K-9 LifeSavers

With so many puppies around for spring, we thought a refresher in some basic obedience commands might come in handy and there is hardly a command as useful as "down."

This command is generally easiest taught from a "sit" position, though you will often find that your K-9 is either a "down" dog or a "sit" dog, meaning they have one position that is more comfortable for them.  Though they should know both commands, using the one most comfortable for your dog will save you both a lot of stress.

• Put your dog in a "sit" position and stand or kneel in front of them.  Hold a treat slightly under his nose, and lower it slowly to the floor.  Ideally your dog will follow the treat to the ground and lie down, if so give him the treat and praise him.
• If your dog is not responding to the food lure, try putting slight pressure on their shoulder blade, pushing down and to the side.  Praise your dog when he drops down. 
  * Laying down is a submissive position, and if your dog feels pressured into it they could resist, making this an unhappy command for them.  If your dog responds badly to pressure on his shoulder, do not force him down.  Instead try placing a treat down on the ground that he cannot get until he lays down.  He may stare out it for a while, but chances are if you are patient enough he will eventually lie down. Praise him profusely when he does.
• Once your dog is consistently laying down, delay the release of the treat.  With your dog lying down tell him "wait", then "good" when you release the treat.  If you dog ever pops up before you are ready for him, do not reward him, put him back in his down.

*Tip: Hard floors can be uncomfortable for short haired dogs, pay attention to where your dogs like to rest as that may help your training.

Since boxers are known for their intelligence, we have no doubt that Alicia will pick up any command you teach her in a flash.  We're doubly sure that this girl's bubbly personality and fun loving nature will make any home a little brighter.  Alicia is only a couple months old, so she has a lot of learning and growing to do, and is looking for a loving home to do it in.  Will it be yours?

The Border Collie is often called out as the most intelligent of all dogs, having an intuitive quality that goes well beyond basic instinct.  Just like with highly intelligent people, these dogs need an environment that will engage and challenge them, otherwise they can become distressed or neurotic.  Farmers with livestock tend to prefer Border Collies to other dogs as they assist in herding, but the energy and athletism these dogs possess also make them favorites among dog sport competitors.

The Border Collie hails from the Scottish English borders where it was an invaluable asset to shepherds.  The modern breed dates back 100 years and one of its earliest fans was Queen Victoria.

Though increasingly popular as pets, those considering adopting a Border Collie should be prepared to provide lots of activity and playtime, either themselves or in conjunction with other dogs. If their demands are not met, they may develop some destructive behaviors out of boredom.  However, for people with an active lifestyle that enjoy running, hiking or other activities that the dog could accompany you on, a Border Collie would make a fantastic addition to your family!

Did you know that Border Collies are said to be the most intelligent of all dog breeds? It makes sense that you often see border collies in canine competitions like agility, flyball, dock jumping or sheepdog (herding) trials.

If you're looking for a smarty pants to add to your life than Dee just might be your girl.