Your Monthly Tailwag!

February 2024

Welcome to the following pups that had their first stay with the Caledon Tailblazers in January!

  • Travis

  • Roxy

  • Sadie

 

Happy birthday 🎂 to these pups that are celebrating a birthday in February!

  • Murphy

  • Rocki

  • Lola (Feb 29th! Happy 1st/4th birthday Lola!)

 

 

I'm writing this month's newsletter from my parent's dining room table in Ottawa. My mother celebrated her 75th birthday this past Thursday and Rob and I came for a surprise visit to help her celebrate. As I look out the window, wondering what to write about this month, the snow is softly falling outside. Ottawa may only be a bit further north than Caledon but they certainly get a lot more snow! We were hoping to skate on the canal today but Ottawa had so much rain this past week that the canal is now closed. We brought Mocha with us on this short road trip and she is enjoying a quiet weekend with her cousin Ollie at Oma's house. She's getting more attention and uninterrupted naps so she's happy! As long as we bring her bed she's happy anywhere we go. I'm trying a new platform this month to create my newsletter, I think it's more streamlined but there is not as much room for photos. So if you are wondering why there are fewer photos, that is why.

 

January, February, and March are all busy months at Caledon Tailblazers with many pet owners seeking warmer climates for some well deserved R & R. The dogs also enjoy their "vacations" with treats, cuddles, and playdates with pals at our house! March break is fully booked and there is very limited availability in February. Hopefully, you've been in touch and booked with me if you are planning on traveling this month! Speaking of traveling, we have booked some vacation so check below in the News & Announcements section for dates when Caledon Tailblazers will be closed.

 

Wishing everyone a warm and cozy February,

Katrien

Mastering Behaviour Modification:

A Guide to Positive Dog Training

As a dog owner, one of the most rewarding aspects of your journey together is undoubtedly the unique bond that develops between you and your furry companion. However, like any relationship, challenges may arise, particularly in the form of undesirable behaviours exhibited by your four-legged friend. This is where behaviour modification, rooted in positive dog training techniques, becomes an invaluable tool.

 

Understanding Behaviour Modification

Behaviour modification is the process of systematically changing behaviour through a combination of positive reinforcement and, when necessary, appropriate consequences. The goal is not to punish the dog but to encourage desired behaviours while discouraging undesirable ones. Approaching behaviour modification with patience, consistency, and a positive mindset fosters a healthier and more trusting relationship between you and your canine friend.

 

The Power of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog for exhibiting the desired behaviour. This can be in the form of treats, praise, toys, or affection. When your dog associates good behaviour with positive outcomes, they are more likely to repeat those behaviours. For instance, praising and rewarding your dog for sitting calmly rather than jumping up on guests reinforces the idea that calm behaviour is rewarded.

 

Identifying and Addressing Undesirable Behaviours

Before implementing behaviour modification, it's crucial to identify the specific behaviours you wish to modify. Common undesirable behaviours include:

 

  1. Excessive Barking: Training techniques can be employed to reduce or eliminate excessive barking. Positive reinforcement for quiet behaviour and redirecting attention to alternative activities are common approaches.

  2. Jumping Up: Dogs may jump up on people as a way of seeking attention. Behaviour modification can involve teaching the dog alternative behaviours, such as sitting, and rewarding calm greetings.

  3. Chewing and Destructive Behaviour: Dogs may engage in destructive chewing due to boredom or anxiety. Providing appropriate chew toys, using positive reinforcement, and addressing the root cause of stress can help modify this behaviour.

  4. Aggression: Aggressive behaviours, whether directed at people, other animals, or objects, require careful behaviour modification. Techniques may include desensitization, counterconditioning, and positive reinforcement for calm behaviour.

  5. Pulling on the Leash: Dogs that pull on the leash during walks can be trained to walk politely using positive reinforcement. Teaching loose-leash walking and rewarding good behaviour can make walks more enjoyable.

  6. Separation Anxiety: Dogs with separation anxiety may exhibit destructive behaviours when left alone. Behaviour modification involves gradually increasing the time the dog spends alone, providing comfort items, and creating a positive association with alone time.

  7. Digging: Digging behaviour can be addressed by creating designated digging areas, using deterrents for undesirable digging spots, and providing mental and physical stimulation.

  8. Counter Surfing: Dogs may attempt to snatch food from counters. Behaviour modification involves teaching the "leave it" command, ensuring counters are clear of tempting items, and rewarding appropriate behaviour.

  9. Fear and Phobias: Dogs that exhibit fear or phobias, such as fear of thunderstorms or fireworks, can benefit from behaviour modification techniques like desensitization and counterconditioning to create positive associations.

  10. Hyperactivity: For overly energetic dogs, behaviour modification includes providing sufficient physical and mental exercise, teaching calming commands, and rewarding calm behaviour.

 

Once identified, create a plan to address each behaviour individually.

 

Building a Training Routine

Consistency is key in behaviour modification. Establish a daily training routine that includes short, focused sessions. Use clear, simple commands, and reward your dog immediately when they exhibit the desired behaviour. Consistent positive reinforcement strengthens the connection between the behaviour and the reward.

 

Patience and Understanding

Remember that behaviour modification takes time. Dogs, like humans, need time to learn and adapt. Avoid frustration, and instead, approach each training session with patience and understanding. If your dog makes a mistake, redirect their behaviour positively and try again. Celebrate small victories along the way.

 

Seeking Professional Guidance

In some cases, seeking professional help can be beneficial, especially for complex behavioural issues. Certified dog trainers or behaviourists can provide tailored guidance and support, ensuring a more effective and positive training experience.

 

Conclusion

Behaviour modification for dogs is not about dominance or control; it's about building a strong, loving bond based on trust and communication. By focusing on positive reinforcement, identifying specific behaviours, maintaining consistency, and exercising patience, you can guide your furry friend toward becoming a well-behaved and happy member of your family. Embrace the journey of behaviour modification as an opportunity to deepen your connection and create a harmonious living environment for both you and your canine companion.

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News & Announcements!

 

We have booked some holidays for 2024 and I would like to make note of the dates that we will be unavailable for dog sitting:

 

May 19 - May 26

June 21 - June 23

July 20 - July 28

 

Please remember to book early to avoid disappointment! I am limited with how many dogs I can accommodate at one time.  If your plans change be sure to let me know asap so that I can open up the spot for others.  Please see our new rules regarding deposits & cancelations.

 

Tailblazer Guidelines:

 

All reservations 4+ nights will now require a $100 non-refundable deposit one month prior to the first night of the booking.  Full payment of the reservation is due 48 hours before the beginning of the reservation for all lengths of stay (overnight only).

 

Reservations 4+ nights must be cancelled at least one week in advance or the deposit will be forfeited.  If the reservation is cancelled with a week or more notice then the deposit will be applied to a future visit.

 

Overnight reservations <= 3 nights must be cancelled at least 24 hours ahead of time otherwise a $50 cancellation fee will be charged (for a single dog and $85 for two dogs).  Doggie daycare must be cancelled 24 hours in advance or a $25 cancellation fee will be charged (for a single dog).

 

Please note, long weekends, Christmas, and March break will be subject to the same rules as our 4+ overnight bookings.

 

Please do your best to drop off and pick up at the agreed upon time.  If you are going to be early or late please contact me as soon as possible by text.

 

If your dog pulls when being walked on a leash then some type of training collar is required.  If one is not provided then I will use one of my own. I will discuss the use of a prong collar with you prior to using one.

 

Dogs must get along with other dogs and be tolerant of cats.  I am limited in my setup to separate dogs and it causes a lot of extra stress when dogs are reactive to other dogs or to cats.  My cats are very dog savvy and can handle a curious or energetic dog.  However, if a dog shows aggression towards a cat then unfortunately I am not able to accommodate that dog.

Get in Touch

Questions? Reach out to me through our website!

 
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29 Larry Street, Caledon East, ON, Canada
647-393-1877

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