Do you need a dog trainer or a 'but' fixer?

In this Issue

• 🐩 Choosing a trainer that won’t ruin your dog’s personality

• ❓ Poll results - Does your dog get a gift on major holidays?

• 🦠 Gut health and diet

• 💞 Vet recommendations - Bonding

• 🍪 Treats - interesting articles and links for doggos

Finding a “but” fixer

There was an episode of Yukon Vet (available to watch free here) called "Ain't Nothin' but a Hound Dog," in which the owner of an exceptionally randy male dog was nervous about having him neutered because he was worried it would affect his personality.

We see the same concern in dog owners who wish their dog was more well-behaved but aren’t willing to sacrifice their dog’s vibrant personality to reach that goal.

We’ve got good news: You don’t have to!

(And if you’re wondering, the hound dog was his normal, active self after getting neutered!)

Poll Results

We asked, and you answered! We love that the majority of pets get spoiled rotten at the holidays.

Sit & Stay Pro Tip — Fixing Your Dog’s “But” Without Ruining Their Personality

Let’s face it: Nowadays, if you want a robot dog, you can buy one. You fell in love with your real, live dog because they have personality. Maybe they were a calm, gentle presence during a stressful time. Maybe they were excited and active when you had difficulty feeling motivated to exercise. Maybe they were just there to cuddle when you felt lonely.

Whatever your story, you love your dog just the way they are—but it’s okay to admit there are certain habits or behavioral quirks you’re just tolerating.

For example:

• Your dog is great, but…they dig up the yard.

• Your dog is great, but…they keep attacking the cat.

• Your dog is great, but…they pee in the house.

It’s okay to ask for help! Just make sure you’re working with a trainer who values your dog’s personality. Here are a few indicators you’ve found a trainer that’s right for you:

1. They don’t expect your dog to fit in a mold.

A dog trainer that cares about personality will take time to learn about your dog as an individual. What motivates them? Are they a lone wolf, or do they thrive in a pack? Are they an alpha dog or submissive?

Your trainer should consider these factors and customize the training program to suit your dog.

1. They utilize more than one training method.

If your dog trainer only knows one way to train, they don’t have the tools to treat your dog as an individual. They should do more than “clicker training,” “treat training,” or “correction collar training.”

Choose a professional trainer who has studied multiple training methods, the psychology of dog training, its history, etc. It always helps to choose a certified trainer and ask what their certification entails!

1. They love dogs!

Your trainer should love dogs as much as you do. If you get the sense that they think dog training is an easy side job or they don’t share the same passion for animals, then switch quick! The ideal trainer will understand your concerns because they’ll know—from experience—just how sacred a dog’s personality is.

Gut health and diet

Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial for dogs to live their best life.

The digestive system is responsible for the absorption of nutrients and elimination of waste, which is why gut health is so important. A dog's immune system is also largely located in the gut, so supporting gut health is essential to overall well-being.

A personalized diet can help to ensure that each dog is receiving the right balance of nutrients for their specific needs. This can include accounting for food intolerances or allergies, as well as considering the dog's age, weight, and activity level.

Choosing a non-GMO dry dog food can also be beneficial in supporting gut health by avoiding potentially harmful additives and chemicals. By prioritizing gut health through a personalized diet and non-GMO food, we can help our furry friends live their best lives.

We suggest you bring this up as a topic for your next vet visit and get some recommendations.

We’ve heard good feedback on Yumwoof’s personalized plans, as they will offer a free consultation, and specialize in sensitive stomachs or skin.

The Smile Section

Vet Recommendations

The bond you develop with your dog is like no other. Building and maintaining that bond is also a vital component of successful dog training! Browse these websites for vet-approved tips on how to bond with your dog.

Puppy bonding — Ohio State UniversityBonding without fostering separation anxiety — Daily PawsThe science behind the dog/human bond — Great Pet Care

Treats

• Gen Z likes their pets more than their partners: According to a survey of 2,000 pet owners, 36% admit they get more joy from seeing their pet happy than their partner

• $230k raised for an indestructible, inflatable kennel

• Dog becomes mayor of Niagara Falls

Want your dog to be featured?

We’d love to!

Think your dog can make us smile? Submit a pic to [email protected] for a chance to see your pet in our Smile Section!