Kitten-Proof Your Home
Look around your home Do you see things that kitty might break, or harmful substances she might ingest? Fold and secure your window blinds cord with a rubber band, out of kitty’s reach. Invest in covered wastebaskets. Always keep the door to your clothes dryer closed. Keep cupboard doors and dresser drawers securely closed. Keep […]
Puppy Chewing
Much like infants and toddlers, puppies explore their world by putting things in their mouths. This is normal puppy behavior. Discouraging Unacceptable Behaviors It’s virtually inevitable that your puppy will, at some point, chew up something you value. This is part of raising a puppy. You can, however, prevent most problems by taking the following […]
Kitten Behavior Basics
Well-socialized cats are more likely to have well-socialized kittens. Kittens “feed” off of their mothers’ calm or fearful attitude toward people. Although feeding time is important, it’s also vital to include petting, talking and playing in order to build good “people-skills” in your kitten. Kittens are usually weaned at six or seven weeks, but may […]
Puppy Behavior Basics
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, especially for dogs. The fact is, well-socialized dogs are more likely to have well-socialized puppies. Pups often mirror their mothers’ calm or fearful attitude toward people; this is a normal part of their socialization. But you can play a vital role, too, by petting, talking, and playing […]
Urine Marking Behavior
Dogs and cats are territorial animals. They “stake a claim” to a particular space, area, or object. They let other people and animals know about their claim by marking it using a variety of methods at different levels of intensity. For example, a cat may mark a valued object by rubbing her head against it. […]
Learning “Sit”
The “Sit” Exercise All well-mannered dogs should know that sitting is the best way to encourage people to say hello! Step 1: Teach your dog to sit on command. Stand up, show the dog a treat in your hand, say “Sit!” and lift the treat up and back over the dog’s nose (aim for about […]