Tuesday, May 30, 2006

I missed Puppy Class

I was sick as a dog (pun intended) on Saturday, 5/27, so no puppy class. I also had to miss a vet appointment to get Franklin's Bordatella vaccine updated.

On Sunday, we went to the dog park, just Franklin & I. Fiance Leo usually accompanies us, but he was late (what else is new?). It's starting to get hot here, so franklin only lasted about 20 minutes at the park. On Monday, he only lasted 15 minutes.

It is important for dogs with smashed faces, like pugs (I forget the technical name for a smashed in face, and I can't be bothered to Google it, sorry!) to be watched carefully in hot weather. Franklin was panting heavily when we left the dog park, but he was fine - just exhausted fo rthe rest of the day!

This Saturday, June 4, there will be several classes - the last class of the current session and the first class of the next. Not sure when Off Leash readiness starts, hopefully soon.

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Dog Training Career Path


When I first met Lloyd, he showed me his dog training pyramid. The pyramid explains the careeer path of a dog trainer, as well as shows how many real Dog Behavior Consultants or Dog Behaviorists are out there (hint: not many!). I designed this for Lloyd's web site, but I thought you might like to have a look-see. I'm only 1/2 way through level 1.

Saturday, May 13, 2006

Puppy Class 5/13/06

Today the weather was unexpectedly great... mostly sunny, temp somewhere in the high 60's. Franklin accompanied me to class to do his demo with the Holt halter. He did great. Lloyd took his leash, while I moved about 30 feet away. I had some treats in my hand, squatted down and called Franklin. The halter kicked in when I called and he tried to run to me. Lloyd stood still, and Franklin stopped pulling instantly and sat down.

He also got to see his girlfriends Marina and Zoe. Marina is a rambunctious yellow Lab, and Zoe is the only Bavarian Bloodhound (an example is pictured here) in the U.S. She came form Poland originally. I must say, Franklin has great taste in women!

Franklin also had fun with Raven the Rottie and Thor the young Dobie.

My favorite little pup, Kuma the fluffy black thing, was not at class today. No fluffy cuddles for me. Hopefully next week I'll get my Kuma fix.

Friday, May 12, 2006

Dog Training "Schools"

If you're thinking about becoming a dog trainer or dog obedience instructor, avoid any company that bills themselves as a Dog Training School. These people charge a buttload of money for something you can get for free.

A good dog trainer will be open to taking on apprentices and won't charge a fee for the privilege. Dog trainers will be mentors and teachers all in one, whereas at a school you will rarely get individual attention.

If you are willing to spend money to learn about dog training, go to your local college and take courses in psychology and animal behavior - they will get you a lot further than any dog training "school".

Another blog

I started another blog to show off my fabulous & tacky shot glass collection. Have a look-see. If you're 21 or older.

Franklin the Demo Dog

Tomorrow at puppy class, Lloyd will be teaching about getting your dog to walk by your side. He uses and recommends either the Holt Halter (for smaller or younger dogs) or the Sporn Halter (for larger dogs).

Anyway, when you use one of these halters, when your dog starts pulling ahead, you give a little tug on the leash, making sure the tail of the halter is parallel to and touching the dog's back. The halter will cinch up under the dog's armpits when you tug, which makes the dog think: "Huh? What the hell was that??!". It doesn't pull on or put pressure on the dog's throat.

Franklin has really responded well to his halter, so he will be doing a demonstration at class tomorrow. I hope he won't be too distracted by all the other dogs!

Wednesday, May 10, 2006

Cargo shorts, anyone? Also, Crufts


I entered Franklin in the Old Navy Mascot search. I'm sure he's up against some stiff competition. A hundred dollars says a Border Collie who can disassemble a bomb and cook your breakfast will win. Pshaw....Franklin is by far the Cutest Dog in the World, even though he sometimes has a hard time coming when called.

I watched part of the
Crufts Dog Show, then The Apprentice came on. However, after Googling it up, I see that an American dog won! I do love Aussie Shepherds for their smarts and their beautiful coats. The Pug did not place in the Toy Group. What were they thinking?!?!? Pomeranian, my butt.

Monday, May 08, 2006

Sorry for the lack of updates

I was out of town this past weekend, so I didn't attend puppy class. Now I'm pooped. I'll write more stuff sometime this week.

For your entertainment and eddification, some pics from the weekend in North Joisey and the greater NYC area. These are ladies I met on the internet. They tried to sell me a timeshare in Arkansas.