Hanging With Hounds

I this. I will always try to prioritize my relationship with my dogs over perfect training. Thanks Freedom Dog Training & Behaviour

Frankie is always up for a good game of ‘I’m going to get you’. Feb 3 is National Golden Retriever Day. Goldens are my kinda dog. Always up for some goofy fun. They love being around their family - they are the ultimate people dog. They are equally happy heading out for an adventure or snuggling on the couch with their peeps. A stranger met on a walk is their new best friend. They can smell a snack at a 100 paces and can hear the cheese packet open from the other side of ...the house. Fun Facts: Golden retrievers are probably the most well-known dog breed in North America. Known for their family-friendly personalities and numerous appearances in movies and television, their notoriety is well earned. This breed has an impressive lineage, descending from crossing various well-known sporting breeds like Irish setters, bloodhounds, and water spaniels. Classified as either Canadian, American or English, all retriever breeds have unique physical traits but share a similar and welcoming temperament. Goldens, so-called because of their long blonde hair, were hunting dogs in Scotland in the early 1800s. Their desire to hunt and fetch makes a ball toss a game they adore. Goldens are the ideal family dog, great with kids, and are easily socialized. They are a loyal breed that takes direction well. This is why they are the number one breeds for assistance programs like guide dogs, search and rescue, and therapy work. Probably one of the friendliest dog breeds out there, Golden Retrievers are eager to please and show a lot of love to everyone they meet. This makes them the ultimate pup for families. Although highly obedient and intelligent, these dogs don’t make good guard dogs. They’re so affectionate, they probably would make friends with an intruder rather than attack them. Goldens require minimal grooming routines. While they shed like crazy, with regular brushing their coats are easily maintained. This in not a breed for those with allergies. Golden retrievers are sometimes called the Peter Pan of dogs since they have the playful and loyal spirit of a dog that has never grown up.

Dogs are unconditional love....we can argue all day if dogs can love. All I know is that no matter if I am happy or sad or the best version of myself or the worst my dogs are right there beside me. If that is not love, then I don’t know what is.

Yes...it is the reinforcement history that makes all the difference.

The bank analogy is a great one which I use for a lot of different dog behaviour whether it be a puppy such as in this example or a more complex behaviour change such as leash reactivity.

Have a great weekend dog friends...and don't forget to social distance

Are you worried about your dog possibly showing some anxiety when you go back to work? Join my colleague Julie Naismith next Wednesday for a free Facebook Live session on how to get ready.

Don't miss out on this seminar this coming Sunday (May 24) on 'How to Speak Dog' from our friends at Dogkind LLC.

Stay safe out there