Refresh the Family Dog’s Manners Before Holiday Company Arrives
WILTON, Conn. (PRWEB) November 13, 2018 -- The upcoming season of celebrations can be tough on the family dog. With household schedules disrupted for weeks on end, even the best-behaved dogs may forget their good manners.
“Dogs are happiest when they have a regular routine,” explains Heather Corum of Canine Company, “During the holidays, we rearrange furniture, change mealtimes and have lots of guests coming and going. It’s not surprising if our dogs suddenly act up.”
As a professional dog trainer for more than 20 years, Corum has worked with hundreds of pets and pet parents to address problem behaviors. She shares her advice for getting the family dog ready for holiday festivities
First, do a manners refresher. Spend a few minutes each day practicing important commands – like “sit,” “down,” “come” and “stay”– so they are fresh in your pet’s mind. “You can incorporate these easily into daily routines: for example, put him in a “down-stay” before feeding, or call her to “come and sit” before heading out for a walk.”
Next, tackle behaviors that are a problem during the holidays, like jumping up on guests or barking as they enter the home. "Changing behavior takes practice and patience, and you might want the help of a professional dog obedience trainer if problem behaviors are severe."
Third, create pet-free zones in the house for guests with allergies or to keep pets away from food service areas. “Doggy gates are fine when you are isolating an entire room,” notes Corum, “but if you just want to keep your pet away from the buffet table or Christmas tree, nothing beats the Invisible Fence Shields® unit, which eliminates the need for a physical barrier that can block guests.”
Finally, don’t forget some one-on-one time. “More than anything, your dog needs time with you. A happy dog is less likely to act up to get our attention. So, even though you’re busy with holiday preparations, be sure to build in time for play and snuggles.”
About Canine Company
Born of a family's love for dogs, Canine Company provides at-home services to keep pets healthy, safe and happy including the Invisible Fence® Brand system, Manners® dog obedience training, and mobile grooming and pet sitting in select markets. For more information, visit http://www.caninecompany.com or call 800-818-DOGS (3647).
Debra Bennetts, Canine Company, http://www.caninecompany.com, 203-803-4640, [email protected]
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