A Positive Outlook With A Productive Approach

We should all know better by now then to - judge a book by it's cover.  We should also know better than to jump to conclusions before finding out facts, but that is a bit easier said then done. Right?! 

The saying "Don't judge a book by its cover" not only is directed at people, and dogs, but it can be directed at a training tool known as "the prong collar". We know, we know... use the word "prong" and most people cringe, makes disgust noises, talking under their breath or immediately start judging in some way. (You can't tell us you didn't do at least one of those things.) - Mmm hmm... 

Before we go on, we would like you to try and stay as open minded as possible while reading this. Hey, if your on a "pit bull" dog advocate and outreach site you must be opened minded...Yes?... Ok, great... ;)

The title of this blog post is "A Positive Outlook With A Positive Approach". Two very hard things to do when dealing with something you may not have had a good experience with, heard negative things about or have not observed the subject in positive light. Kind of like the "pit bull" dog topic and the outlandish sites on the internet and fabricated media coverage. Or maybe you have witnessed something at one time that turned you away.  

Most people know that IF a dog is managed through responsibility, it can be a wonderful family companion. They also know that IF a dog is managed through negligence, issues may, and most often do arise. Well, the same goes for a prong collar. IF the prong collar is used and applied correctly it can be a very useful training tool to both the dog and the handler.

Now this is where it gets tricky. This is where your mind needs to be W I D E open...
Remember above where we said "don't judge a book by it's cover"? 

Next time you are out n about (weather your surfing the net or actually outside of your home), and you come across a person with their dog whom which has a prong collar on, take notice to the entire picture at hand. How is the owner/handler interacting with their dog? How is the dog interacting with the owner? Is the collar fitted properly? Is the dog staying at the owners side or pulling them half way down the street? Is the dog calm and focused? Does the owner/handler look like they have their dog under control?

If a prong collar is not to someones liking, that's fine. For some people, prong collars make a world of a difference when it comes to keeping their dogs under control, at their side and out of trouble. <-- Always keep that in mind - "under control".

When seeing someone using one of these training tools on their dog, try to have a "positive outlook" on the situation. Notice that this owner is taking steps towards managing their dog. You may not know that person, that dog or what she/he can handle. If the owner and dog are working well together, despite the collar choice, look at the entire picture as a well managed outing. Prong collars are not meant for "popping". When used correctly they are used for redirecting and applying equal amounts of pressure to the dogs neck, giving the handler more control. Even diminishing the stress to the throat area of dogs that are known pullers. If you see the person struggling, the dog pulling, the collar two sizes two big, then politely offer some "friendly" assistance.

Ask the person if you can show them a few helpful tips. If the person accepts your offer, adjust the collar so it fits properly on the dogs neck. (Check out this video on: Fitting a Prong Collar by BADRAP). Politely explain why the adjustment is better for them, their dog and how their current technique can cause future issues if not adjusted.  Show them how to hold the leash, talk to the dog and position themselves to better communicate with their dog. With just a few adjustments it is amazing how much the handler and the dog can improve. A positive, productive approach will get everyone much further that an judgmental, snappy reaction.

If you happen to have cards on hand of our favorite dog trainer you have worked with, offer that to the person as well. They may not know of other training methods or who to turn to for assistance. Take steps to guide someone and not push them away.

A person should never be ashamed of taking steps to manage their dog, weather it is with clicker training or the "proper" use of a prong collar. Just as a person should never be ashamed to own a specific type dog.

Every dog is an individual with their own needs and their own limits, just as their people are . Some people benefit off of a different type of training tool/method then others. Instead of taking action in a negative way that could turn people the other direction, take steps to view the positive. Offer help where needed, look at the entire picture don't just focus on "the collar" and be thankful there are owners willing to work with their dogs.

Just because you see a prong on a dog, does not mean that person is misusing it, abusing their dog or "a bad owner". They are looking for ways to keep their dog under control. Which is what we want all dog owners to do, right?

Looking for a trainer?

When looking for a trainer to help you progress with your dog, you may not want settle with the first trainer you come across, unless you are comfortable. You should want to find a trainer that will help you understand the method they are using and help develop a program that is fit for you and your dog. Look for trainers that can and will help you develop healthy ways to build a relationship between you and your k9 buddy.

Need a local trainer? click here
Need a local behaviorist? click here or here
You can also find listings of trainers in your area through your vet, word of mouth or on line.


Doing your own research:

There are many sites, books and dvds out there that will help you move in the right direction with managing your dog. As a owner/handler you should be 100% committed to motivational, humane skills which in turn will be progressive for you and your dog - Prong collar or not. 

Here are a few that we recommend:

Websites:

Clicker Training - Karen Pryor

Dr.Sophia Yin

Association of Pet Dog Trainers
BAD RAP

Sirius Dog Training

Animal Farm Foundation

Readings:

Click to Calm  by Emma Parsons

Don't Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor

How to Behave so your dog Behaves by Sophia Yin

 

photo from a bing search off the net

This collar is two sizes to big for this dog.
The size of the prongs and the fitting (too many links) is a no no. 

This is an improper use of a prong.

A collar this size is not needed for a dog of medium -large build (if at all) or dogs with short coats. 

This collar is fitted properly.

Positioned high on the dogs neck and the links you can fit 2-3 finger from the collar to the dog itself.

Great communication with from the handler and eye contact from the dog.



 

Teaching "Down"

As you know, when training a dog, there are several different methods to teaching a behavior or a command. When it comes to our dogs first learning a specific gesture we prefer to use positive reinforcement. Which includes a clicker, small soft treats (or their meal time food) and a happy ready to work pup. There is a communication barrier between us and our k9 kids. They do not understand what you are asking of them UNLESS you show them. Dogs in general are not naturally defiant so if you have to keep repeating a command to your dog over and over and over, that means your dog does not fully understand what you are asking of them. To learn more about clicker training please take time to visit one of our favorite sites Karen Pryor Clicker Training. 

Today we are working with rescue dog Uma. She is learning the basic concept of the "down". We start off by getting her attention and luring her into the position we want, which is - down. At this time you will not be saying the word "down". You want your dog to get the gesture/motion of "down" first. When you give the hand single and your dog downs a few times, then you will be adding the word. Now, some dogs take a while to understand what it is you are trying to get them to do, so have patience and allow the dog some time to think.  You may have to click and reward for the dog just looking at the floor. Eventually, that will bring the dog closer and closer to a "down". It's like a puzzle, you have to figure out all the piece to make it come together. You have to figure out how to HELP your dog understand this new command. It takes time and lots of patience.

Once your dog is getting the hang of the "down" motion, you will then add the vocal command "down" with the hand gesture. Click and treat for them going into position. Keep training sessions short. If you notice your pup getting bored get their attention, lure them into a down and end on a good note. Try again later on :)

Over time your dog will get better and better at understanding what you want of them. You will be able to replace the clicker with the vocal "marker word" - YES and their treat will be a pat on the head or back from you.

Quick break down:
1) Have on hand clicker, treats (or meal feeding) and a ready to work pup.
2) Get your dogs attention
3) Lure your dog towards the ground. When they go into a down (or even look at the ground) CLICK & TREAT.
4) Lure your dog to the ground a few times with OUT saying a word.
5) When they start to grasp the "down" motion THEN add the word "DOWN".
6) Keep sessions short & end on a good note
7) Have patience
8) Have FUN!
9) Do this often

Here is a video of Uma learning the basics of DOWN

**FUN TIP FOR BLIND OR DEAF DOGS:

If you have a deaf dog, use a small flash light in place of your marker/clicker. Flash the light towards their eyes and then treat. Deaf dogs also pick up on face expression so be happy when your dog is learning and gets what you ask of them. Some times we use a "thumbs up" for the dogs we are working with as a marker.

If you have a blind dog, hold the treats to your dogs nose and slowly bring your hand with the treat to the ground. Let your dog try to get it out of your hand, you will see their body get lower and lower to the floor. When they "down" click and open your hand so they can have their reward. 

Tie Downs

Brad Pit & Johnny Royal: "Ha Ha, Uma's on a tie down."

Tie down is another "structure" method we use for the new dogs that enter our program. A tie down, helps the dogs adjust to in door living. It comes in very handy to us since we can not have the dog on leash with us at all times. (Not when chasing a 3 year old and a few other dogs around). 

The tie down's allow us to be hands free, but it also allows the new dog to be involved in all that is going on in our home. Our mentor dogs can walk freely around the new dog with out getting pounced on for play ever 5 seconds, our kiddo can walk passed without having his snack taken off of him or be smothered in kisses every 2 seconds.

Tie downs are a useful tool to help manage dogs that may jump on people, that need house breaking , play a bit too rough with us or our dogs and for dogs that like to jumping on furniture as they please. Tie downs limit your dog's "rude or inappropriate behaviors" and get them adjusted to every day in door living with the rest of the family. Another plus is that, they can be used for is meeting the resident dogs and even the cat.

To make a tie down get a 4-5 foot piece of cable wrapped in plastic with clips at both ends. Attach one end to an eye-bolt and screw it into the baseboard of your wall. Attach the other end to your dog's flat buckle collar or martingale. With Uma we used an extra leash we had and wrapped it around a very heavy piece of furniture. (She doesn't chew the leash other wise we would use the cable like we had to for Johnny when he first came into our program.)

If you use "Uma's way" MAKE SURE that your dog can not pull the furniture around the house or chew on it. Tie downs should only be used when you are home as well, this way you can keep an eye on your pup and make sure they are not getting themselves into any trouble.

In the dogs tie down space, put their bed and some chew toys to keep them buys. Frozen Stuffed Kongs work well as they are learning to adjust.

Let us know how this works for you and if you have any other tips regarding tie downs :)

3 dogs with very different preferences.

Ahh, you have "pit bulls" I see.... <--- we tend to get this a lot from people that don't know us.

Yes, all three of our dogs are "pit bull" dogs, BUT that does not mean they prefer to do the same activities as one another. The reason they have different preferences is because each of our dogs has a personality all their own. There is not one dog out there in this world that is identical to our dogs... or yours for that matter.

There are dogs that may "resemble" another dog through physical appearance, but the way they eat, sleep, play, walk, run, train, bark, snort, interact, associate, accept another animal, accept a person and even cuddle is very different from the rest.

Why?? You may ask.
Because they are ALL INDIVIDUALS - Just like you or I - and should be treated as such.

Another question you may have is:
"If all of your dogs like different things, how do you keep them all happy?"

It's simple. Our dogs are loved, managed well, socialized, vetted and included in our family activities. We keep their minds stimulated, their manners in check and make sure they (and us) have the right amount of rest. We just live our life with our dogs and take into consideration their "likes" and "dislikes".

The weather was beautiful the other day, perfect for exploring and sun bathing ;) So while Dad was at work, Mom decided to get all the kids outside for some fresh air... and NO, not all at once! Mom divided the time throughout the day for each of the pups. Which makes her life a heck of a lot easier and keeps situations under control. Out of all the kids in our household, our 3 year old son Dylan is the one that keeps us on our toes. lol

We started our mourning off with a rockin' breakfast. French Scramble, Pecan Crusted French Toast, Smart Bacon, Home fries, fresh Oj & definitely some fresh coffee - for us humans of course. ;) Check out the "how to" HERE.  Our k9 kids made sure to stay close and "supervise" our cooking skills AND to make sure we put some aside for their morning meal. Which we did.

After breakfast, Dad went off to work and mom got the kids ready to head out for some exploring. It was earlier in the morning which is a quiet part of the day around our neck of the woods. The older kids are in school and most adults are off at work. Our boy Johnny Royal  is still a work in progress with accepting loud sounds. He get's extremely stressed when he hears loud motorcycles, cars with obnoxiousness exhausts,  skate boards or rattling trucks. So, on our days where we are heading out to just relax we go to places that are quiet, away from the "city" life. The rail road tracks behind our house are hardly ever used and they take us far from the busy streets.

After our hiking adventure we headed back to our house for one of lil man's favorite lunch's. Sliced Vegan Grilled Cheese, almond milk and apple slices. See the "how to" HERE. 

Taking full advantage of this day, we ate lunch on the front porch and joined Vita Bella's in her favorite activity. Sun bathing!! Yep, she will take a spot in the sun over a walk around the block any day!

When Dylan was refreshed and his lunch was settled, we headed out for another adventure. This time to our local park that is not to far from our home. Brad Pit was now Dylan's partner in crime. Brad love's outings, especially if there is a lot of activity. He loves seeing people of all ages and going just about anywhere Dylan goes. Brad is not phased by loud motorcycles, trucks, cars, bikes or any random noise the busy streets of the city throws our way.

As you can see our day was very eventful.

All of our fur and furless kids had a chance to do what they enjoy... and loved every minutes of it.

On another note:
Mom and Dad had a chance to enjoy a glass of wine later on that night, surrounded by SLEEPING kids.

Oh the joys of the simple things.

In conclusion, we hope what you got from this post - besides some good eats- was that everyone (animal or human) is an individual with different wants, needs, likes and dislikes. Just because something may LOOK like another, does not mean they are they same in other areas. Let's get ride of stereotyping and labels. Get to know the dog or person and then determine "who they are".

The best way to learn is through observation, we whole heartily believe that.
Much love all.

































 

Mk9's "Stop & Go" Game for the family

Throughout our days, there is a learning experience in just about everything we do. Here at them mk9 home we love to make learning fun, for all.

Since we have a multiple dog family, we love to designate "one on one time" for each of the pups. "One on one time" helps strengthen bonds between you and your furkids. 

Today is Bella Vita's day for some special one on one time. During our walks we like to play a little game called "Stop n Go". Dylan (aka Monster) is in charge of the orders and mom has to help Bella Vita listen.

On our walks Monster will randomly say "Stop". When he does we all have to stop, but Vita has to not only "stop", but "sit" and "look" at mom. Then we continue on when Monster says "go". Sometimes Monster has us stopping and going every two feet lol.

What this game does is, well, #1 causes Dylan to laugh like crazy because of all the fast random stops, but it helps Bella Vita work on her basic commands. Walking on a loose leash, sitting every time we stop and looking at mom for the next move.

The randomness of Monsters commands also keeps Vita (and mom) on her toes watching and listening for what we may do next. In turn keeping Vita's attention on us and not the dogs in the house next to us barking mad through the window.

**Rules are:
-Little Monsters must hold moms/dads hand.
-We never "stop" in the middle of any street.
-We must look both ways before crossing streets.
-Mom makes sure we have plenty of tasty treats on hand for Vita and she keeps those "good girls" coming.
-Make sure you change the pace of the walk.
-When you start to walk, make sure your dog is looking at you and always lead with your left leg. (the leg closest to your dog). 

Have fun on your outings all and enjoy your family. 
www.modifiedk9.org

Homemade Tug Toys

1.) What you will need is (3) long pieces of material from old jeans, blankets, clothing or any type of fabric.

2.) Tie the one end into a tight knot. We like to tie a few knots to make sure it is secure. 

3.) Have someone hold that end so you can "very tightly" braid the three pieces of fabric. If you do not have anyone to hold it for you, put it under your foot. 

**The tighter you braid the tougher it will be for the dogs to pull it apart.

4.) Tie the end piece into several knots as you did the first, find a pup and let them enjoy their new toy!

Rope toys in stores range in price anywhere from $8.00 to $25.00 depending on length and size. Using recycled fabric you will save a load of money. ;)

Making homemade toys for our fur kids is a lot of fun! We think so and so do our dogs.

Plus it tires them out. ;)
!!Enjoy!!

A Cat Toy for Dogs

The flirt pole will remind you of a big cat toy, 

but for our canine buddies. 

Made of 5ft-6ft PVC pipe, 13ft-15 ft rope (adjust as needed), & a favorite toy of your dogs which all comes to around $9.00-$12.00.

This is one of our favorite tools for tiring out our dogs, besides the treadmill and nose work. 

It is used for basic obedience, training and positive reinforcement. All while making the time with your dog fun, exciting and rewarding!! 

Your dog should already be familiar with the commands:

sit, stay/wait, look, down, leave it/drop it & ok/take it.

When using the flirt pole make sure your dog does not grab the toy with out your command.

If he/she does, stop the game and start over with your dog in a sit or down.

The mind stimulation your dog receives, 

plus the exercise will make for a very happy and content pup by the end of the session.

And the best part. . .the reward C:

ENJOY!

Dog on a Treadmill?

We say yes, YES, YES!!

Chelle & Alumni Polly Pocket

Treadmills are a great energy re-leasers and come in handy on days where we can not get out doors with our dogs. The treadmill will not only kick some of the extra energy your dog may have, but it is also a great mind stimulating exercise! When your dog is on the treadmill they have to think for themselves to stay in time with the treadmill as it moves. Treadmills can come in handy if you have a multi dog home and need to make sure all the pups in your care get their exercise in for the day. 

When you start your dog off on the treadmill (make sure you have treats on hand) you want him/her to get used to the surroundings and this new "thing" in your home. Let him/her walk on and off of it, let them sit on it and even ask them to lay down on or near it so they know there is nothing to fear. 

Guide them by it and reward them for accepting it.

Some dogs take longer then other to get used to this machine, so when you aim to teach your dog to use the treadmill make sure you have about 2-3 hours set aside at first. Be sure there are no to very little distraction in your home, and make sure your pup has done his/her business before you get started. You do not want to rush your dog, let him/her get comfortable at their own pace. In return your dog will accept this new training exercise and will look forward it.

To get Polly Pocket use to this new contraption, we sat on the treadmill and guided her over with some high value treats. We praised her for walking up to it, stepping on it and then sitting on it. Polly loves the praise and knowing she is doing a good job. This little lady catches on quick with just about everything she is shown. **Keep in mind every dog is different and may approach this new challenge in a different way so be patient, be consistent and keep those treats coming.**

After about a 20 minutes we faced Polly in the right direction with Chelle standing over her making sure she wasn't going to jump off or get too overwhelmed when we started it up. Having one hand on the leash over Pollys head and the other hand at Polly's side (so she knew not to jump off) reassured her everything will be ok and she is doing a GREAT job!!

We started Polly off at the lowest setting, letting her get familiar with it moving on its own. At first she wasn't sure what this was all about and was walking a in a zig zag motion, but Chelle stayed in place talking to her, telling Polly what good girl she was.

Holding treats in front of her face helped her keep moving forward and rewarded her for doing so. Polly and treats go very very well together. Along with praise. { Did we mention she LOVES to be told what a good girl she is.}

Keep those treats coming for the first time learning

Polly goes for about 15-20 minutes a day, trotting at a fast pace getting up to 2 miles. Polly enjoys the treadmill and will even go over to it when it is off and sit on it looking at you with that "Well, we gunna do this or what" face. It took Polly a total of an hour and a half to get fully comfortable to where Chelle could stand up and let Polly just trot away. 

After a few more times Polly will be able to jump on without Chelle standing over top of her.

Good Girl Polly!!!! 

 Please note: When your dog is doing more activity then normal you have to monitor their food intake. Make sure they are getting what they need for the exercises they are doing! And ALWAYS check with your vet and make sure your pup is healthy for some extended exercise.

Balance is key to a healthy life. Good food, Exercise, Mind stimulation, Love, Play and REST, make for a happy dog and a happy owner. 

Treadmill donations are still needed for our rescue dogs. 

If you can spare a treadmill that is in working condition please email mk9karen@hotmail.com 

We are located by Philadelphia & Scranton/Wilke barre areas. 

Busy Bulls & a Box

As you all know treat/food dispensing dog toys can be a bit pricey, unless you find a killer deal on amazon. Even then they tend to add up. So what do we do to keep our fur kids happy and busy while we save up?

We utilize what we have at home!

Thankfully, our dogs are easy to please and appreciate anything we do for them which in turn makes it very easy for us humans to accommodate their need for some mind stimulation. Here is a fun way to use a few things you may have laying around the house to keep your fur kids occupied, especially on a rainy/cold days.

It can also be used during meal time for that oh so loved "Nothing In Life Is Free" method.

What you will need to gather up:


1. An empty box - size depends on your dog











2. A old blanket, sheet or shirt. - You can use any type of cloth you may have laying around and do not care about. It get a bit torn and tattered with what is about to go on. The amount of cloth items you use is up to you.




3. We use the kibble we feed our dogs. - You can use treats, baby carrots or anything your dogs finds tasty. You will want to use a good amount to keep your dog occupied and interested, so that is why we use their meal time measurements.







4. Put the kibble / treats in the cloth - You will want to tuck it, roll it, twist it and add it to different sections of the cloth you are using so your pups will have to dig through it and have a bit of a challenge.

5. Place the cloth inside the box and add kibble / treats - Place some kibble/treats throughout the box, on and around the cloth.










6. Fold the top of the box closed - Ask your pup to sit, down or wait for their game to begin and then tell them to take or get it. . .

Bella Vita

Brad Pit

Make sure you visit our Face Book page and our Web Site 

Thanks all for looking. 

Eye Contact - Teaching your dog to focus on you.

Eye Contact: 

To teach your dog to "look at you" is a very simple command to teach to your dogs. Not only is it a great mind stimulation game, works on name recognition and increased the bond you have with your dog, but it will also help teach your dog NOT to pull on his/her leash while out on walks and makes it easier for you to communicate with your dog when there are pesky distractions around that may normally get your dog in a tizzy. 

Teaching your dog to look at you should be an every day interaction, just like the Nothing in life is free method. 

The best way to teach a new command to your dog is with as little (if any) distraction as possible. 

Ok, Ready to learn to teach your dogs to focus on you!?

#1 With little to no distractions start with your dog in sitting or standing in front of you, place the treats in your left hand. Wait patiently. The INSTANT that your dog looks or glaces up at your face, TREAT. - (If you use a clicker you can mark the exact moment when your dogs eyes look at you & then treat)

#2 After the dog eats the treat let a few "seconds" elapse and wait for your dog to look at something else…

#3 Say your dog’s name, and the second he looks up at your face, TREAT. (again (If you use a clicker you can mark the exact moment when your dogs eyes look at you & then treat)

#4 Repeat steps 1-3 until your dog is looking up at you every single time you say his name. 

( To summarize:Every time your dog looks at you when you say his name, he gets a TREAT)

SIDE NOTE:
In the beginning for some dogs it may help to hold up the treat between your eyes to get your dog to focus on your face.
***But make sure you do NOT rewarding your dog for following your hand from the treat bag up to your eyes.

-ONLY reward your dog for those times that your dog looked away (at something other than you or the treats) and then back at you.

____________________________

Tips:
-Do this ( Before ) your dog eats his/her meal. You want them a bit hungry for an extra boost of attention. ;)

-Be consistent: if you reward your dog for EVERY time he looks at you for saying his name, you will always have his undivided attention. 

-Keep any training sessions short and sweet, so you have your dogs full attention. When your dog gets bored you will have a hard time ending on a "positive note".

-Start off in one spot, try not to move around a lot. 

-Do these steps a few times a day until your dog does not hesitate to you at your face when you say his name, then take it out doors and repeat steps 1 - 4.

REMEMBER ALWAYS: 

Have patience & be consistent.

When you have time also Check out this fun article: 

"Your Dog is Watching You"