The holiday season is approaching and along with it come some important considerations for dogs. We have all heard the hazards that include chocolate, macadamia nuts, poinsettias, grapes and even leftover turkey (especially the fatty skins). If you are unsure, ask your veterinarian what to be watchful for.
But, often we forget about dog manners until the door opens and Fluffy jumps on Grandma, rips her dress or claws her fragile skin or, forbid, knocks her over. We don’t think much about Fluffy sniffing the counter until all the guests are sitting at the table and Fluffy grabs the knife covered with turkey smell and cuts her mouth severely, requiring stitches at the local vet who is also trying to enjoy the holiday!
We might forget that our otherwise sweet-natured Fluffy is afraid of new people or the confusion that accompanies the celebrations. Now, baby Jimmy is toddling full steam right in her direction headed for a handful of gorgeous tail!
Prevention is the word to remember this holiday season. Prevent these stressful moments for both you and Fluffy by teaching her good manners greeting at the door, not begging from the table, grabbing food off the floor under the elegantly set dinner table, or dangerous counter surfing.
If training manners is not in the cards, you might consider a good management program that might even include boarding your dog when company comes. Using a leash for Fluffy to stop jumping and to keep her on a dog bed away from the table might be another quick solution. But, if Fluffy is fearful, please be sure to remove her from any situation that might make her feel she has to bite to protect herself. Do not expect her to work through her fear when you are busy entertaining and cannot give her your full attention.
And, lastly, the holidays are not a good time to bring a new puppy home. Puppies and dogs should not be gifts. They are long-term commitments that should be thoroughly thought through and chosen deliberately based on lifestyle and needs. You should not make that decision for someone else, nor would you want someone to make that decision for you. Do not expect a pup to stay away from all the decorations or be well behaved with guests. Puppies deserve your full attention for house training and developing a relationship with you sfter the holiday season.
Love your dog or puppy enough to seek professional help, if needed and by planning ahead. Make this holiday one to treasure forever, never forget!
Fran Jewell is an Idaho Press Club award-winning columnist, IAABC-certified dog behavior consultant, NADOI-certified instructor #1096 and the owner of Positive Puppy Dog Training, LLC, in Sun Valley. For more information, visit positivepuppy.com or call (208) 578-1565.
Fran Jewell is an Idaho Press Club award-winning columnist, IAABC-certified dog behavior consultant, NADOI-certified instructor #1096 and the owner of Positive Puppy Dog Training, LLC, in Sun Valley. For more information, visit www.positivepuppy.com or call (208) 578-1565.