6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks
The post 6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Among the various tricks and techniques we use to help our dogs manage stress, an anxiety vest may be the perfect touch to keep them calm in troubling situations. Maybe your dog runs at the sound of thunder, suffers from separation anxiety, or tenses up on the way to the vet. Whatever the stressful situation, giving your dog a relaxing “hug” with an anxiety vest is an effortless way to offer relief and comfort.
Picking a comfortable vest for your dog is critical for the best effect, and you’ll have plenty of unique options to wade through in your search for the ideal product. For a simple solution to help your pet keep calm and regain confidence, check out these reviews of the best anxiety vests for dogs.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites (2024 Update)
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Best Overall 
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ThunderShirt Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest |
Lightweight, durable fabric Machine-washable Fits most dogs |
CHECK PRICE |
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Best Value 
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AKC Calming Coat |
Good price point Durable fabric Machine-washable |
CHECK PRICE |
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Premium Choice 
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ThunderShirt Polo Anxiety Vest |
Machine-washable Fits most dogs Multiple color options |
CHECK PRICE |
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Winbate Dog Anxiety Jacket |
D-ring and handle add control Reflective piping adds visibility Easy to put on |
CHECK PRICE | |
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CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest |
Includes calming essential oils Breathable fabric Fits most dogs |
CHECK PRICE |
The 6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs
1. ThunderShirt Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest – Best Overall
| Colors: | Heather gray |
| Sizes: | XXS–XXL |
ThunderShirt is the premier calming vest brand for cats and dogs. In its Classic Anxiety & Calming Vest, you’ll find a thoughtful, well-made design that fits quickly and snugly around your dog’s body for instant stress relief. The machine-washable material is breathable, lightweight, and responsive, giving your dog full range of motion and complete comfort.
Although it’s only available in a heather gray color, the simplicity and reliability make this our top choice for the best overall anxiety vest for dogs. According to the company, over 80% of dogs show reduced signs of anxiety with its product. If you aren’t sure the ThunderShirt Classic is right for your pet, the company backs its products with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
- Easy to attach
- Lightweight, durable fabric
- Machine-washable
- Fits most dogs
- Available in only one color
2. AKC Calming Coat – Best Value
| Colors: | Pink, blue |
| Sizes: | XS–XL |
The American Kennel Club is one of the most trusted names in the canine community, and the AKC Calming Coat provides a sturdy, conforming fit that applies constant gentle pressure to relax your dog. The Calming Coat has durable, machine-washable fabric for convenient cleaning and lasting performance.
Its cotton construction enhances comfort in any climate, and the relief it can provide your dog makes it an easy choice for the best anxiety vest for the money. The only drawbacks surround the fit. It’s available in sizes ranging from X-small to X-large, but the Calming Coat doesn’t work for as many dogs as the ThunderShirt, which can work for the tiniest toy breeds and the largest giant dogs.
Many users also find the vest sized for their dog’s measurements too small, so they size up to get a suitable fit. Also, the process of putting the vest on is relatively confusing compared to many other brands. All this adds up to a few initial challenges, but once your dog gets used to the vest, you’ll appreciate its high-quality design and effectiveness to match more expensive options.
- Good price point
- Durable fabric
- Machine-washable
- Breathable cotton design
- Can be confusing to put on
- Fewer sizes than other products
3. ThunderShirt Polo Anxiety Vest – Premium Choice
| Colors: | Blue, pink, camo |
| Sizes: | XXS – XXL |
Featuring a patented design that wraps easily around the dog and securely applies light pressure across their body, the ThunderShirt Polo Anxiety Vest provides all the comfort and convenience you could hope for from a premium anxiety vest. As a step up from the Classic design, the Polo comes in three fun colors to match your pup’s personality.
The ThunderShirt Polo vest is made of durable, lightweight material that provides a snug, enjoyable fit for countless uses. Plus, it’s machine-washable, allowing for easy cleanups to keep it fresh at all times. It’s available in seven sizes, ranging from XX-small to XX-large, and you’re sure to find the perfect match for your dog. Just be aware that ThunderShirt recommends sizing up if you opt for the Polo vest.
- Easy to put on and take off
- Durable, comfortable material
- Machine-washable
- Fits most dogs
- Multiple color options
- Relatively expensive
4. Winbate Dog Anxiety Jacket
| Colors: | Blue, gray, yellow |
| Sizes: | XS–XL |
The inexpensive and straightforward Winbate Dog Anxiety Jacket is a perfect low-risk option to test out on your puppy. Though the quality isn’t as high as some other vests on this list, this jacket is an excellent temporary solution for a dog that will outgrow it in a few months, delivering comfort and security during moments of stress until then.
The Winbate vest comes in three colors and five sizes, with a waterproof polyester shell and plush interior material for comfort and outdoor function. The piping is reflective for night-time visibility, and the vest includes a leash ring and handle for added control outside. It is no replacement for a proper collar or harness but offers a convenient touch to help secure your puppy for short periods.
- Low price point
- D-ring and handle add control
- Reflective piping adds visibility
- Easy to put on
- Relatively low quality and durability
- Limited size options
5. CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest
| Colors: | Gray |
| Sizes: | XXS–XXL |
A snug hug is only one part of the multi-tiered attack the CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest throws at your dog’s fear and stress. Alongside the calming pressure of the secure Velcro wrap, the vest integrates a music player and essential oil diffuser. The speaker plays a soothing lullaby while the essential oil crystals (lavender or chamomile) deliver a calming aroma.
Although there’s more sensory stimulation to consider when introducing the vest to your dog, it gives you numerous tools to combat a dog’s anxiety. The CozyVest anxiety vest has a breathable, machine-washable design that’s as easy to attach as possible.
Most users have issues with the Velcro’s adhesion to the fabric. It sticks to every part of the vest, allowing the material to pill and creating some issues with putting it on. The coarse Velcro strips also contact the body, rubbing against the skin and tugging on the hair of some long-haired and wire-coated dogs.
- The music box plays a relaxing tune
- Includes calming essential oils
- Breathable fabric
- Fits most dogs
- Velcro can catch on hair and rub on the skin
6. Zeaxuie Baby-Use-Grade Dog Anxiety Vest
| Colors: | Purple, gray |
| Sizes: | XS–XL |
As another affordable option for smaller dogs, the Zeaxuie Baby-Use-Grade Dog Anxiety Vest promises stress relief in an easy-to-use and cozy accessory. The material is soft, breathable, and pliable, providing a dog-friendly texture and tight yet gentle fit for a strong feeling of security.
A fluorescent strip for night-time visibility and a baby-use hook-and-loop system add unique benefits to an overall sound design. The straps are easy to adjust and quieter than many other Velcro products, though they don’t provide the most secure hold.
- Low price point
- Quiet and easy-to-adjust straps
- Flexible, breathable material
- Machine-washable
- Hook-and-loop system wears quickly
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Anxiety Vest for Dogs
How to Use an Anxiety Vest
Anxiety vests are a practical tool for numerous situations that may stress your dog, like loud noises, airplane or car trips, visits to the vet, or separation from loved ones. When used correctly, they can reduce shaking, barking, and other nervous habits by applying comforting pressure. Vests help reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and stress behaviors, and owners recognize them as one of the more effective drug-free alternative calming aides.
While most calming vests for dogs can help a pet with anxiety, they can only do so if they aren’t a source of stress themselves. The initial feeling of having a vest around the body and the loud noise of the Velcro straps can be nerve-wracking for a dog, especially when they’re already naturally anxious. If you introduce it incorrectly, the effect could be the opposite of what you want.
If you’re unsure if your dog needs an anxiety vest, contact your for a recommendation.
Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!
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Introduce the Vest With Positive Reinforcement
Desensitize your dog to the sounds and feel of the anxiety vest and condition them to see it as a positive item. Introduce it slowly. When your dog is calm, present the vest and let them explore it. Place it on the ground with a few treats to draw interest and create engagement.
Then, gently pull the vest straps so your dog can get used to the sound, offering treats to build a positive association. Gradually make the Velcro louder as your dog begins to tolerate the noise. You can try putting it on when your dog is comfortable with the vest and its noises.
Attach it slowly and carefully, and praise and reward your dog as you secure it. Treat your dog with playtime once the vest is on to make wearing it a positive experience.
How Long Can My Dog Wear Their Anxiety Vest?
A well-fitting anxiety vest can stay on a dog as long as they need it, even if it’s for several hours. In these instances, you should still remove the vest hourly to check for any signs of irritation.
How We Selected These Anxiety Vests for Dogs
This buyer’s guide was carefully crafted by our writers and editors in collaboration with our team of in-house veterinarians. The anxiety vests for dogs reviewed here are rated on a combination of factors: brand reputation, customer reviews across multiple retail outlets, personal experience, and in some cases, feedback from our own dogs! Together, we choose and review only the best anxiety vests for dogs available, to help you make the most informed decisions that foster the well-being of your furry friends.
Why Trust Dogster?
Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online since 2004, which means we have a lot of experience with anxiety vests for dogs. We are a team of passionate dog owners who care about our pups as much as you do yours. We want the best for every canine on the planet. Dogster’s writers, editors, and veterinarians are deeply invested in the well-being of our pets, and we believe that all pet owners share this dedication to providing only the highest quality products and services for our dogs.
Conclusion
ThunderShirt is the brand of choice if ease of use and durability are your top considerations. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can find a comfortable wrap to help them de-stress, with high-quality construction providing peace of mind and consistent performance.
Meanwhile, AKC’s breathable design gives dog owners a high-value alternative to consider. Whatever their anxiety issues or needs, following these reviews of the best anxiety vests is an excellent step toward providing the stress-relieving support your dog deserves.
Featured Image Credit: Reshetnikov_art, Shutterstock
The post 6 Best Anxiety Vests for Dogs in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
5 Sounds Only Dogs Can Hear: Vet-Analyzed Canine Hearing Range
The post 5 Sounds Only Dogs Can Hear: Vet-Analyzed Canine Hearing Range by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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We’ve heard people talk about ‘sounds that only a dog can hear’, and we all know that our dogs can hear the rustling of a chip packet from a mile away, but what are the real facts about a dog’s sense of hearing?
Although the superior intellect and brain capacity of humans have allowed us to reach the lofty position of owner and leader, when you take a look at how we measure up against our canine companions in most other respects, we are woefully outmatched. They are far better athletes, have an almost unparalleled sense of smell, and their sense of loyalty is far greater than our own. In addition to all this, dogs can also hear a wider range of sounds from much farther distances.
Let’s break this down so we can understand the canine hearing range and find out what they can hear but we can’t.
Sound Frequency
Have you ever heard the riddle about the tree falling in the forest? If no one is around to hear it, does it really make a sound? The answer is yes, but also, no.
A sound is created when something creates a vibration (sound waves) that moves molecules through the air (or water) that are received by an auditory receptor, like the eardrum of mammals. So, if there is no receptor, is it still a sound? We could argue this one back and forth, but instead, let’s talk about how sound is measured and how dogs measure up to other animal species.
- The frequency at which the sound waves are vibrating, also known as the pitch – ie. high-pitched or low-pitched sounds. Measured in Hertz (Hz)
- The intensity of the sound, or the volume – ie. loud or quiet. Measured in Decibels (dB)
Different animal species can hear sounds that fall in specific frequency ranges; some may also be able to hear sounds at much lower decibels than others. As a general rule, smaller animals are usually able to detect sounds at a lower volume than larger animals, even if they can hear sounds of the same frequency.
Dogs and humans are very similar in their ability to hear low-frequency sounds, but dogs can hear frequencies up to twice as high as we can.
The average human hearing range is around 64 – 23,000 Hz, and sounds with a frequency higher than 20,000 Hz (20 kHz) are referred to as ‘ultrasonic’ – ie. sounds that are higher than can be readily detected by the human ear. By comparison, the sound frequencies detected by dogs are around 67 – 45,000 Hz. Let’s take a look at how that stacks up against other animal species:
| Species: | Approximate Range (Hz) : | Species: | Approximate Range (Hz): |
| Human | 64-23,000 | Chinchilla | 90-22,800 |
| Dog | 67-45,000 | Bat | 2,000-110,000 |
| Cat | 45-64,000 | Beluga Whale | 1,000-123,000 |
| Cow | 23-35,000 | Elephant | 16-12,000 |
| Horse | 55-33,500 | Porpoise | 75-150,000 |
| Sheep | 100-30,000 | Goldfish | 20-3,000 |
| Rabbit | 360-42,000 | Catfish | 50-4,000 |
| Rat | 200-76,000 | Tuna | 50-1,100 |
| Mouse | 1,000-91,000 | Bullfrog | 100-3,000 |
| Gerbil | 100-60,000 | Tree Frog | 50-4,000 |
| Guinea Pig | 54-50,000 | Canary | 250-8,000 |
| Hedgehog | 250-45,000 | Parakeet | 200-8,500 |
| Raccoon | 100-40,000 | Cockatiel | 250-8,000 |
| Ferret | 16-44,000 | Owl | 200-12,000 |
| Opossum | 500-64,000 | Chicken | 125-2,000 |
- Source: LSU
We humans might be impressed by the hearing range of our canine friends, but it’s nothing compared to that of the porpoise!
What Sounds Can Dogs Hear That We Can’t?
So we know that dogs can hear sounds in the ultrasonic range up to around 45,000 Hz (45 kHz), but what does that entail?
1. Electronics and Machines
The most common high-frequency sounds that your dog may be aware of are those that come from machinery. Some humans are more sensitive to the high-pitched sounds that are emitted from electrical equipment, and dogs will be even more aware of these.
Interestingly, these sorts of high-frequency sounds can actually be damaging to the human ear, especially when dialed up to high decibels, as the high-frequency vibrations can lead to a build-up of pressure within the ear. So it is the sounds we can’t hear that we need to be most careful with! In fact, there are international standards that regulate the maximum decibels that can be emitted by ultrasonic equipment.1
2. ‘Silent’ Whistles
Ultrasonic dog whistles are a popular training tool as they are less intrusive than a lower frequency type, and the higher frequency sound is able to travel much further distances, often over a mile.
The term ‘silent’ whistle is a bit misleading, as they tend to emit a sound that is just on the upper edge of the human hearing range, so some people can hear them better than others.
3. Ultrasonic Pest Repellers
These small devices emit sounds at a frequency of around 15 to 75 kHz, with most devices allowing you to select the frequency range. While dogs can technically hear these sounds, the pest-repelling devices are designed to work at lower decibel levels that can be detected by smaller animals like rats, mice, and insects, but are not loud enough to bother household pets. However, if you have any exotic animals like rodents, reptiles, insects, or arachnids, you might want to think twice before using one of these devices!
4. Quiet Sounds
Smaller animals are able to hear sounds at lower decibels than we can, which is why children can often hear quiet noises better than adults, and dogs can hear the fridge opening from upstairs or your car coming down the road.
5. Distant Sounds
The higher the sound frequency, the greater the distance that sound can travel, which is why dogs can also detect sounds more clearly from farther away than we can.
What Gives Dogs Their Superior Hearing?
There are a number of features of the canine ear that make them able to hear sounds at higher frequencies than humans:
- The deeper ear canal of the dog enhances its ability to direct sound waves toward the eardrum.
- The cartilaginous pinnae (ear flaps) are able to move independently of one another to help locate and direct sound waves into the ear canal. Even dogs with floppy ears have and use this ability, but dogs with upright ears do have something of an advantage.
- The anatomy of the canine inner ear appears to be better geared to sound magnification than in humans.
Hearing Problems in Dogs
Just like in humans, dogs often suffer from hearing reduction and loss as they age. This is mostly due to the gradual degeneration of specific cells within the ear, the nerves in the brain that carry and interpret sounds, and the thickening of the tubes and inner structures within the middle and inner ear. This tends to be gradual, and we can take steps to ensure that we are still able to communicate effectively with a dog with hearing loss.
Certain breeds, including the Australian Shepherd, Dalmatian, Bull Terrier, and Jack Russell Terrier, are known to be predisposed to congenital deafness, and this is something that responsible breeders (and owners) should be testing for.
Dogs can also suffer hearing loss as a result of trauma, infection, wax build-up, and even as a side effect of certain medications.
While enhanced hearing is generally an advantage, for some individuals, it can be a curse. Many dogs that suffer from anxiety related to fireworks or thunder are likely to do so because those sounds have an adverse effect on them. The ability to detect sounds that we can’t can also mean that dogs can be affected by sound pollution that we are not aware of.
I have known several dogs that were highly stressed and constantly on edge, to the point of needing medication and rarely going outdoors, whose signs of anxiety stopped when they became acutely deaf, suggesting that their behavioral issues were symptomatic of a hearing problem!
Sounds You Can Play For Your Dog
This video has ultrasonic frequencies that you can try out at home to gauge your dog’s reaction. Just make sure not to play it too loud – you don’t want to damage your own ears, and it doesn’t need to be very loud for them to hear the sounds. If your dog seems distressed, turn it off immediately.
Final Thoughts
The canine ability to detect high-frequency sounds is far greater than our own. This ability no doubt evolved in their ancestor to help them become more proficient hunters, as well as allow them to stay in contact over great distances. For our pets, this heightened hearing is rarely employed for hunting purposes, but it no doubt allows them to keep tabs on who and what is in their neighborhood, and most importantly, when someone is opening a food bag.
With the amount of sound pollution from electronic devices in the home, as well as sirens and machinery, our dogs may sometimes feel overwhelmed, which is something we should be mindful of. Their superior hearing evolved in open plains and quiet forests, so our noisy world may be a lot for some dogs to cope with.
If you are worried about your dog’s ears or hearing, be sure to speak to your vet, even if you think it’s probably just due to their age.
Featured Image Credit: Anze Furlan, Shutterstock
The post 5 Sounds Only Dogs Can Hear: Vet-Analyzed Canine Hearing Range by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Lava and Hela: An Unlikely Bond
The post Lava and Hela: An Unlikely Bond by Dr. Maja Platisa DVM MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Hi, I’m Dr. Maja! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two crossbreed dogs, Lava and Hela.
In June last year, Hela joined our family, coming all the way from Greece. She is a friendly, gentle, and energetic dog, while Lava is a nightmare, to put it plainly. Don’t get me wrong, Lava loves other dogs! She loves playing with them, getting chased, and dragging them around by their harness. Yes, she is a bully. A sweet one, but still. However, having a jolly good time with the dog park crowd is one thing, but it’s something else entirely when one of those dogs comes home with you. And never leaves again.
How Lava and Hela First Met
A few days before Hela arrived, I made some preparations, such as getting her a crate and finding a nice quiet spot where she could rest, as well as her own set of blankets, bowls, and toys. But this was all easy. The problem was how Lava would take to a new dog coming into her home, invading her privacy, stealing my attention, and eventually using her toys and other accessories as if they were her own. Lava does not share. Well, actually there are only two dogs, whom she has known since they were all puppies, and she would let them have her toys, with a bit of grunting.
So, for their first introduction, we went for a walk so they could meet and interact on neutral territory. And it was amazing. Hela was thrilled as she could run free in the dog park, and Lava was chasing her around. It was great to watch! Then, both tired and pleased, we went home together for the first time.
It Wasn’t All Roses and Sunshine
And everything was perfect for the first hour. I was with them in the garden, they were still playful, and Hela was exploring happily. Then she got to the house door and Lava felt this was too much and snapped. Nothing happened, luckily. I’ve learned that with Lava, it’s often more noise than anything else. But it was scary and worrying.
That was the signal for a time-out. Hela was already crate-trained and happily went to sleep on her new bed, completely forgetting the previous minor incident. Lava settled on the sofa. For the next few weeks and months, as Hela was slowly relaxing and feeling more confident, Lava was still at times quite grumpy and obviously displeased with this new development.
Having the Same Hobbies Helps
Slowly, we all tuned into our new way of life. It was interesting to observe their dynamic, with Hela behaving as a younger sister who always wanted to play and be around Lava, not wanting to miss out on anything, while Lava was clearly annoyed with her presence. Hela learned that grunting and occasional growls are just how Lava communicates and do not necessarily mean anything vicious. And then they seemed to have found similar interests, or really, Hela started copying Lava’s behavior, like any younger child would their older sibling.
And so they became diggers. Every walk we now go on, Lava and Hela are always digging and searching for something. And it often looks amusingly synchronized. Both with heads low on the ground, or each in their own hole, and bums in the air. And in the last 6 months, another breakthrough! They will now even share a hole and dig one next to each other! And after such a hard day’s work, they will even have a drink from the same bowl, which for Lava is a major success.
An Ever-Evolving Bond
If someone had told me a year ago that the two of them would get on so well, I would have sighed and said, I hope so. But I realized Lava accepted her as an unwanted roommate, but their relationship has since changed in so many ways. Hela is the simpler one, in the sense that she is always happy and grateful, and follows Lava around like a puppy. And Lava has learned to enjoy it and seek Hela’s company. Lava is the thinker; she always looks worried and deeply troubled. She does remind me of myself a lot. Maybe dogs do take on their owners’ characteristics after all. But that’s another story.
- Read her previous article: How I Rescued A Greek Stray Dog: Hela’s Story
The post Lava and Hela: An Unlikely Bond by Dr. Maja Platisa DVM MRCVS (Veterinarian) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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The post Can Pitbull Eat Watermelon? appeared first on The Pitbull Center.
Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets
The post Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Hi, I’m Dr. Karyn! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my five funny dogs, Poppy, Bailey, Kodah, Ned, and Fred.
You know those annoying parents who just won’t shut up about their kids? Their profile pictures are of their kids, they’re always showing you photos and videos of their kids, and they assume that everyone is as interested and excited about their kids’ daily lives as they are. Ugh, they are just the worst. And I am one of them…but my kids happen to be two Chihuahuas named Ned and Fred.
- aka Neddy & Freddy
- aka The Boyz
- aka Nederick and Frederick
- aka Helpless Ned and Broken Fred
I can finally appreciate how parents feel stressed and worried whenever they are away from their children, and can almost understand why Mr & Mrs Brady ditched their honeymoon because they missed the kids (I can almost understand, I’m not a complete psychopath).
How My Love (Obsession?) With Chihuahuas Began
When Potato (Tate), the amazing little rescue dog, joined our family in 2021, he changed our lives and introduced us to the quirky world of Chihuahuas. Sadly, Tate’s time with us was short, and he passed away in the Christmas of 2022, leaving behind a hole in my heart far greater than his physical size.
In my grief, I found a tiny (and I do mean tiny) glimmer of joy called Ned. Weighing just over one pound, this tiny creature transformed our home with his antics, affection, and helplessness. He endeared himself to anyone he met and immediately took over Tate’s role as Kodah, the Malinois x Shepherd’s, boss and playmate.
Once we’d gone through the period of crate training him overnight – something I recommend all puppy owners implement, as it ensures your little one learns to settle on their own, understands that the world doesn’t end when we leave them, and makes toilet training much easier – he migrated to our bed where he nestles against my chest all night.
Not long after Ned joined us, we learned that his cousin was in need of a home, so one chi quickly became two. Poor Kodah never knew what hit him!
Ned & Fred – Eating, Sleeping, or Up To Something
When Ned and Fred are together, adorable chaos is not far away. These boys sleep hard, eat big, and play, yip, wrestle, and chase like they are being driven by a nuclear power plant. What they lack in physical size, they more than make up for with their individual quirks, enormous personalities, and inexhaustible affection.
When they’re not burrowing under blankets in search of the perfect snooze spot, or begging for food in the kitchen, they are trying their best to create mischief and mayhem, but luckily for us, everything they do is on a very small scale.
Chihuahuas Are Small
Did you know?
Chihuahuas are small, and Ned is particularly tiny. That means everything about them (apart from the noise they can make!) is also small.
- Space requirements – small
- Food bills – small
- Insurance premiums – small
- Capacity for damage – small
- Poops – small
- Shedding level – small
- Exercise requirements – small
Even when they have accidents indoors (which, unfortunately, is one thing these tiny beasts are renowned for), it’s hard to stay mad at such a tiny nugget. What can be problematic, however, is when you find yourself in need of a good enzymatic cleaner to deal with the accumulation of tiny indoor pees that have gone unnoticed. And yet, I can never stay mad at their little faces!
Chihuahuas Are Needy
Ask anyone who has known me for more than ten years and they will tell you that I am a cat person; one that loves dogs but will always have cats. Of course, now I have five of each – living the dream!
One of the things I’ve always liked about cats is that they are low maintenance when compared to dogs. They don’t need to be let out to the toilet, they don’t need to be walked every day, and they don’t jump up and get in your face when they want attention.
But the independent nature of cats can sometimes make you feel surplus to requirement. A Chihuahua, on the other hand, always seems to be in need of help! Being picked up and carried around is not just welcomed, it is often demanded, and you know that they would not fare too well without you.
Constantly Entertained, Loved, and Needed
Not a day goes by when I don’t find myself losing time just gazing at a sleeping Ned and Fred, or laughing as they run amok. Not a day goes by when I don’t feel loved and needed by them. And not a day goes by that I don’t feel incredibly grateful that Tate needed a home, and showed me what I had been missing. No matter where I go or what I do in the future, I know that I will do it with a Chihuahua by my side.
What about you? Is there a pet that has changed your life like Potato, Ned & Fred have changed mine? Let me know in the comments section below.
- Read her previous article: My Dog Diarrhea Story Beats Yours
The post Why Ned & Fred Have Ruined Me For Other Pets by Dr. Karyn Kanowski, BVSc MRCVS (Vet) appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The Four Fear Responses in Dogs: Vet-Verified Dog Behavior Explanation
The post The Four Fear Responses in Dogs: Vet-Verified Dog Behavior Explanation by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Being scared of things is an evolutionary response in not only humans but also animals. This fear response is designed to help protect us in life-or-death situations. You’ve probably heard of “fight or flight” when it comes to fear and humans, but what is the fear response of canines?
There are four fear responses in canines, and if you’re a dog parent, you’ve likely seen at least one of them before. These four fear responses include flight, fight, fidget, and freeze, and each one causes a different reaction in dogs. Here’s a closer look at the four fear responses of dogs and what you should know about them to help your pup become less afraid of people, places, and things.
What Is a Fear Response?
Even though you’ve likely heard the phrase “fight or flight” before, you may not know exactly what a fear response is, especially in dogs. A fear response is a reaction that occurs when your pup sees something that frightens them (also called a trigger). A trigger can be anything that scares your dog, whether that is another animal, a person, a loud noise, a particular sight, or even a scent. Common triggers for canines include people wearing hats if they are unfamiliar with them, loud noises such as fireworks or thunders, objects blowing in the wind, and strange dogs.
The Four Fear Responses in Dogs
Here are the four fear responses in dogs, what they mean, and how to deal with them.
1. Flight
Everyone has heard of “fight or flight,” and that’s what “flight” in dogs refers to. If a dog becomes scared of a situation, then rather than fight, they could engage in flight by trying to remove themselves from the situation. You may have seen your dog do this before when frightened by another dog or something like fireworks.
If a dog goes to the flight-fear response, they will move quickly away from the thing or area causing their fear. This could be skulking away, running away, or hiding far from the perceived danger. Dogs engaged in the flight-fear response typically show body language like large eyes, pinned-back ears, a tucked tail, and a body posture that is low to the ground.
If your pup is fleeing from something that scares them, let them! Never force your dog to interact or stay around whatever they feel threatened by. This will only cause them to become more fearful of whatever it is. Instead, desensitization and counterconditioning should be used to help them become more used to what they deem frightening and to aid them in becoming more confident and comfortable.
2. Fight
The “fight” fear response is, of course, the other half of the “fight or flight” response. However, it’s important to know that this fear response is often the last resort for canines. If they can utilize any of the other three fear responses to escape the stimulus they’re afraid of, they’ll do that first. That said, sometimes a dog realizes in only a matter of seconds that none of the other responses will work, which leads them to fight as they feel the need to protect themselves.
Think about being on a walk with your pup. If they have a fear of exceptionally tall men and you happen to come across one on your walk with your dog, your pet is limited in how they can react. Flight is out unless they manage to yank the leash from your hand. Freeze or fidget may not keep them away from the tall man. That leads them to fight, which would have them reacting by growling, barking, or lunging.
The fight-fear response is a cortisol-triggered reaction to extreme fear. When working with a dog on their fight-fear response to something, never use punishment. Stick to positive reinforcement to get them to change how they react to the person, place, or thing invoking fear.
3. Fidget
This fear response is less recognized, so you may be unfamiliar with it. But a dog’s “fidget” fear response occurs when a canine is trying to deal with the anxiety they’re feeling. These behaviors may also be an effort to avoid conflict or keep the peace, as well.
What behaviors does a dog exhibit when in the fidget fear response? When a pup is in this response, you’ll see nervousness and restlessness. More than that, though, you’ll see displacement behaviors, such as whining, pacing, yawning, sniffing, a slight lift of one of the paws, pinned back ears, lip licking, or excessive scratching.
If you have a dog who engages in the fidget fear response, it’s vital to recognize that they are afraid and uncomfortable and respond with patience to the behaviors. After that, you can work with a canine to get them to be less afraid of what they fear.
4. Freeze
The fourth fear response in canines is “freeze”, which you are likely familiar with. Much like in humans, this fear response results in a dog freezing up in the face of the thing they fear. Most often, this is done in the hopes that if they don’t move, whatever is frightening them won’t see them and will move past without incident.
However, a canine may also freeze when they are not sure how to react or if they are trapped and can’t engage in another fear response. For example, if a dog is walking on a leash and can’t run, fidget, or fight, they could freeze in the hopes whatever is scaring them will go away without noticing them.
If a dog is in freeze mode, you’ll notice them holding completely still for a minute as they try to determine if another fear response is better or if the perceived fear is ignoring them, making it safe to move again. The freeze fear response will also see a dog with their ears pinned back, tightened lips, a lack of eye contact, stiffness in the body, or walking more slowly than normal (if they haven’t completely frozen). The freeze fear response may also be a precursor to another fear response if the dog decides a different reaction would see them faring better.
If your pup is in freeze mode, you should never force them to move. Doing this can make them even more afraid of whatever has caused their fear. Instead, try to get rid of the thing frightening them, then provide them with comfort.
Combined Fear Responses
Although dogs have only four fear responses, a dog occasionally combines these or changes from one to another within seconds or minutes (such as when a dog in freeze mode decides a different fear response would be the better reaction). So, even if your dog has initially entered the fidget fear response, keep an eye on them because they may engage in fight or flight if fidget isn’t serving its purpose.
And if a dog’s fear response starts in anything other than “fight,” but the signs the dog is exhibiting are ignored, they will likely end up in fight mode. Removing your dog from the vicinity of what’s scaring them or removing the trigger from the area will help your dog immensely, though. Please keep in mind that when your dog is experiencing fear, a fight response is always a possibility, your dog might bite or lounge at you if not approached carefully. How a dog will react when they are in this state of mind might not be how you would normally expect them to react so be gentle but cautious.
Conclusion
Knowing the four fear responses of dogs and recognizing when your dog is exhibiting signs of one of these fear responses is crucial. Too many people fail to pick up on the signs that a canine is afraid and force them to stay in contact longer with the thing they are frightened of, which only leads to more fear.
By knowing the signs of flight, fight, fidget, and freeze, you’ll be better able to help your pup stay calm and feel safe. You’ll also be able to pick up on the things they’re scaraed of so you can begin the process of helping them become less afraid and more confident around frightening stimuli. The end result will be a happier canine companion!
Featured Image Credit: Glikiri, Shutterstock
The post The Four Fear Responses in Dogs: Vet-Verified Dog Behavior Explanation by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
How To Train a Great Pyrenees: 10 Vet-Approved Tips & Tricks
The post How To Train a Great Pyrenees: 10 Vet-Approved Tips & Tricks by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
In many ways, the Great Pyrenees embodies all we love in our canine companions. They’re protective yet patient, calm and pensive, with a benevolent, loving personality that makes these gentle giants too easy to love. Finding fault isn’t easy with this admirable breed, but if there’s one struggle many owners underestimate, it’s training.
Pyrs aren’t dominating or unruly, but their independence can easily lead to owner frustration while training. If you’re wondering how to train your dog to become the obedient, outgoing pet you desire, we’ll make the process as straightforward as possible with these ten tips and tricks for training a Great Pyrenees.
How to Train a Great Pyrenees
1. Be Persistently Patient and Positive
New Great Pyrenees owners must relax their expectations for obedience for their sake and their dogs’. Pyrs are intelligent, but not in the sense they’ll quickly learn tricks and new commands. They’re thoughtful, often weighing outcomes and typically acting on what they decide is best.
It’s easy to get frustrated at this stubbornness if you previously had obedient pets. Be patient. Don’t repeat cues and risk poisoning them, and don’t react in a way that could damage your bond. Give your dog time to respond and help them see the value in following your lead. Always look for ways to reinforce desired behaviors while ignoring unwanted habits.
Pyrs are sensitive, so you must avoid punishment and negative feedback. They may not always be compliant, but they are generally well-meaning. While every family companion warrants a positive training approach, Great Pyrenees are arguably the last breed to deserve harsh punishment.
2. Train Obedience Basics and Practice “Learn to Earn”
Although obedience won’t be your Pyr’s hallmark, you can’t skimp on training. Puppy classes are an excellent idea, providing early socialization opportunities with other dogs and foundational obedience training to make your dog more tolerant and cooperative. At home, focus on the basics, particularly the following:
- Sit/stay
- Recall
- Down/stay
- Leave it/drop it
Practice these commands daily, but don’t become frustrated if you can’t get 100% cooperation. Use them to train patience and cooperation throughout the day in a “learn to earn” approach. For instance, have your Pyr sit before putting their meals down or make them wait before leaving the house for a walk. Doing so will teach patience, encourage calm behavior, and establish your position as the gateway to all the good things.
3. Be Confident, Firm, and Unyieldingly Consistent
Set boundaries and standards for behavior from day one, ensuring that everyone in the family is committed to them. If you aren’t consistent and allow your Pyr to do something “just this one time” (e.g., getting on the couch, jumping on you to greet you), your dog will remember it, essentially poisoning the rule you’ve set. Your dog will get a taste of the alternative, realize it’s possible, and make your rules harder to enforce.
Stay consistent and firm while remaining positive. Promote an atmosphere of respect between you and your dog. Show that you care for your dog, but don’t give them what they want if they don’t heed your expectations.
4. Train Daily but Keep the Sessions Short
Obedience routines aren’t the average Great Pyrenees’s forte, but they’re still an essential part of training behaviors and maintaining your position as the leader of the house. Keep them short, and focus on success so your dog stays motivated.
Start with basic commands, and be patient as they learn what you want (or what earns them a reward). Keep sessions to about 5 minutes, ending while your dog is fully engaged. Any longer, and you’ll notice they’ll often get bored and decide they want to do something else.
If you cut the session short while you have your dog’s attention, you’ll leave them wanting more, making future training sessions more exciting for them.
5. Arrange Puppy Playdates
Great Pyrenees grow up quickly, and socializing is crucial before they get too large to handle. The critical period for dogs is 3–14 weeks, so you must prioritize safe exposure to diverse people, animals, and situations when you bring your puppy home from the breeder. Since they likely won’t have all their shots, you must take extra precautions to prevent unnecessary infections.
Talk to friends and family with well-behaved, vaccinated dogs who can visit for playdates. Supervise the interactions to ensure your Great Pyrenees can create positive associations with the presence of other dogs and people. Make playdates frequent, and try to expose your dog to as many animals as possible to generalize their behavior.
6. Spend Quality Time to Nurture Your Bond
The Great Pyrenees don’t need excessive exercise to stay healthy, but daily activity and enrichment are crucial in keeping them calm and fostering the strong bond that will make training easier. Take your dog for daily walks, letting them sniff and explore. They’ll tire out while having fun, solidifying the connection between their positive feelings and your presence.
7. Be Mindful of Resource Guarding
Resource guarding can be an issue in a multi-dog household that may spill over into conflict with owners if you don’t try to prevent it. Don’t give your Pyr a reason or the chance to be possessive, as it can cause long-term conflict.
Be careful about what you offer to your dog. Bones and long-lasting toys can quickly put a Pyr on edge if another dog approaches them, and poor socialization can make them overly anxious and wary. Make resources abundant and equitable, and monitor for aggressive signs.
If you must remove something your Pyr is guarding, keep tasty treats on hand so you can make a trade that won’t make them feel like they’re losing something valuable.
8. Give Your Great Pyrenees a Job
Since they were bred to work, Great Pyrenees thrive when they have a sense of purpose. They’re always guardians, but protecting the home isn’t something that requires action every day, especially if you live in a quiet, safe neighborhood. To keep your Pyr stimulated, consider giving them a job, such as:
- Patrolling the home
- Picking up toys
- Nosework outside and indoors
- Puzzle toys
Ideally, you’ll have plenty of space for them to roam safely, like an expansive, fenced-in yard. If you commit to leash training early, you can do more exploratory hikes to give your Pyr ample exercise, time to sniff, and a chance to secure their territory by patrolling it.
9. Weather the Adolescent Period
The Great Pyrenees will reach adolescence at around 6–10 months, a point when many of your efforts seemingly go out the window. Adolescence may last until your dog is 18 months old, but it can sometimes extend past their second year. New fears and behaviors may emerge, and any obedience you’ve developed will often regress.
Like children, dogs go through this transitional period on their way to adulthood to test their attachments and manage their hormonal changes. It can be frustrating for owners, but you must stay the course and remain consistent in your training and positive reinforcement. Encourage but don’t force interactions.
Have guests offer treats to show they’re non-threatening and beneficial, and continue rewarding the behaviors you want while gently dissuading unwanted habits.
10. Handling an Independent-Minded Canine
Great Pyrenees aren’t necessarily dominating over handlers, but their long lineage has nurtured an independent mindset. The ancient breed has existed for over 3,000 years, with some putting their origins at over 10,000 years ago.
For centuries, the dogs worked to secure their shepherds’ herd from wolves and other hazards, with their white coats blending among their flock. Owners developed them to work independently, far from guiding hands. With this protective instinct came nurturing personalities. Pyrs are loving protectors, whether for animals in the field or family in the home.
In this centuries-long role, guardian traits are central to the modern breed, and we still see their value today. In 2024, a Great Pyrenees named Casper even won the People’s Choice Pup award from the American Farm Bureau for defending his flock against a pack of 11 coyotes, eight of which he killed despite suffering numerous injuries!
Final Thoughts
Great Pyrenees have an innate drive to be kind and guard their family. They’re hardworking and loyal, but that doesn’t mean they’ll excel at obedience. Unquestioning compliance was never a breed focus, as handlers primarily valued their drive and confidence, trusting them to do their due diligence with minimal prompting.
Today’s Great Pyrenees stay true to nature, which won’t align with typical expectations for everyday companion breeds. Although you’ll face unique hurdles while developing good behaviors, keeping a sense of humor, staying patient, and appreciating your dog’s priorities will make them one of the most adorable animals you could hope for.
Featured Image Credit: Danita Delimont, Shutterstock
The post How To Train a Great Pyrenees: 10 Vet-Approved Tips & Tricks by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Premack Principle: What Is It & How You Can Use It to Train Your Dog
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While we may not recognize it at every moment of the day, our dogs never stop learning. They’re ceaselessly creating new associations, learning which behaviors cause which responses to understand the best, most efficient ways to get what they want or need.
The constant connection-building can make everyday training seem more complicated than many owners may have initially thought. Every movement and interaction can be meaningful, making it crucial to appreciate how much we reward and punish our dogs at every turn to shape their behavior. On the other hand, it also opens up previously unseen opportunities.
Such is the premise of the Premack Principle. In the 1950s, psychologist David Premack presented his theory that high-probability behaviors reinforce low-probability behaviors. Through various experiments, he revealed that desirable outcomes can help us train desired habits, a concept canine experts continue to apply today.
How Does It Work?
Premack defined the Premack Principle (or the differential probability hypothesis) as follows: “Any response A will reinforce any other response B, if and only if the independent rate of A is greater than that of B.”1 More probable behaviors (i.e., things the dog wants to do) can reinforce less probable behaviors (things you want your dog to do).
The idea is that behaviors can promote other behaviors. Depending on the circumstances, some behaviors will be more desirable than others. You can discern this by finding those activities that dogs enjoy the most. In essence, they are typically behaviors they’ll do more often, or more willingly than others.
Dogs have a hierarchy of behaviors that can strengthen or weaken other responses depending on where they fall in this low-probability/high-probability spectrum. If a dog performs one behavior at a higher rate than another, it can be a reinforcer for that other behavior. It can also work the other way. A lower probability behavior can punish an immediately preceding higher probability behavior to make it less likely.
Response Deprivation
The order of high and low probability behaviors can change if dogs feel satisfied or unsatisfied. A concept related to the Premack Principle called the response deprivation theory suggests behavior A can reinforce behavior B if the dog has restricted access to behavior A. The desired behavior is contingent on the less desired behavior. For example, if a dog is deprived of food, (something that should never happen by the way) they’ll be more likely to do something if it means they get to eat.
With any behavior, dogs have a baseline level of performance they’ll display when they have open access to the behavior. For instance, a dog may sniff the ground for 10 minutes if they have unrestricted access to it. Response deprivation indicates that keeping them from sniffing can maintain their desire for it (since they aren’t meeting their baseline, or “bliss point,” for sniffing). Sniffing can then reinforce a less desirable behavior by being a contingency.
Response suppression and deprivation are vital in maintaining a dog’s motivation for one behavior over another. If a dog does one thing more than another with free access to both, excessive access to the more preferable behavior can make it less reinforcing to the dog.
Dogs love treats, but they’ll get tired of them eventually if you give them too many. Eating them can then become a lower probability behavior, making it less motivating when executing commands and other desired actions. When using the Premack Principle, maintaining high-probability behaviors means restricting them so your dog wants them more.
Contingency and Changes in Behavior Preference
The hierarchy of behavior probability can shift from one minute, hour, or day to the next. It depends on which behaviors your dog can satisfy and which behaviors you suppress. A dog with a full belly will be less motivated to eat food than a hungry dog, and a dog that has sniffed around for an hour will be less motivated to keep doing it than a dog that hasn’t gone outside at all.
Satisfying or depriving a behavior subsequently affects the work a dog will be willing to engage in. Each behavior has a “bliss point”, an amount of time the dog will spend doing it if they have free access. For example, a dog may be satisfied with an hour chasing squirrels but only 15 minutes playing tug of war.
You can see how behaviors can change in probability by being aware of these bliss points and how much your dog has been satisfied.
Where Is the Premack Principle Used?
The Premack Principle is applicable in numerous working and companion behaviors. It can motivate dogs in scent detection, search-and-rescue, and other crucial professional capacities or during sports, such as Schutzhund or agility.
When owners adopt the Premack Principle, dog training opportunities appear frequently during the day. Impulse training incorporates it. “Learn to earn” centers on it. If you’re training a challenging working breed, like a Siberian Husky, it is an excellent way to establish your leadership and make focus a core habit. When you understand your dog’s favorite activities, the Premack Principle can make them fun and productive.
An example of the Premack Principle at work may be how you train recall and use it at the dog park. Your dog wants to play with other dogs. If you perform a recall and put them in the car, you would be punishing the desired behavior with a low probability behavior. By contrast, if you perform a recall and give your dog a treat and release them for more play, you’ll reinforce the recall and make your dog more likely to do it later.
How Can You Use the Premack Principle
The Premack Principle works with a dog’s natural drives, encouraging numerous opportunities for rewarding good behavior. Watch your dog, and record the activities they enjoy the most. Some of the top activities for many dogs include:
- Sniffing while out on a walk
- Chasing toys
- Playing tug of war
- Swimming
- Playing with other dogs or children
- Going for walks, jogs, or hikes
- Digging holes
- Herding
- Snuggling or receiving pets
- Getting belly rubs or massages
- Receiving praise
- Eating tasty treats
Don’t focus on behaviors you wouldn’t want your dog to perform. Calming down or performing a sit shouldn’t open the chance for them to dig through trash or rip into a couch cushion. Use only positive enrichment behaviors to encourage proper behaviors, whether sitting politely while waiting for their food, loose-leash walking, or staying calm when a stranger knocks on the door.
Stay consistent with how you offer high-probability behaviors as rewards. Restricted access makes them more desirable for your dog, so ensure you use enjoyable activities as training rewards each time. Don’t offer them if your dog doesn’t fulfill your requirements. By making them contingent on lower probability behaviors, like giving you attention, staying calm, or performing a command, you’ll make those more desirable actions automatic, increasing their value as a reinforcer to less fun or desirable behaviors.
Conclusion
The Premack Principle gives us a broader perspective on training, revealing how frequently opportunities for positive reinforcement appear. It highlights the win-win aspect of practical training. When our dogs do what we ask, they get what they want, and everyone benefits from happier relationships and a more fulfilling routine.
Featured Image Credit: kathrineva20, Shutterstock
The post Premack Principle: What Is It & How You Can Use It to Train Your Dog by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
World Animal Enrichment Day 2024: What Is It & How It Helps Your Dog
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Enrichment is, in many ways, the most critical factor determining a dog’s overall health and happiness. The diverse activities and games we provide fill the day with physical and mental stimulation, giving pets a reason to rise in the morning and something to look forward to when they go to bed at night. It’s a point of purpose that is as fun as it is meaningful and essential in enhancing their quality of life.
As enrichment bears such significance, it’s only appropriate to recognize a holiday to motivate pet lovers worldwide to do better for their four-legged friends. If you haven’t marked your calendar for World Animal Enrichment Day this year, you should do so on November 12th. We’ll explain why this annual celebration is worth every dog owner’s attention.
What Is World Animal Enrichment Day?
World Animal Enrichment Day is a yearly holiday on November 12. Animal behaviorist Sarah-Jane White, a pet industry author and entrepreneur, created it in 2016 to raise awareness of the importance of enrichment, encourage conversations, and encourage pet parents to make it a focal point of their daily routine.
How Can We Celebrate World Animal Enrichment Day?
While World Animal Enrichment Day is an excellent opportunity to reflect on how we can work on the enrichment we give our dogs, it’s also a perfect time to spread the word to help improve the lives of others. The most convenient way is to share a photo or video of the different fun activities you plan for your dog’s enrichment on social media and add the hashtag #worldanimalenrichmentday.
Alternatively, you can get out in the field and personally bring enrichment to more dogs. Contact a friend with a dog to arrange a playdate. Volunteer to play with the dogs at your local shelter or drop off toys for them to enjoy. Whether online or in person, you can likely find countless unique ways to spread the message and the value of enrichment.
What Is Enrichment?
As much as our dogs have adapted to our way of life, they still retain animal instincts, habits, and desires that deserve recognition to make their lives fulfilling and happy. After all, dogs are at their best when we allow them to be dogs.
Enrichment encompasses all those activities that bring out our dog’s nature. Some tap into a dog’s desire to sniff and explore, while others may evoke their prey drive or any other canine-specific trait. A quality enrichment routine can provide daily joy and relief from the unnatural limits domestication creates.
Playtime, toys, games, feeder puzzles, and other devices and activities motivate and excite dogs. They offer problem-solving opportunities and mental, physical, and emotional stimulation that meet our dogs on their level, letting them practice natural behaviors in a safe, fun manner.
Benefits of Enrichment
For many owners who supply daily enrichment activities for their dogs, the proof is in the pudding. A day of fun physical and mental challenges through enrichment yields immediate and conspicuous benefits for dogs, including:
- Stress reduction
- More relaxation
- Fewer abnormal behaviors
- Improved cognition
- Reduced barking and vocalizing
Enrichment can help dogs suffering from behavioral and social issues, separation anxiety, and disobedience. Value comes back to the owner as it enhances the pet parent-dog bond and helps eliminate stressful problem behaviors that take time, effort, and often money to manage.
How to Improve Your Dog’s Enrichment
Enrichment approaches can fall into various categories, all worth considering within a dog’s daily routine. Studies suggest diversified environmental enrichment within a consistent routine is critical in improving a dog’s welfare.
Ideally, enrichment should occur daily in short sessions rather than sporadically to reduce stress and improve behaviors as much as possible. We can consider the opportunities in a few ways.
Enrichment can involve animate/social methods (contact with humans and other dogs) or inanimate/environmental devices (e.g., toys, playhouses, puzzle feeders). Breaking them down further, we can define several enrichment categories you can address at home, whether on World Animal Enrichment Day or otherwise, including the following.
Social Enrichment for Dogs
Frequent contact with people and other pets is the most critical enrichment method for improving a dog’s manners and confidence and controlling stress and problem behaviors. Human contact may be more influential for dogs than conspecific play, so owners must prioritize daily one-on-one time rather than rely only on toys.
- Walking your dog around the neighborhood
- Visiting the dog park
- Playing tug-of-war or hide-and-seek
- Daily grooming sessions
- Going to doggy daycare
- Arranging playdates with other dogs
- Obedience and puppy classes
- Visiting dog-friendly bars and other establishments
- Entering dog sports (e.g., obedience, agility, rally)
Sensory Enrichment
The sights, sounds, and smells around dogs can positively and negatively affect them. The following are passive enrichment methods to improve their environment, offering convenient ways for owners to influence their dog’s happiness and relaxation:
- Playing classical, soft rock, or pop music (whatever your dog prefers) at a low volume
- Using a dog-appeasing pheromone diffuser
- Letting your dog sniff while out for a walk
- Giving your dog a window to look out at the neighborhood
- Playing nose work games or scent training your dog
Physical & Occupational Enrichment
Enrichment can include exercise routines that keep your dog fit and tire them out while integrating their natural drives. Many of these activities give dogs jobs to perform, utilizing their mental, sensory, and physical acuity. Examples of physical enrichment include:
- Playing fetch
- Lure coursing and agility training
- Using a flirt pole
- Providing a dig box (excellent for earth dogs)
- Obedience and trick training
- Providing a dog playhouse and furniture
Food Enrichment
Food enrichment may be among the most popular methods. While it does play a role in reducing barking and other stereotypes, increasing activity, and improving your dog’s overall well-being, owners should keep in mind that direct play interaction should be prioritized. The following are a few straightforward methods for engaging your dog’s mind and body with food motivators:
- Letting dogs forage with snuffle mats
- Scattering treats for your dog to find
- Providing dog-safe bones and other chews
- Feeding with puzzle toys
Every dog owner should focus on daily activities like these. Yet, World Animal Enrichment Day highlights an opportunity to bring their benefits to local shelters. Confinement significantly hinders a dog’s welfare as they await adoption.
By sparing time to create positive experiences for dogs in need, you can have a meaningful effect on their emotional health and social skills. Such engagement may improve their interactions with potential adopters, helping them find their forever homes sooner.
Final Thoughts
World Animal Enrichment Day on November 12 brings attention to one of the most vital aspects of a dog’s life. Enrichment bears a significant impact on a dog’s short-term and long-term happiness, behaviors, and relationships, ensuring their lives are long and fulfilling. Share the joy of enrichment this World Animal Enrichment Day with your dog-loving community, and take time to appreciate the many ways you can influence your pet’s bond and well-being.
Featured Image Credit: Rita_Kochmarjova, Shutterstock
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