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10 Ways You Can Make a Difference In Your Dog Community

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Make a Difference Day will be celebrated on October 28, 2023 this year.  We hope you can all get out and help in your local community to make a positive change in someone’s life.  Being dog lovers, we thought it would be fun to come up with some ways that we can also make a difference in our local dog community!

Whether you have time, money or expertise to share; here are some positive ways you can help out the pets and neighbors in your area.

  • Fostering a dog in need of adoption
    • Fostering gives satisfaction to both the dog in need and the family who loves him.
    • There are many homes out there that are taking in more dogs than they can hold, and they could use the help.
  • Volunteer at an adoption event
    • The dog community in the Valley is very active. There is never a shortage of adoption or fundraising events around that could use your help.
  • Volunteer at your local Humane Society.
    • If time is what you have, then you are a valuable asset to your local Humane Society.  The one step of getting involved is just a small step for you, but can help more pets than you can imagine.
  • Donate to a no-kill shelter
    • If you have a busy life and can’t fit another thing on your calendar, helping out financially might be an option for you.
    • Check out ways to help the AZ Humane Society here.
  • Participate in dog education training or classes
    • Get to know how dogs think and how they fit into your community. If you are leery of dogs or other animals, this can help you feel more comfortable and perhaps lead to some great relationships!
  • Help out a senior neighbor by taking his or her dog on walks
    • There are a lot of dogs who live with elderly that don’t get to leave the house much. You can give a dog a small piece of joy with just a short walk to the park.
  • Take your dog to a local senior living center or to visit a senior neighbor
    • If you have a dog that loves people and is well liked by all your friends, you might be able to give some joy to seniors at a local senior living center.
    • Call around to your local facilities first to see if they allow dogs. You just might be surprised at how much fun it can be!
  • Help maintain your local dog park
    • If you live by a park, you probably have local dogs that frequent the area. You can be helpful by cleaning up things around the park that might be a danger or hazard to a dog; trash, old food left from picknickers or small toys left behind by children.
    • Bonus, you can do this on your own time and get exercise too!
  • Teach kids how to interact with others’ dogs
    • If you have children, you can teach them an appreciation for others’ dogs. If your kids see you treating others’ animals with respect, they will follow suit.  This helps everyone in the community by creating more animal lovers!
  • Integrate your dog into your own fitness routine
    • Your dog wants to spend time with you. Whether you take a short walk, run through the city, hike in the mountains, or paddle board down the river; your dog might want to join you.  This helps build the bond between you and your dog and lets others see how fun having a dog can be.

AZ Dog Sports frequently mentions opportunities around the Valley where you can get involved.  Stay tuned to your local area events and keep in touch with us!  We are always willing to answer any questions or help direct you to becoming a bigger part of the dog community that we love.

make a difference, foster a dog, dog community, az dog sports

Is Your Dog Jealous of My Dog?

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Do you think your dog reacts out of jealousy?

Maybe it shows up when you are out walking and you say hi to another dog.  Or when you are busy working at your desk and not paying enough attention to your pup.  Research is beginning to show that dogs actually do sometimes act out of jealousy for their owners.

Our friends at Whole Dog Journal have done the research for us and put together this list of behaviors that manifest from jealousy, and how you can help your dog deal with them.

Check it out HERE.

And the next time you see this face, you just might be able to react in a different way….

Call us if you have any questions or want help figuring out other emotions your dog might be dealing with.

602-237-6775

Puppies & Kids – Getting Them To Get Along

puppies and kids, az dog sports. puppy trainer phoenix, puppy trainer scottsdale, dog trainingPuppies & Kids
8 Tips For Getting Them To Get Along

Whether you have recently adopted a dog from a local rescue or have added a new puppy to your family, you probably have some questions on how to handle introducing the new addition to your children. Our friends at Whole Dog Journal have come through for us once again!  They have put together a great set of 8 tips for getting your kids and new pup to get along.

Check it out HERE.

Also check out our puppy classes HERE – designed specifically for getting your new puppy adjusted to his or her new family environment.

Mastering Loose Leash Walking

loose leash walking, az dog sports, dog trainer phoenix, dog walking, dog training scottsdaleEnjoying Strolls with Your Canine Companion

Walking your dog is not only a daily routine but also an opportunity for bonding and exercise. However, if your furry friend constantly pulls and tugs on the leash, transforming a pleasant stroll into a frustrating tug-of-war, it’s time to master the art of loose leash walking. By teaching your dog proper leash manners, you can transform your walks into enjoyable and stress-free experiences for both of you.

Start with Basic Training:

The foundation of loose leash walking begins with basic obedience training. Ensure that your dog understands fundamental commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “heel.” These commands create a framework for better communication between you and your pet during walks. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Reward your dog with treats, praise, and affection when they demonstrate desired behavior.

Invest in the Right Equipment:

Using the appropriate equipment can make a significant difference in your dog’s walking behavior. Consider using a well-fitted harness instead of a collar, as it provides better control and reduces strain on your dog’s neck. Additionally, choose a sturdy, non-retractable leash that is long enough for comfort but not so long that it allows excessive pulling.

Establish a Walking Routine:

Consistency is crucial when teaching your dog loose leash walking. Establish a daily walking routine that provides your dog with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Consistent exercise helps to channel your dog’s excess energy and makes them more likely to be attentive and responsive during walks.

Encourage Focus and Engagement:

To achieve loose leash walking, it’s important to keep your dog engaged and focused on you. Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your dog for walking calmly by your side. Carry small, easily accessible treats and occasionally offer them as rewards for good behavior. Praise and affection can also be effective incentives.

Practice the “Stop and Go” Method:

One useful technique for teaching loose leash walking is the “stop and go” method. When your dog begins to pull on the leash, stop walking and stand still. Wait for your dog to release tension on the leash and turn their attention back to you. Once they do so, praise them and resume walking. Repeat this process consistently, reinforcing the idea that pulling does not lead to forward movement.

Incorporate Positive Distractors:

Incorporating positive distractors can help redirect your dog’s attention away from distractions that might trigger pulling. For instance, carry a favorite toy or a treat-dispensing puzzle toy during walks. Whenever your dog starts to become fixated on something that might lead to pulling, redirect their attention to the distractor. This technique can help them focus on the walk and your guidance.

Seek Professional Help if Needed:

If you’re finding it challenging to teach loose leash walking on your own, consider seeking assistance from a professional dog trainer. They can provide tailored guidance, identify any specific issues, and offer valuable insights to help you and your dog succeed.

Even during these hot summer months in Phoenix, you can find places to walk your dog and further your training.  Check out some things we recommend:

  • Outdoor malls with misters (Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter, Tempe Marketplace)
  • Some indoor malls allow pets
  • Home Depot and other hardware stores
  • Local restaurant patios that are open to dogs, such as: OHSO Brewery, NY Bagels & Bialy’s, Uncle Bears Brewery just to name a few!
  • Also check out our classes geared towards exercising your dog and teaching good manners on our classes page.

Loose leash walking is an essential skill that enhances the walking experience for both you and your dog. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach your furry friend to walk calmly by your side. Remember, training takes time and practice, so be patient with your dog and celebrate even the smallest victories. Soon enough, you’ll find yourselves enjoying leisurely walks together, strengthening the bond between you and your beloved pet.

Water Safety And Your Dog

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Check out Denise Franczak-Johnson recently on Fox10 News showing off Levi’s swim skills!

~ Water safety is an essential aspect of responsible dog ownership ~

 While some dogs are natural swimmers, not all dogs are comfortable in the water, and they may require some training to ensure their safety.
Here are some tips for teaching your dog to swim in a positive way and ensuring their water safety:
1. Introduce your dog to the water slowly: Start by introducing your dog to shallow water and let them get comfortable with the sensation of the water on their paws and body. Gradually move deeper into the water as your dog becomes more comfortable.
2. You might want to try a life jacket: Even if your dog is a good swimmer, it’s a good idea to use a life jacket for added safety. Make sure the life jacket fits your dog properly and allows them to move freely.
3. Stay close to your dog: Always stay close to your dog when they’re in the water, and never leave them unattended. Keep an eye out for any signs of distress, such as excessive panting, and be ready to help if needed.
4. Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is the best way to teach your dog to swim. Use treats, toys, and praise to encourage your dog to swim and make it a fun experience for them.
5. Avoid forcing your dog: Don’t force your dog into the water if they’re not comfortable. Respect your dog’s boundaries and work at their pace.
In addition to these tips, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards in the water; such as currents, waves, and underwater obstacles. Always choose calm and safe areas for your dog to swim, and avoid areas with strong currents or rough waves.
By following these tips, you can ensure your dog’s safety while teaching them to swim in a positive and enjoyable way.
With patience, practice, and positive reinforcement, your dog can become a confident and happy swimmer.

Call us to start your swim lessons this summer!

602-237-6775

azdogsports@msn.com

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