Category: This & That

Is a Harness Right for Your Inquisitive Canine?

Why Choose a Dog Harness?

TransPaw Gear Dog Harness Lily

There are several good reasons you might choose a dog harness over a collar for attaching the leash on walks and adventures with your dog. Dogs who pull while wearing a collar can put pressure on their necks, potentially injuring sensitive structures of the spine, throat and neck area. Even without an injury, pressure on these structures can be uncomfortable for your inquisitive canine companion. In addition, dogs can easily slip out of collars that aren’t fitted properly, which is dangerous for them and you. A  great way to overcome these issues is a properly fitting dog harness.

Which dog harness should you choose?

So, how do you find the best dog walking harness? And how do you choose the right product for your pet?  It can be difficult to find the right product when there are so many options available. It’s important to pick one that is easy for you to use but also comfortable for your dog. Beyond that, choosing a harness with multiple adjustable straps will help you create the right fit for your pup. The amount of dog gear for sale can make a pet parent’s head spin! But, hang in there.

Harnessing Happiness

After years of working with dogs and their humans as a certified professional dog trainer and behavior specialist, and seeing the frustrations they experienced with other products, I developed  the Happy Harness.

The Happy Harness:

  • Does a great job of preventing chafing, because the patented design prevents the straps from moving around against your dog’s skin, especially in sensitive areas like behind the legs and belly.
  • Is easy for people to put on and take off their dogs, so you’re always ready for an adventure together.
  • Has two possible leash attachment points: The front clip helps prevent pulling for those dogs who are just too excited to get where they’re going, while the back clip gives you a more traditional connection point that keeps the leash clear of your dog’s front legs on hikes or other outdoor adventures.
  • Is easy to adjust for a custom fit.
  • Is water-friendly, allowing your dog to be an inquisitive canine!
  • Is built to last.
  • Has a nifty handle on the harness to help with dog sports and for those times you need to keep your dog close.
  • Was thoughtfully developed by a certified professional force-free trainer and devoted pet parent.

Dog harness shopping can be overwhelming. Do your research, read reviews, and learn everything you can about the products that interest you. Your canine companion will thank you. Here’s to harnessing happiness with your inquisitive canine!

From Dog Trainer to Dog Harness Creator: A Journey of Invention With a Cultural Shift

Joan Hunter Mayer TransPaw Gear

Since becoming a trainer and launching The Inquisitive Canine, I had always considered developing a dog harness thatwould not only help dogs and their owners enjoy adventures together, but that would also eliminate the need and use of more aversive equipment, such as choke and prong collars. (How fun can those really be?) I, along with my training clients, struggled to find a dog harness that would minimize their dogs’ pulling without causing discomfort. Some dogs were hard to fit. Some clients struggled to understand how to put the dog harness on, or their fingers couldn’t operate the clips. Worse still, some dogs had a finely honed talent for wiggling out of their harnesses. 

Joan Hunter Mayer Dog Trainer Santa BarbaraIn addition to these challenges, it seemed I needed two or three harnesses for my own dog when he and I headed out for adventures. I often joked that Poncho had more costume changes than Cher, with a harness for walking and running, one for sports, and another for those days when his exuberance was so great that I just wanted something that would prevent him from pulling me off my feet. I thought it would be wonderful if there was just one harness that met this diverse array of needs, something that was comfortable for him, easy to use, and functional for our needs — basically an all-in-one product.

When the time came to make that kernel of an idea a reality, I started looking at what it would take to develop a harness that actually had everything: functionality, ease of use, sturdiness and safety, and a no-frills design that still looked good. I had been telling clients for years about how much walking and adventuring can benefit the dog-human bond. I saw creation of this perfect harness as the first step in a broader cultural shift that I was committed to being part of.

TransPaw Gear Original Harness PrototypeAfter searching throughout the country, I found a group of experts who shared my vision. With the support of my friends and family, I traveled to Ohio to work with a team of soft goods engineers to craft my new product, bringing ideas, concepts, and dreams to fruition. Dog owners themselves, the engineers I met at Priority Designs were excited to help. Spending a week together, we developed 20 early designs that were slowly honed into one final concept. Upon returning to Santa Barbara, I collaborated with a few other soft goods manufacturers, producing prototypes based on the original. Each was tested with dogs and their owners. After years of R&D, I was proud to be able to say the TransPaw Gear Happy Harness was ready! The first manufacturer, based in Rancho Cucamonga, was kind enough to offer a small run (which is virtually unheard of in the soft goods industry, especially with something as detailed as the Happy Harness). TransPaw Gear officially launched in November 2017.

Although the product was beautifully crafted, the original manufacturer did not have the resources to produce higher quantities or meet a price point that most consumers could afford. I hit the pavement (and Google) again, searching for a company that would meet the same high standards, understand the TransPaw vision, and fulfill the needs of customers. Fortunately, I crossed paths with Mike Hexter, owner of HEXCORP, a California-based product development company that also offered soft goods manufacturing options for clients. The Happy Harness underwent another round of prototype testing before a new batch was produced. The Happy Harness is now being made overseas through HEXCORP, but it is still the same outstanding quality as when it was produced here in the United States.

TransPaw Gear Dog HarnessLike The Inquisitive Canine, TransPaw Gear is a small but mighty operation focused on the core values of integrity, transparency, and compassion, to name a few. With help from some great people, I run TransPaw Gear while always keeping one eye on the mission of bringing dogs and humans together. My goal is for people to love their Happy Harnesses almost as much as they love their dogs! I’ve thrown my heart and soul into the creation of the harness, and strive to continue to operate with the same values, integrity, and inspiration every day. The only difference now is that our current dog, Ringo Starr, has only one costume change for unleashing adventures and harnessing fun! 

Hidden Holiday Dangers for Dogs

People often recognize that the holiday season can present some additional dangers to our pets that they don’t face at other times. And this is true! During this time of year, dogs are more likely to have access to foods that are toxic to them, or larger quantities of nontoxic food than usual, as well as unfamiliar items they may be tempted to swallow. Cold weather can cause physical canine discomforts, and large numbers of houseguests or visitors in the home can increase mental strain on our dogs. Responsible pet owners are generally on the lookout for these dangers. But there are others that are much more subtle, making them easy to overlook entirely.

As a professional dog trainer, I am just as concerned about these three hidden dangers of the holidays:

  • Distracted Humans

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, folks tend to get overwhelmed and distracted. Routines are often disrupted as well. What does this mean for our pets? People aren’t able to pay as careful attention as they would otherwise. Sometimes it’s hard to pay any attention at all! This leads to some more of those practical dangers: food being left around for easy canine access, doors and gates being left open so pets can wander off, pet care arrangements not being made, and more.

This is the time of year when it can be very tempting to cut corners and rush through routines, but your pets need you to be on your best behavior so they can be on theirs. Double-check that the counters and table have been cleared before your dog is allowed free access to the kitchen and dining areas. Make sure that doors are fully latched as you come and go, including crate doors, gates to your yard, and the doors to your home. Confirm your dog sitter knows when to come, and have a backup in mind if the sitter needs to cancel last minute. If there’s any risk of family members giving your dog an accidental double-dinner, have a schedule posted somewhere that allows whoever feeds them to mark off what meal was given and when.

  • Unrealistic Expectations

People expect a lot from their pets, and we often do so without making much of an effort to help them adjust to our world. The holidays bring a number of potentially novel (and therefore potentially stressful) situations to our pets’ lives, including unfamiliar people in the house, travel to new places, or being left in the care of strangers (either at a boarding facility or with in-home care) when the humans are traveling. Folks tend to think animals will adjust immediately to whatever we throw at them, and the truth is that our pets can be very forgiving, so they often adapt easily. But, it’s unfair to expect this from our pets in every situation.

What should we do? Make sure your dog is getting enough quiet time, enough you-time, and enough exercise and playtime to help them shake off some of the more stressful experiences that come with this time of year. Have patience if your dog’s manners fall apart around house guests. And think about the various kinds of upheaval this holiday season will bring to your pet’s world, accommodate your dog however you can, and do your best to prepare them for these potentially stressful times. Which brings me to the last hidden danger…

  • Lack of Planning

Pet owners need to take the time to plan ahead for their pets during the holiday season. Traveling with your pet? Make sure they are accustomed to whatever mode of containment is required for the type of transit you’ll be using, possibly including a special crate if your pet is flying with you. Create and utilize a pet packing checklist so you’re confident you have everything they’ll need while away from home. If you’re using a new pet sitter, make sure the pet and sitter have bonded before you leave them. Sending the dog to a new boarding facility? It’s a great idea to do a practice “sleepover” so the dog gets used to going there, and you can make sure the dog is happy about these accommodations. Teach and rehearse the behaviors the dog will need to know in order to be a good canine citizen, regardless of where you take them or what other environmental changes occur.

Plan to have patience, as well. As noted above, you may need it! The behavior of stressed-out pets – which may include eliminating indoors, vocalizing repeatedly, and seeming to forget every bit of training you ever did with them – can exasperate even the most calm, collected human. Knowing ahead of time that you’ll have to be more patient than usual with your pet can go a long way toward reducing your own frustration, which will in turn help your dog’s stress levels.

Hang in There, and Take Time to Find Joy!

When all else fails, remember that this too shall pass. Try to find some small moments of joy in this hectic time of year. Buy your dog a special toy or treat, and take a moment to enjoy watching them relish your gift. Ideally, the holidays are a time for celebration and merriment. If you need to, you can turn to your canine companion to bring some light into your life. Dogs are good reminders that it’s the simple things – like a game a fetch, a little walk to get some fresh air, and cuddle time – that make life that much more fun.

Traveling With Dogs, Stress-Free Strategies

Summertime means vacation time. And for those of you with dogs, you don’t have to miss out. Traveling with your pet is both great for you and your furry friend, but there are a few things you need to consider before packing the treats and hitting the road.

Luckily, New York travel company AllTheRooms is here to help you out. The following are a few tips on how to make travel with your pooch less stressful while ensuring your vacation together is a barking success.

Take a Trip to the Vet

One of the first and more important things to do with your pet before going anywhere out of town is to schedule a visit with your dog’s vet. Ideally, you’ll want to do this with as much advanced noticed as possible (but still within any specifically required timeframes), in case advanced medical care is required. The doc will check to make sure your dog is in good health and suitable for travel. You’ll also want to notify them of where you will be traveling, as your dog might need specific vaccinations.

Confirm Your Mode of Travel and Requirements

The actual journey part of your trip may be the most difficult and potentially stressful time for your pet, so be sure to follow these simple tips.

  • If you’re driving to your destination, think about places you’ll be seeing – and potentially stopping at – along the way. It’s best to not leave your dog alone in the car, especially in a strange environment. Will you be able to bring your dog with you? Will someone be able to watch them? Having another human friend along would be best, so you can tag-team the supervision. Even during shorts stops, like filling up your tank, can cause anxiety if your dog isn’t familiar with their surroundings, so plan accordingly.
  • If you plan on traveling to your vacation spot by plane, train or boat, be sure to confirm with the transport company beforehand that your dog will be allowed on board. Follow any rules or regulations in place and your journey should be much more comfortable for you both. Planning ahead is key!
  • No matter which route or method of transportation, remember your dog’s needs along the way. Breathing some fresh air, stretching their legs, taking a potty break, drinking water – and maybe even consuming a snack can help them feel like they’re getting a little vacay in too.

Plan to Pack Smart

Like you would for yourself and the rest of your family, you also need to plan for what to pack for your pet. Important items we recommend include:

  • An ID tag: Make certain your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag that contains their name and your current contact information. If locations you’re visiting require a license or rabies tag, make sure you have that with you as well.
  • Paperwork: Take any required paperwork for your pet while traveling. Check you have your pet’s passport allowing them to travel (if required), details of their immunizations and any documents outlining any health problems they have or medication they are taking. These will come in handy if you end up having to take your pet to the vet during your vacation as well.
  • Their favorite item: whether it’s a ball, a blanket or a teddy they’re fond of, be sure to bring it with you to keep your dog feeling happy and relaxed.
  • Something to walk them with: pack your dog’s leash and anything else they would wear for walkies, such as a harness.
  • Toiletries: shampoo in case your pal gets muddy, and their doggy toothbrush to maintain good dental hygiene. Keep any medications they take on you, rather than in a bag, so you can quickly access them if you need to.
  • Food: make sure you pack enough food for the duration of the trip, as well as any treats and chews to keep their tummy full and their spirits happy.

Praise Your Pet

Traveling can be stressful for some dogs and to help them feel at their best, give them lots of positive reassurance throughout the journey. You’ll also want to positively reinforce them for minding their manners during your adventures together. Behaving well in the car, going potty in the right spot, minding their manners in public places (hotels, restaurants, bustling tourist areas) should be acknowledged with lots of fuss! Send the message that they’re great traveling companions. Use toys, treats, and cuddles to reinforce them – maybe even buying them a souvenir.

If your dog acts in a way that’s abnormal for them, they may be slightly stressed. Remember to stay calm yourself so you can think clearly and create a training plan to help. Speak soothingly to your dog and take a break from the journey if necessary.

Bon Voyage

We hope these tips help you and your pet prepare and have a great vacation. Stay organized, positive and safe and you’re likely to have a stress-free getaway with your pooch.

Sage Fitzpatrick is a travel blogger currently living in London. She can be found drinking tea, reading and traveling the world. When she’s not traveling she spends her time blogging about her travels over at AllTheRooms, the world’s first vacation rental search engine.

 

 

 

How to Dog-Proof Your Rental

We’ve recently been discussing with friends and clients concerns when moving with a pet. Finding rental properties where pets are allowed seems to be challenging. What can be more challenging is keeping a place once you do find one. How can you and your dog (or cat) impress the landlord?

Being inquisitive ourselves we decided to reach out to folks who are experts in this subject. Luckily we found blogger Angela Pearse who is willing to share some of her tips.

Convincing your landlord that a dog living with you is a good thing could be easier said than done if they’ve had a bad experience in the past. But if you know how to pet-proof your rental they might be swayed. Whether you have a new puppy or an older dog, these tips will help prevent your canine from getting into trouble whenever your back is turned.

Dog-Proof Garbage Can

Dogs are scavengers at heart and an easy to access garbage can is too tempting to ignore. You don’t want your dog raiding the rubbish whenever you’re out and causing a mess, so a dog-proof garbage can is a must.

For dogs with a high IQ, you’ll need one with a latch on the lid and a pedal at the bottom. Place it in the corner so they can’t topple it over. If that still doesn’t work, keep it in a locked pantry or laundry room with a closing door.

Pet-Proof Carpet

Rental carpet can take a beating when you have a dog living with you. Even if your dog is housetrained, reassure your landlord you will take steps immediately to pet-proof the carpet/flooring while dealing with any accidents that may occur. You can also consider getting an area rug so that your hardwood floor or tile is protected from any accidents.

Another way you can ensure that carpets stay pristine and fur-free is to make sure your dog is groomed. Trimming nails and claws will also help prevent snags on carpet pile and scratched floors.

Keep their food and water bowls in the kitchen or on a mat to prevent spillages and always wipe their feet after being outside. If you feed your dog with enrichment toys, make sure messes are confined to washable areas.

Dog-Proof Your Furniture

If you’re renting a fully furnished apartment, knowing how to dog-proof furniture is important. Otherwise, you could come home to a shredded couch, gnawed table leg, or some other ‘surprise’ from your furry friend. Please note, if your dog is destroying furniture, takes steps to determine why. It could be related to their physical health, emotional well-being, or simply boredom.

Using positive reinforcement training for teaching them to discriminate where they are allowed to hang out and where they aren’t is important too, so you can trust leaving them alone. Poncho wrote a lovely post teaching this very thing. Check out his tips here.

Again, keeping on top of grooming is essential – things such as nail trimming and cleaning paws will reduce the amount of damage and dirt on floors and furniture.

Some other tried and tested ways you can dog-proof the furniture to keep it looking as good as new include:

  • Buying slipcovers for the couch and armchairs
  • Using removable cushion covers for a quick wash
  • Buying an inexpensive pet seat cover (towels and blankets work great)
  • Regularly using a lint roller to remove fur 

Pet-Proof Your Flooring

Fido may think it’s fun to scoot around on the wood or concrete floors, but your landlord won’t take kindly to scratches and nicks from your dog’s toenails. Here are some ways you can pet-proof flooring:

  • Paw grooming – regularly cutting and filing nails so they don’t dig into floors
  • Buy some inexpensive but heavy rugs to use in dog traffic lanes
  • Apply a layer of protective wax, treat light scratches by reapplying wax
  • Dog booties – condition your dog to wear protective booties

Create a Pet-Friendly Apartment

Part of ensuring your rental is adequately dog-proofed is creating a safe environment for your pet. This can involve using child-safe gates to block off certain areas or keeping doors to the laundry, bedrooms, and bathrooms closed when you’re not using them.

To be extra safe, place medications, cleaners, and laundry supplies in a high cupboard or shelf out of reach. This also goes for foods like chocolate which is toxic for dogs if eaten in large quantities, and you know your dog won’t stop at one square! (Many humans are guilty of this too, so who can blame them).

Another thing to think of when dog-proofing is to cover your electrical cords and place dangling wires out of reach. Some dogs like to chew on cords and end up receiving nasty burns for their efforts. Chewing can also cause wires to short out, spark and start a fire.

Final Thoughts

You’ll have a much easier time finding a pet-friendly apartment if you can demonstrate your dog is well-trained, knows how to make good choices, and is not likely to destroy any furniture, carpet, or walls.

If you have to leave your dog for an extended period of time, ensure their physical and mental needs are met. Enrichment toys, exercise, fun and games, doggy daycare, dog walkers, and pet sitters can help meet their needs while keeping your new rental place pristine. Who knows. Your landlord might not even believe you even have a dog.

Author’s Bio

Angela Pearse is a blogger for Zumper who frequently combines travel with freelance writing. She’s passionate about Art Deco hotels, historical novels, Netflix, hiking and healthy living.

How to Find the Right Dog Walker

how to find the right dog walker
Guest Post
Emily Conklin – Gladwire

How You Can Find the Right Dog Walker

If you’re like thousands of other puppy parents, you’re finding it difficult to fit regular walks into your busy schedule. You don’t have to feel guilty about short changing your pooch when there’s probably a dog walker right in your neighborhood who can take up the slack. While getting the kid next door to walk your dog might seem like a good idea in a pinch, enlisting the services of a professional dog walker may be a safer, more sensible approach.

If you don’t know where to look, finding a reliable surrogate who will take good care of your dog can be a challenge. Find the right dog walker with a few simple tips.

Look Locally

Even if you live in a small or mid-sized town, chances are there are a few professional dog walkers or professional dog walking services in your area. You could start by looking on Craigslist, in the local classifieds, or on the internet for the right dog walker. However, dog-centric businesses might yield better results.

Many veterinarian’s offices have bulletin boards located in their waiting room advertising services for pet owners; they may even have a dog walker among their patients. Another place to try is a pet supply store. If there’s a dog park in your area, you might ask other pet owners who they use. Once you get a few names, it’s time to take the next step.

Go Social

Even if you choose a private dog walker rather than a service, chances are that anyone trying to build a business has a presence online. However, anyone can put up a social media page and call themselves a dog walker, so a little investigation is in order. Check popular sites like Facebook and Instagram to get a feel for their business. Look for photos of their walks and the other dogs they walk, including how big of a group they wrangle; if they’re regularly dealing with 10 dogs, will they be able to give yours the attention he needs? Is there feedback and interaction from clients on their pages and photos, or does the page seem relatively static and neglected?

Since we also know that many people put on a good show for social media, look for any links to a business website. If they have one, is it laid out like a reputable business, with information about licensing and insurance? Do they list services or specifics about how they conduct business? It’s also a good idea to Google the dog walker or their company for mentions on consumer sites like Yelp! This is a fairly objective way to learn if they’ve had any complaints about their services or rave reviews, and find out how long they’ve been in business.

How to find the Right Dog Walker

Meet First

Much like when you’re looking for a daycare provider for your child or a contractor to work on your home, you should meet with several dog walkers before you settle on one. There’s some opinion out there that dogs know instinctively if someone is trustworthy or not. Arrange a meeting at their home or business, if they have an office. Observe how they approach your pet, and how your dog responds to them. What does their body language tell you? Do they seem calm and confident? Friendly? If you or your dog aren’t comfortable with them, you should probably pass.

You should come prepared with a list of questions so you can determine their routine, where they generally walk, and how they might respond to emergency situations. Some practical questions to start with might be:

  • How long do you walk the dogs, how many walks per day, and how far do you walk?
  • Do you walk in areas with heavy traffic or a lot of distractions?
  • How do you deal with dogs who aren’t well-socialized? Do you walk some dogs separately, or do you take them all together?
  • Do you walk the dogs with dog harnesses or just by the collar?
  • Are you the primary dog walker, or will there be other people walking my dog?
  • Do you have backup arrangements in the case of an emergency?
  • Are they willing to allow you to accompany them on a test walk to see how they handle your dog?

In addition to general questions about the walks themselves, it doesn’t hurt to delve a little deeper into their background and experience as it relates to the job. Points to cover include:

  • Length of time as a dog walker?
  • Any formal dog training classes or certifications?
  • Are they licensed and insured? Can they provide proof of both?
  • Do they have training in canine first aid?
  • Do they have a veterinarian or arrangement for emergency care in the case of an accident or medical condition?

Getting to Know You, Too

An attentive, conscientious dog walker will also have questions for you, or at least express an interest in your pet. Although it’s not a definite reason to pass, someone who doesn’t might be indifferent or neglectful. Honesty on your part is just as important as expecting full disclosure from them. You should be prepared to give them specifics about your dog’s personality, quirks, and any medical or behavior issues. Other important disclosures include how they get along with other animals or children and how they react to loud noises or traffic.

Business Matters

Once you’ve found someone who both you and your pet feel comfortable with, it’s time to get down to business. Get a firm price for services and payment arrangements. Some providers charge a flat rate that’s payable even if your dog misses a week or a few days, others charge by the hour or by the day, and still others charge by the month. Work out a payment schedule that works for both of you. You should also ask about about cancellation policies and other potential expenses or charges that might crop up. Get everything in writing, if possible.

When your schedule and Fido’s collide, it’s time to look for solutions. Luckily, there are many dog-lovers who provide services to help pet parent’s like you give your furry baby the fresh air and exercise they need when you aren’t able. We all want the best for our dogs. Finding the right dog walker is well worth the effort.

References

https://www.sfspca.org/sites/default/files/documents/dog-hiring-dog-walker_0.pdf

https://barkpost.com/how-to-find-and-choose-the-right-dog-walker/

 

 

Celebrating Dogs, Your City, and Adventures Together

Santa Barbara, Shoreline Park
Ringo watching the sunset at Shoreline Park – a favorite walking place!

This is my city. This is my dog. I’m participating in Rover.com’s Tail of 20 Cities, celebrating our inquisitive (and oh-so-photogenic) canine Ringo Starr, along with our beautiful city, Santa Barbara, California.  But wait, there’s more! Rover.com has recruited 19 other photographers from around the world. You can check out all of the photographs on their Tail of Twenty Cities Photo Journey web page.

We chose this photo of Ringo taking a sunset-watching break at Shoreline park because it is one of our favorite places to walk, romp, meet friends, and relax.

Want to get into the lights-camera-action? You too can join the fun by posting your own pic of your pooch, repping your city with the hashtag #RoverCities!

 

2018 is the Year of the Dog

It's the Year of the Dog

3 Ways to Celebrate the Year of the Dog and Your Inquisitive Canine

2018 is the Year of the Dog according to the Chinese zodiac. It’s the perfect time to celebrate and appreciate your loyal companion. There are several ways to show your furry friend you care, and The Inquisitive Canine can help you think of a few.

2018 is the year of the dogWhat does the Year of the Dog mean?

There are 11 animals and one mythological creature that make up the Chinese zodiac. The dog is the eleventh animal, which means it’s been 12 years since the last Year of the Dog. Children born between February 16th, 2018 and February 4th, 2019 will have the dog as their Chinese zodiac sign.

What does it mean to have the dog as your Chinese zodiac sign?

People born under the sign of the dog are said to be loyal, friendly and kind – just like our four-legged friends. They are less likely to seek money and power and more likely to try and make the world a better place.

Famous people with the dog as their zodiac sign include Madonna, Michael Jackson, Steven Spielberg, Winston Churchill and Mother Teresa.

Let Us Help You Celebrate the Year of the Dog

Celebrate your dog all year long by nurturing your relationship. Here are just three ways The Inquisitive Canine can support and grow your owner-pet bond in the New Year.

New Classes

The Inquisitive Canine is offering several new classes in the first half of 2018. We’re offering Dog Behavior Workshops in February and April, and a course on preparing for pet adoption on April 30th. Learn more about our workshops and sign up to reserve your spot.

TransPaw Gear Harness

Adventuring with your canine has never been easier. Our TransPaw Gear pet harness enhances the human-canine bond. It offers multiple locations for leash attachment, providing you with choices to match any activity. Canine comfort lead the design, so your canine can move freely with special comfortable support behind the upper area of the front legs and snug shoulders fit. Learn more about the TransPaw Gear harness and shop the dog harness on our product website.

Training Tips & Tricks

Visit the Doggie Blog to learn free tips and tricks from Joan Hunter Mayer and our knowledgeable guest bloggers. Whether it’s tips for finding the right dog trainer for you and your pet or how to teach canine nose-work, the Doggie Blog is the place to gain valuable insights.

This year is the Year of the Dog, so show your courageous canine they matter by dedicating your time and establishing a deep bond.

How to Find a Dog Trainer You Can Trust With Your Pup

How to Find a dog trainer you can trust

Whether you just brought home a new dog, or your current canine companion is exhibiting a concerning behavior, you need to find a dog trainer you can trust.

The search for a well-trained, reliable dog trainer is harder than you might think. With so many dog trainers advertising their services on open sites like Yelp, you might find yourself entrusting your precious pup to the wrong person.

How to Find a Dog Trainer

If you’re wondering how to find a dog trainer and who to trust, we can help.

Here at IC HQs, we understand just how difficult it is to find a qualified dog training professional. One person’s website offers one opinion, while another’s recommends something completely different. Friends and family offer their advice only adding to your confusion. How do you filter through all the friendly advice, suggestions, and online searches?

Not to worry, we’re here to help you find a dog trainer by addressing common questions, and providing the information and resources you need, to find the right trainer for you and your four-legged friend’s needs.

Let’s begin with some common questions and concerns.

Are all dog trainers created equal?

No, they’re not. First, it’s important to note that the dog training industry is unregulated. There are no official government bodies that oversee the practice of training dogs. Additionally, there are no official universal rules, policies, procedures or gold standards. This basically means that anyone can call themselves a trainer, and do whatever he or she wants – whenever and however they see fit. Some dog trainers don’t even have a business license!

Thankfully, there are independent organizations that have addressed these concerns, including the Academy for Dog Trainers, Karen Pryor Academy, the Pet Professional Guild, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), and International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

These groups, and others like them, have developed higher standards of practice on a global level. They screen their applicants, require testing for certification and recertification or membership, and provide educational resources — among other things. Although dog trainers aren’t required to become certified or apply for membership in order to train dogs – certification proves that he or she has become proficient in their craft, following the latest in training research and best practices.

What’s their real training philosophy and approach?

The dog trainer’s approach should be straightforward, transparent, and self-explanatory. If they are claiming their techniques are “the best” and/or “most humane,” then they should have evidence to back up those claims.

Utilizing subjective jargon can be misleading, which can cloud decision making for the pet owner. Is this person describing training methods that enhance the experience for both dog and owner? Does it sound like the experience will be enjoyable for both the dog and the handler? Or, is this person promoting a “unique” approach, while implementing outdated techniques, including those that can cause fear or discomfort to the dog? Keep in mind that while addressing overall goals of the client, training should still be fun throughout the process — for everyone.

What’s with the title?

You are likely familiar with such designations as positive reinforcement trainers, cookie trainers, clicker trainers, e-collar trainers, and balanced trainers – to name a few. As mentioned above, there are no gold standards when it comes to training dogs. However, the person’s title, or what they refer to themselves as, will likely tell you a lot about their methods. For instance, trainers who are certified through the CCPDT will refer to themselves as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. This title indicates he or she practices positive reinforcement methods as outlined in the CCPDT’s Code of Ethics.

Titles such as “balanced trainer” often means they practice dual approaches. They may combine positive reinforcement with fear-based techniques, including physical corrections (i.e. alpha rolling, kicking, kneeing, collar corrections, choking with a prong or choke collar). E-collar trainers also implement punishment based techniques, with the addition of electronic (shock) collars.

Fear-based techniques are outdated, and the trainers who use them may not have an education on animal learning theory or science-based techniques, are unaware of progress within the industry, and don’t have a grasp on the fallout of coercion and aversives.

Trustworthy dog trainers will use transparent, clear, and consistent content throughout their website and social media pages. Those who use a force-free approach will talk about using whatever motivates the dog to want to participate in the training plan, focusing in on rewarding wanted behaviors, and teaching the dog what the best behavior choice is — without instilling fear.

Those dog trainers who express their use of treats, as well as “dominance” or “corrections”, give a cloudy picture as to what their methodology is. Are they putting a spin on their training approach and using these terms to help market themselves? Do they really have their clients’ best interests at heart? Techniques that risk injury should raise a red flag.

But, which method is best?

Pet owners can choose between force-free, positive reinforcement; mixed training combining both positive reinforcement and punishment; or punishment-based training. The former uses anything that motivates the dog to want to participate throughout their training. This approach teaches your dog the skills to make the right choices while focusing on wanted behaviors.

The latter uses fear-based techniques for the purpose of decreasing undesirable behaviors. This approach focuses on unwanted behaviors and doesn’t teach the dog how to make the proper choices.

For too long force-based techniques have been used, because they were part of our culture. Thankfully, progress has been made over the years, proving that while these training techniques can work, they are outdated and unnecessary for training dogs — or any animal.

Performing a Google search on the fallout of using punishment to train dogs yields several results. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior composed a lovely Position Statement on the Use of Punishment explaining the pitfalls and risks when using these techniques. This resource will provide unbiased information along with additional links to reputable studies.

Now that I know what to look for, where should I start?

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of different dog training approaches, you’re ready to begin your search. Searching for a dog trainer is similar to searching for any service-based businesses. Asking for referrals is a great way to find a trustworthy trainer. Veterinarians and other pet owners are a great source for finding qualified professionals.

Yelp is another popular source for finding pet trainers. Just be sure to do your due diligence, read reviews and learn about their approach and methods before committing to their services.

We recommend the following resources (in no particular order) for help in finding a qualified dog trainer:

How do I know I’m making the right choice?

Cyrano the PapillonKeep in mind that humans are animals too. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Conduct an interview, and ask questions. Use your research skills to review their website, reviews and social media to vet them thoroughly before entrusting them with your canine companion.

Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned dog owner, with each new experience brings new needs and goals. Finding a professional dog trainer who will listen to your needs, develop a plan that works for you and your dog, provides proper education, and supports you along the way can lead to a more pawsitive experience all around.

With the right dog trainer, you’ll have more time to be with your inquisitive canine. Use our tips to find a dog trainer you can trust.

Wanna join the conversation? Just head to the comment section below. Care to share pics and videos of your inquisitive canine? We invite you to post on our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter – Tweet to us and we’ll Tweet ya back!

How Dog Moms Can Celebrate Mother’s Day With Their Canine Kids

Dog Moms Deserve a Special Day with Their Furry Companions

Whether you’re a mom to human children or a parent to a beloved pet, it’s all about the relationship. Mothers share a special love and bond with their babies that’s unlike any other; the care and nurturing they provide deserves to be celebrated every day, and of course, especially on Mother’s Day.

I remember all the celebrations I shared with my own mother. She protested that she never wanted to be fussed over, but I always found Mother’s Day to be the perfect opportunity to do just that. Breakfast in bed, helping out more around the house, going places she enjoyed, and baking a special chocolate chip layer cookie pie especially for her. These are among my favorite memories, as I knew that at least once a year my mom enjoyed being doted on.

Let’s face it, when it comes to the relationship with our canine companions, it’s often maternal-like. Being that I’m a new dog mom again, Ringo and I have been discussing ways we can celebrate this special holiday together. He wanted me to share these ideas with your inquisitive canines to help them plan a fun day for you, too.

Take a pleasant walk in your favorite place. This one is simple, budget friendly, and without time constraints. Plus you won’t need a reservation. To make it even more fun, bring along a couple of treats — for the both of you. You can reinforce your dog for those behaviors you like, and treat yourself because you deserve it! Also, bring your phone along so you can snap some selfies to commemorate your special day together.

Take on a arts and crafts project together. Contact your local art studios to find out if you and your inquisitive canine can schedule a date to create. Whether it is the paint-your-own-pottery or sketching a picture of your dog, there are fun and unique classes to be found around town. The original inquisitive canine, Poncho, and I used to frequent Firefly Ceramics. We created a pretty set of soup bowls and serving platter that we decorated with his paw prints. That’s a gift that keeps on giving – whenever I use the platter and bowls, I always think of my precious Poncho.

Have a traditional Mother’s Day lunch, brunch, tea, or cocktails. Going out to eat on Mother’s Day is a big deal all across the country. You can go out for brunch in the morning, then tea or happy hour in the evening. Call ahead to make sure the establishments you choose are fido-friendly. You might even be able to share a meal, provided the foods you choose are on your dog’s diet, and not those you should avoid.

Do a mother-mutt photo shoot. Nowadays it’s easier than ever to capture each step of your day with photos and videos. But what do you do with all the great content? How about creating a photo album, scrapbook, or framing that that special Mother’s Day selfie?

Make a gift to your favorite canine charity. If you’re not the shopping type, you might want to help your favorite animal advocacy group. Make a donation of your dog’s toys, beds, or blankets that he or she doesn’t use any longer; a monetary donation is helpful, too.

Picnic in the park, on your deck, or in your backyard. An alternative to making reservations is to get a table for two (or more) at a local park, beach, or lake. You can even set up your picnic blanket in the backyard, front porch, deck, or in an indoor fort. The purpose is spending time together. You can also include some hand-feeding, capitalizing on training and reinforcing those behaviors you like.

Take a day trip. Hop in the car to explore a nearby place that you’ve never been before – you might find fido-friendly areas you didn’t know existed! The Bring Fido website allows you to search specific areas for places that are more dog-friendly. You never know, you might discover a brand new favorite destination!

Make this Mother’s Day special by including your four-legged baby in the festivities. Dogs are the embodiment of unconditional love, and we know that your inquisitive canine would love to pamper you with more than just sloppy kisses and snuggles… although that’s a great place to start!

From all of us at IC HQ’s, we wish all the dog moms out there a pawsitively wonderful Mother’s Day!!

Wanna join the conversation? Just head to the comment section below. Care to share pics and videos of your inquisitive canine? We invite you to post on our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter – Tweet to us and we’ll Tweet ya back!