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Pete and Ashlee Enlist Cesar's Help With Baby Bronx

PetSugar — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 07:15:08 -0800

Well before Bronx Mowgli entered the world, Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson asked Cesar Millan for help with prepping their two dogs, Hemingway and new pup, Rigby, for the baby's arrival. The trainer offered tips on consistency and a rather unusual way to work off the bulldogs' excess energy. Watch a sneak peek of the episode of The Dog Whisperer starring this fam (airing on Dec. 28) to learn more.

To the Rescue: Jumping Dog Just Won't Quit

PetSugar — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 12:50:36 -0800

Do you have a jumpy dog? My lil guy definitely tries to leap on strangers (for kisses) and it's something we're constantly working on since he doesn't do this to me. If I have company over, my friends all know the training method I use:

Grabbing his paws! When a dog jumps up on you (or strangers), gently grasp his paws and hold them firmly in place. While at first most pups won't care, when you don't let go, chances are they'll get more uncomfortable, struggle, and try to get away. When this happens, say "off" or "down" (depending on the word you favor) and let go. Immediately follow this by asking him to sit and rewarding when he follows through. Repeat this process every time your dog jumps up.

Learn one more commonly accepted method to limit jumping when you

Pet Peeves: I'm Begging Him to Stop Begging!

PetSugar — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:10:55 -0700

Q: My dog has the very annoying habit of begging for food. It's especially bad when we have people over for dinner – he literally walks from person to person waiting, sometimes jumping with paws up on their laps to see what's on the table or go for the food right off their fork (or plate) – help!

A: Consistency is key to solving this problem. After all, dogs can't magically tell the difference between "OK begging" and "not OK begging" so you must make begging never OK. While banishing a dog to another room is one option, space may not make this possible . . . and, with enough effort, you can retrain your pup.

I'd recommend never giving your pet any treats while you are making or eating food. (Right before dinnertime is not the time to work on a sit-stay.) Teach your furry friend that he's not going to get food just because you're preparing food. In fact, I make North do a full sit before I put his dish on the ground – he's not allowed to go to it until I give him the release command.

See one more tip when you

Do You Point at Your Pets When Speaking?

PetSugar — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 12:15:00 -0700

I have a friend whose stepfather freaked out when I once pointed at their pooch. I was telling the dog to sit, and the pointing came naturally. I never really understood why he didn't want me to point, and honestly it was an instant reflex, but his reaction stuck with me all these years.Now I'm self-conscious about raising my finger – do you do it, too?Source

Do You Point at Your Pets When Speaking?

Yes, I always point when I'm telling my pet what to do.

Sometimes, I point my finger when __________________. (I'll tell you in the comments.)

No, I never point.

I haven't noticed . . . but I'll look now.

I Never Tell My Dog "No"! Do You?

PetSugar — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:30:27 -0700

He's spoiled . . . but not that spoiled! What I mean is that I don't use the word "no" to reprimand my pooch. I always worried that it sounded too much like his name (North), and didn't want him to get confused when I was teaching that. Then, I saw an article on Wag Reflex actually recommending to teach the concept of no by using different words instead! Here I was doing something great . . . pretty much by accident. The reasoning explains that, since no one rewards no, it's harder for a pup to learn it and claims a success-focused approach will work much better. Makes sense to me so, try using a word that directs your pooch to what you want him to do (off, leave it, wait, etc.) followed by a positive command (come, sit, etc.) and words of praise (good boy) and see how it works at your home. Do you use the word no?Source

I Never Tell My Dog "No"! Do You?

I always say "no."

Sometimes "no" slips out but I try not to.

I never say "no."

Other – I'll tell you in my comments below.

Greatest American Dog: Which Training Method's For You?

PetSugar — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 12:50:31 -0700

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Source

Greatest American Dog: Which Training Method's For You?

I believe in dominance-submission methodology.

I believe in positive reinforcement methodology.

Other – I'll tell you in my comments below.

Dog Park Etiquette: For The Dogs

PetSugar — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 03:00:49 -0700

Now that we know how humans should behave at the dog park, let's focus on the reason we are there – our doggies! The dog park can be a great time for all . . . if the pups are well behaved that is. Check out some helpful guidelines to ensure that your four-legged friend (and everyone else's) have a enjoyable day at the park! Source

Beijing Rescue Dogs Have a Big Job Ahead

PetSugar — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 03:00:09 -0700

I know I mentioned Dogs With Jobs the other day when I introduced you to Ellie, the pup who has been caring for motherless bunnies, but these rescue dogs have a whole career ahead of them! Rescue dogs in Beijing animal shelters are getting a second chance at life, and plenty of new responsibilities now that they have been drafted into Chinese military forces as search and rescue trainees, and will also use their noses at this year's Beijing Olympics to sniff out drugs and bombs. Over 160 poochies have been sent to the capital from across the country, and from these pics, they've already made some real progress in their training! Check out this slideshow to see some of the pups in action. And let me just say – it's amazing what they can do! Source

Teach Your Goldfish How To Score a Goal With R2 Fish School

PetSugar — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:30:18 -0700

When I first stumbled upon the website for the R2 Fish School system ($32), promising to help you teach your fish how to do amazing things in their tank with the instructional DVD – like score a soccer goal, do the limbo, fetch, and play basketball – I was a little more than skeptical. I actually thought I was being punked! But after seeing the little fishy in the demo video get his game on, I became a believer.

And why not, right? My mom had a fish for six years that would jump out of its tank and do flips for food, so I imagine that it's not only cats and dogs that can pull out some pretty cool tricks. Check out a short demo of the R2 Fish School (it's kind of amazing) when you

Will You Get Online With Cesar Millan?

PetSugar — Wed, 28 May 2008 08:00:01 -0700

Not only does Cesar Millan help train Oprah to be the pack leader of her pampered pups (including helping beloved Sophie socialize with other dogs before she passed away), but he can help train you to do the same . . . online! Cesar's new interactive training course is hitting his website in June to help you get calm and assertive with your pets, but you can sign up now for email alerts to get a head's up before it hits the web. I've watched almost every episode of the hit National Geographic show, so this course is a welcome distraction for me while I patiently wait until I can get in on one of his super popular seminars. I've personally seen the results with his methods since an old roomie of mine used them since day one with her puppy, but I know they aren't for everyone. Will you take Cesar's online training course? Source

Will You Get Online With Cesar Millan?

Sure! I'd love to learn Cesar's methods.

Nah. I'm not really into it.

Maybe. See my comments below.

Would You Use the Jumpo Trainer?

PetSugar — Sun, 25 May 2008 07:00:13 -0700

I have heard of some interesting training tactics in my day to teach pets various lessons. Similar to the suggestion to toss a pebble-filled water bottle in the general direction of a barking dog to get him to stop yapping, this is a noisy device to deter your cat from jumping on the couch.The Jumpo Trainer ($5) kind of reminds me of a bear trap (only it's not lethal, thank goodness) but designed to make noise to keep your cat or birds from going into places they shouldn't. Once the target area is triggered, the Jumpo jumps up, rattles, and your kitty is scared away from whatever you are trying to keep her from. I'm all for training aides to help me along the learning curve, but I'm just a little skeptical that this scare tactic would actually work . . . without causing a cat to go mental! Source

Would You Use the Jumpo Trainer?

Why not! It makes sense to me.

No way! I'm not about to freak out my already 'fraidy cat even more.

I'm unsure. See my comments below.

Quick Training Tip: Hand Touch

PetSugar — Mon, 19 May 2008 11:15:11 -0700

Even though many of us choose to keep our pets elsewhere during house parties, I think a friendly pup adds a special something to any bash. It's very important to have a well-trained pup in these settings . . . tons of new people, food, and noise can detract those good manners. I attended a birthday party at a friend's house over the weekend and witnessed a refocusing technique performed by their well-behaved pooch, Io. Called a hand touch, the doggie trainer introduced this behavior with a treat in hand, but now the pooch does it all by herself. Learn how to teach it to your pet when you

The Scoop: City Dogs Get Back to Their Roots

PetSugar — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 03:00:42 -0700

I think I watched City Slickers – a movie about a bunch of city folk out in the country herding cattle – about a hundred times, not only for the animals that were a big part of the film (Norman!) but also because I thought it would be awesome to head out on the trail, herd some cattle, and get away from the city for a few weeks. It's still something I need to check off of my "to do" list!

If you were a fan of the film too, then you'll totally see why specialized herding camps for dogs are becoming more popular, and are just as cool. On a ranch just outside of Los Angeles, owner Janna Duncan has started a trend, taking city dogs and working them into great herding dogs:

“It really, really seems to center the dog and give the dog a sense of confidence and fulfillment, a good assertiveness, a good energy.”

Thankfully, I did some pretty heavy research regarding dog breeds so, even before I picked him out, I knew that North would make a sweet city slicker himself. Boston Terriers can do well in apartments and cities, and make great companions. But some pet owners don't know that different breeds come with different temperaments, and aren't always made for city life. To find out more about the breeds and camps, just

Street Team: Take Those Treats To Go!

PetSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:00:35 -0700

Meet Lulu. Lucky Lulu always has snacks nearby as mom, FlamesofJune, was nice enough to share this nifty product with us. She shares, "My dog is young and still learning so I want to make sure I always have some treats on me. I used to put a few in a plastic bag or even right in my coat pocket . . . that got smelly fast. When I saw this cute little holder online, I had to order it! I love the fun color and how easy it is to clip onto a belt loop or even on her leash handle." To find out where to get it,

Penthouse Dog Potty: Spoiled Sweet or Spoiled Rotten?

PetSugar — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:15:18 -0700

Training a new puppy can be a tough job. One of the toughest has to be potty training! But fortunately with persistence and love, your pup will get the hang of the whole peeing-outside-not-on-the-carpet thing. But for some people, being there when your puppy really needs to go can be a problem. Indoor potties just might help your pup learn where he can go, verses where he can't, during those times you are away – and I've got pals with small dogs that use a variation of this product. So, if you're a fan of the indoor potty idea, tell me what you think of this luxe Penthouse Indoor Potty! Coming with the platform, K9 grass, drainage tray, easy clean-up catch pan . . . and, oh, a $450 price tag, this one may just break the bank.Source

Penthouse Dog Potty: Spoiled Sweet or Spoiled Rotten?

Spoiled sweet – only the best for my furry friend.

Spoiled rotten – if my pet could roll his eyes, he would.

Other – I'll tell you in my comments below.

Bare Bones: Heave Hose and River Rope

PetSugar — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 07:00:42 -0800

So you want to teach your puppy to fetch, eh? Good luck with that. Since puppies are easily distracted, you'll probably get more of a workout than he will – and end up playing fetch with yourself! I know it took North a while to get the hang of retrieving the ball, and in the process I must have lost about five pounds! Thankfully, Katie's Bumpers are here to help by keeping you stocked with great training aides.

First, they make these nice and soft Heave Hose Bumpers ($15-20) for puppy to run and fetch. It won't hurt their growing teeth or jaws, plus they're bright and easy to find if you happen to throw a little too far. And since they come sizes from Puppy - Big Mouth, when your little one grows up to be a pro fetcher, you can upgrade to something a little more suitable. Next up, in your arsenal, Katie's River Rope ($20) makes retrieving those bumpers even easier since you won't even need to leave your lounge chair. Just connect the rope to your bumper and you have a contingency plan if puppy decides to run off and chase butterflies instead. Plus, at 25 feet long, your pup can get in quite a workout to boot! Best yet, the River Rope was made especially for those days at the beach, lake or (duh) river once Fido knows how to swim. Just toss the toy in the water, and you won't have to worry about it going downstream! So smart.

Quick Training Tip: Bring It in Public

PetSugar — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:00:54 -0800

You've made great strides in pooch's training, so let's test his knowledge in the great outdoors. After all, as well as he may listen to you inside the house all alone, how will he fare with birds, grass, and other people around? Once your pup has mastered the words and you've varied the amount of treats and commands, begin seeing how quickly he'll sit without you saying anything or if he can hold his sit for a couple of seconds before a reward. It may sound difficult but, when you've taught your leashed pup to sit for his food, for example, he'll begin doing it as soon as you grab that dish...all on his own!

Next, see if you can get your dog to sit and stay as you back away from him while holding his leash in your backyard. If you're asking him to hold a sit, give him a treat halfway through and before he's supposed to get up. When you're ready to move on, say the release command you've chosen – that way he knows it's time to stop performing that task. If at any point you lose his attention, try it again with fewer diversions. When he's ready, take it outdoors in a busier environment like a park. I think the trickiest part of training is to hold your pup's attention in public and off lead. It's hard for most pups not to get a tad distracted in the beginning, and don't give up if it doesn't happen right away. Try to work this practice into your daily walks or jaunts to the dog run – it'll take time, but the promise of having a well-trained pooch is well worth that investment!

Source

Quick Training Tip: Switch It Up

PetSugar — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 08:00:07 -0800

Next up, hold your pup's attention with regular, short sessions! Make training part of your daily routine – even just 10 minutes before breakfast or dinner can go a long way. Once your pup has mastered several commands (at least 85 percent of the time), gradually decrease the treats. Start by rewarding two times out of three, then every third time, until snacks are only handed out occasionally. When you switch up the rewards, you assure that your pet is not just performing for the food, but that he understands and will continue his response minus the yums! Even when not offering a savory morsel, speak in a crisp, cheerful manner and offer immediate praise in that good puppy voice. If you continue to get the desired reaction from your pup without the food, congratulations! You've mastered key commands in a "closed environment" – now tomorrow's training tip will teach you how to take it outside!

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First Step to Make a Change in Cat?

PetSugar — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:30:50 -0800

With all this training talk for pooches – and sharing of our doggies' naughty habits – it's time to give those kitty owners a chance to vent. I've listed some of the most common cat problems I've had people complain to me about, and I want to hear which is the first on your kitty training to-do list? From too much meowing to cats that scratch your furniture, I want to hear what you're working on in your fur-filled homes!Source

Quick Training Tip: Choose Those Words Carefully

PetSugar — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 11:00:23 -0800

Hooray! You've stocked up on the small snacks, and you're ready to train away! Decide beforehand what command words you want to use. Even if your pup has been trained in the past, it doesn't hurt to give him a refresher. North's main command words are sit, down, stay, drop it, on by, out, and off. Research has indicated that an intelligent dog can develop a vocabulary of well over 50 words so don't sell your pup short!

As a pet owner, you'll choose different trigger words and commands necessary to your life. For example, living in Manhattan with my puppy, "on by" was a necessity off the bat — this let North know that it's not time to stop and greet every person we pass (hence go "on by" them) but, if you live in an area where you seldom encounter people, this is probably not first on your list. Similarly, we still struggle with "off" as he inevitably tries to jump on favorite visitors for kisses. Remember training is an ongoing process, and voice commands should be chosen carefully — see tips when you

Quick Training Tip: Give Tiny Treats

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 15:50:40 -0800

Whether you have a young puppy or an older dog, let's get ready to teach that dog some new tricks! Before you get started, stock up on treats! You'll want to choose a treat that's extra special for your pup (like liver snacks). Make sure you choose soft, small treats about the size of your pinky nail — it's important that the treats are tiny enough to make them quick to eat as well as of a texture that limits the amount of chewing or crumbling.

Both of these treat features should help motivate your pup's attention and bring it right back to you after he's rewarded. I like to train North before his dinner or breakfast meals so food motivation is at a high, and use a snack that I only give him for these purposes so it's not an everyday offering. It's also important to keep the treats ready so that your dog gets one immediately after he performs correctly so he will associate behavior with the reward. Good luck!

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Pet Peeves: Can You Help Kitty Think Inside the Box?

PetSugar — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 07:00:32 -0800

One of our readers needs your help! Kiki tee has a little kitty with a big problem with the litterbox. Read his story, and share suggestions with us in your comments below!

We adopted Milo when he was about three months old, after he just had one of his back legs amputated. He always knew how and when to use his litter tray, but doesn't seem to know how to position himself when going to the toilet. He doesn't arch his back but instead crouches down close to the litter and, as a result, he keeps coming out of his box with an awful lot of what is supposed to stay in the box. . . stuck to him. And I'm talking both kinds of stuff that you want in the box (and not on your floor, your sofa, your windowsill, or any other place he makes it to before I have a chance to tackle him with a packet of baby wipes) on his tail, his leg, and sometimes his belly.

At first we thought it was a balance issue, but as this problem continues, it seems that isn't the case. . . and Milo doesn't seem at all bothered about it. He makes no attempt to clean himself off, which strikes me as odd because I thought cats were supposed to be so clean! We want him to be an indoor cat because of his missing leg, but I swear if I have to spend one more evening on my hands and knees sniffing my way around the house with a sponge and antibacterial spray, I will scream!

I love my kitty dearly, but I'd also love to keep him (and my home) clean – does anyone have any advice for me?

Bare Bones: Crate

PetSugar — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 08:00:00 -0700

Repeat after me: this is not a cage. When used properly from puppyhood, it can be a great escape for your pet providing a quiet place to sleep and relax. I'll talk about crate training in more detail next week, but using one keeps your home and dog safe while you're out.

Choose a crate with your pup's adult size in mind as many come with dividers to make it smaller when he's little; there should never be enough room for pup to do his business and still have room to play and sleep without stepping in it.

North has a collapsible Precision Pet crate like those above – it (and he) can easily come on hotel adventures with me! He loves to suck on the crate pad I added to make it more comfy. In fact, some dogs like their crates so much that they sleep there at night, but not North. The crate's in the dining room, and he likes to sleep in his bed (right next to my bed) in the unlikely chance I decide to get up in the middle of the night for peanut butter... or something else he'd want to tag along for.

Pet Peeves: C'mere, Kitty!

PetSugar — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 09:00:35 -0700

Q: My cat won't come to dinner! When it's time to feed her, she pays no attention – I know sometimes cats eat throughout the day but I swear when I get home, the same amount is still in the bowl. I've even tried different foods and meal times. The weird part is, when I bring it to her, she'll eat most of it right front of me. I know this is a bad habit, but I can't think of what else to do? Help!

A: Try teaching this one at mealtime, or anytime you want your cat to come. If she's especially attentive when you return home, start by saying your cat's name followed by the command "come" even if she is already on her way over to you. Pet her, then take a couple steps back and repeat, giving her a few pieces of her food as you do this. Continue moving until you get near the bowl. When she gets to the bowl, praise her lavishly and fill it up. Repeat this each day. Eventually, your cat should associate the food and praise with the command and then you will be on your way to owning a trained cat.
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And now I wanna hear from you! To learn how to post your own solutions (or challenges) in my new group, "Pet Peeves,"