By Fran Jewell
As our love for dogs and these incredible natural surroundings grow, so does the pressure on our dogs and the environment. Sadly, many popular places where we walk our dogs are becoming filled with trash – dog trash, as in poop. The risk of disease comes along with that, especially for younger puppies.
Pressure mounts on our dogs in terms of having to deal with other dogs that are true bullies. Bullies are dogs that disrespect another dog’s personal space by rushing up to them, barking and flagging with a stiff tail. The owners gleefully yell, “He’s friendly!” when other dogs know in an instant this is not friendly behavior, but intimidation. Many dogs enjoy the walk experience but are not comfortable with other dogs, yet so many owners force them into these situations, believing that the dog needs more socialization to get over it. The reality is that taking dogs into these situations over and over can increase their uncomfortable feelings until, finally, they erupt into defensive aggression. During the summer in the Valley, there is virtually no place to go anymore where a dog can walk with you and not encounter another dog out of control.
We want to spend lovely time walking or hiking and we cherish taking our dogs with us. Sometimes, to keep our dogs happy, it might be a better choice to make the backyard a paradise. How do we do that?
Keep pesticides to a minimum. Spraying your lawn with lawn care products, no matter how “organic” they are, still kill weeds. If it kills weeds, it is most likely toxic to your dog. Studies have proven that regardless of the safety touted by the manufacturer, dogs have a 50% or more increased risk of cancer if they are exposed to lawn sprays the recommended three times a summer. A dog paradise will mean just a bit less pesticide.
A dog paradise will not have toxic plants. We love the beauty of so many plants and incredible landscapes; however, check before planting about the toxicity to your dog. There are wonderful apps you can get for your phone that can help you identify toxic plants and weeds that might be in your yard. You can reduce those plants/weeds by using vinegar right on the plant.
Paradise means different textures like rocks, logs for jumping, natural bark, pine needles and so on. The more variety in your dog’s space, the healthier his mind is. There is correlation between varied textures and obstacles that keep your dog healthy, happy and interested. Fields of grass can become very boring for a scent-sensitive dog. The result can mean digging to find new odors for a dog to self soothe his curiosity and boredom. Hills, shade, a sand box and natural obstacles can mean endless hours of entertainment to an active dog. Climbing, jumping, new smells and running are excellent ways for a dog to get exercise both mentally and physically.
I place food in my yard for the dogs to find, like treats or a treat toy hidden under bushes or vegetation. I often make hardboiled eggs that are nutritious, nice and smelly, and then hide slices of them all over the backyard for the dogs to find. They LOVE that game!
Now, if you join your dog in ball play or finding fresh new scents, the backyard becomes a place of safe enrichment!!! Don’t forget the wonderful places right at home that make having a dog fun for both of you!
Fran Jewell is a dog behavior consultant, NADOI-certified instructor and vice president. She owns Positive Puppy Dog Training LLC and can be reached at (208) 721-7221.
