, hide, counter surf, jump on people, lick obsessively, dart out open doors, chase/lunge at moving objects, destroy the carpet, and bark excessively. While working with dog “a” alone, I found him willing to learn quickly and able to earn rewards and give respect. Although, I had to remain calm and assertive when giving commands. While working with dog “b” alone, I found him to be highly distracted and unable to focus. He did not give respect nor did he feel he needed to work for any rewards. I noted that he is younger and was adopted just one year before and could have some underlying behaviors due to lack of socialization and respect training as a young dog.
Both dogs have high prey and pack drives, low defensive fight and flight, and even though both dogs are neutered both dogs go through a mounting ritual daily and dog “a” mounts the owner’s sister. Both dogs compete for the woman’s attention and would rather be with her than with the man.
I noted that when I offered a treat or a toy or even a simply pet on the head that both dogs became more interested in the reward than performing the command. So treat training would not work in their cases. Praise with words and light petting at the proper time worked best.
I developed a training package for this family based on my private lessons. We will meet for one hour weekly for a minimum of eight weeks. Although these dogs are older and understand some commands we are starting at square one. The owners will be the focus of the training. Their package concentrates more on them being able to give their dogs commands, following through with those commands, winning all games, and being able to become pack leaders for both dogs at the same time.
I scheduled their first class a week from the evaluation and sent them home with a few commands to practice during the week. At our first class, I pleased to observe that the woman had worked with both dogs and was receiving almost immediate reactions to commands being given. It was noted that the man did not work as much with the dogs and they both were showing him less respect than the week before. This was addressed by giving him specific instructions and a schedule. Five minutes here and there is better than resolving yourself to committing to a full thirty minutes every day and with two dogs this can be impossible at times.
With this example the biggest part of my job is to instill into this family that they need to make slight lifestyle adjustments for a happy harmonious home with their beloved pets. By involving your pets in everything you do and demanding respect from them at all times as a pack leader you are helping your dog follow rather than lead. Dogs will make this choice for you IF you allow them too and they will always choose to lead.
Every evaluation is different and therefore the sole reason why they are important to giving you the best training possible. Dog training shouldn’t be cookie cutter from a big box store. Dog training is individualized for your needs and the needs of your dog. Training has many different facets and should begin the moment you get your dog and should continue throughout their lives. Training solidifies the bond between you and your dog. Training also gives your dog the opportunity to think which reduces boredom and eventually destructive behaviors.
Remember there are many trainers out there to choose from with many different methods, do your research, attend more than one evaluation, and make the choice that best meets the needs of you and your dog. Be aware that big box stores that offer low price group classes with no evaluations, may not be appropriate for you or your dog. Consult a professional and speak with your veterinarian.
If you believe your dog is having dangerous behavior problems consult with a canine behaviorist who will be able to observe your dog’s behaviors scientifically and then administer proper modifications, treatments, and maintenance programs to return your dog to a healthier way of being.
There is a controversy in the industry about charging for evaluations. At Denver Dog Works we charge a nominal fee for the evaluation because our time is valuable and we are developing your training plan and package at this time. The fee is included in your training package when you sign the contract. If you do not sign up, we simply ask you to pay the fee for the evaluation. It is our experience that you will appreciate and value our expertise and time if you are expected to pay for that expertise and time.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_______________
Michele Forto is a certified trainer and the business manager at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
Some of you may be wondering why dog trainers perform evaluations on your dog. At Denver Dog Works we perform a thorough evaluation to determine your dog’s personality profile. Many people believe their dog is an “alpha”; this in most cases couldn’t be farther from the reality.
During the evaluation I will ask you specific questions and some that are not so specific all in hopes of getting a quick picture of how your dog behaves and how your dog interacts with you, your friends and family, the public, and other animals. All of these observations help me to develop a proper training regimen that will suit your dogs’ abilities and your lifestyle.
An experienced dog trainer can determine exactly the style of training and methods necessary to get your dog under control by simply working with your dog for five minutes. I like to get your observations and understanding as to why you think your dog is unruly, destructive and just plain out of control.
Recently I performed an evaluation for a couple with two golden retrievers. The dogs are both male and two and three years of age. As soon as (I’ll call them “a” and “b”) walked in the door dragging their owners behind them, running towards me and jumping on me, my counter and then immediately sniffing the floor, I determined that these dogs were highly excitable, distracted, and have no respect for their owners or the public.
The evaluation revealed that both dogs run the house, have no respect, no manners, mount guests, hide, counter surf, jump on people, lick obsessively, dart out open doors, chase/lunge at moving objects, destroy the carpet, and bark excessively. While working with dog “a” alone, I found him willing to learn quickly and able to earn rewards and give respect. Although, I had to remain calm and assertive when giving commands. While working with dog “b” alone, I found him to be highly distracted and unable to focus. He did not give respect nor did he feel he needed to work for any rewards. I noted that he is younger and was adopted just one year before and could have some underlying behaviors due to lack of socialization and respect training as a young dog.
Both dogs have high prey and pack drives, low defensive fight and flight, and even though both dogs are neutered both dogs go through a mounting ritual daily and dog “a” mounts the owner’s sister. Both dogs compete for the woman’s attention and would rather be with her than with the man.
I noted that when I offered a treat or a toy or even a simply pet on the head that both dogs became more interested in the reward than performing the command. So treat training would not work in their cases. Praise with words and light petting at the proper time worked best.
I developed a training package for this family based on my private lessons. We will meet for one hour weekly for a minimum of eight weeks. Although these dogs are older and understand some commands we are starting at square one. The owners will be the focus of the training. Their package concentrates more on them being able to give their dogs commands, following through with those commands, winning all games, and being able to become pack leaders for both dogs at the same time.
I scheduled their first class a week from the evaluation and sent them home with a few commands to practice during the week. At our first class, I pleased to observe that the woman had worked with both dogs and was receiving almost immediate reactions to commands being given. It was noted that the man did not work as much with the dogs and they both were showing him less respect than the week before. This was addressed by giving him specific instructions and a schedule. Five minutes here and there is better than resolving yourself to committing to a full thirty minutes every day and with two dogs this can be impossible at times.
With this example the biggest part of my job is to instill into this family that they need to make slight lifestyle adjustments for a happy harmonious home with their beloved pets. By involving your pets in everything you do and demanding respect from them at all times as a pack leader you are helping your dog follow rather than lead. Dogs will make this choice for you IF you allow them too and they will always choose to lead.
Every evaluation is different and therefore the sole reason why they are important to giving you the best training possible. Dog training shouldn’t be cookie cutter from a big box store. Dog training is individualized for your needs and the needs of your dog. Training has many different facets and should begin the moment you get your dog and should continue throughout their lives. Training solidifies the bond between you and your dog. Training also gives your dog the opportunity to think which reduces boredom and eventually destructive behaviors.
Remember there are many trainers out there to choose from with many different methods, do your research, attend more than one evaluation, and make the choice that best meets the needs of you and your dog. Be aware that big box stores that offer low price group classes with no evaluations, may not be appropriate for you or your dog. Consult a professional and speak with your veterinarian.
If you believe your dog is having dangerous behavior problems consult with a canine behaviorist who will be able to observe your dog’s behaviors scientifically and then administer proper modifications, treatments, and maintenance programs to return your dog to a healthier way of being.
There is a controversy in the industry about charging for evaluations. At Denver Dog Works we charge a nominal fee for the evaluation because our time is valuable and we are developing your training plan and package at this time. The fee is included in your training package when you sign the contract. If you do not sign up, we simply ask you to pay the fee for the evaluation. It is our experience that you will appreciate and value our expertise and time if you are expected to pay for that expertise and time.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works | Mushing Radio | Duluth Dog Works
_______________
Michele Forto is a certified trainer and the business manager at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Friday, March 12, 2010
Grooming: Spring is Clean Up Time!
Grooming: Spring Is Clean up Time!
By Robert Forto, PhD
Next week we will usher in the new season and spring will be upon us. Depending on where you live it could be a welcome respite or just a change on the calendar. But for our furry friends, the warmer weather of spring will mean a change in their coat and grooming at this time of year is a must for most breeds, especially our beloved Siberian, Ineka.
This article is a clip and copy article produced by the American Boarding Kennel Association. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. At Denver Dog Works we can help you find a good groomer and assist you in determining the proper care for your dog’s needs.
Spring Clean Up Time!
Spring and early summer are typically the times when many people bring their pets in for grooming after a long winter. Without regular grooming or brushing, the coat is probably matted and dirty. Unfortunately, these conditions make grooming much more difficult. Your groomer may not be able to give the pet the clip you prefer and, in fact, may have difficulty grooming the pet at all.
Here are some things to take into consideration:
A tightly matted coat cannot be brushed out. It will need to be shaved off. Your groomer may call this a puppy cut, a strip, or shave down. Basically, it requires shaving the coat off right down to the skin. This process may lead to skin irritation, nicks or cuts, regardless of how careful the groomer is. Excessive matting is difficult and dangerous to remove.
Your pet will be more likely to get sunburned if the coat is shaved, so do not leave him exposed to the sun for any length of time.
Ears may also be affected by a spring grooming. If the hair inside them has become impacted, the groomer may have difficulty removing the hair. There may also be an underlying infection. If problems develop within a day or two of grooming, the infection was most likely already there. Another problem called a hematoma may develop if the dog shakes his head a lot following ear plucking and shaving of matted ears. By shaking the head hard enough and hitting the ear flaps on the skull, blood vessels may break and cause swelling of the ear flap itself. Again, the grooming shop did not cause the problem; it is a result of grooming a matted pet. Poodles and sheepdogs are especially prone to hematomas.
A shorn pet may act differently for several days following a close cut. He may shake, hide or otherwise act abnormally. He may be cold, but it is more likely that he feels "naked" and different, and need a few days to adjust. It is not a physical problem, and a pet usually resumes normal activities as soon as the mental adjustment is made.
If your pet can be dematted, and you request it, be prepared for a substantial fee. It is very time consuming and difficult work. It can be uncomfortable for both the pet and the groomer. Dematting can leave behind irritated skin and an uneven coat that may need additional grooming to even it out.
While a spring grooming is better than no grooming, consider regular grooming appointments throughout the year to avoid these problems.
Tags: Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
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Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Next week we will usher in the new season and spring will be upon us. Depending on where you live it could be a welcome respite or just a change on the calendar. But for our furry friends, the warmer weather of spring will mean a change in their coat and grooming at this time of year is a must for most breeds, especially our beloved Siberian, Ineka.
This article is a clip and copy article produced by the American Boarding Kennel Association. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. At Denver Dog Works we can help you find a good groomer and assist you in determining the proper care for your dog’s needs.
Spring Clean Up Time!
Spring and early summer are typically the times when many people bring their pets in for grooming after a long winter. Without regular grooming or brushing, the coat is probably matted and dirty. Unfortunately, these conditions make grooming much more difficult. Your groomer may not be able to give the pet the clip you prefer and, in fact, may have difficulty grooming the pet at all.
Here are some things to take into consideration:
A tightly matted coat cannot be brushed out. It will need to be shaved off. Your groomer may call this a puppy cut, a strip, or shave down. Basically, it requires shaving the coat off right down to the skin. This process may lead to skin irritation, nicks or cuts, regardless of how careful the groomer is. Excessive matting is difficult and dangerous to remove.
Your pet will be more likely to get sunburned if the coat is shaved, so do not leave him exposed to the sun for any length of time.
Ears may also be affected by a spring grooming. If the hair inside them has become impacted, the groomer may have difficulty removing the hair. There may also be an underlying infection. If problems develop within a day or two of grooming, the infection was most likely already there. Another problem called a hematoma may develop if the dog shakes his head a lot following ear plucking and shaving of matted ears. By shaking the head hard enough and hitting the ear flaps on the skull, blood vessels may break and cause swelling of the ear flap itself. Again, the grooming shop did not cause the problem; it is a result of grooming a matted pet. Poodles and sheepdogs are especially prone to hematomas.
A shorn pet may act differently for several days following a close cut. He may shake, hide or otherwise act abnormally. He may be cold, but it is more likely that he feels "naked" and different, and need a few days to adjust. It is not a physical problem, and a pet usually resumes normal activities as soon as the mental adjustment is made.
If your pet can be dematted, and you request it, be prepared for a substantial fee. It is very time consuming and difficult work. It can be uncomfortable for both the pet and the groomer. Dematting can leave behind irritated skin and an uneven coat that may need additional grooming to even it out.
While a spring grooming is better than no grooming, consider regular grooming appointments throughout the year to avoid these problems.
Tags: Robert Forto | Dog Training Careers | Colorado Dog Trainer | Iditarod | Team Ineka | Dog Training Denver | Dog Doctor Radio | Denver Dog Works
______________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Chilpa
Chilpa
By Michele Forto
A few weeks ago I met a couple and conducted an evaluation on their dog. Victor was very concerned about his beloved german shepherd dog Chilpa. Chilpa had attacked the neighbors dog unprovoked and even though he swiftly paid the veterinarian bills and the neighbor did not contact animal control, Victor being a long time german shepherd owner, decided that he had better contact a trainer.
As I waited to meet Victor and Chilpa, I was excited to meet another german shepherd owner, I was also concerned about the description of the aggression Victor stated that Chilpa was displaying. The time of the evaluation came and went and it was now 15 minutes after the appointment was to take place. I called Victor and asked if he’d like to reschedule, he apologized and mentioned that he had forgotten our appointment and was not able to make it in this day. We rescheduled our appointment for the weekend.
To my surprise Victor, his wife Shirley, and Chilpa kept their appointment and showed up on time. Also to my surprise was Victor and Shirley an elderly couple with a young german shepherd. The evaluation was performed and it was determined that Chilpa has fear aggression. I developed a training plan for Chilpa and explained to Victor my concerns and strategies to help Chilpa get healthy.
Our first training session was the following Monday. I got to Victor’s house, he had told me during the evaluation that he is 92 years old, he met me at the door and said, “what’s the plan?” I explained that I would like to see Chilpa’s environment both inside their home and in their neighborhood. He proceeded to show me around and took me out back where I saw 9 prairie dogs and the neighbor whose dog was attacked. I also saw the little poodle who immediately began barking aggressively at Chilpa who paid him no mind. During the evaluation I had determined by using another dog that Chilpa is fearful to the point of physically shaking when other dogs are around. She has high defensive fight drives and uses this drive to ward off potential attacks from other dogs. Victor then suggested he walk with me around the neighborhood. I tried to be polite and let him know that I could take Chilpa alone, but he insisted. For 92 I’ve got to say I only hope I’m able to still drive my black Cadillac and walk two or three blocks with my dog! During our walk I asked Victor if I could bring Chilpa to my training center on Saturdays as the situation here at his home and in his neighborhood was not conducive to the training I needed to do with Chilpa. He agreed. He then stopped me and complimented me on my passion and genuine attitude toward him and his dog. He then said, “Michele, I’m 92 years old and I’m not going to live forever, I adopted Chilpa for my wife, her health is not good. My son cannot take Chilpa when I die and the retirement village won’t let Shirley keep her either. I need to ask if you would take her and if you would what would you do?” It took me a moment to answer honestly I was floored by what he just asked me to do. I had only known him for 4 days. I placed my hand on his shoulder and reminded Chilpa to sit, and told him that I would be proud to take his dog, that I couldn’t guarantee but I would try to train her for service work or I’d keep her myself for the rest of her life. I promised to always be here to care for her whenever he needed.
Chilpa’s first Saturday of training at the training center started off hectic. I brought her in and she barked at every camp dog staying with us. Nicole and I put her in a crate and proceeded to get things done that morning. We then went back to the van to get Nicole’s dog Qyain. Qyain would be our test dog with Chilpa today. We always just let Qyain loose in the training center because he gets along with all of the dogs and stays out of the way, for the most part. He is a 2 year old german shepherd so staying out of the way is relative! Of course, he found Chilpa in a crate in the office and he immediately went up to the crate and tried licking her face. Chilpa went off barking and lunging. I went and sat next her and called Qyain back over, this time she barked and growled but stopped when I told her to sit. Nicole then put a leash on Qyain and I leashed Chilpa and we got to work with them in the same room moving around the floor performing commands. Chilpa was shaking but as we went along she got calmer. Eventually she showed interest in Qyain so leaving the leashes on Nicole and I let them greet while we let the leashes go. Qyain is very balanced he chased her around and smelled her, licked her face, and tried to get her to play. Chilpa allowed this until Qyain cornered himself and he turned to run away and she attacked him. Nicole said nothing, and I only said Chilpa leave it. She stopped and Qyain began playing again with her and all was fine. They played throughout the day.
The following Monday I brought Qyain to Victor’s house to show him how well Chilpa and him got along. They did well in his backyard and on their walk. Victor was very pleased and I explained to him that this was just one dog and he’s an intact male of the same breed. That I have a lot of work ahead of me with other breeds. He understood.
Saturday training number 2, as I got ready to train Chilpa on leash around other dogs, I took her outside to use the bathroom. I noticed blood droplets, I checked her out, pads, tongue, nose and couldn’t find where she was bleeding. Then she lifted her tail and I saw it, she was in heat! But how could that be? Victor rescued her and he told me she was spayed. No training today, I had to find out what was wrong.
Victor and I decided to have me take Chilpa to my vet and get her checked out. Today, we found out from the first test that it appears that Chilpa was not spayed. We have three concerns here; not spayed, spayed partially and infection set in, a few months ago had a biopsy done on her kidney by Banfield and the records are inconclusive as to what they found or why they performed surgery.
We are awaiting additional blood work and Chilpa is off of the training routine until we find out what is going on with her health.
I decided to write this article today to remind everyone out there that taking your dog to a veterinarian and giving them the best possible care you can is the right thing to do. When you take your pet to a veterinarian no matter if they run their own private practice or you visit them at a big box corporate store, you have the right to get a second opinion if you feel that procedures are being done unnecessarily on your pet.
Also, when you get your pet spayed or neutered or the procedure was done before you rescued your dog, you need to be aware that the surgery may not have been successful. Our dog Ineka is a 12 year old male Siberian Husky who came to us neutered. We later discovered that his neuter was not complete, Ineka made us a great litter of pups for my racing team in 2001. My vet explained that in females if the vet performing the surgery did her incision high on the chest that they can’t always get deep enough to get the entire uterus out so a piece is left. Usually its fine, but there can be complications with infection and “false heat cycles”.
Your veterinarian can perform blood tests and other tests to determine if your spay or neuter is complete. There is usually no concern, but if you notice especially in your female dog any discharge, bloody, mucous, and/or foul odor get her to the vet immediately.
Chilpa does not appear to have an infection but we will know from her blood work in a few days. For now she is at home with Victor and Shirley lounging around and loving her life.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Dog Training Denver | Colorado Dog Training |Denver Dog Works |Dog Works Training Centers| Forto | Team Ineka | #dogs #denver #dogtraining
___________________
Michele Forto is the business manager and lead obedience trainer at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
A few weeks ago I met a couple and conducted an evaluation on their dog. Victor was very concerned about his beloved german shepherd dog Chilpa. Chilpa had attacked the neighbors dog unprovoked and even though he swiftly paid the veterinarian bills and the neighbor did not contact animal control, Victor being a long time german shepherd owner, decided that he had better contact a trainer.
As I waited to meet Victor and Chilpa, I was excited to meet another german shepherd owner, I was also concerned about the description of the aggression Victor stated that Chilpa was displaying. The time of the evaluation came and went and it was now 15 minutes after the appointment was to take place. I called Victor and asked if he’d like to reschedule, he apologized and mentioned that he had forgotten our appointment and was not able to make it in this day. We rescheduled our appointment for the weekend.
To my surprise Victor, his wife Shirley, and Chilpa kept their appointment and showed up on time. Also to my surprise was Victor and Shirley an elderly couple with a young german shepherd. The evaluation was performed and it was determined that Chilpa has fear aggression. I developed a training plan for Chilpa and explained to Victor my concerns and strategies to help Chilpa get healthy.
Our first training session was the following Monday. I got to Victor’s house, he had told me during the evaluation that he is 92 years old, he met me at the door and said, “what’s the plan?” I explained that I would like to see Chilpa’s environment both inside their home and in their neighborhood. He proceeded to show me around and took me out back where I saw 9 prairie dogs and the neighbor whose dog was attacked. I also saw the little poodle who immediately began barking aggressively at Chilpa who paid him no mind. During the evaluation I had determined by using another dog that Chilpa is fearful to the point of physically shaking when other dogs are around. She has high defensive fight drives and uses this drive to ward off potential attacks from other dogs. Victor then suggested he walk with me around the neighborhood. I tried to be polite and let him know that I could take Chilpa alone, but he insisted. For 92 I’ve got to say I only hope I’m able to still drive my black Cadillac and walk two or three blocks with my dog! During our walk I asked Victor if I could bring Chilpa to my training center on Saturdays as the situation here at his home and in his neighborhood was not conducive to the training I needed to do with Chilpa. He agreed. He then stopped me and complimented me on my passion and genuine attitude toward him and his dog. He then said, “Michele, I’m 92 years old and I’m not going to live forever, I adopted Chilpa for my wife, her health is not good. My son cannot take Chilpa when I die and the retirement village won’t let Shirley keep her either. I need to ask if you would take her and if you would what would you do?” It took me a moment to answer honestly I was floored by what he just asked me to do. I had only known him for 4 days. I placed my hand on his shoulder and reminded Chilpa to sit, and told him that I would be proud to take his dog, that I couldn’t guarantee but I would try to train her for service work or I’d keep her myself for the rest of her life. I promised to always be here to care for her whenever he needed.
Chilpa’s first Saturday of training at the training center started off hectic. I brought her in and she barked at every camp dog staying with us. Nicole and I put her in a crate and proceeded to get things done that morning. We then went back to the van to get Nicole’s dog Qyain. Qyain would be our test dog with Chilpa today. We always just let Qyain loose in the training center because he gets along with all of the dogs and stays out of the way, for the most part. He is a 2 year old german shepherd so staying out of the way is relative! Of course, he found Chilpa in a crate in the office and he immediately went up to the crate and tried licking her face. Chilpa went off barking and lunging. I went and sat next her and called Qyain back over, this time she barked and growled but stopped when I told her to sit. Nicole then put a leash on Qyain and I leashed Chilpa and we got to work with them in the same room moving around the floor performing commands. Chilpa was shaking but as we went along she got calmer. Eventually she showed interest in Qyain so leaving the leashes on Nicole and I let them greet while we let the leashes go. Qyain is very balanced he chased her around and smelled her, licked her face, and tried to get her to play. Chilpa allowed this until Qyain cornered himself and he turned to run away and she attacked him. Nicole said nothing, and I only said Chilpa leave it. She stopped and Qyain began playing again with her and all was fine. They played throughout the day.
The following Monday I brought Qyain to Victor’s house to show him how well Chilpa and him got along. They did well in his backyard and on their walk. Victor was very pleased and I explained to him that this was just one dog and he’s an intact male of the same breed. That I have a lot of work ahead of me with other breeds. He understood.
Saturday training number 2, as I got ready to train Chilpa on leash around other dogs, I took her outside to use the bathroom. I noticed blood droplets, I checked her out, pads, tongue, nose and couldn’t find where she was bleeding. Then she lifted her tail and I saw it, she was in heat! But how could that be? Victor rescued her and he told me she was spayed. No training today, I had to find out what was wrong.
Victor and I decided to have me take Chilpa to my vet and get her checked out. Today, we found out from the first test that it appears that Chilpa was not spayed. We have three concerns here; not spayed, spayed partially and infection set in, a few months ago had a biopsy done on her kidney by Banfield and the records are inconclusive as to what they found or why they performed surgery.
We are awaiting additional blood work and Chilpa is off of the training routine until we find out what is going on with her health.
I decided to write this article today to remind everyone out there that taking your dog to a veterinarian and giving them the best possible care you can is the right thing to do. When you take your pet to a veterinarian no matter if they run their own private practice or you visit them at a big box corporate store, you have the right to get a second opinion if you feel that procedures are being done unnecessarily on your pet.
Also, when you get your pet spayed or neutered or the procedure was done before you rescued your dog, you need to be aware that the surgery may not have been successful. Our dog Ineka is a 12 year old male Siberian Husky who came to us neutered. We later discovered that his neuter was not complete, Ineka made us a great litter of pups for my racing team in 2001. My vet explained that in females if the vet performing the surgery did her incision high on the chest that they can’t always get deep enough to get the entire uterus out so a piece is left. Usually its fine, but there can be complications with infection and “false heat cycles”.
Your veterinarian can perform blood tests and other tests to determine if your spay or neuter is complete. There is usually no concern, but if you notice especially in your female dog any discharge, bloody, mucous, and/or foul odor get her to the vet immediately.
Chilpa does not appear to have an infection but we will know from her blood work in a few days. For now she is at home with Victor and Shirley lounging around and loving her life.
Tags: Robert Forto | Michele Forto | Dog Training Denver | Colorado Dog Training |Denver Dog Works |Dog Works Training Centers| Forto | Team Ineka | #dogs #denver #dogtraining
___________________
Michele Forto is the business manager and lead obedience trainer at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Doggierobics Anyone?
Doggierobics Anyone?
By Michele Forto
Have the effects of the economy affected your decisions regarding your pets? Did you decide not to train the puppy or rescued dog you have because you feel you can’t afford it. Cut back on your pets care because you’ve lost your job, or even given that dog away or worse abandoned them because your home was foreclosed on.
In today’s economy understandably pets become disposable. This is a sad but true reality in our society. Pets enrich our lives in so many ways and our society has included dogs alone as our number one companions for thousands of years.
Too often in my line of work I see great dogs that have been taken to shelters and luckily get adopted by a person willing to invest in good veterinarian care, socialization, and training for their new dog. The dogs I see most are between the ages of 6 months and 2 years of age. The simple and most common reason is that the dog became more of a hassle than the people bargained for. That Christmas puppy is no longer cute and cuddly, he’s now untrained and still not house trained.
The cost to society outweighs the cost to individuals who decide that getting a pet also means paying for veterinarian care, socialization, and training. When you take your dog to a shelter and you are no longer responsible for their care it becomes society’s burden.
Training your dog is and can be affordable. Getting out and doing things with your dog helps you get exercise too. If you are experiencing economic problems try cutting back on that fitness club membership and trading in the treadmill for the sidewalk or the open space trail just behind your house. Grab your dog and get going on a brisk walk. Eventually you and your dog could be jogging and benefiting from the fresh air and tranquil scenery.
Of course, I am writing this article while it’s snowing in Denver. So how do I apply exercising and training my dog during inclement weather? At Denver Dog Works I offer a lifetime group class on Saturdays. This class gives my clients the opportunity to exercise and train their dogs at least once a week. This is better than no training and no exercise. The group class incorporates socialization as well.
Other training centers offer group classes in a variety of training goals. Talk with your trainer and see if they can design specific training group classes to address your needs and your dogs’ needs. In other words, you could potentially do aerobics with your dog! In fact, become a fan of Denver Dog Works on facebook and be on the lookout for upcoming special group classes like doggierobics.
Many trainers do not take payment plans for their services but several will and several trainers have affordable training options for all income levels. One of the best classes you can take and invest in for your dog is Canine Good Citizen developed and sponsored by the American Kennel Club. I offer these classes at Denver Dog Works for puppies as well as dogs 6 months and older.
The bottom line is your pet will be an asset to you and your family. By providing emotional support and exercise for you. Do not give up on your pet, adjust your way of thinking and breathe some fresh air with Fido and take in a new prospective.
Tags: Denver Dog Works, Dog Training Denver, Canine Training, Puppy Obedience Dog Training, Michele Forto, #dogs #dogtraining your brand plan
_____________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the CEO (Chief Evaluator Officer) at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at Denver Dog Works (http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
Have the effects of the economy affected your decisions regarding your pets? Did you decide not to train the puppy or rescued dog you have because you feel you can’t afford it. Cut back on your pets care because you’ve lost your job, or even given that dog away or worse abandoned them because your home was foreclosed on.
In today’s economy understandably pets become disposable. This is a sad but true reality in our society. Pets enrich our lives in so many ways and our society has included dogs alone as our number one companions for thousands of years.
Too often in my line of work I see great dogs that have been taken to shelters and luckily get adopted by a person willing to invest in good veterinarian care, socialization, and training for their new dog. The dogs I see most are between the ages of 6 months and 2 years of age. The simple and most common reason is that the dog became more of a hassle than the people bargained for. That Christmas puppy is no longer cute and cuddly, he’s now untrained and still not house trained.
The cost to society outweighs the cost to individuals who decide that getting a pet also means paying for veterinarian care, socialization, and training. When you take your dog to a shelter and you are no longer responsible for their care it becomes society’s burden.
Training your dog is and can be affordable. Getting out and doing things with your dog helps you get exercise too. If you are experiencing economic problems try cutting back on that fitness club membership and trading in the treadmill for the sidewalk or the open space trail just behind your house. Grab your dog and get going on a brisk walk. Eventually you and your dog could be jogging and benefiting from the fresh air and tranquil scenery.
Of course, I am writing this article while it’s snowing in Denver. So how do I apply exercising and training my dog during inclement weather? At Denver Dog Works I offer a lifetime group class on Saturdays. This class gives my clients the opportunity to exercise and train their dogs at least once a week. This is better than no training and no exercise. The group class incorporates socialization as well.
Other training centers offer group classes in a variety of training goals. Talk with your trainer and see if they can design specific training group classes to address your needs and your dogs’ needs. In other words, you could potentially do aerobics with your dog! In fact, become a fan of Denver Dog Works on facebook and be on the lookout for upcoming special group classes like doggierobics.
Many trainers do not take payment plans for their services but several will and several trainers have affordable training options for all income levels. One of the best classes you can take and invest in for your dog is Canine Good Citizen developed and sponsored by the American Kennel Club. I offer these classes at Denver Dog Works for puppies as well as dogs 6 months and older.
The bottom line is your pet will be an asset to you and your family. By providing emotional support and exercise for you. Do not give up on your pet, adjust your way of thinking and breathe some fresh air with Fido and take in a new prospective.
Tags: Denver Dog Works, Dog Training Denver, Canine Training, Puppy Obedience Dog Training, Michele Forto, #dogs #dogtraining your brand plan
_____________________
Michele Forto is a certified canine trainer and the CEO (Chief Evaluator Officer) at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at Denver Dog Works (http://www.denverdogworks.com
Friday, February 12, 2010
How Dental Disease Can Affect Your Pet
How Dental Disease Can Affect Your Pet
By Robert Forto, PhD
I will be the first to admit that I don't bush my dog’s teeth. I know it is a bad thing to do and as a canine behaviorist I should be the strongest advocate for canine health care this just one of those things that I always forget to do, as do most pet owners.
When I adopted my Siberian Husky, Ineka, many years ago the first thing I noticed was he was missing a Canine tooth, one of the large pointed ones. I don't know if he lost it due to injury or decay but it didn't seem to bother him. After several years and of course many bones (said to work well in canine hygiene) we did take him to our vet’s office to have his teeth cleaned. Mind you he was well over 10 years old at that time. They had to do blood work on him to make sure that the anesthesia would not harm him and they had to put him to sleep for the procedure. Several hours later his teeth were cleaned and they had to pull a few of them because they had cavities. I was told this is how they do it now.
Dental Care for Your Pet
If you notice an odor coming from your pet’s mouth it may be a result of some form of dental disease. Your veterinarian can correctly diagnose the problem and suggest treatments. Here are some of the basic facts about dental disease.
According to experts, many pets over the age of two have some form of periodontal disease. Any odor other than nice, clean-smelling breath may indicate a problem. Dental disease is graded in four steps:
Grade I - some tartar and breath odor.
Grade II - heavy tartar and some gum recession; gums are reddened and infected.
Grade III - severe tartar and gum recession; teeth are often loose, gums very reddened and inflamed, severe breath odor.
Grade IV - severe tartar with tooth loss, severely infected gums, gums very receded, swollen and bleeding, and tooth roots are exposed, severe breath odor.
Considering that a human visits the dentist for a toothache, imagine how your pet feels with inflamed gums, heavy tartar and loose teeth. Eating may become difficult. In addition to the discomfort, your pet is at risk for serious health conditions. As bacteria collects along the gum line, it produces acids. These acids gradually inflame the gum tissue, and the ligaments that hold teeth in place. As tartar builds, and works its way under the gum, bacteria and acid continue to erode more tissue. Teeth become loosened, and may start to fall out on their own. Bone from the jaw also becomes affected and starts to reabsorb, leaving loose teeth. As the mouth tissue becomes more swollen and infected, it will eventually start bleeding. Now the bloodstream can pick up the bacteria from the mouth and circulate it through your dog or cat’s entire body. Dental disease has been linked to kidney, heart and sinus infections. This is why your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics before your pet has any dental work done, as well as after any procedure.
Many clients have said their dog acts like a puppy again once the diseased teeth and resulting infections have been addressed. Loose teeth are usually removed, because too much damage has already occurred, and they can not be saved. Your dog or cat can actually eat quite well and get along with no teeth if necessary and can live a longer and healthier life with a healthy mouth. We urge you to visit your veterinarian and have your pet's teeth and gums evaluated.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
Source: ABKA
______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached at through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
I will be the first to admit that I don't bush my dog’s teeth. I know it is a bad thing to do and as a canine behaviorist I should be the strongest advocate for canine health care this just one of those things that I always forget to do, as do most pet owners.
When I adopted my Siberian Husky, Ineka, many years ago the first thing I noticed was he was missing a Canine tooth, one of the large pointed ones. I don't know if he lost it due to injury or decay but it didn't seem to bother him. After several years and of course many bones (said to work well in canine hygiene) we did take him to our vet’s office to have his teeth cleaned. Mind you he was well over 10 years old at that time. They had to do blood work on him to make sure that the anesthesia would not harm him and they had to put him to sleep for the procedure. Several hours later his teeth were cleaned and they had to pull a few of them because they had cavities. I was told this is how they do it now.
Dental Care for Your Pet
If you notice an odor coming from your pet’s mouth it may be a result of some form of dental disease. Your veterinarian can correctly diagnose the problem and suggest treatments. Here are some of the basic facts about dental disease.
According to experts, many pets over the age of two have some form of periodontal disease. Any odor other than nice, clean-smelling breath may indicate a problem. Dental disease is graded in four steps:
Grade I - some tartar and breath odor.
Grade II - heavy tartar and some gum recession; gums are reddened and infected.
Grade III - severe tartar and gum recession; teeth are often loose, gums very reddened and inflamed, severe breath odor.
Grade IV - severe tartar with tooth loss, severely infected gums, gums very receded, swollen and bleeding, and tooth roots are exposed, severe breath odor.
Considering that a human visits the dentist for a toothache, imagine how your pet feels with inflamed gums, heavy tartar and loose teeth. Eating may become difficult. In addition to the discomfort, your pet is at risk for serious health conditions. As bacteria collects along the gum line, it produces acids. These acids gradually inflame the gum tissue, and the ligaments that hold teeth in place. As tartar builds, and works its way under the gum, bacteria and acid continue to erode more tissue. Teeth become loosened, and may start to fall out on their own. Bone from the jaw also becomes affected and starts to reabsorb, leaving loose teeth. As the mouth tissue becomes more swollen and infected, it will eventually start bleeding. Now the bloodstream can pick up the bacteria from the mouth and circulate it through your dog or cat’s entire body. Dental disease has been linked to kidney, heart and sinus infections. This is why your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics before your pet has any dental work done, as well as after any procedure.
Many clients have said their dog acts like a puppy again once the diseased teeth and resulting infections have been addressed. Loose teeth are usually removed, because too much damage has already occurred, and they can not be saved. Your dog or cat can actually eat quite well and get along with no teeth if necessary and can live a longer and healthier life with a healthy mouth. We urge you to visit your veterinarian and have your pet's teeth and gums evaluated.
This article is provided as a general overview of the topic. Always consult your veterinarian for specific information related to diseases or medical care for pets.
Source: ABKA
______________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of The Dog Doctor Radio Show. Dr. Forto can be reached at through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Help! I Need a Dog Trainer
Help! I need a Dog Trainer
By Michele Forto
Congratulations! You have decided to train your dog. But you are puzzled by the amount of choices and the differences each website portrays about each canine trainer. This particular blog entry is being written to help you decipher the professionalism you are looking for.
Each website has a plethora of information which is helpful but can become washed out.
Make a list of what goals you have in mind for you and your dog. Then as you are browsing each website, narrow them down by the sites that are able to answer most of your questions and keep your goals in mind.
Get your dog an evaluation. If the trainer does not offer evaluations then move on. Some trainers are beginning to charge for their evaluations; this fee is typically taken off of your package price if you sign up and pay in full. Keep in mind that you are hiring someone who is paid for their time and there are no industry standards or guidelines as to what each trainer can charge for their hourly rate. In the end, you are paying for their expertise whatever that may be.
You watch the dog training shows, and you’ve read the books, maybe you’ve even taken a webinar and you’re ready to train your dog yourself. That’s great. One thing all of those resources fail to tell you is that undertaking the training solely on your own requires a large amount of your time being spent doing nothing but training. Training requires consistency and repetition. I have found my training to be the most successful by following a training formula for 21 straight days. I start with puppy basic obedience then I move up to basic obedience, take into consideration that during adolescence my dog is not going to learn as quickly as he did while he was a puppy. The resources I listed above do not teach you how to understand dog learning theory or behavior. Some trainers possess this knowledge but not all trainers.
Your dog will go through specific learning stages and it is imperative that during each stage you expose your dog appropriately to socialization with people, dogs, and other animals as well as inanimate objects. If you have decided on a puppy it’s a bit easier than if you have rescued an older dog.
Let’s say you adopted a six month old dog he is still young and impressionable. Well not really, he’s had six months to learn a lot of bad habits regarding behavior. His social development has been damaged and you discover that you’re having trouble getting him to listen to commands. This is not just because you rescued a six month old dog, this is also because you have adopted an adolescent dog.
As a trainer I always recommend to my clients who have rescued or adopted a dog of any age to seek out a professional trainer or even a canine behaviorist. I want to see the relationship develop and to see the dog become healthy socially and mentally.
Even if you decide to do the training on your own it is still worth getting an evaluation for yourself and your dog, even if the trainer charges for that evaluation it will be a worthwhile investment. You will get to hear a professional’s opinion regarding your dog and you may receive their training plan which can help you whether you train on your own or make the better choice and hire the trainer to assist you along the way.
Canine training is fast becoming a new recognized certification/vocational job in the United States. As of today there are no formal guidelines nor is there any formal licensing to become a dog trainer. We have general standards that we follow and associations that we belong to in order to continue our education.
As you are browsing the websites and you have narrowed it down to two or three prospective trainers take the time to write down some questions to ask them during your evaluation. Here is a list of questions that should be asked;
How long have you been training?
What methodology do you use in your training style?
What training do you specialize in?
Additional questions will arise during the evaluation and possibly from the trainer’s website. Remember that there are dozens of trainers available to you from many different training styles. Be informed, if the web searches confuse you, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation on a trainer(s).
_________________
Michele Forto is the business manager and a certified canine trainer at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
Congratulations! You have decided to train your dog. But you are puzzled by the amount of choices and the differences each website portrays about each canine trainer. This particular blog entry is being written to help you decipher the professionalism you are looking for.
Each website has a plethora of information which is helpful but can become washed out.
Make a list of what goals you have in mind for you and your dog. Then as you are browsing each website, narrow them down by the sites that are able to answer most of your questions and keep your goals in mind.
Get your dog an evaluation. If the trainer does not offer evaluations then move on. Some trainers are beginning to charge for their evaluations; this fee is typically taken off of your package price if you sign up and pay in full. Keep in mind that you are hiring someone who is paid for their time and there are no industry standards or guidelines as to what each trainer can charge for their hourly rate. In the end, you are paying for their expertise whatever that may be.
You watch the dog training shows, and you’ve read the books, maybe you’ve even taken a webinar and you’re ready to train your dog yourself. That’s great. One thing all of those resources fail to tell you is that undertaking the training solely on your own requires a large amount of your time being spent doing nothing but training. Training requires consistency and repetition. I have found my training to be the most successful by following a training formula for 21 straight days. I start with puppy basic obedience then I move up to basic obedience, take into consideration that during adolescence my dog is not going to learn as quickly as he did while he was a puppy. The resources I listed above do not teach you how to understand dog learning theory or behavior. Some trainers possess this knowledge but not all trainers.
Your dog will go through specific learning stages and it is imperative that during each stage you expose your dog appropriately to socialization with people, dogs, and other animals as well as inanimate objects. If you have decided on a puppy it’s a bit easier than if you have rescued an older dog.
Let’s say you adopted a six month old dog he is still young and impressionable. Well not really, he’s had six months to learn a lot of bad habits regarding behavior. His social development has been damaged and you discover that you’re having trouble getting him to listen to commands. This is not just because you rescued a six month old dog, this is also because you have adopted an adolescent dog.
As a trainer I always recommend to my clients who have rescued or adopted a dog of any age to seek out a professional trainer or even a canine behaviorist. I want to see the relationship develop and to see the dog become healthy socially and mentally.
Even if you decide to do the training on your own it is still worth getting an evaluation for yourself and your dog, even if the trainer charges for that evaluation it will be a worthwhile investment. You will get to hear a professional’s opinion regarding your dog and you may receive their training plan which can help you whether you train on your own or make the better choice and hire the trainer to assist you along the way.
Canine training is fast becoming a new recognized certification/vocational job in the United States. As of today there are no formal guidelines nor is there any formal licensing to become a dog trainer. We have general standards that we follow and associations that we belong to in order to continue our education.
As you are browsing the websites and you have narrowed it down to two or three prospective trainers take the time to write down some questions to ask them during your evaluation. Here is a list of questions that should be asked;
How long have you been training?
What methodology do you use in your training style?
What training do you specialize in?
Additional questions will arise during the evaluation and possibly from the trainer’s website. Remember that there are dozens of trainers available to you from many different training styles. Be informed, if the web searches confuse you, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation on a trainer(s).
_________________
Michele Forto is the business manager and a certified canine trainer at Denver Dog Works. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Who Are You? Dr. Robert Forto
Who Are You, and What Makes You Special, Anyway? Dr. Robert Forto, PhD
By Michele Forto
We are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and they have one of the best dog training journals around, especially for us in the canine training industry, The APDT Chronicle of the Dog. Each month in their highly acclaimed magazine, they have a member profile edited by Nicole Wilde. While we haven't been privy to be showcased in this column yet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase each one of our trainers over the next few weeks so that you can get to know us and what we are about.
This week I will be interviewing Dr. Robert Forto, PhD....
Lets get to know Dr. Robert Forto, PhD....
Business Name: Denver Dog Works
Location: Denver, Colorado
Phone: 303-578-9881
Email: rforto@denverdogworks.com
Website: www.denverdogworks.com
Years in Business: 3 1/2 in Denver, 19 years as a canine obedience instructor and behaviorist
Personal Training Philosophy: Know Yourself. Know Your Dog.
Our training philosophy at Denver Dog Works is not a procedure but a lifestyle.
I have learned in the nineteen years of literally living with a pack of dogs and on the sled dog trail that it has offered me a unique perspective. There I was forced to examine my attitude about everything including my dogs. I was constantly challenged to become more open to the language dogs use to communicate with us. This experience confirms our deepest intuitions about the relationship of human beings not only with their dog but every aspect of their lives.
I hope to foster my clients with a diverse and varied understanding of the environment for which they live. I hope to foster a more realistic understanding of their dogs and an increased awareness of the benefits of their companionship.
Drawing on my experience as a kennel owner of many Siberian Huskies I will teach my clients how dog training goes far beyond the elementary instruction of basic obedience; as it must encompass a whole new attitude and lifestyle with their dog. It must touch on the levels of a dog’s own life that are often ignored.
I will bring my client into the world of a dog musher, canine behaviorist, and father of three by using my experience as a lens through which they may broaden their understanding of their dog. The stage will then be set for a balanced, lasting relationship between them and their best friend.
How long have you been in business and what types of services do you provide?
I have been training professionally since the summer of 1994 when I attended my first “certification” course. Also in 1994 I started my Siberian Husky sled dog kennel in Duluth, Minnesota on my hobby farm. I began training clients dogs in local parks in a Canine Good Citizen-type training program and offering in-kennel board and train programs for clients. In 2000, I went back to school to earn my doctorate and began research on human-canine communication in the sport of dog sledding and I took a hiatus from dog training for clients. In 2006, my family and I moved to Denver, Colorado and I sought employment as a canine trainer. I sent out three resumes and one person called me back. I interviewed for the job and gave him a stack of certificates and degrees and the owner of the school said, “I don’t care about paper, I want to see how you train dogs.”
I went back into his kennel and got a dog and took it to the training room and showed the owner how I could work the dog through an obedience routine. He hired me the next day and shortly thereafter offered me the training school to lease. In January 2007, we opened Denver Dog Works at that location and have been training in Denver ever since.
How did you get started?
As I stated before, I have been training dogs since the 90’s in competition obedience and conformation with Siberian Huskies, thought by some to be the toughest breed to train, but my work with canines really started to take off when I moved to Minnesota. I literally lived with a pack of 35 sled dogs 24-hours a day. We ran teams all night on the snowmobile trails in the Superior National Forest and then I would come back and take care of the dogs and interact with them and study their behavior. While there is much to be said about pack based training theory today, I learned so much about those dogs that I became an expert in canine body language and communication. In 1997, I was given the opportunity to attend a wolf migration study in Alaska and we conducted research by dog sled and helicopter. That was when they still used radio collars on the wolves and antenna, unlike today where they track them via GPS. I worked on that study for 17 months before returning home to run my sled dog teams for sport. I learned so much about the two species and how to compare and contrast the two. Shortly after my return, I was thirty for knowledge and began to read every book I could get my hands on and took several courses in canine training and behavior. I started to attend seminars and lectures and took exams to become a certified canine trainer.
Are you involved in and dog sports or activities?
I am heavily involved in canine sports. I have several clients that I am working with right now in conformation classes and competition obedience. I am a professional musher and in training for my first Iditarod in 2013. I plan on running a pure-breed Siberian Husky team under the Team Ineka banner.
How do you get business, and what is your relationship like with veterinarians in your community?
Most of our business comes from referrals, our website, Denver Dog Works, and word of mouth. Denver Dog Works is sought after often as a last resort for dog owners who have tried other training schools and failed for one reason or another. There is a veterinary office right next door to our training center and we receive a lot of referrals and “foot traffic” from there. I am sought out often for canine aggression cases and behavior modification. We take full advantage of social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook, Ustream, YouTube and others. Of course, we do offer a lot of canine sports and working dog programs as well.
Do you belong to a trainer networking group, or otherwise consult with/refer to other trainers in your area?
I belong to several trainer associations and clubs throughout North America. I have found that a lot of trainers in Denver do not refer clients to each other. I don't know why. I speak to a lot of people though networking events at the Chamber of Commerce and I host a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show where we discuss everything that is related to dogs.
What do you believe are the three most important things to teach a dog?
Loose leash walking, Come (recall) and manners. As I tell my clients all the time, a dog that does not know how to walk on a loose leash is the first candidate for a shelter. Why? because if the relationship between owner and dog is strained on walks (pardon the pun), the owner does not want to interact with the dog, hence that equals lack of exercise, which equals destructiveness. In regards to the recall command, I tell my clients, “who cares if your dog will sit and down on command in your living room, if he won’t come to you at the park, you will have a big problem.”
What types of cases do you find the most challenging and why?
I find dispelling the myths that people have about their dogs the most challenging. I routinely talk about canine evolution and anthropomorphism and how proper relationships should be formed with our canine companions.
What advice would you give to other trainers about working with dogs and their owners?
Patience. Just one word, Patience.
Can you offer a specific tip or trick for working with dogs or owners that other trainers might find helpful?
Take the time to listen to your clients and encourage them to think outside the box about their dog and their training goals. Also, turn off the T.V. and get out and do something with your dog and that will teach them more about their canine companions than any book or T.V. dog training show.
What was your scariest moment with a dog (or client)?
I have been known to say that I have been bit by the best and trained the rest. In all honesty I have never had a scary moment with a dog but witnessing my wife being attacked by a Dutch Shepherd that we had in training scared me to death. You can read her story about that by clicking here.
What would you say are the top three things you have personally learned as a trainer?
1. Patience. 2. dogs make better clients than people, 3. and that fear and punishment is the least effective way to get a dog to do what you want.
What was the last training related seminar you attended?
I conducted the last seminar I attended and that was about the misconceptions people have about how dogs behave in dog parks. I was the featured speaker at a conference with several HOA’s and the city of Denver when it was up for debate on whether Denver should add more dog parks.
Are there any specific books, authors, DVDs that have influenced you as a trainer?
I have read so many books on canine training, behavior, evolution and origin that I cant list them all. Some of the most influential have been the books written by the Monks of New Skeete, the book Dogs: A New Understanding of Canine Origin, Behavior and Evolution. the three book series by (Lindsey) Darwin’s Origin of the Species, Karen Pryor’s Don’t Shoot the Dog, many courses in psychology an learning theory, hundreds of business books and articles, countless hours of research for my dissertation and the thousands of miles on the back of a dog sled and in my kennel have been my greatest teacher.
Anything else you would like to add?
In my opinion,our relationship with our dogs is our greatest gift. I say that not only as a dog trainer and a business owner, but also as a father of three teenagers. Our dogs have taught us so much about life. My work with canines is dedicated to my friends of friends “Ineka and Rutgrr” who have taught me the definition of unconditional love. In addition, to all other sled dog pups that have unselfishly provided comfort, compassion, and unparalleled commitment to humans. This dedication is generally without measure of our right to such gifts or of our own commitment to reciprocate.
It is this affection that has given me the ability to survive, with relative sanity, in an often difficult world. The power of this unconditional love has been the inspiration for this dissertation and the project that produced it. May this project bring power to those who want to chase their dreams. May this project also give us a better appreciation for those creatures with which we share the earth.
_________________
Michele Forto is the business manager and a trainer for Dog Works Training Centers and the co-host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show that can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West and downloaded anytime. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Michele Forto
We are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and they have one of the best dog training journals around, especially for us in the canine training industry, The APDT Chronicle of the Dog. Each month in their highly acclaimed magazine, they have a member profile edited by Nicole Wilde. While we haven't been privy to be showcased in this column yet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase each one of our trainers over the next few weeks so that you can get to know us and what we are about.
This week I will be interviewing Dr. Robert Forto, PhD....
Lets get to know Dr. Robert Forto, PhD....
Business Name: Denver Dog Works
Location: Denver, Colorado
Phone: 303-578-9881
Email: rforto@denverdogworks.com
Website: www.denverdogworks.com
Years in Business: 3 1/2 in Denver, 19 years as a canine obedience instructor and behaviorist
Personal Training Philosophy: Know Yourself. Know Your Dog.
Our training philosophy at Denver Dog Works is not a procedure but a lifestyle.
I have learned in the nineteen years of literally living with a pack of dogs and on the sled dog trail that it has offered me a unique perspective. There I was forced to examine my attitude about everything including my dogs. I was constantly challenged to become more open to the language dogs use to communicate with us. This experience confirms our deepest intuitions about the relationship of human beings not only with their dog but every aspect of their lives.
I hope to foster my clients with a diverse and varied understanding of the environment for which they live. I hope to foster a more realistic understanding of their dogs and an increased awareness of the benefits of their companionship.
Drawing on my experience as a kennel owner of many Siberian Huskies I will teach my clients how dog training goes far beyond the elementary instruction of basic obedience; as it must encompass a whole new attitude and lifestyle with their dog. It must touch on the levels of a dog’s own life that are often ignored.
I will bring my client into the world of a dog musher, canine behaviorist, and father of three by using my experience as a lens through which they may broaden their understanding of their dog. The stage will then be set for a balanced, lasting relationship between them and their best friend.
How long have you been in business and what types of services do you provide?
I have been training professionally since the summer of 1994 when I attended my first “certification” course. Also in 1994 I started my Siberian Husky sled dog kennel in Duluth, Minnesota on my hobby farm. I began training clients dogs in local parks in a Canine Good Citizen-type training program and offering in-kennel board and train programs for clients. In 2000, I went back to school to earn my doctorate and began research on human-canine communication in the sport of dog sledding and I took a hiatus from dog training for clients. In 2006, my family and I moved to Denver, Colorado and I sought employment as a canine trainer. I sent out three resumes and one person called me back. I interviewed for the job and gave him a stack of certificates and degrees and the owner of the school said, “I don’t care about paper, I want to see how you train dogs.”
I went back into his kennel and got a dog and took it to the training room and showed the owner how I could work the dog through an obedience routine. He hired me the next day and shortly thereafter offered me the training school to lease. In January 2007, we opened Denver Dog Works at that location and have been training in Denver ever since.
How did you get started?
As I stated before, I have been training dogs since the 90’s in competition obedience and conformation with Siberian Huskies, thought by some to be the toughest breed to train, but my work with canines really started to take off when I moved to Minnesota. I literally lived with a pack of 35 sled dogs 24-hours a day. We ran teams all night on the snowmobile trails in the Superior National Forest and then I would come back and take care of the dogs and interact with them and study their behavior. While there is much to be said about pack based training theory today, I learned so much about those dogs that I became an expert in canine body language and communication. In 1997, I was given the opportunity to attend a wolf migration study in Alaska and we conducted research by dog sled and helicopter. That was when they still used radio collars on the wolves and antenna, unlike today where they track them via GPS. I worked on that study for 17 months before returning home to run my sled dog teams for sport. I learned so much about the two species and how to compare and contrast the two. Shortly after my return, I was thirty for knowledge and began to read every book I could get my hands on and took several courses in canine training and behavior. I started to attend seminars and lectures and took exams to become a certified canine trainer.
Are you involved in and dog sports or activities?
I am heavily involved in canine sports. I have several clients that I am working with right now in conformation classes and competition obedience. I am a professional musher and in training for my first Iditarod in 2013. I plan on running a pure-breed Siberian Husky team under the Team Ineka banner.
How do you get business, and what is your relationship like with veterinarians in your community?
Most of our business comes from referrals, our website, Denver Dog Works, and word of mouth. Denver Dog Works is sought after often as a last resort for dog owners who have tried other training schools and failed for one reason or another. There is a veterinary office right next door to our training center and we receive a lot of referrals and “foot traffic” from there. I am sought out often for canine aggression cases and behavior modification. We take full advantage of social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook, Ustream, YouTube and others. Of course, we do offer a lot of canine sports and working dog programs as well.
Do you belong to a trainer networking group, or otherwise consult with/refer to other trainers in your area?
I belong to several trainer associations and clubs throughout North America. I have found that a lot of trainers in Denver do not refer clients to each other. I don't know why. I speak to a lot of people though networking events at the Chamber of Commerce and I host a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show where we discuss everything that is related to dogs.
What do you believe are the three most important things to teach a dog?
Loose leash walking, Come (recall) and manners. As I tell my clients all the time, a dog that does not know how to walk on a loose leash is the first candidate for a shelter. Why? because if the relationship between owner and dog is strained on walks (pardon the pun), the owner does not want to interact with the dog, hence that equals lack of exercise, which equals destructiveness. In regards to the recall command, I tell my clients, “who cares if your dog will sit and down on command in your living room, if he won’t come to you at the park, you will have a big problem.”
What types of cases do you find the most challenging and why?
I find dispelling the myths that people have about their dogs the most challenging. I routinely talk about canine evolution and anthropomorphism and how proper relationships should be formed with our canine companions.
What advice would you give to other trainers about working with dogs and their owners?
Patience. Just one word, Patience.
Can you offer a specific tip or trick for working with dogs or owners that other trainers might find helpful?
Take the time to listen to your clients and encourage them to think outside the box about their dog and their training goals. Also, turn off the T.V. and get out and do something with your dog and that will teach them more about their canine companions than any book or T.V. dog training show.
What was your scariest moment with a dog (or client)?
I have been known to say that I have been bit by the best and trained the rest. In all honesty I have never had a scary moment with a dog but witnessing my wife being attacked by a Dutch Shepherd that we had in training scared me to death. You can read her story about that by clicking here.
What would you say are the top three things you have personally learned as a trainer?
1. Patience. 2. dogs make better clients than people, 3. and that fear and punishment is the least effective way to get a dog to do what you want.
What was the last training related seminar you attended?
I conducted the last seminar I attended and that was about the misconceptions people have about how dogs behave in dog parks. I was the featured speaker at a conference with several HOA’s and the city of Denver when it was up for debate on whether Denver should add more dog parks.
Are there any specific books, authors, DVDs that have influenced you as a trainer?
I have read so many books on canine training, behavior, evolution and origin that I cant list them all. Some of the most influential have been the books written by the Monks of New Skeete, the book Dogs: A New Understanding of Canine Origin, Behavior and Evolution. the three book series by (Lindsey) Darwin’s Origin of the Species, Karen Pryor’s Don’t Shoot the Dog, many courses in psychology an learning theory, hundreds of business books and articles, countless hours of research for my dissertation and the thousands of miles on the back of a dog sled and in my kennel have been my greatest teacher.
Anything else you would like to add?
In my opinion,our relationship with our dogs is our greatest gift. I say that not only as a dog trainer and a business owner, but also as a father of three teenagers. Our dogs have taught us so much about life. My work with canines is dedicated to my friends of friends “Ineka and Rutgrr” who have taught me the definition of unconditional love. In addition, to all other sled dog pups that have unselfishly provided comfort, compassion, and unparalleled commitment to humans. This dedication is generally without measure of our right to such gifts or of our own commitment to reciprocate.
It is this affection that has given me the ability to survive, with relative sanity, in an often difficult world. The power of this unconditional love has been the inspiration for this dissertation and the project that produced it. May this project bring power to those who want to chase their dreams. May this project also give us a better appreciation for those creatures with which we share the earth.
_________________
Michele Forto is the business manager and a trainer for Dog Works Training Centers and the co-host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show that can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West and downloaded anytime. Michele can be reached through her website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Monday, February 8, 2010
Culture of Denver Dog Works: Service Availability and Belief
Culture of Denver Dog Works: Service Availability and Belief
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the fourth installment in a series on the Culture of Denver Dog Works. I am only only doing this to give our readers an idea of what we are about at Denver Dog Works but also as an exercise for us here at the training center to make sure we are all on the same page and delivering exceptional customer service and training a client's dog to be one of the best trained dogs in the world.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works are:
Integrity
Professionalism
Development
Service Availability and Belief
Character
Self Development
A Event Culture
Structured Activity
Leadership
Fun
Service Availability and Belief at Denver Dog Works and our Culture:
Along with a strong belief in your own inner voice, you also need laser-like focus combined with unwavering determination. -- Larry Flynt
Yes, I know who Larry Flynt is. That is not up for debate. What I interpret from his quote is that in business you have to belief in yourself in business and if you second guess you will not accomplish your goals.
A lot can be said about the way one business approaches it’s day to day operation over another but you know what? That is what separates the businesses that will succeed and those that will fail.
Service Availability
At Denver Dog Works we designed our business on 40 years of collaborated dog training experience. We pride ourselves on our ability to build you a customized training package with the ability to adjust the program as needed if necessary. Learn how to train your dog with Denver Dog Works and experience the best pet relationship you could ever imagine. At Denver Dog Works you won't feel like your walking through a revolving door. You will feel like your taking your dog to the gym! Our trainers will keep you motivated and wanting to come back. Training is for life! For you and your dog.
Core Beliefs
At Denver Dog Works we truly are a mom and pop business. My wife, Michele, and I work every day to make our business a success and something that we can be proud of. We include our family in our business and if you have stopped in on a Saturday you will see our 12-year old daughter Nicole working right along with us. This is important to us and is what we believe in.
I say that at Denver Dog Works we don’t just train dogs, we change lives. In our work with our service dog training program and our constant reminder of the need for a quick and educated response to canine aggression, we strive to make that our business model. As we have covered in previous articles about our culture; our core beliefs are important to us and they should be important to you.
1.) Integrity: At Denver Dog Works we strive to provide each client with the most up to date thorough training available. We design your training program to fit your needs.
2.) Professionalism: At Denver Dog Works we believe that each client is an individual with individual needs for their dog and their lifestyle. There is no cookie cutter packaging available at Denver Dog Works. Our professional staff takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns during our initial evaluation.
3.) Education: At Denver Dog Works all trainers are certified in canine behavior. All staff members are certified in canine CPR and first aid. We have the best and train the rest! We pride ourselves on continuing our educations and experiences by learning new methods as well as updating old methods. We can teach you how to train your dog for any goal. We specialize in sport training and understand the various methods and tools utilized in sport training.
4.) Quality: At Denver Dog Works we believe in the quality of our training rather than the quantity. There are times when an hour long session isn't going to be enough. In those cases we schedule longer class times to adjust the needs of our clients. We also will address minor behavior issues if they arise in our private lessons and our camp works programs. If it is determined that a larger behavior problem exists we refer you to our canine behaviorist.
Denver Dog Works cares about you and your dog. Our attention to service and customer care gives us the opportunity to expand our availability to you.
I encourage any feedback you may have and of course share the culture of your business as well. I can be reached anytime by email at train@denverdogworks.com
Next Week: Character
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Dog Works Training Centers and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or download it anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the fourth installment in a series on the Culture of Denver Dog Works. I am only only doing this to give our readers an idea of what we are about at Denver Dog Works but also as an exercise for us here at the training center to make sure we are all on the same page and delivering exceptional customer service and training a client's dog to be one of the best trained dogs in the world.
The 10 Elements of Culture as defined by Denver Dog Works are:
Integrity
Professionalism
Development
Service Availability and Belief
Character
Self Development
A Event Culture
Structured Activity
Leadership
Fun
Service Availability and Belief at Denver Dog Works and our Culture:
Along with a strong belief in your own inner voice, you also need laser-like focus combined with unwavering determination. -- Larry Flynt
Yes, I know who Larry Flynt is. That is not up for debate. What I interpret from his quote is that in business you have to belief in yourself in business and if you second guess you will not accomplish your goals.
A lot can be said about the way one business approaches it’s day to day operation over another but you know what? That is what separates the businesses that will succeed and those that will fail.
Service Availability
At Denver Dog Works we designed our business on 40 years of collaborated dog training experience. We pride ourselves on our ability to build you a customized training package with the ability to adjust the program as needed if necessary. Learn how to train your dog with Denver Dog Works and experience the best pet relationship you could ever imagine. At Denver Dog Works you won't feel like your walking through a revolving door. You will feel like your taking your dog to the gym! Our trainers will keep you motivated and wanting to come back. Training is for life! For you and your dog.
Core Beliefs
At Denver Dog Works we truly are a mom and pop business. My wife, Michele, and I work every day to make our business a success and something that we can be proud of. We include our family in our business and if you have stopped in on a Saturday you will see our 12-year old daughter Nicole working right along with us. This is important to us and is what we believe in.
I say that at Denver Dog Works we don’t just train dogs, we change lives. In our work with our service dog training program and our constant reminder of the need for a quick and educated response to canine aggression, we strive to make that our business model. As we have covered in previous articles about our culture; our core beliefs are important to us and they should be important to you.
1.) Integrity: At Denver Dog Works we strive to provide each client with the most up to date thorough training available. We design your training program to fit your needs.
2.) Professionalism: At Denver Dog Works we believe that each client is an individual with individual needs for their dog and their lifestyle. There is no cookie cutter packaging available at Denver Dog Works. Our professional staff takes the time to listen to your goals and concerns during our initial evaluation.
3.) Education: At Denver Dog Works all trainers are certified in canine behavior. All staff members are certified in canine CPR and first aid. We have the best and train the rest! We pride ourselves on continuing our educations and experiences by learning new methods as well as updating old methods. We can teach you how to train your dog for any goal. We specialize in sport training and understand the various methods and tools utilized in sport training.
4.) Quality: At Denver Dog Works we believe in the quality of our training rather than the quantity. There are times when an hour long session isn't going to be enough. In those cases we schedule longer class times to adjust the needs of our clients. We also will address minor behavior issues if they arise in our private lessons and our camp works programs. If it is determined that a larger behavior problem exists we refer you to our canine behaviorist.
Denver Dog Works cares about you and your dog. Our attention to service and customer care gives us the opportunity to expand our availability to you.
I encourage any feedback you may have and of course share the culture of your business as well. I can be reached anytime by email at train@denverdogworks.com
Next Week: Character
__________________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Dog Works Training Centers and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or download it anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Dog Doctor Radio Show #53
Show Notes: The Dog Doctor Radio Show #53
By Robert Forto, PhD
Week 53 Show
2/06/10
Intro It is a beautiful day here in the Rockies. Its hard to believe that we are heading into February already.
News Notes and Events
Todays Show Pet Airways interview with Founder Dan Weysel
2/13/10 Chris Fuller from Influence Leadership and Mushing in the Olympic Games
2/20/10 Deb Jacobs back on to talk in depth about Animal Hoarding
2/27/10 NO SHOW Topic Yet
3/6/10 Iditarod Special
3/13/10 Dog Doctor Junior Nicole will be back on the air!
3/20/10 Dog Works Training Centers Mushing Recap
5/1/10 Live Remote Broadcast Furry Scurry
6/19/10 Live Remote Broadcast Goose Chase
We update our Blog everyday at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Camp Works Charlie is doing well on his 12 week camp works training program and we are excited to talk to Pet Airways and the trip he took.
Mushing update Starting March 6, 2010 I will be giving daily updates on the Iditarod and I am working out the logistics to be up in Anchorage this year for the start and to attend the Musher’s Ball.
Pet Airways
We introduced Dan Weysel the founder and owner of Pet Airways and how the business was brought about with Dan’s dog Zoe. We spoke about the cities that the airline flies too including Ft. Lauderdale, Denver, Chicago, Omaha, N.Y. City, San Fransico. They are adding new cities each month. We talked about the Pet Lounge and how dogs are dropped off and pick (great customer service!)
Commercial
E-travel Unlimited is our host for studio time. We are proud to be associated with E-travel. They are our travel partner for all of our business and occasional pleasure trips. In fact we are going to be on a cruise booked through E-Travel Unlimited in October. It is a who-done-it-Sleuth Cruise in the Mexican Riviera. If you would like to book this adventure please call Ken or Sandy at 888-770-9225 or visit http://www.etravelunlimited.com
Be sure to fan us on Twitter and Facebook under Denver Dog Works and Team Ineka. and if you like what you hear on the DogDoctor be sure to click that Favorite button on the blog talk site.
Special We are offering and exciting special that just started today. We are offering 15 sessions for $579 that is 38 dollars a session for basic obedience or an intro to a sport such as rally, foundation agility, competition obedience and CGC. We have only a few spots in our schedule for this each day so please call Michele at 303-578-9881. We also have a 99.00 special to introduce you and your dog to training. This is 3 session for this price and are 40 minutes in length and we will work on manners and loose leash walking.
Back to Pet Airways Interview...
We spoke to the founder and owner Dan Wesyel we spoke about plane set up and how the dogs are taken care of as if they were their own by taking the pets out on walks and even allow you to board your pet if there is a delay or flight problems on the “human” end.
Dan talked about the importance of treating our pets as family and not as cargo. It was a great interview! Check out their webpage at http://www.petairways.com and follow them on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/petairways
Canine Sciences and Communication Course info starting in April. As announced this week we are changing the way people become dog trainers. In our next course starting in April we will be offering all students an iPad with their course. We are in the process of re-writting our course book to include interactive video, exams, lessons and projects. This is like no other canine trainer course in the world. If you want to receive a cutting edge education and become one of the best dog trainers in the world give us a call at 303-578-9881.
Iditarod Start
I will be in Anchorage for the Iditarod start and will report nightly on our sister show, Mush! You Huskies http://www.blogtalkradio.com/teamineka I look forward to meeting a lot of new friends and mushers.
Are you ready to change your life? Join us for the Peak Performance Weekend in beautiful Estes Park, CO. Our featured speaker in Traci Brown of http://www.tracibrown.com. Traci Brown is a personal trainer for your mind. Her innovative techniques will change your outlook on life, business, sports, relationships and more. Stay tuned for details!
____________________
Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of the Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday morning at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or downloaded anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
Week 53 Show
2/06/10
Intro It is a beautiful day here in the Rockies. Its hard to believe that we are heading into February already.
News Notes and Events
Todays Show Pet Airways interview with Founder Dan Weysel
2/13/10 Chris Fuller from Influence Leadership and Mushing in the Olympic Games
2/20/10 Deb Jacobs back on to talk in depth about Animal Hoarding
2/27/10 NO SHOW Topic Yet
3/6/10 Iditarod Special
3/13/10 Dog Doctor Junior Nicole will be back on the air!
3/20/10 Dog Works Training Centers Mushing Recap
5/1/10 Live Remote Broadcast Furry Scurry
6/19/10 Live Remote Broadcast Goose Chase
We update our Blog everyday at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Camp Works Charlie is doing well on his 12 week camp works training program and we are excited to talk to Pet Airways and the trip he took.
Mushing update Starting March 6, 2010 I will be giving daily updates on the Iditarod and I am working out the logistics to be up in Anchorage this year for the start and to attend the Musher’s Ball.
Pet Airways
We introduced Dan Weysel the founder and owner of Pet Airways and how the business was brought about with Dan’s dog Zoe. We spoke about the cities that the airline flies too including Ft. Lauderdale, Denver, Chicago, Omaha, N.Y. City, San Fransico. They are adding new cities each month. We talked about the Pet Lounge and how dogs are dropped off and pick (great customer service!)
Commercial
E-travel Unlimited is our host for studio time. We are proud to be associated with E-travel. They are our travel partner for all of our business and occasional pleasure trips. In fact we are going to be on a cruise booked through E-Travel Unlimited in October. It is a who-done-it-Sleuth Cruise in the Mexican Riviera. If you would like to book this adventure please call Ken or Sandy at 888-770-9225 or visit http://www.etravelunlimited.com
Be sure to fan us on Twitter and Facebook under Denver Dog Works and Team Ineka. and if you like what you hear on the DogDoctor be sure to click that Favorite button on the blog talk site.
Special We are offering and exciting special that just started today. We are offering 15 sessions for $579 that is 38 dollars a session for basic obedience or an intro to a sport such as rally, foundation agility, competition obedience and CGC. We have only a few spots in our schedule for this each day so please call Michele at 303-578-9881. We also have a 99.00 special to introduce you and your dog to training. This is 3 session for this price and are 40 minutes in length and we will work on manners and loose leash walking.
Back to Pet Airways Interview...
We spoke to the founder and owner Dan Wesyel we spoke about plane set up and how the dogs are taken care of as if they were their own by taking the pets out on walks and even allow you to board your pet if there is a delay or flight problems on the “human” end.
Dan talked about the importance of treating our pets as family and not as cargo. It was a great interview! Check out their webpage at http://www.petairways.com and follow them on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/petairways
Canine Sciences and Communication Course info starting in April. As announced this week we are changing the way people become dog trainers. In our next course starting in April we will be offering all students an iPad with their course. We are in the process of re-writting our course book to include interactive video, exams, lessons and projects. This is like no other canine trainer course in the world. If you want to receive a cutting edge education and become one of the best dog trainers in the world give us a call at 303-578-9881.
Iditarod Start
I will be in Anchorage for the Iditarod start and will report nightly on our sister show, Mush! You Huskies http://www.blogtalkradio.com/teamineka I look forward to meeting a lot of new friends and mushers.
Are you ready to change your life? Join us for the Peak Performance Weekend in beautiful Estes Park, CO. Our featured speaker in Traci Brown of http://www.tracibrown.com. Traci Brown is a personal trainer for your mind. Her innovative techniques will change your outlook on life, business, sports, relationships and more. Stay tuned for details!
____________________
Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of the Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday morning at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or downloaded anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Who Are You? Canine Trainer, Leah Morse
Who Are You, Anyway?
Contract Trainer, Leah Morse
By Robert Forto, PhD
We are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and they have one of the best dog training journals around, especially for us in the canine training industry, The APDT Chronicle of the Dog. Each month in their highly acclaimed magazine, they have a member profile edited by Nicole Wilde. While we haven't been privy to be showcased in this column yet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase each one of our trainers over the next few weeks so that you can get to know us and what we are about.
This week I will be interviewing Leah Morse. Leah is a graduate of our canine obedience instructor course and offers contract training at Denver Dog Works.
Let’s get to know Leah Morse, certified canine trainer:
Business Name: Denver Dog Works
Location: Denver, Colorado
Phone: 303-578-9881
Email: mforto@denverdogworks.com
Website: www.denverdogworks.com
Years in Business: 2 years
Personal Training Philosophy: Training a dog should have an equal priority level to proper nutrition and health care for a dog. Use as many techniques as possible to get a dog to think for himself and to choose to do the right thing happily. Dogs need an owner that provides adequate leadership, a safe and happy environment, structure and training.
How long have you been in business and what types of services do you provide?
I have been educating people how to raise and train their dogs for my entire adult life but professionally for 2 years. I have 20 years of retail pet experience, 10 years of vet assisting experience and have been raising and training dogs for over 30 years. I encourage touch free training but am prepared to incorporate all types of training. I offer private and group classes, in home private lessons and semi private lessons, puppy socialization “kindergarten” classes, basic obedience and some advanced obedience classes, behavior therapy. trick training, CGC (Canine Good Citizenship) prep.
How did you get started?
A phone call to Denver Dog Works, researching training facilities for a friend, and was informed by Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works School for dog trainers. Next an interview with Dr. Forto and then I was well on my way to becoming a professional dog trainer and certified.
Are you involved in and dog sports or activities?
Would love to learn about tracking and herding but currently I am investing time in a competition obedience dog and an up and coming conformation show prospect.
How do you get business, and what is your relationship like with veterinarians in your community?
I have a very good relationship with my local veterinary practice in Bennett CO. I give the vet technicians free lessons to test drive the trainer and they refer clients to me. I have donated obedience private lesson packages to the local recreation center’s private auction. I also have acquired clients from Facebook, advertising in the employee lounge at my other employment, current word of mouth and soon to be a website.
Do you belong to a trainer networking group, or otherwise consult with/refer to other trainers in your area?
I work with Dr. Robert and Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works and Sandy Chiavelli with Prairie Dog Acres in Strasburg. I have applied for membership with Colorado Dog Trainers Network. I am a member of APDT, a certified CGC evaluator, a member of MSDTC and am currently registered with TeachStreet.com and am in the process of connecting with some local Doggy Day Care Providers.
What do you believe are the three most important things to teach a dog?
That the owner is a confident Leader that provides a safe and structured environment and is worthy of respect.
That training is a fun game to play daily
That it is a pleasure to work for their people
What types of cases do you find the most challenging and why?
The most challenging cases are the owners that come for some or even all of the classes but don’t practice at home with their dogs. You see the dogs that are being regularly practiced with and the ones that aren’t and how much the practiced dogs progress compared to not. The frustration that then ensues between owner and dog (the unpracticed pair) could have been avoided by even a few quick sessions daily. There is such potential that is not being realized by the owner such as better relationship, a calmer dog, better owner/dog communication and the satisfaction of accomplishment. Basically as they say “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.
What teaching techniques or philosophies have you found helpful in dealing with your challenging cases?
Pay attention to the emotional status of the owner and the behavior/mood of the dog and try to add encouragement or stress release techniques if necessary. As tactfully as possible, point out what is observed and, quite often, the owner is harboring left over negative feelings from home or work or frustration at the dog.
Work the dog for the owner if the owner is really having a hard time.
What advice would you give to other trainers about working with dogs and their owners?
Allow new dogs to sniff around and get comfortable with the training environment prior to the session.
Pay attention to the demeanor of the owner and watch for calming signals given by the dog.
If the dog allows the trainer, demonstrate the techniques to the owner with the owner’s dog, as this shows that it can be done.
Can you offer a specific tip or trick for working with dogs or owners that other trainers might find helpful?
It is great that we all love dogs but you have to develop a love for people too. Loving/appreciating people, helps you to be tolerant and be more in tune to what a client actually needs. People know when you are frustrated with them or if you are disinterested. Common sense for you may not be for others, it just means that you heard it or learned it more than they did. Don’t judge an owner on their inadequacies but help them through them. You help the dog more in the end of if you connect with their people.
What was your scariest moment with a dog (or client)?
Watching a young handler get attacked by an aggressive dog he was working with. Fortunately it ended alright.
What would you say are the top three things you have personally learned as a trainer?
Patience, Patience, Patience,
Be flexible to a point
Be Personable
What was the last training related seminar you attended?
I am still progressing through a correspondence course as I am working towards another certification.
Are there any specific books, authors, DVDs that have influenced you as a trainer?
Many of the Leerburg training DVDs.
Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor.
Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas
Caesars Way
Tender Foot Training DVD
Monks of New Skeet
It’s Me or the Dog Cable Show
Anything else you would like to add?
It is my goal to help as many dogs stay home and out of the shelters and to help prevent as much as possible, future dog bites and behavior problems through prevention training, starting with young puppies by educating their owners.
I would like to see more professional dog trainers start to work together instead of against each other.
______________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or downloaded anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Contract Trainer, Leah Morse
By Robert Forto, PhD
We are members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and they have one of the best dog training journals around, especially for us in the canine training industry, The APDT Chronicle of the Dog. Each month in their highly acclaimed magazine, they have a member profile edited by Nicole Wilde. While we haven't been privy to be showcased in this column yet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase each one of our trainers over the next few weeks so that you can get to know us and what we are about.
This week I will be interviewing Leah Morse. Leah is a graduate of our canine obedience instructor course and offers contract training at Denver Dog Works.
Let’s get to know Leah Morse, certified canine trainer:
Business Name: Denver Dog Works
Location: Denver, Colorado
Phone: 303-578-9881
Email: mforto@denverdogworks.com
Website: www.denverdogworks.com
Years in Business: 2 years
Personal Training Philosophy: Training a dog should have an equal priority level to proper nutrition and health care for a dog. Use as many techniques as possible to get a dog to think for himself and to choose to do the right thing happily. Dogs need an owner that provides adequate leadership, a safe and happy environment, structure and training.
How long have you been in business and what types of services do you provide?
I have been educating people how to raise and train their dogs for my entire adult life but professionally for 2 years. I have 20 years of retail pet experience, 10 years of vet assisting experience and have been raising and training dogs for over 30 years. I encourage touch free training but am prepared to incorporate all types of training. I offer private and group classes, in home private lessons and semi private lessons, puppy socialization “kindergarten” classes, basic obedience and some advanced obedience classes, behavior therapy. trick training, CGC (Canine Good Citizenship) prep.
How did you get started?
A phone call to Denver Dog Works, researching training facilities for a friend, and was informed by Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works School for dog trainers. Next an interview with Dr. Forto and then I was well on my way to becoming a professional dog trainer and certified.
Are you involved in and dog sports or activities?
Would love to learn about tracking and herding but currently I am investing time in a competition obedience dog and an up and coming conformation show prospect.
How do you get business, and what is your relationship like with veterinarians in your community?
I have a very good relationship with my local veterinary practice in Bennett CO. I give the vet technicians free lessons to test drive the trainer and they refer clients to me. I have donated obedience private lesson packages to the local recreation center’s private auction. I also have acquired clients from Facebook, advertising in the employee lounge at my other employment, current word of mouth and soon to be a website.
Do you belong to a trainer networking group, or otherwise consult with/refer to other trainers in your area?
I work with Dr. Robert and Michelle Forto of Denver Dog Works and Sandy Chiavelli with Prairie Dog Acres in Strasburg. I have applied for membership with Colorado Dog Trainers Network. I am a member of APDT, a certified CGC evaluator, a member of MSDTC and am currently registered with TeachStreet.com and am in the process of connecting with some local Doggy Day Care Providers.
What do you believe are the three most important things to teach a dog?
That the owner is a confident Leader that provides a safe and structured environment and is worthy of respect.
That training is a fun game to play daily
That it is a pleasure to work for their people
What types of cases do you find the most challenging and why?
The most challenging cases are the owners that come for some or even all of the classes but don’t practice at home with their dogs. You see the dogs that are being regularly practiced with and the ones that aren’t and how much the practiced dogs progress compared to not. The frustration that then ensues between owner and dog (the unpracticed pair) could have been avoided by even a few quick sessions daily. There is such potential that is not being realized by the owner such as better relationship, a calmer dog, better owner/dog communication and the satisfaction of accomplishment. Basically as they say “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.
What teaching techniques or philosophies have you found helpful in dealing with your challenging cases?
Pay attention to the emotional status of the owner and the behavior/mood of the dog and try to add encouragement or stress release techniques if necessary. As tactfully as possible, point out what is observed and, quite often, the owner is harboring left over negative feelings from home or work or frustration at the dog.
Work the dog for the owner if the owner is really having a hard time.
What advice would you give to other trainers about working with dogs and their owners?
Allow new dogs to sniff around and get comfortable with the training environment prior to the session.
Pay attention to the demeanor of the owner and watch for calming signals given by the dog.
If the dog allows the trainer, demonstrate the techniques to the owner with the owner’s dog, as this shows that it can be done.
Can you offer a specific tip or trick for working with dogs or owners that other trainers might find helpful?
It is great that we all love dogs but you have to develop a love for people too. Loving/appreciating people, helps you to be tolerant and be more in tune to what a client actually needs. People know when you are frustrated with them or if you are disinterested. Common sense for you may not be for others, it just means that you heard it or learned it more than they did. Don’t judge an owner on their inadequacies but help them through them. You help the dog more in the end of if you connect with their people.
What was your scariest moment with a dog (or client)?
Watching a young handler get attacked by an aggressive dog he was working with. Fortunately it ended alright.
What would you say are the top three things you have personally learned as a trainer?
Patience, Patience, Patience,
Be flexible to a point
Be Personable
What was the last training related seminar you attended?
I am still progressing through a correspondence course as I am working towards another certification.
Are there any specific books, authors, DVDs that have influenced you as a trainer?
Many of the Leerburg training DVDs.
Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor.
Calming Signals by Turid Rugaas
Caesars Way
Tender Foot Training DVD
Monks of New Skeet
It’s Me or the Dog Cable Show
Anything else you would like to add?
It is my goal to help as many dogs stay home and out of the shelters and to help prevent as much as possible, future dog bites and behavior problems through prevention training, starting with young puppies by educating their owners.
I would like to see more professional dog trainers start to work together instead of against each other.
______________
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works and the host of a weekly radio program, The Dog Doctor Radio Show which can be heard every Saturday at 9:30 am in the Rocky Mountain West or downloaded anytime. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Canine Trainers Forum: Influential People in Learning Theory Part I
Canine Trainers Forum: Influential People in Learning Theory Part I
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the first in a weekly series of articles on Canine Training. We will post these articles every Saturday. We are going to start by posting articles about the history of human-canine communication and learning theory and why this approach is the de-facto method of training our companion animals. The training methods used by many trainers and training schools simply do not work. They are not based on the principles of how a dog learns. I classify these types of trainers into two groups: Yank and Crank and Wait and See trainers (We will discuss both of these methods in a future article so stay tuned and subscribe to our blog on our website Denver Dog Works). Both of these methods will have a degree of success but not a long term effect on changing your dog’s overall behavior. Both of these methods are an “easy way out” for training your dog.
I will be the first to admit that dog training is work. Hard work and it takes a great deal of knowledge, understanding, patience and adaption in order for it to be a success. Do you want to go to a trainer or training school that has a trainer that is still wet-behind-the-ears or is earning minimum wage at a big box store? Or do you want to go to a professional that has literally lived with a pack of sled dogs for the better part of fifteen years and earned his doctorate on the basis of human-canine communication? If you would like to talk about this in more detail, I encourage you to give us a call anytime at 303-578-9881 or send us an email at train@denverdogworks.com We look forward to hearing from you!
Influential People in the Development of Learning Theory
Huxley and Darwin
It is unclear when formalized studies of learning actually began, however, Professor Thomas Henry Huxley (1825-1895) birthed the theory of association in the early 1870’s. Professor Huxley stated that “It may be laid down as a rule, that, if any two mental states be called up together, or in succession, with due frequency and vividness, the subsequent production of one of them [mental states] will suffice to call up the other, and that whether we desire it or not.”[i] This observation may very well have laid the groundwork for later studies in respondent and operant conditioning. Huxley was an outspoken advocate of the naturalist Charles Darwin (1809-1882). The professor was so passionate in his defense of Darwin’s theories that he was often referred to as “Darwin’s Bulldog”.
In Darwin’s The Expression of the Emotion in Man and Animals, Professor Huxley’s influence was evident in Darwin’s observations of the emotions of man and animals. When studying animal expression Darwin was vividly aware of the challenges associated with those observations. He writes, “The study of expression is difficult, owing to the movements being often extremely slight, and of a fleeting nature.” [ii] Nevertheless, Darwin’s careful observations were of immeasurable value to later researchers. Darwin continued where Huxley left off by recognizing that movements, no matter how complex, can be performed with little or no forethought and minimal efforts when they have been performed with enough frequency. This premise was the foundation for Darwin’s Principle of Antithesis, which reasons, that states of mind lead to the performance of “habitual actions”, when a “directly opposite” state of mind occurs, there is a “strong and involuntary” tendency to perform movements and actions of a “directly opposite nature”. This principle is of special interest to observers of canine communication techniques, and can help the astute observer decipher the signal being sent and received by a canine, whether it is intra- or interspecies communication. Darwin states further “that gestures and expressions are to a certain extent mutually intelligible.”[iii]
Darwin speaks of his own dog’s “hot-house” face and reasoned that the opposite expression displayed by his dog was innate and not a deliberate attempt at communicating his desire to not go to the “hot-house.” He further states, “hence for the development of the movements which came under the present head, some other principle, distinct from the will and consciousness, must have intervened.”[iv]
While the vast majority of canine communication is accomplished via body language, there is some evidence that canines posses at least a limited verbal vocabulary. While most canines in the wild do not bark, but howl, this is not the case for the domesticated canine. According to Darwin “…some animals after being domesticated have acquired the habit of uttering sounds which were not natural to them. Thus domesticated dogs, and even tamed jackals have learnt [sic] to bark, which is a noise not proper to any species of the genus with the exception of the Canis latrans of North America, which is said to bark.”[v] In regard to the Principle of Antithesis “…the bark of anger, and that of joy are sounds which by no means stand in opposition to one another;…”[vi] This lack of observable difference between barks is likely the reason that canines rely on body language so extensively. Canine body language has been studied extensively and is well documented. If you would like to read my doctorate dissertation: Chasing the Dream: A History of Human-Canine Communication in the Sport of Dog Sledding in its entirety it can be purchased as a .pdf from for $19.10 please send me an email at train@denverdogworks.com and I will arrange it.
_______________________
[i] Huxley, Thomas Henry, Elementary Lessons in Physiology Fifth Edition, 1872 pg. 306.
[ii] Darwin, C., The Expressions of the Emotions in Man and Animals. (1872) Web Document. The Complete Works of Charles Darwin. http: //www.darwin-literature.com. Pg. 28
[iii]Darwin, C., The Expressions of the Emotions in Man and Animals. (1872) Web Document. The Complete Works of Charles Darwin. http://www.darwin-literature.com,Pg. 35.
[iv] ____________Pg.38.
[v] Darwin, C., The Expressions of the Emotions in Man and Animals. (1872) Web Document. The Complete Works of Charles Darwin. http://www.darwin-literature.com, Pg.53.
[vi] ____________Pg.56.
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By Robert Forto, PhD
This is the first in a weekly series of articles on Canine Training. We will post these articles every Saturday. We are going to start by posting articles about the history of human-canine communication and learning theory and why this approach is the de-facto method of training our companion animals. The training methods used by many trainers and training schools simply do not work. They are not based on the principles of how a dog learns. I classify these types of trainers into two groups: Yank and Crank and Wait and See trainers (We will discuss both of these methods in a future article so stay tuned and subscribe to our blog on our website Denver Dog Works). Both of these methods will have a degree of success but not a long term effect on changing your dog’s overall behavior. Both of these methods are an “easy way out” for training your dog.
I will be the first to admit that dog training is work. Hard work and it takes a great deal of knowledge, understanding, patience and adaption in order for it to be a success. Do you want to go to a trainer or training school that has a trainer that is still wet-behind-the-ears or is earning minimum wage at a big box store? Or do you want to go to a professional that has literally lived with a pack of sled dogs for the better part of fifteen years and earned his doctorate on the basis of human-canine communication? If you would like to talk about this in more detail, I encourage you to give us a call anytime at 303-578-9881 or send us an email at train@denverdogworks.com We look forward to hearing from you!
Influential People in the Development of Learning Theory
Huxley and Darwin
It is unclear when formalized studies of learning actually began, however, Professor Thomas Henry Huxley (1825-1895) birthed the theory of association in the early 1870’s. Professor Huxley stated that “It may be laid down as a rule, that, if any two mental states be called up together, or in succession, with due frequency and vividness, the subsequent production of one of them [mental states] will suffice to call up the other, and that whether we desire it or not.”[i] This observation may very well have laid the groundwork for later studies in respondent and operant conditioning. Huxley was an outspoken advocate of the naturalist Charles Darwin (1809-1882). The professor was so passionate in his defense of Darwin’s theories that he was often referred to as “Darwin’s Bulldog”.
In Darwin’s The Expression of the Emotion in Man and Animals, Professor Huxley’s influence was evident in Darwin’s observations of the emotions of man and animals. When studying animal expression Darwin was vividly aware of the challenges associated with those observations. He writes, “The study of expression is difficult, owing to the movements being often extremely slight, and of a fleeting nature.” [ii] Nevertheless, Darwin’s careful observations were of immeasurable value to later researchers. Darwin continued where Huxley left off by recognizing that movements, no matter how complex, can be performed with little or no forethought and minimal efforts when they have been performed with enough frequency. This premise was the foundation for Darwin’s Principle of Antithesis, which reasons, that states of mind lead to the performance of “habitual actions”, when a “directly opposite” state of mind occurs, there is a “strong and involuntary” tendency to perform movements and actions of a “directly opposite nature”. This principle is of special interest to observers of canine communication techniques, and can help the astute observer decipher the signal being sent and received by a canine, whether it is intra- or interspecies communication. Darwin states further “that gestures and expressions are to a certain extent mutually intelligible.”[iii]
Darwin speaks of his own dog’s “hot-house” face and reasoned that the opposite expression displayed by his dog was innate and not a deliberate attempt at communicating his desire to not go to the “hot-house.” He further states, “hence for the development of the movements which came under the present head, some other principle, distinct from the will and consciousness, must have intervened.”[iv]
While the vast majority of canine communication is accomplished via body language, there is some evidence that canines posses at least a limited verbal vocabulary. While most canines in the wild do not bark, but howl, this is not the case for the domesticated canine. According to Darwin “…some animals after being domesticated have acquired the habit of uttering sounds which were not natural to them. Thus domesticated dogs, and even tamed jackals have learnt [sic] to bark, which is a noise not proper to any species of the genus with the exception of the Canis latrans of North America, which is said to bark.”[v] In regard to the Principle of Antithesis “…the bark of anger, and that of joy are sounds which by no means stand in opposition to one another;…”[vi] This lack of observable difference between barks is likely the reason that canines rely on body language so extensively. Canine body language has been studied extensively and is well documented. If you would like to read my doctorate dissertation: Chasing the Dream: A History of Human-Canine Communication in the Sport of Dog Sledding in its entirety it can be purchased as a .pdf from for $19.10 please send me an email at train@denverdogworks.com and I will arrange it.
_______________________
[i] Huxley, Thomas Henry, Elementary Lessons in Physiology Fifth Edition, 1872 pg. 306.
[ii] Darwin, C., The Expressions of the Emotions in Man and Animals. (1872) Web Document. The Complete Works of Charles Darwin. http: //www.darwin-literature.com. Pg. 28
[iii]Darwin, C., The Expressions of the Emotions in Man and Animals. (1872) Web Document. The Complete Works of Charles Darwin. http://www.darwin-literature.com,Pg. 35.
[iv] ____________Pg.38.
[v] Darwin, C., The Expressions of the Emotions in Man and Animals. (1872) Web Document. The Complete Works of Charles Darwin. http://www.darwin-literature.com, Pg.53.
[vi] ____________Pg.56.
Dr. Robert Forto is the training director of Denver Dog Works and The Ineka Project in Colorado. Dr. Forto hosts a weekly radio program The Dog Doctor Radio Show every Saturday. Dr. Forto can be reached through his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Expert Witness for Canine Aggression Litigation
Expert Witness for Canine Aggression Litigation
By: Robert Forto, PhD
Attorneys may be uncertain about the benefits of retaining an expert in animal behavior in dog bites cases, or how such an expert can help. This is understandable: In Colorado, and in many other states, the law specifies strict liability for injuries caused by a dog bite. Thus, when only damages are contested, the animal behavior expert's role may be limited. However, if liability is contested, then having an animal behavior expert on your side may mean the difference between winning and losing.
Ten areas in which the opinions of an animal behavior expert can help the dog bite attorney:
1. Whether provocation was a factor in causing the dog to bite;
2. Breed identification and behavioral proclivities of different breeds;
3. The side effects of drugs and how they impact aggressive responding and the safety and reliability of dog training equipment;
4. The behavioral capabilities of the dog at the time the incident happened;
5. The dangerous or vicious nature of the dog in question;
6. The care and maintenance of a dog and how these factors influence behavior;
7. Was the incident foreseeable to the dog owner, or a landlord?
8. How alleged gross misconduct of an owner impacts a dog's behavior.
9. Identification of the dog which did the biting when multiple dogs are involved in an incident;
10. Reconstruct how the incident must have happened for the purposes of discounting or supporting testimony in the case.
Dr. Robert Forto is a qualified expert for both plaintiff and defense counsel in canine behavior, aggression, bites and other pet related attacks. Dr. Forto has over 19 years direct hands-on experience as a canine behaviorist and trainer, lecture, columnist and educator.
Dr. Forto has conducted numerous seminars on the evaluation, assessment and investigation of pet related injuries for attorneys, in-house training programs, home owners associations and city councils. Dr. Forto is available to lecture to consumer attorney organizations, insurance firms, trial lawyers and city governments, municipalities, shelter organizations, non-profits, among others. Dr. Forto has developed a course on the subject and his articles have been published in numerous publications nationally and internationally.
You can follow Dr. Forto on Twitter and Facebook and listen a weekly radio show, The Dog Doctor Radio Show and his subscribe to his forum.
_______________________
If you would like to have Dr. Forto speak with your group concerning pet related injuries or aggression please contact him though his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
By: Robert Forto, PhD
Attorneys may be uncertain about the benefits of retaining an expert in animal behavior in dog bites cases, or how such an expert can help. This is understandable: In Colorado, and in many other states, the law specifies strict liability for injuries caused by a dog bite. Thus, when only damages are contested, the animal behavior expert's role may be limited. However, if liability is contested, then having an animal behavior expert on your side may mean the difference between winning and losing.
Ten areas in which the opinions of an animal behavior expert can help the dog bite attorney:
1. Whether provocation was a factor in causing the dog to bite;
2. Breed identification and behavioral proclivities of different breeds;
3. The side effects of drugs and how they impact aggressive responding and the safety and reliability of dog training equipment;
4. The behavioral capabilities of the dog at the time the incident happened;
5. The dangerous or vicious nature of the dog in question;
6. The care and maintenance of a dog and how these factors influence behavior;
7. Was the incident foreseeable to the dog owner, or a landlord?
8. How alleged gross misconduct of an owner impacts a dog's behavior.
9. Identification of the dog which did the biting when multiple dogs are involved in an incident;
10. Reconstruct how the incident must have happened for the purposes of discounting or supporting testimony in the case.
Dr. Robert Forto is a qualified expert for both plaintiff and defense counsel in canine behavior, aggression, bites and other pet related attacks. Dr. Forto has over 19 years direct hands-on experience as a canine behaviorist and trainer, lecture, columnist and educator.
Dr. Forto has conducted numerous seminars on the evaluation, assessment and investigation of pet related injuries for attorneys, in-house training programs, home owners associations and city councils. Dr. Forto is available to lecture to consumer attorney organizations, insurance firms, trial lawyers and city governments, municipalities, shelter organizations, non-profits, among others. Dr. Forto has developed a course on the subject and his articles have been published in numerous publications nationally and internationally.
You can follow Dr. Forto on Twitter and Facebook and listen a weekly radio show, The Dog Doctor Radio Show and his subscribe to his forum.
_______________________
If you would like to have Dr. Forto speak with your group concerning pet related injuries or aggression please contact him though his website at http://www.denverdogworks.com
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