Behavior Modification is the means to resolving behavioral issues. Obedience training cannot accomplish behavior modification. In fact, teaching obedience commands to solve a behavioral problem can and often does get in the way of helping the dog resolve his or her problem. For instance, if a dog is stressed or anxious in a given context, forcing him to perform some obedience exercise sit, lay down, whatever, can add to the stress or anxiety. That, in turn, does nothing to change the stress or anxiety he may have within that context and leaves the dog with the same behavioral problem. Or, if your dog is doing something you do not like, having him down-stay may stop the behavior at that time, but again, it does nothing to address the behavior or its possible cause.
Obedience training can give you the control needed to prevent a number of potential life threatening situations. For example: If the door is left open and you see your dog letting himself out, you can safely call him back using your recall command. Or if your dog slips his collar, you can command him to sit (he can't run off when he's sitting) to get the collar back on, etc. Obedience Training can also serve to strengthen the bond between you. It builds understanding, mutual respect, and teaches you how to "speak dog."
Although the benefits of obedience training are many, it has little to do with behavior modification. For example, if your dog is in the habit of running off, your recall command may stop and return the dog to you, however, the recall command does nothing to address the running off in the first place. Or, if your dog is aggressive, you may be able to "call the dog off" but again, it does nothing to address the aggression or its possible cause. If your dog is fearful of something and you can get him to sit or lay down, it will not change the dog's fear response. Behavior modification utilizes the behaviors differently. Significantly, behavior modification programs address the underlying reasons for the problem behaviors. This is done by identifying, analyzing and appropriately reconditioning the dog's out ward physical signs which indicate the dog's internal physiological and psychological state. It is the underlying physiological and psychological state that behavior modification alters and which obedience training cannot address. Although there are similarities among obedience training and behavior modification, behavior modification differs in goal, outcome and reward structure. It IS hard work and there are no quick fixes.
The vast majority of behavior problems are the result of inappropriate communication, over-permissiveness (spoiling) and/or anthropomorphism (treating the dog as it were a human). Other times, problems are simply the result of unfortunate relationship dynamics. Fortunately, most of these problems are resolvable with some education and work on the part of the owner. The owner must first understand that dogs come to us genetically predisposed to behave in certain ways. Some dogs have higher propensities to be aggressive, fearful, "dominant" subordinate, etc. The level at which these behaviors present themselves depends on many factors. So, how we love, raise and interact with our dogs will have a huge impact on how the dog develops and what behaviors grow and become problematic.
There are a number of considerations behavior specialists look at when dealing with behavior problems. First, we make sure the dog is healthy; we want to rule out any medical factors. Second, we check the dog's environment; we want to rule out any environmental factors. For example, we look at the relationship between the dog and all family members. We take into consideration the dog's breed or mix and any predisposition the dog may have toward a particular set or pattern of behavior.
When addressing a behavior problem, we determine what kind of behavior we are dealing with. For example if we are dealing with a behavior that is not harmful to the individual or others, we can employ operant conditioning techniques such as: Extinction, Differential Reinforcement, and Antecedent Control just to name a few. If we are dealing with aggression (as with Ralph) or fearful behaviors, we would employ Classical Counter-Conditioning and Desensitization.
In conclusion, to solve behavior problems one must employ a sound Behavior Modification program, provided by a qualified behaviorist, or behavior specialist. Obedience training, although important, has little to nothing to do with behavior modification and should not be utilized to try and solve behavior problems.
Welcome
Dakota's Behavioral Playground was created by Justin Owens and is dedicated to the education of pet owners and the training of their pets. Using positive reinforcment we seek to correct common behavioral problems and help owners establish that special relationship they long to have with their animals! Let us help your dog smile!
*Justin Serves on Gaston County's Wellness Community*
*Justin attended Raising Canine Training Seminars*
*Justin is also an active member of APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers)*
*Justin was awarded Employee of the Year by Gaston County Animal Control 2008*
*Justin Serves on Gaston County's Wellness Community*
*Justin attended Raising Canine Training Seminars*
*Justin is also an active member of APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers)*
*Justin was awarded Employee of the Year by Gaston County Animal Control 2008*
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Bark in The Park!
HARRIS TEETER/PURINA® "BARK IN THE PARK" APRIL 26 THOUSANDS OF DOGS, OWNERS EXPECTED IN DAVIE PARK
Charlotte, NC – The fourth annual Harris Teeter/Purina® Bark in the Park dog festival invites "dogs and the people they own" to William R. Davie Park on Saturday, April 26, 2008. This is Charlotte's premier dog festival! It takes place 10am - 4pm at William R. Davie Park, 4635 Pineville-Matthews Road (N.C. Highway 51). Admission is free. All dogs must be on a leash.
Bark in the Park is a signature event of Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. This festival drew almost 11,000 people last year, and there could be a similar crowd this year. Proceeds help fund future dog parks. Parking is at nearby Calvary Church with shuttle buses to and from the park.
Entertainment includes The Ultimate Air Dogs, presented by Purina®, with captivating feats of jumping, diving, and fetching. Dog owners are invited to join the WAXN Pooch Parade and contests such as Pet/Owner Look-Alike, Best Costume, Best Bark, Largest Dog, Smallest Dog, and Best Trick. Registration for these contests will be at the event. The festival will include many exhibits, dog products, adoptable dogs on display, food, fun and great dogs to see and greet. For more information call 311 or check www.parkandrec.com .
NOTE TO MEDIA: This festival offers exciting video and photo opportunities and usually garners wide coverage. Reporters and photographers welcome. Please consider for advancer stories, news coverage and event calendars. Park and Rec photos of previous festivals available on request.
The winning canine in the 2008 Harris Teeter/ Purina® Bark in the Park Top Dog Photo Contest will be honored as grand marshal of the WAXN Pooch Parade. The Top Dog will receive a photo portrait donated by Deborah Triplett Studios, a Harris Teeter/Purina® prize pack, a year’s supply of “yourpet” brand dog food. Rules for the Top Dog Photo Contest are posted on www.parkandrec.com or by calling 704 336-7853. Contestants pay a $12 entry fee and submit a 4” X 5” photo of their dog by March 24. A panel of judges selects three finalists for cleverness and originality, and the public votes online for the Top Dog at www.parkandrec.com.
Mecklenburg County has four dog parks now with a new one in the works in Frazier Park. Dog parks operated by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department are popular places for dogs to run free and frolic in fenced meadows and woodlands. A "pooch pass" or vaccination records must be presented for dogs to enter the fenced off-leash dog park at Bark in the Park.
Park and recreation seeks volunteer help for this event.
Apply to Lori Saylor at 704-336-5478.
Charlotte, NC – The fourth annual Harris Teeter/Purina® Bark in the Park dog festival invites "dogs and the people they own" to William R. Davie Park on Saturday, April 26, 2008. This is Charlotte's premier dog festival! It takes place 10am - 4pm at William R. Davie Park, 4635 Pineville-Matthews Road (N.C. Highway 51). Admission is free. All dogs must be on a leash.
Bark in the Park is a signature event of Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. This festival drew almost 11,000 people last year, and there could be a similar crowd this year. Proceeds help fund future dog parks. Parking is at nearby Calvary Church with shuttle buses to and from the park.
Entertainment includes The Ultimate Air Dogs, presented by Purina®, with captivating feats of jumping, diving, and fetching. Dog owners are invited to join the WAXN Pooch Parade and contests such as Pet/Owner Look-Alike, Best Costume, Best Bark, Largest Dog, Smallest Dog, and Best Trick. Registration for these contests will be at the event. The festival will include many exhibits, dog products, adoptable dogs on display, food, fun and great dogs to see and greet. For more information call 311 or check www.parkandrec.com .
NOTE TO MEDIA: This festival offers exciting video and photo opportunities and usually garners wide coverage. Reporters and photographers welcome. Please consider for advancer stories, news coverage and event calendars. Park and Rec photos of previous festivals available on request.
The winning canine in the 2008 Harris Teeter/ Purina® Bark in the Park Top Dog Photo Contest will be honored as grand marshal of the WAXN Pooch Parade. The Top Dog will receive a photo portrait donated by Deborah Triplett Studios, a Harris Teeter/Purina® prize pack, a year’s supply of “yourpet” brand dog food. Rules for the Top Dog Photo Contest are posted on www.parkandrec.com or by calling 704 336-7853. Contestants pay a $12 entry fee and submit a 4” X 5” photo of their dog by March 24. A panel of judges selects three finalists for cleverness and originality, and the public votes online for the Top Dog at www.parkandrec.com.
Mecklenburg County has four dog parks now with a new one in the works in Frazier Park. Dog parks operated by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department are popular places for dogs to run free and frolic in fenced meadows and woodlands. A "pooch pass" or vaccination records must be presented for dogs to enter the fenced off-leash dog park at Bark in the Park.
Park and recreation seeks volunteer help for this event.
Apply to Lori Saylor at 704-336-5478.
Just Plain Dog Show!
Saturday, May 3
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
County Park, Dallas/Cherryville Hwy.,
Dallas, NC
(Rain Date: Sunday, May 4, 3 p.m.)
FREE ADMISSION
NO ENTRIES FEES
DIRECTIONS FOR ENTRY: Each dog may be entered in one event from each category. Events in Category I will be shown at 10 a.m. Events in Category II will be shown immediately following a short intermission. Please list the two events you wish to enter in the proper place on the entry form. All entries should arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. so that the show may begin promptly at 10 a.m. All dogs are to be kept on short leash. Child must be able to control dog. All dogs must have rabies tag attached to collar. All shots must be up to date. EVERYONE MUST PRE-REGISTER. Registration open to Gaston County students grades 1-9. Entry blanks must be received no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 29. Mail entry forms to: Dog Show, The Gaston Gazette, PO Box 1538, Gastonia, NC 28053. Or deliver to: The Gaston Gazette, 1893 Remount Road, Gastonia.
Category I
Best Groomed - Short Haired
Best Groomed - Long Haired
Best Trick - Grades 1-4
Best Trick - Grades 5-9
Most Unusual Color
Best Behaved
Shaggiest
Healthiest
Most Playful Puppy
Shortest Legs
Most Unusual Eyes
Happiest - Small Dog*
Happiest - Large Dog**
Friendliest Tail - Small Dog*
Friendliest Tail - Large Dog**
* Small dog - under 30 lbs
**Large dog - over 30 lbs.
Category II
Best Trained to Leash
Best Relationship to Owner -
Small Dog
Best Relationship to Owner -
Large Dog
Most Unusual Looking
Curviest Tail
Best Dog Adopted from
Animal Shelter
Most Unusual Marking
Best Looking Eyebrows
Best Costumed - Grades 1-4
Best Costumed - Grades 5-9
Best Heinz 57
Most Appropriate Name -
Small Dog*
Most Appropriate Name -
Large Dog**
Saddest Face
Looks Most Like Owner
Presented by: The Gaston Gazette,
Gaston County Parks & Recreation
and Gaston County Animal Control.
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
County Park, Dallas/Cherryville Hwy.,
Dallas, NC
(Rain Date: Sunday, May 4, 3 p.m.)
FREE ADMISSION
NO ENTRIES FEES
DIRECTIONS FOR ENTRY: Each dog may be entered in one event from each category. Events in Category I will be shown at 10 a.m. Events in Category II will be shown immediately following a short intermission. Please list the two events you wish to enter in the proper place on the entry form. All entries should arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. so that the show may begin promptly at 10 a.m. All dogs are to be kept on short leash. Child must be able to control dog. All dogs must have rabies tag attached to collar. All shots must be up to date. EVERYONE MUST PRE-REGISTER. Registration open to Gaston County students grades 1-9. Entry blanks must be received no later than 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 29. Mail entry forms to: Dog Show, The Gaston Gazette, PO Box 1538, Gastonia, NC 28053. Or deliver to: The Gaston Gazette, 1893 Remount Road, Gastonia.
Category I
Best Groomed - Short Haired
Best Groomed - Long Haired
Best Trick - Grades 1-4
Best Trick - Grades 5-9
Most Unusual Color
Best Behaved
Shaggiest
Healthiest
Most Playful Puppy
Shortest Legs
Most Unusual Eyes
Happiest - Small Dog*
Happiest - Large Dog**
Friendliest Tail - Small Dog*
Friendliest Tail - Large Dog**
* Small dog - under 30 lbs
**Large dog - over 30 lbs.
Category II
Best Trained to Leash
Best Relationship to Owner -
Small Dog
Best Relationship to Owner -
Large Dog
Most Unusual Looking
Curviest Tail
Best Dog Adopted from
Animal Shelter
Most Unusual Marking
Best Looking Eyebrows
Best Costumed - Grades 1-4
Best Costumed - Grades 5-9
Best Heinz 57
Most Appropriate Name -
Small Dog*
Most Appropriate Name -
Large Dog**
Saddest Face
Looks Most Like Owner
Presented by: The Gaston Gazette,
Gaston County Parks & Recreation
and Gaston County Animal Control.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Dog Walking
Why does my dog need a walker?
Just like humans, a dog’s mind must be kept active to be healthy and happy. Regular daytime activity provides mental stimulation through territorial investigation. Along with the emotional benefits, there are physical benefits. A good walk is the best way to exercise a dog that may not move about much in your home or even in your yard. Aging pets must be kept as agile and fit as possible but may not be inclined to exercise without encouragement.
Dogs are social animals. It is in their nature to investigate others. They should be encouraged from a young age to appropriately greet and interact with other dogs and people while on walks. These positive experiences help the dog behave appropriately when greeting visitors to your home, or when the dog is with you anywhere else. If a dog doesn’t have the opportunity to socialize, it won’t interact appropriately with people or other dogs.
Making sure your dog gets plenty of exercise is one of the best ways to prevent behaviour problems. At least two walks daily help prevent elimination problems, destructiveness, separation anxiety and other common behaviour disorders. Of course, with today’s pace, it’s not easy to fulfill your dog’s needs everyday. That’s where we can help – just as we’ve helped countless others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you provide?
We provide both group and solo dog walks. In either case, your little friend will be picked from your home and returned, happy and quite possibly exhausted. We will greet your dog at your place, provide fresh water and food if necessary, and bring him/her for a walk/run in a park or ravine setting.
How many times will you walk my dog?
You decide how often you’d like us to come. We do have one stipulation, however. To ensure the cohesion of the group, we insist that every dog walks at least three times a week. When the dogs become accustomed to a regular group, they are happier, better adjusted and more responsive.
Where will my dog be walked?
Your pet will be frolicking through one of many the city’s many parks and ravines. There they can safely engage in a serious round of Frisbee tossing, ball catching or simply a game of chase the tail. We try to take them to varying locations to give them the opportunity of exploration and change.
How long does a walk last?
A walk lasts a minimum of an hour. You’ll find that our rates are comparable or lower than many companies that offer much shorter walks.
Will my dog be walked with others like him/her?
Yes. We make sure that the personalities within the group are compatible. Of course this doesn’t mean that dogs are grouped by breed, nor are they grouped by size. Temperament and activity are much more important. No aggressive dogs are taken on group walks.
I’m unsure about whether my dog should go on a solo or group walk. What do you suggest?
Generally, if your dog is a non-aggressive, active animal a group walk is perfect. Group walks promote socialization and encourage play. However, if you have doubts about his or her behaviour with other dogs or your dog has medical problems, it may be best to opt for a solo walk. The Charge for solo walks is slightly higher, of course, but if you are unsure we will be happy to provide a trial solo walk to determine your pet’s temperament and suitability in the group atmosphere.
What do I do if I want to book?
Before we accept any bookings we will carry out a free pet consultation. This gives you an opportunity to meet us and us to meet you and your pets. It will take about 15-20 minutes and we will go through details such as normal daily exercise, feeding requirements, fears, phobias and your special requests. This will allow us to provide the highest level of care in your absence. A spare key would be helpful.
24 hours notice of cancellation is required to avoid a fee.
Walking Rates
Dog Walking
Group - 1 hour walk $16
Each additional dog (Limit 3) $10
Private 1 hour walk $28
30 minute puppy visit $16
Two 30 minute puppy visit / day $27
Weekend walks $25
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Dakota's New House Finished!
Puppy Training
When your puppy comes home, it is important
to be prepared for many training opportunities ...
Puppy training basics during the first week the puppy is home is critical. It is obvious that you need certain physical items such as a dog bed or crate, food and water bowls, puppy chow, collar, leash, toys, etc. Equally as important, all family members must decide and agree on routine, responsibility and rules.
Get your puppy off on the right paw with classes that encourage good behaviors while helping you establish a strong bond with your new arrival.
For puppies 10 weeks to 5+ months old.
Certificate of completion earned.
Course length: about 8 weeks (classes are adapted to fit the needs of each pup).
Key topics include:
Introduction to simple cues, such as sit, come and stay
Basic manners (leave it, take it, etc)
Beginner Leash Training
Socialization with people and other dogs
Relationship-forming games
Problem prevention
Tips on puppy health, grooming and nutrition
About our Classes
Our puppy classes are conducted one-on-one in your home so that you have direct access to the trainer to address specific problems and questions concerning your new pup. Group classes, while providing a great opportunity to socialize your pup with other dogs and people offer a false training environment. Just because the pup behaves in a classroom doesn't mean he will behave at home, dogs don't generalize when learning behavior. Your pup will spend 90% of its time with you in your home, shouldn't he learn to behave there first? We think so!
How Much?
Each class runs about an hour to and hour and half and runs about $25 per visit. That covers all the exercises planned for that day as well as any questions you have for the trainer. Remember for that allotted time that trainer is there to help you solve problems before they start so take advantage of the opportunity to ask them about specific problem areas.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Pet Sitting and Walking Services
If you're looking for a Pet Sitter, we highly recommend contacting "Bailey's Beagles to Dustbunnies!"
Bailey's Beagles to Dustbunnies was established for Gaston county residents to have access to a truly full spectrum concierge service ranging from pet sitting, home cleaning, errand services, and event planning to virtually anything you need assistance with.
Bailey's Beagles to Dustbunnies is Gastonia's Premier Pet and Home Concierge Service.
Visit them at Here
Bailey's Beagles to Dustbunnies was established for Gaston county residents to have access to a truly full spectrum concierge service ranging from pet sitting, home cleaning, errand services, and event planning to virtually anything you need assistance with.
Bailey's Beagles to Dustbunnies is Gastonia's Premier Pet and Home Concierge Service.
Visit them at Here
Friday, April 18, 2008
Peaches!
Dallas!
I wanted to thank the Rogers, who asked me to come and see about there Chiuahua named Dallas. Dallas is suffering from some Resource Guarding issues and fear of unfamilar people and events. With a few exercises we were able to take a big step forward with Dallas and help him to overcome his fears. I was very impressed with Dallas' progression and the Rogers' willingness to learn and try to help him. Way to go guys! Keep up the good work, and I look forward to working with Dallas some more in the future!
Dakota gets some new Digs!
Monday, April 14, 2008
What is Resource Guarding?

I recentely began working with a family that owned a young dog that had developed Resource Guarding behavior over treats, chew-bones and special toys. The owners I think feared the dog simply did not like them. So I felt like this would be a great time to discuss just exactly what Resource Guarding is...
Does your dog growl at you when you approach his food bowl? Is your puppy possessive about toys and rawhides? Does he snap at you when you even step near him when he’s got a bone? Does your dog bare her teeth when you approach the couch? If not, you’re lucky! Read through this information and start working with your puppy or dog now, to keep him in the blissful state of loving your approach to his food bowl or other prized possessions. If you are seeing aggression, definitely read on to find ways to help your dog. The technical term for this behavior is Resource Guarding, and it’s an absolutely normal dog behavior. However, it’s not something we humans appreciate. Fortunately, resource guarding is also a behavior that we can change.
A dog is an animal, a specialized wolf cousin living in the human den, and not a furry little person - matter how we view him. Simply because a dog lives in our home and because we view him as part of our family makes most owners think we should be able to take a bone or any other item from our dog at will. We become easily affronted if our dog decides to become possessively aggressive about his toys - even more so than if our kids become angry if we try to take their toys away! But when our dogs become aggressive about keeping hold of their bones or toys or bed, the first thing we must do is not to see the issue as one of our dog engaging in ‘point scoring’ with ulterior motives of longer term control of his human pack, but rather as one of safety for ourselves. If we become drawn into physical combat with our dogs over possessions, as we will see later, we are more likely to cause ourselves a great deal of problems with our dogs in our day-to-day lives together than we are to teach them not to guard their toys or bones.
Dogs, being predators, come programmed to guard resources that are crucial to their survival as part of their behavioral inheritance from their ancestor, the wolf. Some of those resources may be in short supply at certain times of year or in certain environments, and are therefore valuable. It is beneficial for wolves and dogs to have the propensity to look after their food and bits and pieces against other animals including, sometimes, members of your own group. For example, this is usually not true for grazing animals in terms of food - after all, what’s the point of arousing yourself to look after your supply of grass when grass is everywhere?
It’s a huge mistake to label a dog with a resource guarding problem as ‘dominant’. This is largely because it is just too simplistic to think that everything a dog might do which his owners disapprove of is some kind of a bid for power, especially if it involves threat behavior. This label can also encourage owners to look for opportunities to score points back on their dog when their time would be much better spent looking for opportunities to teach the dog not to guard his possessions and to reward him for doing other things.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Food Saftey

Worried about the safety of your pets' food? (From HSUS)
Worried about the safety of your pets' food?
Current mood: listless
Category: Pets and Animals
By now you've heard all about the ongoing pet food recall. Scary enough, it seems to get worse by the day. But it has also spotlighted the need for better regulation of the pet food industry.
The new Pet and Human Food Safety Act has been introduced to do just that.
Click here to TAKE ACTION NOW to support keeping our pets' food safe!
Feeding Tips

Top 10 Tips For Feeding Your Adult Dog (ASPCA)
Adult dogs require sufficient nutrients to meet energy needs and to maintain and repair body tissues. The amount you feed your adult dog should be based on his or her size and energy output. Activity levels vary dramatically between pets, and will play an important role in determining caloric intake.
As a responsible dog owner, one of the most common pitfalls you'll have to watch out for is overfeeding. Attempts to shower our dogs with love by means of big meals and tons of tasty treats are sweet, but misguided. In dogs, as with humans, extra weight can lead to health problems. Be sure to indulge your four-legged friend with affection, not food—and read the following tips for more helpful advice from our ASPCA pet nutrition experts:
1. Lassie Versus Lazy
House pets vary widely in their activity levels. An animal with a "normal" activity level should receive what we call "maintenance" energy. A pampered lap dog may require 10 percent below maintenance, while an active pet who exercises regularly outdoors may require maintenance plus 20 to 40 percent.
2. Working Dogs: Earning Their Dinner
The dietary needs of working canines, such as police dogs, guide dogs and cattle dogs, will depend on their occupations. Energy needs will increase with the work level and/or stress level. A dog with a moderate work load may require an energy increase of 40 percent compared to maintenance, whereas a dog with a high work load may require an extra 50 to 70 percent.
3. Do You Have the Hardest Working Pup in Show Business?
Show dogs must be fed a balanced diet with the correct amount of energy, because deficiencies may be reflected in coat quality. While on the show circuit, the pet's energy requirement may increase by 20 percent or more. The dog should be fed maintenance amounts when not on the show circuit.
4. Get Well Soon
An animal recovering from surgery or suffering from a disease may have an increased nutritional requirement for repair, healing and fighting infection.
5. Whatever the Weather
Environment influences energy needs, and extreme hot or cold weather can increase a dog's energy needs. Both keeping warm and keeping cool require extra energy expenditure, so you may wish to talk to your pet's vet about what to do when the mercury dips and/or soars.
6. How, What, When
Dogs may be fed successfully in a number of ways that meet both the owner's and the animal's needs and circumstances. These methods include portion-control feeding, free-choice feeding and timed feeding.
- The portion-control feeding entails measuring your pet's food and offering it as a meal, thereby controlling the amount of food that can be consumed. This method is used for weight control programs and for animals that might overeat if fed free-choice. Food can be provided in one or more meals daily.
- Free-choice feeding is also known as "ad lib" feeding or "free feeding." Food is available at all times, as much as the pet wants, whenever the pet wants. Most nursing mothers are fed by the free-choice method. This method is most appropriate when feeding dry food, which will not spoil if left out.
- The timed feeding method involves making a portion of food available for the pet to eat for a specified period of time. For example, the food can be placed in the dog's bowl for thirty minutes. After that time, if the pet has not consumed the food, it is removed.
7. Two Square Meals a Day
We recommend all dogs be fed twice daily. Simply divide the amount suggested on the label of your pet's food into two meals, spaced eight to twelve hours apart. You may need to adjust portions as you learn your dog's ideal daily "maintenance" amount.
8. What's Up, Doc?
Pet owners should always consult with their dog's veterinarian to determine the best feeding schedule and types of foods for their pets.
9. A Growing Problem
Some dogs will overeat when fed free-choice method, which can result in obesity. If your pet eats free-choice and has put on too much weight, you will need to switch to portion-control feeding.
10. Take Five (Or Less)
We all love to give our dogs treats. However, treats should be given in moderation and should represent five percent or less of the dog's daily food intake. The rest should come from a nutritionally complete dog food. When using treats frequently, such as during training exercises, try to use the smallest pieces you can.
Kong Recipes!

Here is a collection of Kong Recipes and Ideas. This Article is designed to follow the upcoming Kong Video Tutorial. If You are familar with Kongs already then Start Stuffing Already!!
KONG RECIPES
Kong Dog Toys are widely used and recommended for therapy and prevention of under-stimulation, boredom, separation anxiety and other behavior problems. Following are some simple ways Kongs can be utilized to promote good behavior in your dog.
It is important for dogs to succeed at their "work". Make it easy to remove the kong stuffing at first.
AS THEY BECOME MORE EXPERIENCED, YOU MAY WANT TO MAKE THEIR JOB MORE CHALLENGING - HERE'S HOW:
1. Pack stuffing tighter.
2. Wedge biscuits inside the cavity using the inside rim of the opening to secure them.
3. FREEZE IT! Very Popular! Try various combinations of canned food, gravy, noodles, rice and mashed potatoes mixed with food nuggets and freeze. KONGSICLES are a favorite with many hot dogs! Put a dab of peanut butter in the small end of the Kong to plug it. Turn it upside down in a cup. Fill it full of water, chicken broth or fruit juice and freeze. Cool doggies! Kongsicles are recommended for outdoor use.
4. CHEESE IT! Mix cheese pieces or cheese spread with food nuggets and microwave until cheese melts. Let it cool to a safe temperature. NOTE - Use a cup to contain the Kong when freezing or microwaving.
KONG STUFFING RECIPES
As you create recipes, be sensitive to your dog's tummy as you experiment.
Following are recipes created by veterinarians, dog trainers and dog lovers worldwide.
- BANANA RAMA: 1 fresh banana · 2 tbs wheat germ · 1 tbs plain yogurt (can use your pet's favorite flavor as well) · Kong Toy that best fits your pet's chewing temperament In a bowl, mash up banana. Then, add wheat germ and yogurt. Mash all ingredients together and use spoon to add to Kong. Freeze for 4 hours. Makes 1 serving for Medium Kong. Double for every Kong Size that is bigger.
- CHEESY DENTAL KONG DELIGHT: 3 slices of your pet's favorite cheese · Dental Kong Toy A very simple and creative way to make any pet drool in delight. Just place the 3 slices of cheese directly onto the grooves of your pet's Dental Kong (if model has rope - make sure cheese does not get onto it). Melt in microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. Give to pet after it cools.
- PHILLY STEAK: steak scraps · 1 ounce cream cheese · appropriate Kong Toy Place small scraps of the steak inside Kong toy. Spread cream cheese in large hole to hold scraps.
- FRUIT SALAD: apple and carrot chunks · 1/4th of a banana · appropriate Kong Toy Place apples and carrots in Kong Toy. Mush the banana in large hole to hold fruit in place. You can include other fruits and veggies: orange slices · peach and/or nectarine chunks · celery sticks · broccoli and/or cauliflower · tomato and black olive mixture.
- VEGGIE KONG OMELET: 1 egg · your choice of shredded cheese · any vegetables that your pet may like · appropriate Kong Toy Scramble egg and fold in vegetables. Put into Kong toy. Sprinkle some cheese over the top and microwave for about 20 seconds. Cool thoroughly before giving to dog.
- MAC 'N CHEESE: Leftover macaroni and cheese · small cube of Velveeta · appropriate Kong Toy Melt Velveeta in microwave until gooey. Add mac 'n cheese to Kong Toy. Pour heated Velveeta into Kong. Make sure it has cooled before giving to your pet.
FAMOUS RECIPES
- AUNT JEANNIE'S ARCHEOLOGY KONG (for advanced dogs) LAYER ONE (deepest): roasted, unsalted cashews · freeze dried liver bits LAYER TWO: dog kibble, cookies or liver biscotti · Cheerios · sugar-free, salt-free peanut butter · dried banana chips, apples and apricots LAYER THREE: carrot sticks ·
turkey or leftover ravioli or tortellini · Kong Toy (the larger the better!) Pack as tightly as possible. The last item inserted should be an apricot or piece of ravioli, presenting a smooth "finish" under the main opening. LIGHT VERSION: substitute crumbled rice cakes for cashews, Caesar croutons for freeze-dried liver, fat free cream cheese for peanut butter.
- by Jean Donaldson
- KONG ON A ROPE: Dry dog kibble · appropriate Kong Toy · Rope Take the rope, pull it through the Kong Toy and knot it. Hang this upside down from a tree, deck or post. The small hole should be facing the ground. Take the kibble and fill the Kong Toy. Make the toy hang just low enough that it is out of your dog's reach. The dog will spend hours trying to retrieve the kibble from the Kong Toy. At the end of the day, take the remaining kibble and give to your pet as a reward. This is advanced work for your dog. - by
Ian Dunbar
- FROZEN JERKY POPS: Peanut butter · bouillon · Jerky Strips · Water · appropriate Kong Toy · muffin tin Smear a small amount of peanut butter over small hole in your Kong Toy. Fill the cool water and add a pinch of bouillon. Place a Jerky Stick inside Kong Toy and freeze. This can also be put (once frozen) in a children's size swimming pool for a fun day of fishing for your pet.
- SIMPLE, TRIED AND TRUE: Peanut butter · appropriate Kong Toy Smear peanut butter inside the cavity of your Kong Toy. It's that easy!
- TURKEY DELIGHT: Turkey, chicken or marrow bites mixed with slightly moistened food nuggets frozen inside her Kong.
Every dog has a favorite recipe - finding your dog's will be fun!
REMEMBER: Some foods are not healthy for dogs. Consult with your veterinarian first.
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