The 5 best New Year’s resolutions for dog owners
January 2nd, 2010 | By: Denise Stringfellow
While it’s just another day for dogs, January 1 always seems to inspire introspection and goal-setting in the rest of us. As you ponder your person resolutions this year, why not include a pledge or two to benefit your best canine friend? Here are some ideas to get you started:
“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!
“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 The reason most old dog training book are out of print is because those old techniques have been replaced by newer, safer, and more effective methods.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 Dunbar, Brian Kilcommons, Patricia McConnell, and Karen Pryor – all outstanding lecturers and writers of the modern canine industry.
“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 best when you incorporate training into your everyday life. Try asking your pet for a ‘stay’ command in the kitchen while you cook. Or, insist on a better ‘come here’ in the back yard? Even 10 minutes a day of your undivided attention will result in greater understanding of your pet, better communication and response between you, and a happier dog-owner team.
“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 your dog’s behavior. For example, a good trick for a dog that 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, controlled 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).
“I will make a point to try to resolve that pesky behavior issue.”
Is there something your dog does that just drives you (and others) crazy? Is there a lingering behavior that you would like to change, but you 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. Several companies in the Issaquah-Sammamish provide consultations. Some consultations are free, some are not, so be sure to ask up front.
Whatever goals your list of resolutions includes, it will probably 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 it’s 2009).
