Dogs Don't Have to Like Everyone They Meet - Dog Training in Milton

Dogs are very similar to us in many ways, more similar than most think (and that scares some people). 

Dogs, like us, have likes, and dislikes, preferences, favorite activities, favorite foods and so on.

Dogs also don't like every dog that they meet, and nor should they be expected to, just as we aren't fans of every person that we meet. Certain personalities just don't jive.

People have a tendency to think that dogs should like each other all the time, in every situation, I mean their dogs right, they're suppose to be friendly? Wrong. Some dogs dislike the company of others, and should never be forced into a situation where they are bombarded by those of the same species. Some tolerate housemates, but are not interested in meeting new friends. Some dogs are biddable enough, but hate rude gestures and greetings. Yet, owners continue to push their dogs upon other dogs, insisting that they need friends.

Yes, with training, dogs should be able to maintain composure in any situation, however, when another dog insists upon a rude greeting (for example charging up face to face, standing very erect, staring etc.) and you can not control the situation due to the other being off leash,  you can't expect that every dog will turn a blind eye. The rude greeter, according to your dog, needs to be told he's being rude, and the only way dogs now how is with sound (growing) and action (a retaliation) *This is completely different from leash aggression and should not be treated as such.

Personal space is very important to dogs, just as it is to us. No one likes it when they're in a line up, and the guy behind decides to stand right on your heels, breathing down your neck. It's rude, invading personal space, and you feel like retaliating (I know I do). The same goes for your dog and the rude greeter. Their space is invaded and they become very uncomfortable.

It is not necessary for your dog to love and socialize with other dogs, unless they desire it. It does not take away from their quality of life if they don't have or desire other doggy friends. As long as they are getting the exercise, training and attention from their owners, there is no need.

Even if your dog is not a fan of other dogs, he or she should still be able to maintain composure while on a walk and in public, and that can be achieved with proper training. But please keep in mind, that if your dog doesn't seem to want friends, don't force it on them.

www.smartdogsk9.com

New Year's Classes! Dog Training in Milton Ontario

Well, the New Year has arrived, and what better resolution than to get your dog trained!

We are offering an array of courses starting this month from basic obedience to into agility.

Our Smart Dogs Basic Group Class will begin at the end of January and run for 7 weeks every Sunday at 10:00am-11:00am.

Our Smart Dogs Fun Agility will begin at the end of January as well, and run for 6 weeks every Sunday from 11:30am-12:30pm.

The above two classes will be taking place at the Madjam Fitness Studio on Bronte Street. Classes are kept small for optimum training and results. Contact us today if you are interested in signing up. Only 2 spaces left in the agility class, and 3 in the basic class.

Our Doggy-Style Fitness Class begins in February - but sorry, this session is full! If you are interested in signing up for our next session, please contact us dogtraining101@hotmail.com. Class runs 8 weeks every Saturday morning at Madjam Fitness Studio on Bronte Street.

We will also be starting our Smart Dogs Bootcamp. This class will run continuously throughout the year, outdoors, rain or shine. It is for all skill levels, and is excellent for both beginners and vetrans. This class will get your dog in shape both mentally and physically, and you'll move a little too. This class will get results and will go over all the basics, in all conditions under all distractions. If you want a well behaved, reliable dog in all environments, this class is for you!! Starting in March 2012.

To sign up for any of our classes please contact dogtraining101@hotmail.com or visit the official website www.smartdogsk9.com for more details. And don't forget to like us on facebook www.facebook.com/smartdogsk9.

Bulldog Agility - Milton Ontario Agility Training

The table ... an often overlooked, and under-trained obsticle. Get's a lot of the novice competitors.

We like to make sure our dogs understand it, and have the self control to perform it.

Here's Cambull's Jinx learning the ropes ... uh, I mean table.

Interested in trying out the sport of dog agility? We are offering our Smart Dogs Fun Agility Class - a perfect way to get a taste of the sport. You will learn ground handling skills, intro to equipment and trick training. Agility is an awesome sport, and a great way to build a better bond with your dog and have some fun! Check out our website for details.

www.smartdogsk9.com

Happy New Year!! Milton Ontario Dog Trainer

This just about sums it up. Hope you and your pooches have a great 2012!!!! May it be the best year ever!

www.smartdogsk9.com

Holiday Pounds - Yes Dogs Can Acquire Them Too - Milton Ontario Dog Trainer

The holidays aren't over quite yet, but it's a good time to start thinking about all those holiday pounds that you and your best friend have packed on over the past few weeks.

Yes, dogs acquire that extra baggage too. What owner doesn't want to let their dog indulge in some turkey dinners over the festive season? And who doesn't want to share some added treats for their pooches when everyone else around is eating Christmas cookies, sweets and chocolates?

Added weight on dogs can lead to serious health issues, just like in us humans. Heart disease, diabetes, stroke, clogged arteries and the list goes on. The best way to combat these potentially life threatening diseases is to stop them before they start. A healthy diet mixed with daily exercise is the number one way to keep your dog in tip top shape. Same goes for us I might add.

Regular walks, hiking and runs only add years to your best friends life. And if you hate the winter weather, a treadmill works just as well. Stop over feeding treats, and make sure your portion out your best friends food properly, be it high quality kibble, cooked or raw.

If you're looking for an awesome way for both of you too loose the love handles, check out our newest class in partnership with Madjam Fitness - Doggy-Style Fitness. This class combines both a human and canine work out, all while getting that most important obedience training in as well.

Contact us to sign up for Doggy-Style Fitness at dogtraining101@hotmail.com and visit our website for more details www.smartdogsk9.com.

If you're not ready for classes, and even though you might be tired from all the fesitivities, get out there and have some physical fun with your dog. There are no downfalls, only benefits, and try to enjoy the season in a healthy way!

Basic Dog Obedience in Milton Starting Soon!

We have a new Smart Dogs Basic Class starting January 8th from 10-am-11am, every Sunday for 7 weeks.

This class will help you teach your dog all the basics such as sit, down, stay, come, walk nice and leave it/off.

We will only be taking 4 spots for this class, so you are able to receive individual attention for you and your dog.

Start off the new year right by getting your dog trained.

Remember a trained dog is a happy dog and has a happy owner.  A trained dog is easier to live with, to take places and more fun to be around.

To sign up contact us at dogtraining101@hotmail.com and visit our website for more details www.smartdogsk9.com

Merry Christmas from Milton Ontario Dog Trainer

Smart Dogs Canine Training would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday season. Happy New Year too, and may all your dreams come true!