Tips from the Trainer

Trainer: Katie
a few tips on positive training

Listen to your dog

Learn to recognize signs of discomfort in your dog when coming into contact with new dogs, people, other animals or strange objects. Respect their decision to decline that interaction. Forcing them into a situation they’re uncomfortable with will teach them that they cannot trust you to keep them safe. This can lead to them acting out in problematic ways in the future. Try to encourage a positive association with whatever it is they’re afraid of. One way to achieve this is by keeping them at a safe distance and rewarding them (with treats and/or praise) for looking at that other dog/person/etc. and staying calm and relaxed.

Use a reward that truly motivates your dog

Some dogs work best when treats are involved. Like us, they’re all different and have preferences when it comes to food. Many prefer soft and chewy treats over hard and crunchy ones. Figure out which treats your dog REALLY loves and use those for training important commands like “stay” and “come”. There are other ways to reward your dog, though! Using physical and/or verbal praise is very valuable for training. You can also use toys or play time as a reward. Anything that makes your dog happy can be used to reinforce good behavior!

Use guidance, praise, and correction

Imagine you’re in a car and your friend is doing the navigating, but they won’t tell you where exactly to turn—they’re just yelling at you when you make the wrong one. This is obviously not the best way to get to your destination… it would take forever to get there, and you’d both become frustrated pretty quickly! The same is true when teaching your dog a new command. You need to give as much information as possible and set them up for success. For example, when teaching a command like “sit”, gently guide them into the sitting position and give praise (even though you did all the work). With your patience and guidance, eventually they will figure out what you want from them. When you’re sure they understand it, you can then use corrections for not doing it when asked.

Be generous with your affection

Praise your dog for every tiny success or display of good behavior to let him know he’s on the right track. For example, if you have a dog that’s very hyper and you notice he’s having a calm, relaxed moment; give him a treat to let him know he’s being a good boy. This will encourage him to repeat whatever it was he was doing when you rewarded him.

Please visit our website or call us today

for information on our training programs & classes! 

https://www.willowwoodpetresort.com/ 

phone: (614) 855-4800

Tips from a Groomer

Groomer: Meghan
a Spring tip from one of our groomers

With the weather warming up (a few days here and there in Ohio😉) pets are getting spring fever! Meaning more walks, trips to the park, or just playing in the great outdoors! Make sure that your pet not only has proper identification and something reflective on them during walks and play outside, but be sure to check them over daily.
Notice any new lumps or bumps? Many pets will be picking up seeds, burs, and other plant life looking for a free ride to a new location. If you find anything (and even if you don't) make sure you are brushing them out. Leaving burs and other plant life can cause matting and general discomfort to your pet. If it's a large bur you can slather it in Crisco (or another oil) and use a comb to work it out of the fur. Large burs can be crushed with pliers and then worked out easier.

Or give us a call today to set up a groom appointment,

we will gladly de-bur your furry family member!

phone: (614) 855-4800