Your pooch problems solved
Our experts are on hand to answer any questions about your dog, helping you all live a happy life together
Our dogs have been at the heart of our lives more than ever since the start of the pandemic. And many families are discovering the joys of dog ownership, with 2 million pooches finding new homes since the first lockdown.
But however experienced a dog owner you are, they don’t always behave quite how you’d like. Luckily, the Dogs Trust Wagony Aunts are here to help.
Q I love my dog to have time off his lead, but he doesn’t always come back when I call him
A Many dogs have “selective hearing”! The key is ensuring you are more fun than chasing that squirrel.
Make sure he knows his name, choose a word or signal for calling him back, and stick with it. It could be “come”, “here”, or a whistle. A visual cue, such as holding your arms open wide, is great if he can’t hear you.
Start training in a safe place with few distractions, such as your garden. Get his attention by using his name, then use your recall cue and take a step away. If he comes, reward him with praise and a treat or play with him.
Gradually up the distance and add distractions. When you are confident to go out, use a long line lead (only ever use a long line lead with a harness, not a collar) and practise in different places.
Use your recall cue sparingly, and give him at least five seconds before calling again. If he doesn’t respond, simply repeating it could teach him it’s OK not to come.
Always reward your dog and shower him with praise when he returns. If he ignores you, stay calm and gently guide him back using the long line or collect him. Don’t pull your dog as this may make him not want to return.
Time, patience and fun are key to making this work. If you are still concerned he won’t come back, only let him off-lead in safe areas.
Q I’m returning to the office part-time. How can I prepare my dog for being left alone?
A Most dogs love to be part of the family, but they must learn it’s OK to be left home alone sometimes.
Try to factor in time apart each day. Start with brief periods and build it up, always linking it with something positive, such as a long-lasting treat. Go at your dog’s pace. If she gets worried, go back to a stage where she was OK and progress more slowly. Before you leave your dog at home, take her for a long walk so she can burn off energy and go to the toilet. Ensure she has access to water and food.
Q My puppy gets very excited with visitors. How can I keep him calm but not feeling left out?
A Train him to go to his bed on cue while you welcome visitors. Start by throwing treats on the bed, then introduce a cue. Say “bed” and point, and then reward him when he gets there. Once he’s happily going to bed on cue, you can start to give him a long-lasting treat and close the door for a short period of time when your guests arrive.