Pet Examiner Columnist Karen Lee Stevens Makes a Great Dog Foster Mom!

Hello to my dedicated Poncho Prose followers. As many of you already know, me and my mom write a dog behavior advice column called Dear Inquisitive Canine - We receive many emails and try to answer as many as we can, but once in awhile I like to veer off on my own to answer an extra one or two. My mom being a certified professional dog trainer knows that sometimes people and dogs need more of an immediate answer, so I'm sure she won't mind if I work a little overtime.

Our friend Karen Lee Stevens is an animal advocate here in Santa Barbara. She is also a columnist, writer and editor, and the founder of All for Animals - a website devoted to resources for animal lovers in Santa Barbara, California (and the surrounding areas). It includes dogs, cats and other pets that are available for adoptions, animal events in the Santa Barbara area, and general information on how you can help animals.

It seems that Miss. Karen had a question for yours truly. Well, she and I share a speciate bond, so I thought it would be polite of me to work a little overtime and write her back. The question she asks has to do with creating pleasant associations for a guest chihuahua she will be taking care of over the holidays. The suggestions I give would work with other dogs (and other animals) too, so I thought I'd pass the word along to all of you.

Dear Poncho - Do you have any dog training tips you can give me about caring for a tiny (5.5 lb.) Chihuahua?! I'm going to be fostering one over the holidays and I'm a little concerned as I have an 11 lb. cat (who's very non-aggressive and actually likes dogs). This pup seems so delicate, and I want to do everything right (such as put a sweater on her, etc.). She came from a terrible hoarding situation in Santa Maria, but is a total lovebug despite her background. Any hints you can share would be appreciated. :) Warmly, Karen

Dear Miss. Karen - Wow, you are one amazing dog-nanny! Me and my certified dog trainer mom Joan Mayer both appreciate when animal loving humans like yourself take the time to not only care for others, but you take the extra time to plan for creating a harmonious time together.

I'd be happy to provide a few dog training tips for you and your new guest. If things work out for everyone, maybe she'll be able to come back for a visit.

• Allow ALL animals to set the pace of the situation. In other words, don't force the pup or the kitty to like each other. Unless one is in danger of getting hurt, allow each one to communicate in his and her own language, while you and other humans refrain from interrupting the "conversation."
• Think "chicken"! Or steak or salmon. I'm talking good ol' fashioned Pavlovian conditioning! Whether you're dressing her up in a sweater, picking her up, or when the kitty enters the room, your pup gets little tidbits of chicken. This way she associates all of these things with yummy treats! She'll begin to love each one because each is followed by chicken! For additional information on dogs learning by association, check out this blog post I wrote on creating good first impressions between two dogs.
• Small doesn't equal toy. Us tinier poochies tend to cause humans to react like we're toys! They often want to grab at us or pick us up and squeeze us like we're stuffed animals. Humans need to keep in mind that we're real live animals that have preferences, feelings and emotions. We have to learn to trust you first. So this goes back to the first two tips: allow your foster chihuahua to set the pace on trusting others. Pair chicken (or some other yummy juicy meat type treat) with the person, place, thing or situation you want us to love, and she should - with time and patience on your part of course.
• House Training: Take the time to show your guest where the "bathroom" is. She might understand where to potty where she used to live, but possibly not in your home. For house training tips please check out these blog posts.
• Proper Identification: make sure she's wearing a collar with ID that has YOUR information on it. Even a temporary plastic tag - just in case she gets lost while staying with you, this way whoever finds her can contact you directly.

Well Miss. Karen I hope these dog training tips I've provided for you and your house guest are helpful. I wonder if I'll ever get to meet her? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder.

Pumpkin Pancakes Make Perfect Addition to Kong Toy Stuffing Recipe

My doggy sniffing sense is in high gear this Xmas morning....My mom the Ventura dog trainer and Kong toy stuffing extraordinaire is making homemade pumpkin pancakes for dad on this fine holiday morning. So, what does she do with the leftovers? Into the big Kong bowl it goes for yours truly!

Mom doesn't normally share her recipes, but since I was watching closely, and one of our @joanthedogcoach twitter followers asked, I thought I'd share this recipe...Mom will be cool with it because she knows these delectable edibles are a nice addition to use for stuffing into a Kong or as a nice reward for coming when called!

So this is what she did: (Remember, I'm not a professional recipe writer, just a blogger about dog and human behavior)

• In mixing bowl beat one egg, 1/2 cup water, 3 tablespoons cream, 1/2 cup canned pumpkin, 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
• Add one and one eight cup buttermilk pancake mix, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice or cinnamon.
• Mix gently until incorporated, without over-mixing (if you beat it up too much all the air goes away...then the cakes are more like bricks...)
• Heat skillet (mom uses one of those heavy cast iron skillets), add enough butter to grease the pan, then drop spoonfuls onto skillet - cook until brown, flip, cook until done - Keep warm in the oven until you're ready to chow down!
• As for toppings, dad only likes butter on top - You can certainly add anything you like. Personally, I'd like lamb baby food or bacon, mom would prefer real Vermont maple syrup or pumpkin butter...

To read more about Kong stuffing ideas check out moms dog training tips blog post.

I see mom putting that leftover piece off dads plate into my treat pouch... I wonder where we're headed? Hmm, something for this now hungry inquisitive canine to ponder!

Getting a Jump on Dog Greeting Behavior

With the holidays approaching yours truly will be given more opportunities to greet lots of humans. Since mom and I recently received a question through our Dear Inquisitive Canine dog behavior advice column, I thought I'd tackle the blog post while my ventura dog trainer mom handles the column. (We make a good team that way!)

Being a dog, I know that jumping up to greet is normal amongst our canine culture - that's just how it is and just how we are. Similar to you humans grabbing each others paws, putting arms around each other, or kissing, us dogs also have an inherent greeting style - and it includes jumping up!

Whether it's family like my nana Mae, long time friends that come over, or new friends that I meet at our inquisitive canine dog training studio in Ventura, I have learned that sitting or having all of my paws on the floor will get me lots of loving attention! (Sometimes a yummy treat too).

I'm still unsure why many of you haven't figured that one out yet, after all, your species has been known to be pretty clever with observing and deciphering information. It seems that there are some myths out there, including we're trying to be "dominant" or "aggressive" or take over the world! HA! That's a good one. Nope. Sorry, but what we're really trying to do is say hello in the loving way we know how.

You can make life simple for yourself and your dog too - while still getting to say hello! How can we all make a polite greeting compromise? Simple:

• Determine what it is you want from us: Sitting? Four (paws) on the floor?
• Tell us what you want in a way we understand: Reward us with petting, praise, treats, play. Yelling, pushing us down or kneeing us in the chest is either mean or time for play. Plus, if we are still jumping up then duh, it's not working! Change your behavior!
• Reward us for those behaviors: We'll do more of what you want if we're rewarded for it!
• Ignore us completely if we're jumping up: Yikes! Ignoring us when we want attention is quite punishing! Which means we'll do less of what we're punished for.

Mom wrote another post on dogs jumping up to greet - you can read that here on her Ventura dog trainer blog.

Hmm, I wonder how many people I'm going to get to meet today? Something for this inquisitive canine to ponder?

Pets as a Gift Can Be a "Ruff" Road

For this Friday's Dear Inquisitive Canine dog behavior advice column, mom is addressing the issue of giving a dog or cat as a gift. Oh boy, that's a hot topic, and one that yours truly would like to comment on as well.

The following are some of the questions my certified dog trainer mom is asking her readers to ask themselves. She also asks these questions to the virtual dog training class "Before You Adopt a Dog" attendee's. I thought I'd ask you the questions too, but in my little inquisitive canine way:

1. WHY do you want a dog or cat? Are you bored? Lonely? Think we're cute? Because someone in your family begged you to get one? Because you have another animal at home that you think is lonely? Or because you know how wonderful us dogs and cats are, and that you love having us as part of your life? If it's only for the last question, then by all means, think seriously about adopting a pet. I could recommend a few places you could find one just as wonderful as moi. If it's for all of the other reasons I'd ask you to think critically about adding the stressors of having a pet. If it's for someone else, you know you'll end up being the main caregiver. And to be honest, many dogs and cats don't make the best pet sitters.
2. Is this the best time in your life to have a dog or cat (or some other pet)? Are you gone all day long? All night long? Travel a lot? For many cats, they are okay at home alone, but us dogs, especially the youngsters and higher energy ones can get bored. We're also very social animals and don't do as well on our own as other animals. Be prepared for situations like isolation distress, separation anxiety, and boredom destruction of furniture and whatnot.
3. Are there any foreseeable life-changing events in your future? Are you getting married? Divorced? Having human children? Ill? Changing jobs? Moving? Us dogs can live a long time, so plan on taking us throughout your journeys.
4. Can you afford us? I know we're less costly than humans, but we still might cost you a pretty penny. I've know a few dogs and cats that had to have surgery or who were really ill and needed special medical care. Then there's the regular stuff like food, licensing, vaccinations, leashes, toys, collars, more toys, treats, food, more toys, and beds!
5. What pet would fit best with your lifestyle? Think about your family, your job, where you live, how you get around town. How much extra time do you have to devote to a pet? What sacrifices are you willing to make?
6. From where do you plan on adopting a dog? Breeder? Shelter or rescue group? Friend or family? There are lots of us shelter dogs out there that are in need of a loving home. If you end up buying from a breeder, please do your homework. Many of my shelter buddies originally came from breeders.

I remember when mom and dad came to the Animal Kind Rescue shelter in Studio City to meet me. They had heard the rumor that I loved tennis balls (which I do), and since dad plays tennis they thought we'd get along. They were right! They both knew instantly, as did I, that we'd hit it off and create a beautiful relationship! And here we are today...enjoying all that life together has to offer.

Both mom, dad and I agree that there isn't anything more special than having a loving relationship with a pet. But we all know it takes responsibility and commitment. So we ask, before you adopt, especially a pet begin given as a gift, do your homework first, so you can set yourself and your pet up for success!

I wonder how my former shelter buddies are doing? I wonder if they were given as gifts? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder.

I May be an Inquisitive Canine, But This Dog is Also Thankful

I was just helping mom write up our inquisitive canine newsletter, and decided to add a little bit about why I'm so thankful - 'tis the season after all, right? I know mom and I are both thankful that we get to do what we love, because we both love what we do! But I wanted to let mom, dad and all of my friends and family know what else I'm thankful for, because obviously these are just a few things I find positively reinforcing!

• Mom and dad
• Tennis balls
• Chicken
• Warm laps to curl up on
• Road trips with mom and dad
• Costco hot dogs
• My basketball squeaky toy
• Having a bed in every room
• Steak!
• All of my blankies
• Belly rubs from mom, dad, my friend Miss. Lisa and anyone else willing to give them
• Going to work with mom and dad
• Turkey stuffed Kongs
• Agility class with Miss. Margie
• My ponchos prose blog and dog behavior advice column
• Running with mom
• Watching mom cook (and hopefully getting to help taste)
• The mailman
• Cookies crumbs off of dads lap
• Snuggling with mom
• Car rides
• Trips to the field with dad
• Costco yogurt with mom
• Animal shelters like C.A.R.L. and the Humane Society of Ventura County
• Pork tenderloin and UPS
• EJ Harrison (even though they are my nemesis, I usually get steak when they're around)
• Costco churros with dad
• And all of my human and canine friends!

There are many more things I am thankful for, but these are what I could think of now... I wonder if all of you are thankful for the same things? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder...but you can certainly comment and share!

The Importance of Using Science to Study Dog Behavior

As you might know I'm one inquisitive canine that enjoys hanging out in the science camp of animal behavior, just like my mom the Ventura dog trainer,especially if I get to be a study subject (well, only if it involves humane techniques, not that "I gotta be a dominant pack leader" type that totally stresses me out.) Ugh, I've written about that myth before - click here to find out more about my canine point of view on dominance myth in dog training.

Anywho, I was out with mom and dad last week, going for exercise, running errands together (two of my favorite motivators), when they decided to get some positive reinforcement for themselves...Costco yogurt is one of moms favorite after she's gone for a long run. Dad and I sometimes share a hotdog, but this day in particular he decided to get something called a churro.

Since mom is totally into research and studying animal behavior, and dad is into research too (he runs studies where he works), they thought it would be fun to run their own little research project right in the middle of the Costco parking lot!

What was the study? Which treat this inquisitive canine would find more motivating: Frozen yogurt or Churro. You'd think I do backflips for both, but like mom teaches her dog training class students, each animal is an individual when it comes to likes and dislikes, and it's important to determine which motivators work better for certain situations, then use them to your advantage as opposed to giving everything away for free!

Don't get me wrong, I'll take anything I can get...I'm no idiot. But if mom learns from studying my behavior that I like one yummy item, or activity, more than another, she might use it for rewarding me during those times when the behavior might be more difficult for me to perform - such as coming when called when the garbage or mail trucks are around. She's not one to assume I'm thinking or feeling a certain way, she comes to conclusions by studying my behavior.

As you can see from the pictures, mom and dad presented me with both items, for three trials total. I would have done a lot more, but 1) mom and dad didn't want me to eat all of it (I could get sick) 2) mom and dad didn't want to share (the real reason).

What was the outcome? I'm my mothers son...yogurt wins! I do like the churro, but if I had my choice, the yogurt is numero uno in this inquisitive canine's book of positive reinforcers! Viva la science of animal behavior!! And viva la Costco yogurt!

I wonder what's next on the ol' animal research agenda? Beef versus lamb? Croutons versus potato chips? UPS versus E.J. Harrison? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine and research geek to ponder.

Halloween Dress Up Makes Dog Training Fun!

Well it seems to be that time of year again... Large orange orbs are sitting outside our front door, and my mom the Ventura dog trainer feeds me my meals while I'm donning funny outfits.

I love watching her laugh. Why? Because when she laughs that means she's in a good mood. And when she is in a good mood, good things happen for me. We're all so predictable, aren't we? Helps when developing training plans.

Anyway, she often says it's "pet humiliation" but to be honest I couldn't care less about what others think of me. I'm having too much fun. All I have to do is appease her by wearing an outfit, while I get chicken, steak, crackers, and a rousing game of fetch!

What's the big deal? I mean what's the difference between what I'm doing and when you humans wear a suit and get a paycheck? I bet mom and I are having more fun! If you'd like to learn more about how mom taught me to enjoy wearing costumes, check out our Dear Inquisitive Canine dog behavior advice column this week on Noozhawk.

As for other inquisitive canines, I know I'm not the only one playing dress-up. My buddy Josh Spiker of Inside Track Running Store of Ventura enjoys dressing his dogs up too! This is one of his dogs, Mia, the Killer Pumpkin! She looks hot! We'd make an awesome team I'm

sure...maybe we can go trick or treating together!

This year I've dressed up as a turtle and as an appealing banana - something tells me there are more costumes lingering around the house. Hmm, I wonder what they are? Something for this inquisitive trick-or-treater canine to ponder.

The Sight of New Dog Halloween Costumes Means Pavlov for This Dog

Mom came home with a shopping bag the other day. In it contained what looked to be new Halloween outfits for yours truly. I know it's a big deal is for you humans, especially the youngsters - everyone gets candy and goes to parties. But for this inquisitive canine I think it means I get steak, chicken and leftover baked goods of dads - which isn't a bad deal at all.

Mom, being a dog trainer and behavior counselor, likes to remind her dog training class students and private dog training clients (as well as all of the other pet parents she hasn't met yet) that Halloween can be a time for lots of fun with pets, but it's also a time where you need to be aware of your surroundings. A few simple and gentle safety reminders:

• Keep candy out of our reach! Dogs, cats, hamsters, rabbits and other animals that like to investigate, will, so make sure it's all put away. Sometimes pieces fall out of those big bags and land under furniture, which is easy for us dogs to find...Please be aware of where you place these items, especially when they are unattended.
• Decorations: Electrical cords, lights, candles, fake spiderwebs and other interesting items can be chewed up and sometimes ingested. Hey, we're not picky - we'll eat almost anything. Please make sure we're not left alone to play with them.
• Keep up inside where it's safe. There are some people out there in this crazy world that enjoy hurting us animals, especially during the Halloween season. They also like to blow things up. Sometimes we can get extra scared and run off. So please keep us indoors where it's safer.
• Make sure we are wearing our collars with proper ID. Just in case we do get out, or get scared and run off, make sure we are wearing our license and ID tags. You wouldn't want us going to the wrong place, or having someone find us and not know how to get a hold of you.
• Plan for helping you answer the door: If your dog is around to help you greet trick-or-treaters, and you don't want him or her running out the door, or jumping up to greet (because that's how we greet you know...we are dogs) then please make sure he or she is on leash to help you. Or, keep them in another room with a chewie toy.
• Make dress-up fun! Mom loves to dress me up for Halloween! (Dad too). But she likes to make it fun for me. We play a little game called "Pavlov's Pastime". Mom breaks out the chicken or steak, or other yummy items I consider to be high value, and gives me little pieces but only when I'm wearing my outfit. Or, sometimes we play fetch. As soon as she takes the outfit off of me, all the fun stops! I now associate my dorky outfit with fun times! Now I can't wait to put it on!

Last year I was a lobster...I wonder what I'm going to be this year? Hmm, something for this safe and inquisitive canine to ponder!

Are Us Dogs Really Your Best Friend? Or Are We Just Dogs?

My friend Carni moved onto that big fluffy dog bed in the sky yesterday. She was 17 years old, but it was still very difficult for all of us to say goodbye to her - Especially her mom and dad.

Miss. Lisa and Mr. J loved her so very much. I saw them today at moms dog training class. Sure they were all having fun playing with their dogs Ferris Wheel and Popcorn, and yours truly, but I know they were hurting inside. I overheard them talking about Miss. Carni.

I can read human body language...there were hugs, and tears, and a certain smell you humans have when you're stressed. Ferris, Poppy, and I decided it would be best to continue playing since that seemed to entertain all of you.

Miss. Lisa spent most of he adult life with her best buddy Carni. They traveled everywhere together - including those times of having to sleep in their car. Miss. Lisa, who happens to be an amazing veterinarian, wrote a beautiful "love letter" to Carni. She gave me permission to pass it along to you. I think it's beautiful, as do my mom and dad.

It has inspired me to go cuddle with my mom. I wonder if you humans experience grief the same way us dogs do? Something for this inquisitive canine to ponder.

_______

Just a Dog 9/17/09

As a human being, dog lover, and as a veterinarian, one of the saddest things anyone has ever said to me was “At the end of the day it’s just a dog”. In the heartbreaking days and nights before I put my beloved Carni girl to sleep I thought a lot about this comment and what “just a dog” meant to me.

To My Sweet Carni:

Because you are “just a dog” you never learned to hold a grudge. You never complained when I hauled you back and forth between California, Oregon, Washington, Oregon and California again. You were happy as long as you were with me. (and we played Frisbee at all the rest stops).

Because you are “just a dog” you never learned anger. You just curled up next to me when we had to sleep in the car because we were “between homes”. It was cold and snowy those few nights, but you kept me warm in the back of that Isuzu Trooper.

Because you are “just a dog” you never learned what “moderation” meant. You ate motor oil, my tulip bulbs, sprinkler heads, chocolate and half my spice rack.

Because you are “just a dog” you only knew how to live in the moment. You swam with abandon in every lake, river, ocean and stream from here to Washington. And even made me go in after you with my clothes on. (To the delight of everyone watching on the shore).

Because you are “just a dog” you loved me ever single second of every single hour of every single day of your almost 17 years. Because you are “just a dog” you taught me that we only need 3 things in life…food, shelter and love. And that is what I gave you and you gave me your heart. You gave me joy, you gave me love. And because you are my oldest friend-I am giving you peace.

Because you are a light that has guided me through almost half my life I won’t watch you just “exist”. You have put me first for 17 years and now because you are “just a dog” and my best friend, I am putting you first. Your quality of life is more important than the heartache I will forever feel when you are gone. You are more important than the piece of me that will forever be missing when I can’t see your sweet face or watch your tail wag at the site of me.

Because, at the end of MY day…just a dog, named Carni, was all I ever needed.

I love you Carni girl.

Dogs Pulling on Leash Can Be an Issue, But Not For This Dog

I need to have an inquisitive canine moment, hope you all don't mind:

• Why is it humans expect us pooches to know how to walk well on leash if we've never done it before? And why would you expect us to know how to walk well on leash if 1) we don't already know how, and 2) you haven't taught us?

If you found us dogs out in the wild, the last thing we'd want to do is have some obnoxious cord strapped to us while we roam, explore and hunt. Leashes are restricting, and frankly, just get in the way of our having a good time. They can also get tangled in various objects, including our own body parts. But since it's a law to have us dogs leashed (unless stated otherwise), it's one skill responsible dog guardians can teach to help promote a happy relationship that results in good times, not frustration.

Why do I bring this up? Well, mom and I get calls and emails all of the time from dog guardians expressing their frustration of how their own dog doesn't know how to walk well on leash. From dog training class students at our inquisitive canine studio and the Ventura College Community Education, to our private dog training clients, and our dog behavior advice column; people seem to need assistance in the matter of walking their dog on leash.

My mom, who happens to be a certified professional dog trainer, and I have written a few blog posts on the art of dogs and loose leash walking. We've also addressed the matter in our dog behavior advice column directly. However, I myself do not have that issue. As a matter of fact, I have the complete opposite - well, at least 99% of the time. If there is a mail, UPS, FedEx, or other large prey item roaming about, I'll pull so hard it makes those Iditarod pooches look slow.

For the most part I prefer a nice leisurely stroll - sniffing, marking, saying hello to

other dogs and humans...life's too short not to stop and smell the roses (or the dead stinky pile of muck.) Mom on the other hand, when she takes me out, enjoys an actual walk! She's a marathon runner herself. Since she knows I'm not like the herding and retrieving breeds that her friends have, she goes for her runs without me, then takes me on mine - this is when she makes it all about me, and not her.

But sometimes she does want me to keep up the pace and actually walk without stopping! Sometimes we even jog - which is kinda fun...I get to eat chicken when I jog. Little pieces once in awhile. She says it's similar to runners getting food and fluids during races. She refers to herself as my traveling aid station :-) I think that's sweet.

Anyway she wants me to jog, or keep a quicker pace because she wants me to do something you humans refer to as "exercise!" This way I'll be more tired and more likely to want to take nappies, versus bark my head off in the yard - she doesn't like when I do that. To me barking my head off is more fun, this is why mom wants to make walking and jogging with her more fun...she's conditioning me to be more like a herding breed. I guess this is good because then I'm in better shape to bark in the yard - or go to agility class!

A few tips I'd like to relay, from an inquisitive canine's point of view:

1. Make our walks about us once in awhile. If your own dog would rather sniff and explore, allow them to be a dog once in awhile. If you need to exercise, go on your own first, then take your dog for his or her outing.
2. Use humane, comfortable equipment: Mom and I like the harnesses where the leash attaches in the front. Not those nasty collars that cause us pain! Ouch - who has time to think about how to walk on a leash! We're just trying to avoid having our neck yanked!
3. Reward us with yummy treats, petting and praise whenever we do what you want! We're more likely to do more of what you want if we're rewarded for it.
4. Practice-practice-practice! Inside your home with no distractions is the best place to start. Move outside to the real world once we know how the behavior is performed!
5. If you're going to go for longer distance, build slowly. Just like humans need to build up to higher mileage, us dogs do too. And check our paws to make sure they don't get cut or burned...you don't run around barefoot, but we do. Oh, and if your pooch has physical limitations, or is a younger pup, check with his or her veterinarian to make sure it's okay to go for longer distances.

Mom and I had trained to the point I could run a 5K with her... I wonder when we're going to sign up for a race? Hmm, something for this inquisitive, and conditioned canine to ponder.

Paw Chewing Behavior in Dog is Cause for Concern: Dog Behavior Advice for Alleviating Irritated Paws

Mom and I have received an interesting question through our dog behavior advice column about a dog that licks her paws. Although this question was addressed to my mom, who happens to be certified professional dog trainer, she and I both thought it would be better for me to address it, since I myself am of the canine variety. Plus I've been known to lick my paws now and again, so in this case, I'm more of the expert.

• Q: My dog is always chewing on her feet. I've heard it's allergies to grass. Is that true? Also, is there something I can do to make her feel better? - Emily

• A: Well Emily, I'd say there is a variety of reasons why your dog might be licking her paws.

A few topics to consider:

• If you think it might be allergies, or another medically related reason, you'll want to have your dog checked out by her doctor. Mom and I don't practice veterinary medicine, we're strictly behavior, so we'd be working outside our scope of practice if we gave medical advice. You can certainly check between her toes and look closely at her skin to see if there is irritation, but there might be something you aren't able to detect that only a medically trained professional can. If you're in need of a vet, you can check out our Inquisitive Canine resources page for links to finding a vet in your area.

• When/what time does she lick her paws? More often after playing in the grass? Or at specific times of the day? When she is left alone? Before going to sleep? (That's when I lick my paws...right before going night-nights...mom says it appears similar to young humans sucking their thumbs before going to sleep...just her own observation).

• Could it be boredom? Have you provided other items for her to lick/chew? These types of items are referred to as Enrichment. Us pooches like to chew and lick things, so her paws may be the outlet she needs. Providing an inanimate object that she loves might be your best bet for redirecting her feet chewing behavior. Something to try anyway.

Chewies like Bully sticks and antlers are some of my favorite. They last a long time, don't splinter (I hate when things get stuck in my teeth or cause me to choke). Plus, they don't stink up the place, and don't stain the floor or furniture. (Mom is very happy about that!) This is a photo of me and all of my various enrichment!

I wonder if there have been studies on dogs licking paws before taking nappies? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder...

Ball Obsession & One Fetching Dog: Which of Your Dog's Behaviors Are Your Reinforcing?

Mom and I just received another great question through our dog behavior advice column about a dog named Tyler. According to his dad, Tyler is more interested in playing fetch at the dog parks - instead of wanting to play with other dogs. Even though Tyler's humans left the ball and "flingy thingy" at home, Tyler, being a dog, would find other balls, and get other humans to reinforce his love of fetch.

My mom the certified professional dog trainer is taking care of our column, but I thought I'd add my two cents from an inquisitive canine's point of view.

First off I say to Tyler's dad: Nice job on management. You've at least taken some steps by leaving the ball and ball flinger at home... I know when I go to dog friendly places, if mom and dad want me to interact with other dogs, they leave my toys at home. They (mom and dad) wouldn't bring their laptop, book or DVD to a party and start working, reading or watching movies - unless that's what they were supposed to do. No, they'd interact and socialize with other guests. So why do people take their dogs to dog parks, then not want their dogs to interact with other dogs?

One other question Tyler's dad can ask himself: "What behaviors am I reinforcing?" Well, I say you're leaving Tyler to go off on his own and hunt for balls and willing participants. So you're inadvertently rewarding "fetch", albeit passively. If that isn't the desired behavior, then you need to ask yourself: "What behavior do I want?" I venture to say: "Playing with other dogs."

If that is the case, then that is the behavior you need to reward - with extra pieces of steak. You see, if you give pieces of steak, chicken, "good boy" etc... to Tyler whenever he looks, acknowledges, greets, shows interest, and plays with other dogs, then that is the behavior that will happen more often.

If he goes off and starts to hunt for balls, you can give him a "Too bad!" and leash him up for 20 seconds or so... You'll also want to mention to other humans that Tyler is learning how to socialize with other canines, so if they would, please refrain from throwing balls... But they can certainly give Tyler a "good boy!" whenever he says "hi" to their dog.

I wonder when mom or dad are going to take me to the dog park again? I wonder when we're going to take another road trip north? I wonder if I'll ever get to meet Tyler? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder...

When it Comes to Leash Walking This Dog, I Say Think "Aerosmith"

As the brilliant Steven Tyler says "Walk This Way!" And I have to agree. I also agree with what my mom the rockin' certified professional dog trainer says. Mom teaches this stuff in her dog training classes and loose leash walking workshops. She also has some great tips on loose leash walking on her own dog training tips blog, but I thought I'd add to it since I'm the one at the other end of the leash: 

• Divide the lessons into simple steps: Think baby steps! Short and steady wins the race! Too much too soon can lead to failure and frustration, for both the guardian and the dog. 
  
• 3-D training: Separate each parameter of Distance, Duration and Distractions - increasing only one "D" at a time, and either lowering the other two or keeping them at the same level.
• Kindergarten - College: Start out practicing in your home, then move it to the yard, then the street (that's part of the distractions segment)
• If you have more than one dog, teach one at a time, then put them together (again, distractions)
• Walk your dog with user friendly equipment that makes it easier for us, and not correction based. Mom LOVES the Easy-Walk or Sensation harnesses. Both of these items have an attachment for the leash on the front of the chest. Both help to decrease pulling (I hardly ever pull when I wear mine, and usually only when my nemesis E.J. Harrison is around...). Plus, they're comfy, without pressure on my neck or face....aahhh. Mom sells the Easy-Walk harnesses at our dog training studio in Ventura - makes them easily available for students. 

The ever so caring and savvy dog mom of two poochies recently wrote to our Dear Inquisitive Canine advice column about how to handle distractions while out one walks. Mom suggested some of the above info, with special emphasis on the "3-D's" - those distractions can be soooo....distracting! 

I wonder if mom would be more distracted by a bread bakery or a chocolate store while out walking? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder. 

Dog Behavior Myths: Social Butterflies Versus Packs

Being a true inquisitive canine, I must ask the humans out there "Who came up with this whole 'pack' mentality mumbo jumbo?" Is it because we have descended from wolves? Wolves travel in packs because they have to hunt large prey - the large, fast (and delicious) beasts require more than the lone wolf to take it down...hence, the reason wolves form packs - it cuz they're hungry and gotta get the job done. 

As for us domestic canines, well, you don't see stray dogs forming packs do you? Nope - they're either found, end up in a shelter, become feral, or die. But they certainly don't roam the neighborhoods forming packs. I believe you humans do that more than us dogs. I've heard about the "gang" "clique" and special groups such as "yahoo" and "google" phenomenon. 

My mom the rockin' Ventura dog trainer clears up this kind of stuff in her dog training classes and dog training workshops. Allow me to continue to clear up the muddy myth waters of us canines right here in this dog training blog: 

• We're SOCIAL animals! 
• We enjoy being with our family - whether it be one person, or an entire mob.
• We don't enjoy being left alone, especially if we're not used to it.
• When left alone, sometimes we get bored (that results in finding our own entertainment), or scared (try to escape, don't eat, howl for help). 

A very aware dog mom wrote in to our Noozhawk dog behavior advice column about her own dog being left alone, and some concerns she had. Allow me to elaborate on some of the issues I mention above:

• Sometimes we get bored - and then find our own means of entertainment - which are often activities you humans don't appreciate. (Check out my friend Nellie - she used to redecorate her mom and dad's condo - they didn't appreciate it, but have since given her new and fun activities). 

• Sometimes we get scared. Yours truly here doesn't like certain noises. One time the smoke detector batteries died, and the little device was making all sorts of weird noises. When mom and dad came home, I was all trembly and scared. Just wanted to get outta here! 

As mom says again and again in her dog training classes and with her private dog training clients: "Don't wait to train a behavior when you need that behavior." In this case, it's best to crate train and condition your dog to be left alone before you're having to head out the door, rushed, for a long period of time. It's best to do lots of "dress rehearsals" so your dog gets used to being left alone, and actually begins to enjoy it. 

So, speaking of descending from other animals, I've heard you humans have descended from apes. Well I wonder, do you live in tree's flinging poo at each other? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder. 

I'm No Crash Test Dummy Dog, And Neither is My Ventura Dog Trainer Mom

Gone are the days when children would ride in their parents laps while driving, helping them steer the car. Yep, my own mom the rockin' dog trainer here in Ventura, got to do that with her mom in the family Buick. No seat belts...just giggling and having fun.

Well, times have changed -a lot! One of mom's motto's is "safety first!" Check out some of her dog training tips in her blog. This safety issue includes yours truly riding in style (and safely), no matter where I'm headed! I don't get to sit in laps (while we're driving). 

Nope, as mom says: "If it's not safe for a human child, how could it be safe for our pets?" I think this is what she's talking about. Check out this great dog car safety video that mom and I found on Youtube. 

Even before mom became a professional pet dog trainer here in Ventura, teaching her dog manners classes and working with her private dog training clients, she always knew that keeping any animal in a proper car restraint was the right thing to do, and that it makes for being a responsible pet guardian.  

I remember when we were driving home from the shelter where I came from, mom made the comment to dad that they were going to have to find some sort of seatbelt or car seat for me. Neither of them wanted me flying out of the car, becoming some sort of projectile and getting hurt. 

I'm fortunate enough to have a car seat in both mom and dads car's - plus I have a separate seatbelt for traveling - like when we fly to San Francisco or Colorado - this way no matter whose car I'm in, I can be kept safe.

Mom and I also like to help keep our doggy friends safe too, so she offers the Guardian Gear Safety Car Harness at her studio - and tomorrow she's taking a whole bunch over to our vendor booth at Canine Adoption Rescue Leagues 12th annual Pooch Parade Fundraising Event & Pet Expo. 

It's All Fun & Games For This Lucky Dog

Well it's official! My mom the rockin' Ventura dog trainer and I have developed the bee's knee's of dog training games! It's called "Out of the Box Dog Training Game." And as mom says on the box itself, it's a Pawsitive Training Solution For You and Your Dog! Yes, mom developed it, but I was her inspiration... 

This game consists of 56 cards - all with little bite-size pieces of training activities that you can do with your dog! Since mom is always teaching her dog training class students, and her private dog training students that the simplest way to train your dog is to just fit little pieces of training into your daily routines. It's not necessary to set aside lots of time - that's just not very realistic. Mom totally understands how busy people are nowadays. So, she has made it easy for you to get the behaviors you want from your dog! 

With the cards you'll also get a nice little Instruction Guide to help you play the game. From figuring out the best way to motivate your dog, to techniques that will help you teach your dog the basic behaviors - all of which you can use throughout the entire time you play! 

You just need at least one human and one dog. You can certainly have more, but it's not necessary. You can also adapt the exercises to different skill levels. How great is that??? Plus, it's only $17.95 (plus the ol' tax)

Mom and I will be unveiling this brand new game this weekend at The Canine Adoption and Rescue Leagues 12th Annual Pooch Parade Fundraising Event and Pet Expo here in Ventura! We'll have a booth there, along with many only vendors! Come join the fun, come by and say hello to us, check out the Box Game, and have fun! 

I wonder when dad and I are going to play again? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder...

Dog Training Demo Dog: How I'm spending my Sunday

Well, I'm off to bed...this top dog has gotta get his rest because my mom the rockin' Ventura dog trainer is starting her brand new Canine Circuit Training class tomorrow! I'm SO excited! She wants yours truly to come and demo some of the behavior stations. Dad will bring me, plus he is going to lend a hand too...

She has some of her graduates from her Inquisitive Canine good manners classes , and others from her Canine College at Ventura College Community Education. There are a few dogs that are new to the studio - I'm sure they're going to have fun too. 

Tomorrows class is FULL! But you can still register for upcoming classes - mom is offering this fun and rewarding class again July 26th and in August. You just need to check the inquisitive canine calendar. 

I wonder if I'll get to take the class too? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder.

Socialization For Dogs: Great No Matter Our Age

If you know this 10-pound mutt, and my mom the rockin' certified professional ventura dog trainer, then you know we're all about proper puppy socialization! But what does dog and puppy socialization really mean? Well, I'm here to tell you...

Similar to taking young children out into the world when they're young, just so they can adapt more easily to their environment, and just like enrolling children  in tons of activities like music lessons, sports activities, arts and crafts, reading programs, after school programs, day care, pre-school etc...it's important to take us dogs out when we're young. Whether it be to dog training classes, dog social play groups, or friends houses.

This doesn't mean to endanger us in any way... mom and I would never suggest that! But taking

 us in the car to different places. Or taking us to places where we can sit in our humans lap and be exposed to the environment - different smells, sights, sounds, even getting to say hello to all types of people is a great way to teach us how to adapt to the industrial revolution. After all, if you want us dogs to conform to your human world as adults, it's much easier to do so if you start us out young... but then again, it's never too late - as long as you make it fun! 

Mom has been working with lots of puppies in her private dog training sessions as well as her dog training classes and dog training workshops for new puppies. She keeps stressing the importance of the above mentioned steps - fortunately, her savvy clients have been on top of their game and following her suggestions. Oh boy are those poochies going to be some easy going dogs - they'll probably get to go to lots of places when they're older since they're starting out now! What great moms and dads they have... Just like mine. 

Just today dad took me to one of my favorite places - I got to meet a new canine pal - it was great! I got to play, make friends, and socialize. Even though I'm older, I still like doing new things...as long as it's fun and not forced and not scary.  

I wonder when we're going back? I wonder if I'll get to see my new friend again? I wonder if next time dad can ask if we can get together for a play-date? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder. 

This Dog in Training Thinks "It Games" Are Fun!

My mom the savvy Ventura dog trainer has been practicing a lot of the "it" dog training games with yours truly - and I mean a lot!!!

I had a severe "tap into my predatory drive" moment the other day with the UPS truck. Mom, who is usually very prepared and on top of it, had a lapse in management - needless to say it wasn't a good moment for mom. Me? Yes. Mom, who wanted to relinquish her CPDT title? Not so much. 

This just goes to show you: my mom is human too. Just like she teaches her own dog training class students and private dog training clients, no animal is perfect, including humans, and you just never know when that one moment of despair can occur. 

Since that time, about a week ago, mom and I have been practice lots of "Leave it!!!" This is a behavior she teaches in her dog training classes and dog training workshops as well. Her definition of "Leave it!" is "Stop what you're doing and get over here!!!" 

Whether I'm about to go after something, like my favorite prey E.J. Harrison, UPS, and FedEX, or my nemesis the USPS mail trucks, mom will use "Leave it!" - she uses a more stern voice, I come running, then we trot off to the fridge or dads cookie jar for a snack. Yep, I get leftovers from mom and dad...but more motivating than my usual. 

Just a little tidbit - but I tell you, it's been a lot more fun than going after the trucks. I can see why - pieces of ginger cookie or blueberry coffee cake are much more appealing - especially if I don't listen to mom. If I ignore her I end up in the bathroom or closet for a time out - trust me, leaving the trucks and having snackies is much more fun!

As for the other "it" game - called "Find it!"? That's an easy and fun one. Mom (or dad) toss a piece of food on the ground and then says "Find it!" I go in search of food with my highly skilled canine nose...I do like to hunt ya know. 

Mom uses that to either distract me - like when we're walking by loud trucks, or dogs and people I'd rather say hi to (and we don't have time), when she wants me to get out of bed to potty before she goes to sleep, and when she's too lazy to clean something off the floor she dropped while cooking! Doesn't matter to me - I'm always rewarded with something fun...

Hmm, the mailman has already been by...I wonder when she's going to cook again? Something for this inquisitive canine to ponder. 

Dog Birthdays: More excuses for humans to humiliate us dogs

Well, today is my birthday! At least that's what my mom the ventura dog trainer says... It was actually anniversary of the day she and my dad adopted me from the animal shelter. I'll never forget it...They were so cute, sitting there in the yard of the facility, concerned looks on their faces because they weren't sure if they were going to find a cute dog like yours truly here...

Once I bounded out of the house with the tennis ball in my mouth, that

all changed! Both my mom and dad got these smiles on their faces that were wider than the UPS truck is long! And they were giggling - having fun...they immediately said "We'll take him!" And here I am. That was Father's Day, 2003...That was the smartest move they've ever made - mine too. 

We started the day with playing Garbage Truck Monday - not moms favorite activity, but I sure enjoyed myself - until she locked me in the closet to manage the situation. It's not that she was mad at me, she just doesn't want me running amok, getting upset, jumping up and down on things...I could easily hurt myself. Mom knows, and teachers her own dog training class

students and private dog training students that if you don't have time to train, manage the situation - which she did. It wasn't a time-out! I got my Tricky Treat Ball and played with it while in the closet...not too bad for this older and wiser dog. 

Anyway, we later mom and I took a road trip to met up with some of my pooch pals over at Kimball Park for walkies...Chief, Ferris, and Gutterball were there...along with their humans. We strolled around the park, meeting and greeting others, eating chicken and other tasty tid-bids. Mom's friend Miss. Kathy brought a birthday meat cup-cake... It was yummy...we all shared although I would have liked to guard it. 

After walkies Mom, Miss. Lisa and Ferris met dad over at Portola Starbucks for snackies. Ferris and I practiced our down-stays while chewing on our bully sticks. Mom was smart to teach this behavior in her Manners Class - so us dogs knew what to do when we were out in public. We were behaving so well - got lots of compliments from other humans around. 

We then spent most of the afternoon working on our dog behavior advice column, then went for an evening stroll with dad, and finally a nice birthday dinner. I had my birthday broccoli, Tricky Treat Ball (with my candle that Miss. Kathy gave me as a reminder of how older I am), and finally some vanilla pudding - that I had to share with dad. YUM! 

As you can see from the pictures, mom had me wearing this silly hat - at least every time I had it on my head she gave me yummy high value treats - mostly chicken and pork tenderloin. I love my

 little green hat...And I love that mom and dad made this day very special for me. I had a great celebration.

I wonder if mom is going to have broccoli on her birthday? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder. 

Finding A Responsible Pet Sitter: Who's Going To Take Care of This Dog?

I admit, I'm one lucky dog! I get to keep busy doing lots of things, like working with my mom the dog trainer. Including going to the inquisitive canine studio where she teaches her dog training classes and workshops when she uses me as her demo dog. Other times she brings me along to help with paperwork and inventory, or work at the computer - like now with my blog or sending a tweet on twitter. 

I'm fortunate that she works her own schedule. This means she doesn't have to leave me home by myself very often. And if she does, it's usually for just a few hours. But what about those times when she and dad are gone all day? Or if mom goes to a dog training workshop out of town and dad is at work all day? What about me? Like many dogs I don't enjoy being alone. I don't destroy things like some dogs, and I don't get scared enough to want to escape. It's just being a canine, I am very social - I like to be out and about, or have people home with me. 

Thankfully, my mom the savvy dog trainer knows this...and has found the perfect solution for those times when she and dad need to leave me for longer periods: a professional, qualified, responsible pet sitter! Her name is Angel, of Angel Eyes Pet Sitting. She's here right in our own town of Ventura! 

Mom asked me what I would like to see in a professional pet sitter, and I told her. She asked that I share it with my readers since you might be looking for such a person yourself. What is my "wish list" for finding a professional pet sitter? Simple. Someone who:

• really cares about me and my safety.
• will take care of my needs, just as my mom and dad would. 
• knows what to do in case something bad should happen. 
• understands my dogginess and doggy behaviors.
• my mom and dad can trust to be in our home when they aren't here. 
• is going to respect the needs and requests of my mom and dad. 
• has a good reputation and who is willing to share references. 
• shows professionalism and responsibility. 
• tells you what is included in their duties, and what my mom and dad can expect. 
• shows initiative, and asks my mom and dad questions about what he or she needs from us. 

Angel is certainly all of these things. She's worked with animals professionally for a very long time. She understands my doggy quirkiness and allows me to be a dog. She spends our time together making it about me! She respects my mom and dad, asking all the right questions to make sure I am safe. Including my:

• medical history: I have an old neck injury and can't get too crazy with the whole "grab and shake" activity. 
• behavior history (keep me away from trucks and other large prey)
  
• feeding schedule: food during training or in my toys only - no bowls, unless it's my veggies. 

Angel also shows up on time and keeps in contact with reports on how I'm doing. How great is that? If you want to have Angel look after your pets, or to find out more, check out her Angel Eyes Pets Sitting website. 

I wonder when mom and dad are going to be gone all day again? I wonder when I'll get to see Angel again? Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder. 

Us Dogs Should Be Allowed to Play With Our Food

You may not believe it, but this dog rarely eats out of a bowl... My veggies yes, because they're kinda messy, but other than that, it's all about eating on the go! My mom the certified dog trainer and I just got another question sent to our Noozhawk dog behavior advice column all about a dog that developed some undesired habits - we think it's mostly due to boredom - this is another reason why enrichment can be so useful! 

I love all my fun toys that my mom the dog trainer and my dad give me. Even if my mom accidentally drops a piece of my food on the floor, I will still go after my Tricky Treat Ball first...it's more enriching for me. Since I don't get to go hunt for my own food, this is as close as I'll get. I am a predator ya know. The extra activities keep me mentally stimulated. Plus, I keep active much longer than I would if I just ate my meal out of a bowl. 

You should do this for your dog too! You can give your dog their meal while you eat yours. Then they're less likely to bother you while you eat. Of course any leftovers can be stuffed in one of those Kong toys. My mom, being the savvy trainer and creative cook she is, does this for me too. As long as it's healthy for me, she allows me to have whatever she and dad are eating. But she doesn't just give it away for free ya know - Nope, she puts it in a Kong toy, then freezes it for me to have later... You can see me playing with my food in the video that mom made. 

I wonder what mom and dad are going to have for dinner tomorrow? I wonder if I'll get any leftovers? I wonder if mom ever eats her chocolate out of one of these toys... Hmm, something for this inquisitive canine to ponder.