Resources
I am not affiliated with any of the below mentioned resources. This list is compiled from my own research that I find valuable and share with you in hopes of you finding them helpful. Understanding that dog behaviour is complex is important. Often, there is an underlying cause that is driving the behaviour to occur. Some of these resources may help you to understand some of the underlying causes and educate you on holistic & proactive care for our canine companions.
Diet & Feeding
Feeding our dogs a diet of fresh and whole foods has an enormous affect on their entire wellbeing. Food is information for the body and can dictate how DNA functions. Nutrition greatly impacts your dog's health span and life span, for better or for worse. These resources are to help you optimise your dog's nutrition to ensure they are able to live a rich, fulfilled and long life with you.
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Loose leash walking by Melissa Spooner-Raymond, LVT, VTS (Behavior), BS, KPA-CTP, TAGteach Level One
'Three ways that management can help you with your pet' by AVSAB
'What is place training for your dog?' by Ilsa Foreman (me!)
'How to save your shoes from your pup and teach appropriate chewing behaviour' by Ilsa Foreman
'Teach your dog control and patience with this quick and simple game' by Ilsa Foreman
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Training information & Equipment
Behaviour modification training is a multi-faceted process. There is no quick fix for behaviour change and it does not included relying on tools to do the job. Tools are simply that, pieces of equipment that can aid in the management, prevention and learning of behaviours and the environment in which they exist. Behaviour modification requires a thorough assessment of the current behaviours, identifying any underlying causes such as pain or anxiety, and creating a tailored treatment plan to change how your dog feels and behaves. I encourage you to look deeper than just at the presenting behaviour your dog displays.
Medical
Just like in us, hormones play a significant role in your dog's mind & body development, growth and maturity. Desexing options are changing for the better and more veterinary clinics (within Australia) are offering procedures which enable hormone production to continue without the risk of pregnancy and unwanted litters. Your local vet may not offer it or be educated in it, however with the assistance of this information you will be able to have more informed conversations and decisions. That may include finding a more integrative clinic. Responsible pet ownership is always the priority. Holistic & proactive care includes continuing to update outdated methods and practises as technology and research becomes available.
Grooming
Grooming should always be a co-operative interaction between you and your dog. To help avoid aversions and fears developing as your pup ages, ensure you participate in co-operative husbandry practises frequently during their critical socialisation period. There are a variety of products on the market to enable co-operative care is still carried out, if the 'traditional' methods are unable to be used.
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'Help! My Dog Hates His Nails Cut … What Do I Do?' by Susan Garrett
'Does Your Dog Training Need a Shot of Joy?' by Susan Garrett
'Nail Boards: An Alternative to Clipping Nails' by Christine D. Calder, DVM, DACVB
'This! One is About Conditioning the Dremel for Puppy Nails' by Susan Garrett
'Training your dog to use a scratch board!' video by A Good Feeling Dog Training
'5 tips for training your dog to like grooming and nail trimming' video by Kikopup
'DIY Scratchboard' article & video by A Good Feeling Dog Training
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Education & Courses
Dog training courses play a crucial role in fostering a cooperative and positive relationship between you and your canine companion. By enrolling in these courses, you'll learn essential techniques to ensure grooming becomes a stress-free and enjoyable interaction throughout your dog's life. Implementing co-operative husbandry practices during their critical socialisation period can prevent aversions and fears from developing as they grow.