New Year's Resolutions for Dog Owners
While its just another day for dogs, January 1st always seems to inspire introspection and goal-setting in the rest of us. As you ponder this year’s resolutions for yourself, why not include a pledge or two to benefit your best canine friend? Here’s some to get you started:
1. “I will include my dog in my exercise program.” The Center for Diseases Control advocates 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, for the average adult. Making a commitment to a brisk, 30-minute walk or run with your adult dog, five days a week, is a healthy way to meet that requirement, get both of you in shape, and ….have a (tired) good dog!
2. “I will read one book on new, positive dog training concepts this year.” Do you still believe that holding a dog’s muzzle shut is the best way to teach him to be quiet? If so, then you need an update! The reason most old dog training books are out of print is because those old techniques have been replaced by newer, safer, and more effective methods. Barbara Woodhouse was good…but Ian Dunbar is better. Try looking at works by him, Brian Kilcommons, Patricia McConnell, and Karen Pryor – all outstanding lecturers and writers of the modern canine industry.
3. “I will spend at least one hour per week investing in my dog’s education.” Training doesn’t need to be a huge inconvenience. It’s actually best when you can incorporate training into your everyday life. How about asking your pet for a ‘stay’ command in the kitchen while you cook? Or insisting on a better ‘come here’ in the back yard? Even 10 minutes a day of your undivided attention will result in a greater understanding of your pet, better communication and response between the two of you , and a happier dog-owner team.
4. “I will learn one new trick, game, or skill this year with my dog.” Tricks are not just for show…they can actually help you manage behavior. For example, a good trick for a dog who jumps up on people is to teach him to ‘back up’ and ‘catch’ a treat instead. A good trick for a shy dog is ‘shake’ for a treat, to help diminish anxiety around strangers. Other games like ‘fetch’ and ‘find it’ can give active dogs an organized, controllable energy outlet. And trying something like agility or flyball can not only help you develop your dog’s off-leash skills, but also get both of you some good, fun exercise (see Resolution #1!)
5. “I will make a point to try and resolve that pesky behavior issue.” Is there something your dog does that just drives you crazy? Is there a lingering behavior that you would like to change, but are unsure how to go about it? A good way to get started is to make an appointment for a behavior evaluation for your dog. There are several companies that provide consultations here in the Issaquah-Sammamish area who can help. Some consultations are free, some are not, so be sure to ask up front.
Whatever your list of resolutions ends up to be, it will be sure to benefit not only you, but your family as well. Including your four-legged family member(s) in your commitment to a better 2010 is a great way to start off the new year (even if your dog still thinks its 2009.)
