1. Beware of amateur trainers
   With poor knowledge and skills to properly train your impressionable puppy, they can do more harm than good. So, watch out! FACT: We spend over 85-90% of our time going to innocent dog owners who attended puppy school to fix the problems that have developed and should never have occurred in the 1st place.
   
2. It’s a short-term solution
   Enrolling your new four-legged friend in a four-week puppy school program sure sounds good.
   But is it too good to be true?
   Sorry to break it to you – but yes. Yes it is.
   Instead, training should be incorporated into your dog’s everyday life.
   
3. Things can get unruly
   Socialising your puppy doesn’t mean letting them go crazy in a group of other untrained puppies.
   This causes over-excitement, encourages aggression and instils fear.
   Not exactly the desired emotional state of a puppy-in-training
   
4. It’s a ‘one size fits all’ approach
   Nothing could be further than the truth – All puppies have different training needs, depending on their unique character, personality temperament, breed and varying home environments.
   .
5. The wrong type of reinforcement
   Puppy schools love to use treats. And why wouldn’t they? Bribing dogs with food is not the answer
   There are much smarter ways to positively reinforce your dog’s behaviour…
   So what’s the best puppy training alternative?
   For the best results, your newest family member needs individual, in-home training – from an experienced dog training specialist.
   
   At AUSDOG, we provide individual tailored training that best suits your individual family needs and that of your puppy. We come to you saving you time, and the angst of not knowing what is right for your puppy. We help you set your puppy up to be a well-mannered, happy, confident and have a sociable life by your side. We will teach you the right way the 1st time Call 1800 AUSDOG to arrange a home visit from our experienced dog trainer

© Copyright John Harkin ® AUSDOG
Any copying or part thereof is prohibited for reusing on other websites
 

The post Why we say NO to Puppy School – 5 Reasons to Wag Class appeared first on AUSDOG.

If you do have to have your dog in the car, have him or her restrained not jumping around

Please exercise plenty of care over the summer months, a dog can die locked in a hot car just as quickly as a child can.

NEVER leave your dog in a car even for 1 minute.

Leave the window down at least 60cm for air flow and DO NOT let your dog put their head outside of the window this is not only illegal it is dangerous and unhealthy

Dogs eyes and ears were not made to handle 60km per hour hot wind in their face and mouth

Always be certain to have a bottle of water and bowl in your car

John Harkin
AUSDOG

© Copyright John Harkin – AUSDOG

The post Heat Dogs and Cars appeared first on AUSDOG.

Incidents of dog bites should not need to take place in a family household. Over the years I have been a strong advocate of educating owners on the importance of safety of children around dogs. I can’t emphasise enough the message to dog owners that management is so important.

All too often we hear of another child bitten by a family dog, and unfortunately as seen recently with horrific outcomes. 

People in the community are clearly not getting the message about the importance of managing family pets around young children.

More children are hospitalised in Australia each year resulting from dog bites than from car accidents, but you won’t read or hear about it in the news unless it is a “newsworthy front page article” such as the most recent horrific stories.

In all my years of dog training, I am yet to see or work with a dog that could be trusted 100% around small children.  Children have no understanding of dogs and the potential danger, nor do many adults.

Dogs are not humans

Humanising of dogs is not necessarily kind it is often cruel and confusing to dogs.  Dog Bite incidents are often a direct result of humanising of dogs and is in many cases is the cause of so many behavioural problems in dogs.

Unfortunately the pet industry as a whole has a lot to answer for in encouraging humanising of dogs.  I have found misinformation to be the “predominant cause of confusion” with owners and their dogs.

I see many dog training books on coffee tables and information people source through the internet.  You need to understand, anyone can write a book or post anything on the internet but this doesn’t mean it is correct especially when I see the evidence of this ‘misinformaton’ when I visit innocent dog owners who need my help to re-educate them and their dogs.

Dog bites do not need to happen

This is not to say you should be paranoid about dogs, however the use of simple common sense along with the correct information and education on how to manage your family pet around young children in order to avoid dog bite incidents occurring in the first place.   

– John Harkin

The post Dog Bites and Children appeared first on AUSDOG.

One of the most common poisonous plants is the lily, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and kidney failure in dogs.

Some of the most dangerous plants include lilies, azaleas, and rhododendrons. These plants can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart arrhythmias in dogs.

Other poisonous plants include tulips, daffodils, azaleas, and sago palms, all of which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. Agapanthus & Oleander are also poisonous to dogs, and can cause arrhythmias and sudden death.

Daisies, which are considered Chrysanthemums, are toxic to dogs and can cause a range of symptoms from skin rashes to diarrhea and vomiting if ingested.

To keep your dog safe, it is important to be aware of which plants are poisonous and to avoid them. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a poisonous plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.

While not all dogs will have a reaction to these plants, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. It is yet another reason why AusDog recommends you always keep your dog on leash when walking in unfamiliar surroundings. Not only does this improve dog safety and security, it gives you more control should a dangerous situation suddenly arise – be that poisonous plants & flowers, to an aggressive dog or some other unforeseen interruption.

For a comprehensive list of poisonous and toxic plants and flowers for dogs, we recommend this article as they have extensive images, which is very handy for those of use who are more dog lovers than plant lovers.

The post Plants that are Dangerous to Dogs appeared first on AUSDOG.

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If you’re thinking of adopting a dog, there are a few things you should take into consideration.

First, think about what type of dog would be the best fit for your lifestyle and home. Things to consider here include:

• Do you have young children?
• Do you have other pets that the new dog will need to integrate with?
• Does anyone have allergies?
• Do you have a secure and big enough yard?
• Will you need higher fences?
• Will the dog be an inside or outside dog?
• Does your local council allow dogs?
• If you are renting, do you need permission or to pay a pet bond?
• What will happen if you have to move?

Second, consider whether you’re able to provide the necessary care, including exercise, grooming and vet appointments.

For example, some dogs that are good for people who suffer from allergies – eg. the dogs have ‘hair” rather than fur – need a lot more grooming. Are you prepared for the time and cost to do that regularly; or do you have the skills and patience to do that yourself? If it is a dog with fur, are you prepared for it to get everywhere, or are you prepared to invest time (and money) with dog training to ensure the dog obediently stays off the couch?….and your bed…and doesn’t eat your shoes … plays nice with others, etc.

Most adopted dogs are already desexed at the shelter if they were not already desexed beforehand. However, the unknown medical history of many re-homed dogs can mean you risk incurring large vet bills if there are health issues; and this is particularly common in many “designer” dogs. For example, shorter flat faced breeds often have breathing and overheating issues; many breeds are renowned for hip displacements; knee sub-laxations and arthritis.

Rest assured, we are not trying to put you off adopting a dog, but we want to make sure that you get the dog that is right for you. Nothing is more heartbreaking than seeing a dog re-homed multiple times.

Perhaps the most important aspect of ensuring your adopted dog gets off to the best start, is to invest in dog trainers at home. With so much change, taking a new dog to dog obedience classes can be overwhelming for both dog and owner. We recommend a professional dog trainer that comes to you and provides in home training for dogs (and owners). Good habits start at home; where you lay the groundwork for the dog’s behaviour.

If you are looking for an experienced dog trainer near you in Melbourne, then AusDog comes to you across all Greater Melbourne areas. John Harkin is excellent at dealing with behavioural issues from getting dogs to walk on lead calmly, to recall and obedience, to calming anxiety and aggression. But whichever dog trainer you use, check their dog training reviews thoroughly It can be a significant investment.

Finally, bearing in mind the above considerations, be prepared to make a long-term commitment – bringing a dog into your life is a big responsibility, but one that can be immensely rewarding.

If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a furry friend, rehoming a dog may be the perfect option for you.

Adopting a dog can provide companionship, love, and security in your life and to the dog itself. Rehoming a dog from a shelter or rescue organization is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.

Adopting a dog provides them with a second chance at life and can often fill void in yours. “Tilly” above was rehomed to Bayside Mentone from country Victoria, after an unfortunate incident with a sheep. While it was heartbreaking for her family, was given a second chance and now relishes time at Mentone Dog Beach and the local dog park at the end of her suburban street.

A new furry friend will quickly become a valued member of your family. They will be there for you through the good times and bad and will provide you with endless hours of enjoyment and companionship.

If you are thinking about adopting a dog, rehoming a dog is the best option. Rescue organizations are full of fantastic dogs of all shapes, sizes, breeds, and ages that are looking for their forever homes.

By adopting a dog, you are not only giving that dog a wonderful life, but you are also making yourself and your family members incredibly happy too.

The post Adopting a Dog – What To Look Out For in Your New Best Friend appeared first on AUSDOG.

If you are not going to be home be certain that your dog is safe and secure.

If you are going to be at home put your dog on lead and take outside to see what all the noise is about.

If your dog displays fear ‘do not reassure him or her’ instead buzz your dog up with happy excitable play and be certain to do this on lead.

Enjoy the fireworks and Happy New Year !

John Harkin – Written by professional dog-trainer, John Harkin AUSDOG Copyright

The post Dogs & New Years Eve Fireworks appeared first on AUSDOG.

Dog bites and children are unfortunately all too common in the family home. All too often we hear of another child bitten by a family dog. But it’s not the dog that’s always at fault.

Unfortunately, so many people are misguided about the importance of managing family pets around young children.

More children are hospitalised in Australia each year resulting from dog bites than car accidents.  You may be surprised to know that most dog bite incidents occur within the family home with small children by their family dog.

Advice from John

As a behavioural specialist and professional dog trainer in all of my years of dog training, I am yet to see or work with a dog that could be trusted 100% around small children.

Children have no understanding of dogs and the potential of danger, nor do many adults.

Dogs are not humans.  Humanising of dogs is not necessarily kind it is often cruel and confusing to dogs. Dog bite incidents are often a direct result of humanising dogs and is in many cases the cause of so many behavioural problems in dogs.

Unfortunately  the pet industry as a whole has a lot to answer for in encouraging humanising of dogs. We have found misinformation to be the predominant cause of confusion with owners and their dogs.

If you are going to obtain advice check out the source and give it a bit of thought. Anyone can write a book or put anything on the net, does it make it correct?

Advice from John

This is not to say you should be paranoid about dogs. However the use of simple common sense along with the correct information and education provided by professional trainers on how to manage your family pet around young children in order to avoid dog bite incidents occurring in the first place.

Very few people are qualified to advise you on the correct rearing and training of dogs to become safe suitable family companions.

At AUSDOG that’s what I do and have been doing successfully for the past 30 years.

As a professional dog trainer and behavioural specialist, I educate owners how to correctly manage their family dogs around small children, so  they remain a much valued member of the family for years to come.  To learn more, please don’t hesitate to call for a no obligation discussion.

The post Dog Bites and Children appeared first on AUSDOG.

I have been warning dog owners for many years now regarding the dangers of chicken necks, however many Breeders and Veterinarians keep advising owners to give them to dogs.  It is not hard for a pup to choke.  Also when swallowed they can damage the dog’s throat as the small vertebrae can be very sharp.

Dog owners warned as research links raw chicken necks to fatal paralysis

This University of Melbourne study warns against feeding dogs raw chicken meat especially chicken necks. They were traditionally recommended for dogs, and known for their benefits with canine dental health. However, studies at the University of Melbourne U-Vet Werribee Animal Hospital found that consumption of raw meat increases the chances of catching polyradiculoneuritis also known as APN.

APN is a rare but potentially fatal disease where dogs become paralysed due to an auto-immune attack on the nerves. The bacteria responsible for causing APN has been found in uncooked chicken. There is a significant association between this disease and smaller breeds of dogs.

Dog owners should choose regular dog food until more is known about this debilitating condition.

– John Harkin.

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Here’s what you need to know about children and dogs. Don’t just take it for granted that because your dog is good with your children that he or she will be fine with all children.  Don’t be paranoid, however, exercise caution with dogs around children, particularly those under 8 years.

Also be very careful with puppies and small children, often children don’t realise their strength and can damage internal organs on pup with a very affectionate cuddle.

Small children often drop puppies, the results can be quite serious.

Please don’t forget small puppies get exhausted very quickly so please ensure very short play time and plenty of rest for your puppy.

The post Children and Dogs appeared first on AUSDOG.

DOG TRAINING IS SIMPLE… “If you get the right advice”

Most owners spend the first 6 months of their dog’s life doing all the wrong things. Then they spend the rest of the dog’s life either putting up with or trying to rectify bad behaviour.

The truth is it is not the owner’s fault they have received the wrong advice in the first place.

Unfortunately as a result, no matter how many times or how hard you try, you will not achieve the desired result doing the wrong thing with your dog.

The fact is, all dogs are ‘individuals’ and should be managed that way along with the individual needs of the family, their lifestyle and home environment.  And don’t fall for the misinformation about socialising.  90% of the dogs I attend to with behavioural problems and dog aggression have either participated in puppy school or have been so called socialised with groups of dogs or let run free in off leash in parks.

‘Good behaviour’ is the result of good management, good training and education’

The right advice starts here.

– John Harkin

The post Dog Training is Simple appeared first on AUSDOG.