Don't even get me started #3 Genetics

If you read the title then you will know that this 3rd and final part of my three part series called Don't even get me started is indeed about genetics. There is so much to say about the genetic makeup of a dog that it is mind boggling; there are many different opinions about how to breed better dogs through genetic manipulation. Although I do not breed dogs; at least not at the moment, I do have an opinion on the subject (you know I always have an opinion). For instance; I have spoken with many breeders who are still on the page that genetic inbreeding is the only way to know what you are getting.

Inbreeding: the mating of closely related individuals, as cousins, sire-daughter and brother-sister which tends to increase the number of individuals that are homozygous for a trait and therefore increases the appearance of recessive traits

Inbreeding is the way it has been done for many years; but it is also the undoing of many breeds and dogs. When you breed dogs within the same small genetic pool you lose genetic diversity and breed vigor. What happens when dogs are inbred is that genetic material is diminished; and it is genetic diversity that keeps a line strong and healthy, if strong and healthy specimens have been used that is. This wonderful article written by the renowned Dr. John Armstrong on Canine Inbreeding and Diversity explains a lot. I feel very honored to have spoken with Dr. Armstrong before his passing; he was a man with great knowledge and an even great passion for dogs.

I have seen firsthand the results of inbreeding; low birth rate is the first and most obvious result. When I hear of dogs who should normally have 8-12 puppies in the average litter who have only had 2 or 3; it is the first thing I consider. Health and longevity are also hampered by closely line breeding. Zoos have long known the result of inbreeding and most now put many hours into ensuring that only healthy and genetically diverse animals are used for breeding purposes. Some breeders are now doing the same and these are the ones leading the way of the future.

Mutts are healthier; how many times have you heard this statement? I know I've heard it dozens of times a year. Of course the statement is not a fact but it does have a basis to its origin. Mutts have a great amount of canine diversity although most mutts or mixed dogs do not have any genetic health tests being done on them so no one really knows what is in the mix. It is not suffice to say that out crossing is the means to a healthy dog.

Out crossing: the breeding of two animals with little or no similar relatives in their pedigree.

It is through extensive research done by a breeder who looks to find healthy specimens with little genetic similarities that produces better dogs.

Frozen semen; more and more breeders are going the way of frozen semen. I believe it is a wonderful way to save some of the great dogs DNA for use down the road and to create genetic diversity. Many feel that it is just too far; too much human intervention but are dog breeds not all due to human intervention? Yep. If it were not for human intervention there would be dogs; just dogs in general with no specific breeds of any type. So for the sheer reason that we alone have solely had a hand in ruining them, it should be us that tries to fix the problem. One aspect of frozen semen that I really like is that you can often see the results of good breeding first hand. You may indeed use the semen of a dog who is now gone but lived to 17 years of age strong and healthy. Now that is some semen you want to find.

There is also the aspect that it can be shipped pretty much anywhere giving you a better chance of breeding dogs that are not related. This alone is very exciting. Although some breeders are bringing in dogs from other countries to add to their breeding stock which I believe to be very beneficial. Of course all tests must be done and genetic lineage looked at before breeding but it is very exciting as well.

All in all genetics is very fascinating; at least it is for me. Some breeders are doing it all right; some are just looking at this whole genetic diversity thing and there are still some caught in the dark ages with the mindset that line or inbreeding is the only way. Hopefully somewhere along the way they will see the light; if only for the good of our dogs.

Don't even get me started #2 Temperament

I'm started now and continue on my 3 part series of Don't even get me started. Todays #2 part focuses on temperament and what should and should not be bred. Very recently I have been focusing on temperament alot; with the consideration of adding another dog to my pack it is of the utmost importance to add the right dog. My pack is a perfect one; it runs smoothly and I am not willing to give that up. That means that a huge amount of work is put into finding lines that I like in regards to temperament.

Temperament: the combination of mental, physical, and emotional traits, natural predisposition.

A dog is born with their temperament and that specific temperament will determine how they react to life experiences. That said there is a huge responsibility put onto a breeder and a new guardian with regards to what they offer the dog through early socialization. As most of you know I am a temperament tester; and feel that it is a very important part of raising a litter. Most temperament tests are similar so when I talk to a breeder and hear the numerical results of a test this gives me a good deal of information on a particular puppy.

But the recipe for this puppy is vastly important; what temperaments went into the creation of this temperament. Temperament is passed down from Dam and Sire; not in the form of being identical but if you start with good stuff there is a better chance that the resulting puppies will have good temperaments. Of course there is always the chance that someone might not have a good temperament; that happens with people to. But by taking out any temperament traits that are not desirable in your breeding stock; really helps to ensure great puppies.

Many breeds have been ruined by bad breeders; a bad breeder in this context being someone who bred a dog that should not have been bred. Being a breeder is serious work; you are creating dogs to offer to the general public and you have a big responsibility to offer the best possible puppies that you can. Often so much hope and anticipation is put onto one dog that temperament may be overlooked. Oh you may know that his/her temperament is not the greatest but "oh that head, that movement or that amazing coat," clouds your decision making capabilities.

Of course each breed have different types of temperaments; soft, hard, sharp etc. But if one of your breeding dog exhibits a temperament that you would not unquestionable choose yourself then your next step should be off to the vets with that dog to be altered. If breeders in general took a closer look and only bred amazing temperaments it would indeed cut down on "bad dog" numbers. Some of the breeds with notoriously bad temperaments use to be some of the great ones. But with over breeding and careless breeding too many bad temperaments got into the soup creating now a bad breed instead of a few bad individuals.

Some breeds that I see on a regular basis that need work in the temperament department are:

Boxers

German Shepherds

Border Collies

Australian Shepherds

Cocker spaniels

These are just the ones I see on a regular basis with some really bad temperaments. Some breeds have been bred for specific purposes like herding or guarding. But while focusing on one aspect or trait other parts can be lost and the puppies that end up in a average family home cannot make it. These are the dogs that find themselves passed from one home to another finally ending up in a shelter. Dogs should be bred specifically for all; a dog can happily coexist in the average family home. Yes there are breeds with more specific traits; but even these dogs should have great temperaments.

One of the many great things about dogs is that they can adjust and they do that well. Even a dog who has been dealt with a bad temperament from a lack of good breeding can be turned around with the dedicated work of a new guardian. Temperament is what a dog is born with; temperament is how a dog reacts to life itself. With work the reactions can change and a dog born with a lack of confidence can learn to be confident, an over dominant dog can learn to "fit in" with the right guardian. So although you are who you are so to speak; a dog can change.

Are you even kidding?

Obviously I didn't blog this morning; had one of those mornings. I'm planning on blogging #2 in my serious tomorrow but had to say something about what I saw today before hitting the hay. I took the poodles to the park late afternoon today; it was beautiful, breezy and cool. The sun was low in the sky casting long shadows across the park and both Tilley and Luke seemed to be enjoying the cool air along with me. We made our way around several times and then loaded into the xterra and headed home.

Okay this is where the "are you even kidding?" comes in. As I pulled out onto the street and up to the first stop sign I noticed that the guy in the suv in front of me had something or someone hanging out his passenger side window. As I got closer I could see that it was indeed his Wheaton terrier; Soft coated that is. Not only was his dog hanging out the window; it was hanging out the window so far that he was resting both of his front legs over the side mirror. I leaned over as far as I could (while safely stopped at the stop sign) to see if what I thought I was seeing was infact what I was seeing. It was; this dog was clearly up to his waste out the window.

"Are you even kidding?" I said to myself; twice. I was literally dumbfounded; who would not consider that this might not be the safest thing to allow your dog to do? It was clear that this was a regular car ride for the dog; and as his legs slid off the side mirror after stopping at the sign he promptly put them right back. Where do you think that dog is going if the driver has to slam on his brakes? There is no doubt at all that he would be catapulted badly out the window; heck he was more than halfway out already.

This was definitely something that I have not seen before; and hope that I do not see again.

Good night all.

Don't even get me started #1 Structure

Often writing ideas come to me when I'm out on my walks; especially when it is early, the sun just peeking over the trees and air is still. With my walking buddy charging in all directions my thoughts are almost always on dogs and these were my reflections from yesterday. Breeding dogs; I know a lot of breeders and each and every one has their own agenda; why they breed, what they breed, how they breed and their ultimate goal. Unfortunately many do it for the money; some to produce their own line of a breed with the physical and temperamental traits which they desire and then there are the people who are breeding for a better dog for the average family.

This blog will be a three part one; todays being about structure in our dogs of today and what the heck is happening with that. So what about structure; is it important or is it all about vanity? Structure is extremely important; first let's look at the definition of biological structure - mode of organization; construction and arrangement of tissues, parts, or organs. So structure is the important stuff; it does factor in with how they look and move and it can also be what makes or breaks a dog physically. All of my dogs over the years have been structurally sound but one; Clyde. He was a poorly bred dog and was forever injured because of his structure deficits.

Being that I am a dog trainer and photographer I meet alot of dogs. One of the things that I hear on a regular basis is "I think we are going to breed him/her." Many people just love their dog so much that they want a little clone; "oh to have a puppy from Fido would be so great wouldn't it?" As they tell me this; brimming with pride for their pooch they don't expect what is coming next. Out comes my soap box; I climb up, give them all the facts and climb down. My job done; they are left to ponder the whole breeding thing.

Being that our dogs all came from this: the gray wolf, the structure of our dogs should somewhat resemble the same, correct? Our dogs should possess a square structure; moderate chest, straight and strong front and back legs neither turning in nor out, good strong tight feet, a level topline and nice length of muzzle. Hold on a second; that doesn't sound like many of the breeds we have today does it? We humans have taken to manipulating canine structure to suit our fancy and in the process destroyed many a dog.

We now have dogs that are much longer than they are tall, dogs who literally have no muzzle, pocket pooches that break if you look at them sideways and monster dogs who live a fraction of their intended life expectancy. Yes we have reeked havoc with many a dog; can we undo it? I have my doubts. People who have these structurally altered breeds love them; and I'm pretty sure they would not be willing to add length of muzzle or legs to improve the life of the dogs. These dogs who lack structural balance have a rough time of it. This breeds are literally handicapped because of their structural faults. There are lists of ailments with these breeds from back problems, breathing problems and joint problems.

And my beef is not just with the breeds who are miles away structurally from once they came. No; there are many dogs being bred who are not sound in the anatomy department but they take a mean photo and perhaps their flaw is only one on an otherwise structurally sound specimen. Should this dog be bred? Well; there is structure and there is workability structure. Is there tail lower than the standard? Perhaps their chest is not quite as deep as the standard calls for; these are minor structural flaws and let's face it dogs are not meant to be little cookie cutter clones. On the other hand sway back, cow hocked, east/west, hip displaysia are all working faults with regards to structure and these dogs should not be bred. A structural fault which interferes with proper movement is a breeding no no in my books.

If a dog has structural faults don't breed it; bottom line. I don't care if it is a mixed breed or purebred; if you breed it there is a good chance it's going to pop up again somewhere down the road. Taking a dog who has structural faults and breeding it to a structurally sound dog is not the way to go. Breed good with good and you will better the chance of creating great. Breeding good with poor can create a crack; which may end up being the one that breaks the foundation of your otherwise structurally sound lines.

You've been told

Yesterday I had the girls out for their very early morning walk. Since we added Tilley to our family; she and Jessie have had an clearly defined relationship. Tilley could well be the alpha of the pack but she really has no desire to be. Jessie is the alpha but it was established years ago that she would not be disciplining Tilley in anyway. Jessie disciplines Luke on a regular basis but not Tilley. Every once in a while she forgets herself when there is commotion and will jump on Tilley; this causes a split second realization from Jessie and they both go about their business.

So on their walk yesterday Tilley was lagging as usual; but on this day Jessie was on a mission. When I stopped to let Tilley sniff; Jessie turned to see what the hold up was. Seeing Tilley sniffing Jessie ran back to her; gave her a very gentle touch with her nose and with this Tilley immediately stopped her sniffing and quickly caught up. It was obvious that Jessie had just told her; "enough sniffing, let's go." I love watching dogs communicate; it is with such precision, the smallest body movement says alot.

Luke did the same thing on the weekend on our canyon walk. Jessie was the one lagging this time; she had found a great smell and was taking a longtime to sniff each and every blade of grass. When Luke is in the canyon it is mission time; he is always out ahead and in full charged mode. He had gone way out ahead of us but after waiting for what he considered to be too long he came running back; gently nudging her to get a move on. As pack leader she ignored him; but he tried.

So much can be said by a gentle touch; our dogs communicate with us all the time. Often we miss it all; but if you are paying attention you will see it. Tilley tells me all the time when she is hungry; if I am on the computer in the morning she will come and gently touch my arm. She continues to do this until I tell her to stop; I explain to her that I know she has not eaten and I will be making breakfast momentarily.

Watching Jessie tell Tilley to hurry up made me smile yesterday; it was as if the two were talking. "Hey Tilley come on; stop sniffing so much and let's go." With Tilley's response "oops; sorry, I'm coming."

What do dogs really need?

My gosh; surfing the web looking for specific dog items is simply mind boggling. There are so many dog products out there on the market; some good, some bad. Mostly they are useless items; very few are "must haves." When you have a dog or dogs there are only a handful of requirements with regards to needs. What does a dog really need; they need shelter, food, water, a collar and leash, a good comfy bed and us. That's it, that's all. All the other stuff that we as the super consumers is meant for our pleasure.

Of course there are the things that we need to care for them. Having poodles and being a "do it yourself" type of gal I require grooming equipment, nail cutters, teeth scraper etc. And there are the items that make our lives with dogs so much simpler; crates, x-pens, bags and blankets etc. But the "us" factor is the most important part of having dogs. Spending time with our dogs and caring for them is hugely important; our dogs need our attention.

If you have a pack of dogs; do they all get their fare share? Making sure that your dog is "good" is important and that covers both physical and mental well being. Lots of dogs have shelter, food and water but they are missing out on the companionship part of life. Dogs left to live their life alone in a backyard; or even within the house, a dog can lead a lonely life.

What do our dogs need most? Our caring attention; our desire to give them a great and happy life. All the fancy collars, beds, clothing and expensive treats will never replace a good old hug.

Time to train

Okay; you've decided it's time to train your pooch. You may have a puppy, youth or older dog but no matter you've opted that now is the time; now what? Where do you go? Who do you call? There are many different ways to get training; I wanted to discuss a few of them today. Being that I have been a professional dog trainer for over 10 years; I may not have heard it all but I've definitely heard a lot of different ideas on training.

First there is the most common means of learning how to train your dog; group classes. Almost all communities or large pet shops offer this type of training. It can be good depending on the trainer and their specific groups offered. The teacher/trainer may or may not be experienced so it is best to ask around for some recommendations; anyone can be a trainer but you want to learn from someone who is knowledgeable and experienced. The good thing about group classes is that your dog learns to work around other dogs.

Next there is private in-home training; this is my specialty although I started out teaching group classes. I like the one on one; undivided and personal attention given to each dog and guardian through private training. You hire and trainer and they come to your home to teach you to teach your dog. Just like anyone other profession there are good and there are bad trainers. I've heard a lot of horror stories; so again, ask around.

Private training should be flexible; working around your schedule. You pay more for it but in my opinion it is more than worth it. You have a professional trainer at your disposal; it's all about you and your dog. Any problems you are having are dealt with directly and being that it is done in your home it is easy for a trainer to see the problems you are having with at home.

Lastly and definitely not the way I would go is to ship your dog off to a trainer. There are different levels of this type of training; different types of services. Some trainers will have you drop your dog off weekly for training; you don't stay, you don't watch. Then there are trainers who take your dog for weeks or months at a time; again, not a fan. Now in all fairness there are good trainers that offer these types of services and you want to make good and sure that you can drop by at anytime or watch the training.

The problem I have with this type of training is when you are not allowed around; you cannot watch, you are not welcome to visit. This alone should send up a red flag. And I've had personal experience with the aftermath of some of these trainers. I have been called in several times to undo what has been done to a dog; and the guardian unfortunately has no idea what happened. If one of these facilities has an open door policy great; check it out. Find out where your dog will live, what they will eat, how often they will be trained etc. But; if for some reason you are not allowed around I'd definitely pass on this one.

The other issue I have with these facilities is that I believe strongly that you should train your dog; this is a bonding time, a valuable learning experience. I have taken dogs into my home to give them a kick start on their training; I completely allow those guardians to drop by anytime and ask all the questions they want. Also their dog lives in my home as one of mine; not in a kennel. Sometimes this is difficult on me as I tend to get attached quickly.

So which ever type of training you decide is right for you and your dog; ask for references. Talk to people; find out their experience with particular trainers. Just because someone says they are a trainer does not mean that they should be your trainer. Many trainers have little experience and cannot help with issues; so if you are having specific problems one of these guys or gals isn't going to be much help to you. Do you research.

The love of a dog

This morning I woke up to the bed shaking; no we weren't having an earthquake. It was Luke and he was stomping around looking for a place to rest his head. He ended up across my chest with his boney elbows causing me to gringe just a little. As I opened my eyes I got a foot in the face and he offered up a couple of "here I am" kisses. What a way to wake up; what a great way. With a huge smile on my face I turned over for some wonderful snuggling.

Having our dogs on the bed in the morning is simply wonderful. There are times when everyone stays in their own bed; but mostly the morning is about enjoying each others company. Let's face it life is hectic and when you can take the time to simply enjoy your dogs company; do it. Both Jessie and Tilley need a hoist in the morning and once up and snuggled in they are none to interested in going anywhere. I swear they would all stay in bed as long as I stayed there.

Many mornings we have a shortened time in bed and I'm off to the gym. With my return I find them all still curled up in place; thinking nothing of getting up anytime soon. This morning was different; Luke typically takes up his spot at the end of the left corner of the bed. He doesn't like being bunched all together but enjoys being with us all. For some reason he needed to be close this morning; and he even accepted Jessie being close, very close.

I slipped out of bed and ran and got my camera; this was just too cute to miss. There are probably a handful of times that I can remember Luke tolerating Jessie so close when he is trying to sleep. But she was calm this morning and he was very tired; a great combination for adorable shots. It truly is the little things.

The golden years

We have alot of golden years going on at our house; Jessie is nearing 14, Tilley 13 and Luke 10. When we spend the morning out and about on our long walks it is a surefire guarantee that the afternoon will be spent in very deep sleep for all; or at least the girls. My oldest Jessie is a sun worshiper; she finds the single beam of sunshine coming into the room midday and soaks up the warmth on her little body. With her hearing going now she often does not hear my moving about anymore; I can go out and come home without her knowing.

Tilley was always the busy girl; during the day she could be found out in the yard enjoying her shadows. She too has an extreme depth to her slumber now; her hearing is good so she may wake but her body tells her to stay put. Just yesterday I got home from an errand and she did just that; woke, greeted me with her eyes but never moved from her comfort zone curled up on her bed. These are the moments when you realize that things have really changed. Change is sometimes diffiuclt but if you go with the flow change is good.

The change for us now is that we slow our pace. Pretty much everything concerning the dogs has slowed; getting in the car, going outside, bedtime, grooming and day to day routine. Jessie has always been hoisted into the car being that she is a short 12" tall. Tilley is lifted in and out now; she has been for several years. Rousting everyone for their last trip out at night is a process; one where we are cheering them on to rise from their bed and wait patiently for it. As you see your dog aging like this; watching the time it takes for them to simply get up and out of bed, it calls to the nurturer in you. You can't help but want only the good things in life for them now; the best food, the most comfortable bed and the yummiest of treats.

With the cooler nights now; everyone is tucked in, literally. Each dog is snug and comfy under their fleece blanket. New beds have been bought to ensure that old bones do not feel the hardness of the floor making their slumber a welcome one. It is hard to see our dogs age; seeing the spring in their step slowly turn to an effort, watching their bright eyes cloud over and seeing them sleep much longer than they ever use to. But with it comes a new experience for your relationship, more time spent on just being. Just being with each other can be one of the most wonderful moments in time.

Hug your dog today.

Good fun

I've been noticing of late that my old gal Tilley has had a new surge of youthful energy. I'm not sure what is the cause; but whatever the reason it is good to see her with a spring in her step. Yesterday we went to the park; the poodles and I. We met one of Luke's best friends there; it is so cute to see his reaction when he sees her. As a dog who is very demonstrative with his emotions; it is immediately apparent when he sees a familiar face. It can even be a familiar silhouette; often she is on the other side of the park which is some distance and he stills knows that it is her. As soon as he's sees another dog that he is familiar with his ears drop and the whining starts.

Tilley on the other hand is very reserved and distinguishing her recognition abilities is much more difficult. So we did the beginning of our walk with friends and after they left we enjoyed the park for playtime. Being that Tilley is up in years there isn't that much physical play that goes on anymore but like I said; lately she has had a resurgence of youth and Luke gets to benefit.

I brought my big camera with me to the park because of the fierce winds; I love capturing flying ears and hair. So while I was focusing my attention on shooting Tilley; Luke got silly with attempting to draw my attention his way. He grabbed a stick and tossed it around; "look how much fun this is over here." So after capturing the beauty of a senior we both went to join in Luke's stick fun. Tilley accompanied Luke in stick chewing and then I tossed a few to get the action going. It didn't take long and Luke was in full swing. The customary proceedings are as follows; Tilley has the stick and Luke wants it. He runs like a fool until he gets the stick and then we start over.

Both dogs seem to enjoy their part except that now Tilley is not the powerhouse she once was and can loose her footing more easily. This is the only part that she seems none so happy about with the whole game. I don't blame her; Luke tends to be a numbskull much of the time and barrels into whoever has the stick. We stayed at the park for a long while enjoying the open field, the wind and the cool breeze for a change. I am so glad I could capture some of the moments.

Having fun together

My daughter and I took the dogs to the beach again yesterday. It was slightly overcast and breezy; the temperatures could have been cooler but I'll take what I can get. We hit the Montage beach which is a more quiet place to walk the dogs. The pathway down to the beach is simply breathtaking and you feel as though you are walking into a postcard as you reach the end where the beach ramp takes you down. There are several places to get down to the beach but we use the end one mostly.

Luke is chomping at the bit; Tilley is being her perfect self as we make our way through the beautifully crafted walkways. The ramp down to the beach is concrete and if it has been well used it will be covered with sand. Not a great combination to walk down with a sled dog leading the way. Yesterday it was clean but I am still careful not to be slid full speed down the ramp as Luke can barely contain his excitement. Once down the dogs transform; whether it is the feel of the sand between their toes, the sea breeze blowing through their ears or the many seabirds hovering just above head they are outwardly exhilarated.

After having some fun climbing rocks and running through the surf we sat on a stone wall and just took in the beauty. The dogs enjoy just sitting and looking as well; Luke spotted several birds exploring the shore and broke out into a whining frenzy. He does get himself into a tizzy; but quickly returns to normalcy once reminded that he is being rather idiotic and told in no uncertain terms to stop. We continued to watch the birds quietly.

In a quiet moment; enjoying one anothers company. These amazing moments are some of the simple things we can do with our dogs. Simple but very powerful; a connection of two species brought together to fuel so much enjoyment can neither be replicated nor denied. There is nothing like the companionship of a canine.

No hair?

Well; it is suppose to be cooling off for a while, I'll believe it when I feel it. In the high 90s yesterday; my house sounded like a library. All the dogs had found their place and were crashed. A favorite spot is my bedroom although it is the hottest room in the house; you can hear the constant hum of the fan, the dogs love the fan. Tilley will infact lay right in front of the fan if I have it set on the floor; something you would never do with a puppy around. She enjoys the wind in her ears and the cool air passing over her; she will sleep deeply there enjoying the cool. Afterall Tilley wears a fur coat; who wouldn't want to lay in front of the fan?

Over the years I've shot (photographed) alot of dogs and one of the most different breeds has been the Xoloitzcuintli. Known commonly as the Xolo (sholo) is the national dog of Mexico and originated in South America a very longtime ago. When I first met a xolo I was mesmerized by their coat or lack there of. They feel so foreign to the touch that I just had to keep my hands on them. Their skin is soft but not; feeling like nothing I had touched before. They commonly have a nice tuft of hair between their ears and due to a lack of hair show all the tiniest scars on their body.

Even though the breed is a hairless one there is a coated Xolo. The breeding of hairless and hair dogs is controversial but it is done. The coat of the xolo coated type is short, smooth and dense. Very different from the coated chinese crested dogs.

The breed is a hardy one and although they have no hair they do very well in different weather. Most xolo's have a good supply of sweaters for the winter of course as do any other hairless breeds. The xolo comes in toy, miniature and standard sizes of which I met the miniature. I have seen images of the standard and would like to meet one someday. The vast amount of xolo's live in Mexico and this is the first country to have recognized the breed.

When I first met the xolo's I had the honor of shooting I was quickly told of the short form of the name. As hard as I tried I could not get my brain t to recallhe actual name and was glad to be able to call them Xolo's (sholo's).

See you do learn something new everyday.

Manners please

It always amazes me when I see dogs who have no manner training once so ever. The struggle to find a happy place in a home when you have no training is a difficult one. There are times when I can say something and times when I cannot. If I am called to someone's home as a trainer then I can say all I want; but often I am there for a photo shoot and at that point I just smile. It is difficult to watch a guardian struggle with their dog knowing how quickly behaviors can be turned around.

One of the most common behaviors is food stealing or counter surfing which to me are two very unacceptable behaviors. First let's set the record straight; dogs will be dogs and if you leave food unattended for a long enough period of time there is a good chance it's not going to be there when you get back. I do not expect dogs to be saints but I do expect them to be well behaved and have some sort of house manners. When I do see a dog who does not exhibit manners; I look to the guardian. I put no blame on the dog for not having manners; dogs come with dog manners which are not in anyway human manners.

I believe all dogs deserve an education; what I expect as a minimum for a dog to be taught:

- to know their name (amazingly many dogs don't)
- come when called
- sit, down, stay and leave it
- how to act in the house: no stealing food, jumping on tables, using the house as a bathroom etc.

By teaching a dog a few verbal cues you can then communicate more easily. Communication is also achieved with the use of body language; it is amazing what you can say with your body. But you must have a good basis for your dog to "get" your body language. If you have never used it before it may take a while for your dog to pay attention to it. Your dog will have to relearn to watch you if this is new for you; more than likely have completely confused your dogs with mixed messages to this point.

Having a dog living in your home is a wonderful thing once they understand and follow a few simple rules. We follow rules on a daily basis; our dogs need to do the same.

The wolf inside all our dogs

Hey you with the Chihuahua; did you know that your dog is just as genetically similar to a gray wolf as that German Shepherd down the street and the Alaskan Malamute at the pull competition? That's right; all of our dogs came from the Gray Wolf. From the tiny teacup dogs to the giants of the canine world; they all have the same genetic makeup. Would you choose to live with a wolf? I think not; not many of us would. But you are definitely living with wolf relatives and it is important that you look at your dog as such.

Far too often people think of their dogs and treat their dog as furry humans. This is typically when things go very wrong; we tend to anthropomorphize (to attribute human form or personality to) our dogs. Don't worry; most people do this to some degree, even experienced dog people. As much as it is in a dogs genes to act a certain way; so too is it our way to treat things in our human way. My dogs know me as "Mommy;" even though I am obviously not their Mother. Occasionally even I slip up and my maternal instincts kick in instead of my "leadership" instincts. Dogs need leaders; it is how they work, leader/followers.

You know when your child ask "why do I have to do that?" And your response is "because I said so?" Well basically this is the roll you need to play with your dog. Black and white; this is how we do it, that's it that's all. This is not to say that life will be no fun; far from it. A dog with a strong leader; one who guides and teaches them how to live in our human world is a happy one. Leave a dog to figure it all out on their own and I can guarantee they'll get into trouble.

"The domestic dog is an extremely close relative of the gray wolf, differing from it by at most 0.2% of mtDNA sequence15,22,23.
In comparison, the gray wolf differs from its closest wild relative, the coyote, by about 4% of mitochondrial DNA sequence14. Therefore, the molecular genetic evidence does not support theories that domestic dogs arose from jackal ancestors. Dogs are gray wolves, despite their diversity in size and proportion; the wide variation in their adult morphology probably results from simple changes in developmental rate and timing." From The Molecular Evolution of the Dog Family by Robert K Wayne

"At the molecular level not much changed at all: The DNA makeup of wolves and dogs is almost identical." National Geographics

So take the time to learn about your little wolf relative and you will be enlightened to some of the behaviors we consider to be weird but are very normal for a canid.

Personality descriptions

I have been doing a lot of thinking about personalities and the complex depth to which each dog has. When describing my individuals quickly I would say; dominant, timid and reactive. But dogs are so much more than most think; they are very complicated creatures and to live with them and truly know them as individuals you must do just that, get to know them. I have a wonderful mixture; a combination that over the years has melded into a fine tuned machine. We rarely have even a disagreement and as my dogs age this has become more important to me.

Just this morning there was a tiny thing; it was a split second of stupidity from Jessie. She came up on the bed which is the norm for our mornings but in her "breakfast" frenzies she landed on Luke who was snuggled down in the corner. He immediately set to posture as she darted to the other side of the bed, he flashed her a dirty look and it was over. That is the extent of dog "issues" in our home and that is the way I like it. But we didn't get here just by chance; I do not allow nonsense. Yes I allow growling and communications but if someone wants to get into it; they have to go through me first.

I have two dominants and a neutral personalities. First I'll talk about Jessie; she is very dominant which is the norm for a Jack Russell. That said she is not a crazy dominant like many are and she loves people. Even though she is very dominant she is not a bully when it comes time to ruling her pack; she only gets involved when things get out of hand in her opinion. Barking and chasing Dad around is out of hand and over exuberant greetings is out of hand. As dominant as this little 15 lb dynamo is; she is not stupid and has very good canine communication skills. Jessie is confident and steady; not easily flustered or startled although her lack of hearing is lending itself to more startle situations. She is extremely affectionate and devoted and in her old age loves nothing more than a comfy lap to crash in.

Tilley is next in line; she is a very complicated girl but not quite as complex as Luke is. She came to us quite fearful and it has taken years of work to get her to where she is today. She is very affectionate but not a huggy type of gal. Hugs are strictly reserved for family members and even then you can feel a slight pull away if it is the human who initiated it. But when affection is given by Tilley you can expect lap laying, her head on your chest worship type. I can literally do anything to Tilley and she trusts me 150%. She is meek in her daily activities; sitting ever so patiently for whatever happens to be in the works. She is rock steady, she does not startle and is not the nervous type at all. Although she is the only one of our dogs who is very afraid of thunder and fireworks. Tilley and Jessie have an understanding, they coexist with no disciplining. Jessie disciplines Luke but never Tilley.

Last but not least is Luke; the boy with the issues. Luke is one of those dogs who's outward behavior is deceiving to who he really is. He is extremely complicated; first he is a dominant boy and likes to strut his stuff. He likes to push my buttons but is very sensitive as well; if I should raise my voice or posture he turns to mush. He does not like to do wrong and often is caught up by his own over excited behavior. Working with Luke over the years has taught me much about dogs in general as his reactions and mannerisms are bigger than life itself. He is a very nervous type and if something should happen to bump or drop on him; we can expect a big story about what just happened. It just takes one look at those eyes to know that something is up. Luke is on a perpetual conquest to greatness; his daily interactions with many are to inflate his ego. Although with maturity has come a diminishing ego and a more general happy with life attitude.

Luke is often in a state of over excitement which he has no control over. After 9 years of waiting for the whining and crying to stop before commencing I have given up. He is who he is and life it too short to win every fight. I pick my battles and pick them carefully. Luke is HUGELY affectionate; this is what outsiders miss out on and I feel privileged to have. He is without a doubt the most physically affectionate dog we have ever had. The open mouth happy huffing has become one of the most endearing behaviors that I now expect when I come home or when he is just plain happy with his life. Luke has a never ending amount of energy and is up for anything anytime.

So here are my three in a nutshell; a fabulous combination. And although I have touched on their individual personalities there is much more to each of them. I would love to hear about some of the personalities that you live with.

Hidden Collar dangers

I now have something serious to talk about.

I just got notice that another dog has died from strangulation due to their collar. Sadly this is all too common; so I would like to pass this information, please do the same. Collars look cute and are essential tools when you live with dogs; but please take extra precaution and never leave your dog’s collar on while unattended. Collars or harnesses should only ever be worn when your dog is under your strict supervision. My dogs only wear collars when they go for a walk; as soon as we enter back into our home they come off. I had one of these accidents happen to my dogs and luckily I was there to stop a tragedy.

Many years ago now I had two male standard poodles who loved to rough house. One day while outside one of the boys got their mouth snagged up in the other ones collar. Both were extremely upset; thinking that the other was in some way attacking them, they struggled and screamed. I ran screaming myself; I thought they were indeed in a fight. Once I got close it was obvious what was happening and I was able to calm them long enough to untangle them. Unfortunately not all dogs are as lucky; and you don’t need two or more dogs to have an accident.

Many different scenarios can happen when a dog wears a collar unsupervised. There are many stories of dogs being strangled when they have attempted to jump a fence and didn’t make it. Dog tags can become caught on just about anything even in the safety of a crate. Once caught up a dog quickly goes into panic mode. It is often this fight or flight reaction that causes the damage. All collars can be dangerous; choke type collars are the worst because they tighten and don’t let up but even a regular flat buckle collar can take a dog’s life.

Most people keep identification tags on their dog’s collars; having a collar on gives the guardian a sense of security. Tags are fine on a collar for a walk; but if you want to identify your dog 24x7 have them micro-chipped. All veterinarian offices offer micro-chipping; and it is one of the best ways to ensure your dogs return should they ever become lost. Save your collar/harness use for what they were intended; walks. Take all collars and harnesses off when you are not supervising; it could save your dog’s life. Please tell your friends.

Not much today

I don't have much to say today; one of those days. I've already walked Jessie; dremeled 12 feet and I'm heading to the beach with the poodles. This morning I was left shaking on my head once again on my walk as I watched two women yank away at their juvenille goldens by their choke chain. I've decided to make a bumper sticker that says "no chains around our dogs necks." Or something like that; you get my drift.

When you use a choke collar the whole premise around interacting with your dog changes. Instead of wondering hmmmmm how can I fix this behavior that I'm not liking; you just yank away in anger. It is all around us; quick fix scenarios. But a dogs neck should not be a quick fix with a chain...................

Gone to the beach..............................

Okay; I'm already back from the beach, freak'n hot down there already. Geesh will this weather let up? I hit Laguna beach this morning; typically beautiful and scenic but I did notice alot of "permanent" type resident homeless folks set up for the long haul. I've never seen such large "stations" where they keep their stuff. 20'x20' areas with umbrellas, chairs, sleeping bags, dogs (which Luke found under one), you name it they've got it. Perhaps they are saving up for the not as great winter weather.

Well; it is Friday so have a great weekend all.

More off leash talk

Lastnight I had Luke at the park; this particular we are always onleash except for short moments if no one is around. Its pretty popular as it is a huge soccer field park so on the weekends and evenings there are kids everywhere. It was dusk and we were making our way around the path when I noticed a Mom who had her lab off leash tossing a ball with her chuck it. Being that the dog was off leash I assumed she was friendly. As we got closer her ears went up watching Luke as she retrieved her ball. I knew she was going to come and see Luke; her Mom did not. On her final retrieve she headed our way.

Her Mom was following close behind yelling to me that she was friendly. I already knew because the dog could not have been more obvious in her gushy friendliest in her approach. Luke knew as well as ran to meet her as I dropped his leash and they greeted excitedly. It was cute because they were the identical color of light blonde. He said a quick hello and we were on our way. Not all dogs are as friendly and even dogs off leash can be dogs that should not be off leash so you need to read body language.

As we made our way around several dogs made growly lunges at Luke; all smile mind you and now that I think of it all the dogs there lastnight were the same color, weird. Anyhow, you need to know how to read canine body language so that you can assess a situation in the making. Even on leash you need to read both dog and human language. I've walked up to people asking if their dog is friendly so that our dogs could play; but as I got closer it was obvious that the human had no intention of letting their very friendly dog play with my poodle deliquent. Their loss.

Watch, always watch.

Nails

The mere idea of cutting nails sends a wave of terror through many canine guardians. When I regularly ask "how often do you cut them?" I receive a look of horror and the common reply is "I can't cut his nails." I know the idea of cutting too much and having your dogs nails bleed all over is scary for most but you can learn to do it without injuring any of those little toes. Some guardians are lucky and they have a dog who grinds their nails down perfectly when they go for their daily walks. I've seen dogs with beautiful short nails and they never have them ground or cut. I don't have those dogs; mind you I'm not much into walking in the streets, we do alot of field running.

So I have been cutting nails for 30 years now. I remember back when I was in the conformation ring; the nails were not to be heard, that's short. But now I want to make sure they are short but not too short. If you trim your dogs nail regularly it is actually easier. That way you can just clip the very tip off each week; being sure that you are not catching any quick with it.

When you start out with a puppy you can use human nail cutters until their nails get too large and hard. Then there are two types to choose from; the guillotine style and the scissor/clamp style. I've used both and use the scissor style mostly now, I find them to give me more control although they do loose their edge fairly quickly.

I ordered a dremel tool and got it yesterday. I have never been a nail grinder but my little Jack Russell has been objecting to having her nails done lately. Being that she is 13.5 she is allowed to object and I will adjust. So my dremel came and I love it already; you can take the tiniest amount off with it and do a little at a time. Now my dogs are very accustom to having their feet messed with so that would be the first thing to do. If your dog is not use to having their feet touched then you must get them use to it. The dremel vibrates and I would imagine feels strange to them.

And I have been worned to watch the hair; if a dog has longer hair on their feet you must take care. The best way is to hold the nail firmly, not just the paw. This gives you better control and less chance of slipping. The dremel will also heat up so only do a second at a time breaking in between. I will use the dremel for keeping my Jack Russells nails nice and short and for smoothing out the rough edges after cuttting the poodles nails. So far I love it.

Running free

Thinking back to my old life; my old house in the country I miss it, I really miss it. One of the things that I miss the most is that I could walk out my back door and off into the woods where I would sit for hours by a stream with the dogs. I always carried a leash with me "in case" but my dogs never wore one. That was along time ago now; these days revolve around trying to find the elusive free field. We live in a leash law world; around every corner there is a canine leash enforcer ready to give you a ticket. On the first "official" day that the dogs could be on the beach here once again; sure enough there he was handing out tickets.

I understand that it takes but one stupid person with their dog who should definitely not be off leash to ruin it for everyone. And I understand if you allow it; then you allow those who should not be off leash, off leash. But come on; give us something, somewhere other than a fenced in overused and overcrowded tiny piece of land to run our dogs free. Here we tend to hit the canyons but then again you risk running into a coyote, rattle snake and even the odd cougar. Also it is so hot and scrubby many months that it's not very enjoyable; especially with my breed who tend to resemble giant velcro.

While I was vacationing in Victoria over the summer we came across a leash free area. It was miles and miles of path running along the edge of the ocean, beautiful. Some dogs were on leash; most were off socializing as they passed one another along their walk. At the time I wished I had my dogs with me so that they could have enjoyed it as much as I savored watching the other dogs on their walk.

Watching dogs run free is not only great for our dogs but good for our core; I could sit and watch dogs run without a care in the world for hours. But alas there is always that nagging feeling you should be looking over your shoulder for the ticket guy. But there are places; you just gotta look long and hard now to find them. But it is most definitely worth the work.