Riding in Cars with Dogs: Basic Automobile Safety.

Ah, spring.  As the temperatures slowly rise, car windows slide down... and some dogs stick their noses, their faces and sometimes their entire upper bodies out into the breeze.  

Is this cute?  Of course!  But is it safe?  Of course not.

There are many ways to make road travel fun and safe for your pet, regardless of whether you're heading across town to your local dog park or across the country to another coast.  

Restraining your dog when he's in the car is essential.  A "loose" dog in the car can distract drivers; if that dog were in a car accident, he or she could easily run away and get lost, especially if in an unfamiliar neighborhood.  One of the first things we people do when we get into a car is buckle our seat belts; your dog should have the same routine.  If your dog is a backseat rider, a car harness with a seat belt attachment is a must.  If you own a smaller breed or young puppy, consider investing in a cozy travel carrier that can be belted in.  If a harness or crate isn't suitable, definitely install a pet barrier.

Check back for more in our Riding in Cars with Dogs series as the weather gets warmer.  In the meantime, contact Zen Dog Training to learn how to teach your dog to be your favorite road-trip buddy.

Happy travels!

Inclement Weather Activities Series: Tug of War.

Although the temperature these days has been pretty agreeable, bad weather will happen now and then. Be it rain, snow or a heat wave, these occurrences can make exercising your dog a challenge. Without adequate exercise, your dog may act out due to boredom and frustration but fear not!! With the right tools, a little ingenuity and strict rules you and your dog can have a blast playing all kinds of games.

Tug of War is just one of the many games that provide fun ways of training your dog and reinforcing the human-canine bond. Playing Tug of War will get your dog good and excited. Remember that it’s normal for your dogs to growl mildly when excited. Make sure you enforce all the rules to prevent the fun and excitement from crossing the line.

Before you begin playing Tug, choose a release command such as “Drop."  Also, get a toy that is only for playing Tug of War. This makes the toy extra special to your dog! Consider the toy's length, as it should be long enough to keep your hand from ending up in your dog’s mouth.  Make sure you play in a dog-proofed area in your home.  This is a roomy space without breakables or anything that may cause injury if bumped into.

Time to play!

1. Ask your dog for a Sit or a Down before you begin the game. Then start the game by saying “Tug” and continue to encourage your dog by saying that word a few times more.
2. Periodically tell your dog to stop the game by saying your release command and then ask for a Sit or a Down again. When your dog calms down for a few seconds resume the game by saying “TUG”.
3. ABSOLUTELY no contact with your dog’s teeth is allowed. Should your dog become overly excited and accidentally put his teeth on you, the game should end immediately. Let your dog know this hurts by saying “Ouch!” and put the toy away for a little bit. Avoid being angry and instead act disappointed. This lets your dog know that you want him to be more careful. If the same mistake continues to happen, then the game should end for the day. 

Letting your dog "win" is fine!  This builds confidence and is a nice way to say "Thank You!" to your dog for minding his manners.  The exception to this rule is if your dog misbehaves.  If he doesn't want to play by the rules, then you should be the one who ends up with the toy.

So next time you become stranded indoors give Tug of War a try. Keep visiting the Zen Dog Training Blog for more Inclement Weather Activities!