Posts in Category: Training & Behavior
Lost in Translation: 5 Things Your Dog Wishes You Knew About Them
No bones about it: dogs are really smart animals. They’ve managed to live and work with us for centuries, in part because of their brains. By constantly reading body language and tones of voice, dogs understand us pretty well. Wouldn’t it be great if we could return the favor? Consider these 5 things your dog wishes you knew.
1. I Want What You Want
As a pack animal, your dog finds value in group dynamics – even if it’s just the two of you. They want to do whatever you’re doing, go wherever you’re going, and, if left alone, stress or anxiety might creep in. Destructive behavior can be a result of temporary separation, as your dog wishes they were otherwise occupied.
Keep your pup’s mind active with basic training techniques (it really does boost health and happiness!) and increase opportunities for exercise and enrichment. Continue…
Thunderstorms and Fireworks: What Can You Do About Pet Anxiety This Summer?
Many pet owners know exactly when it’s about to rain buckets in July, but it’s not because they saw the weather report. Instead, by watching their pet closely for any signs of of fear or stress, they can count down when the first bolt of lightning will fill the sky. Between summer storms or Fourth of July fireworks, pet anxiety is a real danger this time of year. However, with a bit of clever planning and preparation, animals don’t have to suffer.
Signs of a Problem
Every pet reacts differently to stress, but pet anxiety is typically characterized by hiding, trying to escape, damaging their surroundings, or even harming themselves. Noise aversion can develop into a full-blown phobia if left alone. Luckily, there are ways to support animals going through this. Continue…
5 Dog Training Basics Every Pet Owner Should Know
They don’t call dogs “man’s/woman’s best friend” for nothing. Sharing your life with a dog can be an incredibly meaningful experience, but when that dog jumps up on all your guests, runs away at a moment’s notice, or destroys your brand new couch and favorite pair of shoes, that special bond can experience some strain.
That’s where dog training basics come in!
Figuring Out Why Dogs Lick
Are you afraid to sit too low to the ground for fear you’ll feel your dog’s eager tongue? Dogs lick their owners for many reasons, but of course, the number one reason is because they love you. It’s a sign of affection, but there are nuances to the licking.
If you’ve ever wondered why dogs lick, stay tuned. You’ve come to Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital for answers, and we’re ready to deliver!
Dogs Like to Work! Your Dog Wants to Earn Their Treat
Do you enjoy giving your pup a treat now and then – or more often? Treating the ones we love makes us feel good, but did you know your dog may get more satisfaction from having to work a bit to earn that treat? It’s true!
Many of us have experienced the satisfaction and pleasure of figuring out a difficult problem and reaping the reward of our hard work. It turns out that dogs are no different. A dog that earns treats also receives satisfaction from learning and earning their rewards.
A Case Of The Zoomies: What Are They And Why Do They Happen?
If you’ve spent any time around a puppy, or bathed a dog of any age, you are probably familiar with the zoomies. It’s that crazy burst of energy that causes a dog to tear around the house or yard at top speed, sometimes…
If you’ve ever wondered why your dog gets the zoomies, you’ve come to the right place. The team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital has delved into the intricacies of this lovable (yet sometimes annoying) dog behavior!
Why Does My Dog Follow Me Everywhere?
If you own a dog, the old song “Me and My Shadow” probably comes to mind. Dogs are true companions who are always happy to be near us wherever we may be (unfortunately, even in the bathroom). While at first, this constant companionship may be endearing, in some cases, it may become problematic or indicate boredom in your pet.
If you find yourself asking “why does my dog follow me?” don’t worry – this is something we get asked a lot. To determine the reasons behind this quirky behavior, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital offers the following explanations.
Why do Pets Spend so Much Time Sleeping?
Whether you have a snoozing pup or a napping cat, chances are, you’ve seen your pet at rest more than at play – and for hours at a time! This may seem like a lot of rest for any creature, but there are many reasons as to why pets sleep so much.
Your friends at Leon Valley are here to answer the question, “Why do pets spend so much time sleeping?”
What is Resource Guarding? What Can You do About It?
Owning a dog is a joyful experience, but it can also be stressful or confusing. Training is just one example of this, but it’s especially true if certain canine behaviors give you pause. One of the more concerning codes of conduct (or lack thereof) is resource guarding. While it’s perfectly normal, it can be hard to live with. That’s where your friends at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital come in!
Basic Commands Every Well-Behaved Dog Should Know
In a perfect world, our clever canines would innately understand what we want them to do and respond accordingly. However, training and socialization are crucial tasks to be undertaken during puppyhood and reinforced throughout your dog’s life.
Having an understanding of basic commands and the rules of the home (and the world) can keep your dog safe and makes him or her more enjoyable. Teaching your dog basic commands can also help prevent an accident or tragedy from befalling your fur friend. Continue…