Skilled client deals with leash reactivity (part 2 of 2)

First-time puppy owners are a lot like first-time parents – they’re happy about the new arrival, but fearful of making mistakes, and perhaps even a bit intimidated by the responsibility they’re about to undertake. Certainly, it is a big responsibility, and it’s a given that you’ll make mistakes. The key is not to re-invent the wheel.

If you have never had a dog before, you have probably encountered any number of people who are all too willing to share their “expertise” with you when it comes to training. Some will tell you that an immediate, stern correction for bad behavior is best and that a dog who isn’t punished will never learn how to behave properly.

Getting a new puppy is always an occasion for joy, but for first-timers, it can also be stressful. Of course, you want to get everything right, so that you and your new best friend can enjoy many happy years together, and that means training your puppy to become a good canine citizen. Before you get going on obedience training, though, start with house training.

Dental disease is the #1 medical problem diagnosed by veterinarians. By the age of two 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have dental issues. Small dogs are more at risk; at one year old 30% of small dogs are showing signs of bone loss.

There’s nothing more fun than a new puppy… for the first few days. And then reality sets in that your new puppy has some flaws (at least according to human standards). He poops on the floor, cries at night, barks, chews on the furniture, and steals your favorite shoes. In short, he’s a monster.