​    Dining at restaurants with dogs is not a right, but a privilege and one ill-mannered dog (or person) can spoil that privilege. It is ultimately a courtesy of the restaurant to allow dogs. Because state health regulations must be followed, owners have the final say as to whether or not dogs are allowed in their establishment's outside dining areas.
   Pets are mainly banned from restaurants due to health and safety concerns. Therefore, only the best-behaved, should be ambassadors for the cause. Dogs must be masters of basic obedience behaviors or they won’t be welcomed by restaurateurs and patrons. At very least, dogs must know sit, down, and stay. But to set a good example and remain in favor with the establishment, we’ll have Fido rocking his behavior in public.
 
Beyond Fido’s Manners: Minding our End of the Leash

• The dog should be clean and well groomed
• The dog should wear current vaccination tags
• Give the dog a potty break beforehand (a courteous distance from the dining area)
• Exercise the dog beforehand
• Always keep the dog on leash (not a retractable)
• Tether the dog to a fixed object like a railing. If a fixed object is not available, tether him to your chair, not the table.
• Choose a table on the perimeter, preferably with a quick exit plan
• Choose a table away from other dogs
• Keep the dog out of the wait staff’s path
• Do not take the dog inside the restaurant, even to get to the patio
• Bring your own water bowl
• Do not allow the dog to drink or eat from restaurant dishes (health code prohibits pets from using glasses and dishes)
• Do not feed the dog from the table
• Do not allow the dog on the table or chairs
• Be prepared to pay the check and leave if the dog creates a disturbance or becomes stressed

       • Leave a nice tip for your server
 
Fido’s Manners

• No barking
• No whining
• No jumping
• No socializing unless invited
• No resource guarding (food, mats, or people)

Beyond the Basics for Dining with Fido
    As with teaching any behavior, we won’t be doing on-the-job training. We’ll do it at home with little or no distraction, and then gradually working up to the real-life situation. We must first build a firm foundation and then help the dog to generalize the desired behaviors. The first visit to a restaurant will be short, having only a cup of coffee. We’ll practice and generalize beforehand by going to other places where dogs are typically allowed, such as pet supply and home improvement stores.

Resource guarding is a behavior exhibited by dogs where they exhibit protective or aggressive actions towards others—humans or animals—when they feel their food, toys, or other valued items are threatened. This natural, instinctive behavior can be distressing and dangerous if not properly managed. Here's a comprehensive look at what resource guarding is and how you can effectively manage it to ensure safety and harmony at home.

What Is Resource Guarding?
Resource guarding refers to any behavior that a dog uses to discourage others from approaching their valued resource. This might include growling, snapping, or biting when someone approaches their food bowl, or a toy, or even a favorite resting spot. It’s important to understand that this behavior is rooted in instinct—dogs are naturally inclined to protect resources that are crucial to their survival.

Why Do Dogs Guard Resources?
Several factors contribute to why a dog might guard resources:

• Genetics: Some breeds may have a stronger inclination towards guarding behaviors.
• Learned Behavior: If a dog learns that aggressive behavior successfully keeps their resource safe, the behavior is likely to continue.
• Environment: Competition with other animals in the home can exacerbate guarding behaviors.
• Anxiety: A general sense of insecurity or past scarcity (common in rescue dogs) can trigger resource guarding.
  
  

Managing Resource Guarding

• Early Identification: The first step in managing resource guarding is recognizing the signs early. Watch for subtle signs of discomfort (stiffening, side-eye glances, low growls) when approached during meals or play. Early intervention can prevent these behaviors from escalating.
• Create a Positive Association: Changing your dog’s perception about being approached while they have a resource is key. Begin by tossing high-value treats towards your dog while they are eating or chewing a toy, without getting too close. Over time, your dog will learn that the approach of a human to their resource predicts good things and not a threat. (See my book “The Guarded Canine” for complete training and treatment plans.)*
• Avoid Confrontation: Do not punish your dog for resource guarding; this can increase their stress and make the problem worse. Instead, work on making them feel secure and ensure they don't feel they need to defend their resources.
• Controlled Feeding: If food is the guarded resource, feed your dog in a quiet, uninterrupted place. You can also hand-feed them to improve their comfort with human proximity during feeding times.
• Professional Help: If resource guarding behaviors are severe or worsening, consult with me at Peaceful Paws. I can provide tailored strategies and support to safely manage and modify your dog's guarding behaviors. https://peacefulpaws.net/resource-guarding.html

Resource guarding is a manageable behavior with the right approach and understanding. By respecting your dog’s instincts and working through positive reinforcement methods, you can help mitigate these behaviors, ensuring a safer and more peaceful environment for everyone involved.

*The Guarded Canine:
Nurturing Trust in Resource Guarding Dogs
by Pat Blocker, CPDT-KA, FFCP

You may have heard the saying, "A tired dog is a good dog." In reality, a tired dog is simply a tired dog. When we talk about "good" or "bad" behavior, we often focus on things like destructive chewing, excessive barking, or other unwanted actions. However, these behaviors are not necessarily bad. Instead, they are ways your dog is communicating something important—perhaps they're bored, lonely, or not getting enough mental stimulation.

While exercise is crucial in meeting your dog’s physical needs, it doesn't always address their mental requirements. For instance, taking a walk provides some physical activity, but it may not be enough for your dog's overall well-being. The amount of physical exercise needed can vary depending on factors like age, size, and overall health. For some dogs, a two-mile walk may be barely sufficient, while for others, it could be too much. Over-exercising can lead to problems as well—an overtired dog, much like an overtired child, may become cranky or act out. It’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian and/or a professional behaviorist to determine the appropriate level of physical activity for your dog.

When it comes to walks, it’s not just about physical movement; mental stimulation is equally important. There are times when your dog should heel beside you, like when crossing a busy street or passing other pedestrians. However, you don’t want the walk to be so structured that your dog misses out on opportunities to engage in natural behaviors, such as sniffing, greeting other dogs (if they’re dog-friendly), or interacting with people (if they enjoy human company). 

For times when you're away from home for extended periods—such as during a workday—it's essential to provide enrichment to keep your dog engaged. Puzzle toys are a great option, offering mental challenges that reward your dog with treats once they solve the puzzle. These toys are an easy and effective way to stimulate your dog’s mind. Additionally, training can offer a wealth of mental stimulation. You might enroll your dog in a group training class, participate in dog sports like agility, rally, or herding, or simply teach them new tricks at home. 

In the end of the day, both physical exercise and mental stimulation are key to a happy, well-behaved dog. So, instead of saying, "A tired dog is a good dog," perhaps we should say, "A well-trained, mentally stimulated dog is a happy dog."

The more the merrier? It can be done, but beware! Living with two dogs is not just double the work and cost; it’s much more. Living with three or more dogs can be off the management, expense, and worry charts. On the other hand, multiple dog households are off the fun and the love charts, as well.
​
Dogs are social animals. Therefore, we expect they should live effortlessly in perfect accord within a group. Many dogs can. Our function as leaders is to create a harmonious home. This can be achieved through a commitment to management, training, and attention to the needs of all family members, both canine and human.

Training Multiple Dogs-The Real-Life Facts: Living with and training multiple dogs would seem a Sisyphean task. With a bit of planning, thought, and radical patience it’s not. Nonetheless, it’s not always a walk in the park.

Here are a few tips to maintain peace in your pack:
 
Train Each Dog to be Comfortable Alone: In a multi-dog household, we need one-on-one time with each dog for training. Consequently, we must be able to separate them and make sure those dogs waiting their turn are comfortable with alone time.
 
Teach the Basics: Each dog in a multi-dog household must be well trained. Otherwise, the situation can be unmanageable. The key to success is to teach each dog individually. When he’s reliable with the new behavior on his own, it’s safe to ask him to perform in a group.
 
Individuality: Oftentimes in relationships, the space given to each other brings us closer together. To continually treat dogs as a pack instead of the individuals they are is a detriment to training and our relationships with them.
 
Training as a Group: We often need dogs to do things simultaneously, such as waiting at the door. In order to perform cues in a group, each dog must first be masterful in the behavior.
 
Competition: Dogs often compete for attention and resources in the presence of other dogs. We can mitigate canine competition by training each dog to stay while the others get attention.
 
Living with multiple dogs can be both a privilege and an incredibly rewarding experience. It brings joy, companionship, and a deep sense of fulfillment. However, it also comes with its unique challenges, which can be managed effectively with the right approach, an abundance of patience, and lots of love.
 
For a complete guide to living at peace in a multi-dog household, you can book a consultation with me and/or order my book entitled Paws in Sync: Training and Harmony in a Multi-Dog Home (one title in my new series Taking the Lead without Jerking the Leash.) https://tinyurl.com/2axzm754

​Happy training!

 
 
 
 

    When it comes right down to it, we need to realize that dogs are not genetically designed to be isolated. While most dogs, being the adaptable creatures they are, can manage just fine staying at home alone, a smaller number of dogs struggle deeply with this—these are the dogs with true separation anxiety.
 
What Is True Separation Anxiety?
    We’re often quick to label a dog’s destructive, loud, or annoying behavior as separation anxiety. In reality, true separation anxiety is less common than you might think. Behaviors such as destructive chewing, house soiling, howling, and incessant barking can indeed be symptoms of separation anxiety. However, they can also be signs that dogs are simply filling their uneventful free time with their own canine antics. 
    Dogs suffering from genuine separation anxiety are in a state of high anxiety the entire time they’re alone. They panic at our departure and remain in distress until our return. These dogs may soil the house, chew on the furniture—or even on themselves—attempt to escape, pant, drool, tremble, bark, or howl during our absence. It’s heartbreaking to think that they spend so much of their lives in a state of panic.
 
Causes of Separation Anxiety
    It’s natural to wonder if human actions can cause separation anxiety in dogs. You might ask, “Does letting my dog sleep with me cause separation anxiety?” or “My dog never lets me go anywhere alone, even when I’m just heading to the kitchen—does this mean he has separation anxiety?” The experts tell us, “No.”
While over-attachment issues may not be the cause of separation anxiety, they can certainly exacerbate the problem. Some dogs have a genetic predisposition for separation anxiety. Just like humans, dogs have different personalities. Some have an outgoing, friendly nature, while others are more insecure and shy. It stands to reason that a dog who is less confident may have more trouble staying home alone.
 
Here are some common causes of separation anxiety: 
Traumatic Events: A traumatic event experienced while home alone can trigger the onset of separation anxiety. Sudden loud noises, thunderstorms, alarms, attempted break-ins, or harassment from unsavory passersby are just a few of the frightful events that could precipitate this anxiety.
 
Abandonment: Dogs that have been abandoned suddenly or re-homed to a dramatically different environment may struggle to adjust. Dogs that have been dumped and left to fend for themselves, or left alone without food or water, are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, a dog left in an unfamiliar, stressful place, such as an overcrowded shelter or boarding facility, may develop separation anxiety.
 
Never Alone: Dogs who have never been left alone can be candidates for separation anxiety. Show dogs, competition dogs, or puppy mill breeding stock that have spent their entire lives surrounded by other dogs may find a new, quiet home very disquieting—a situation ripe for the onset of separation anxiety. 
    Sudden changes during a dog’s assimilation period into a new home can contribute to the development of separation anxiety. For example, a dog adopted during the summer when the kids are out of school might suddenly find itself alone once August rolls around and everyone returns to their normal routines.
    The same concerns arose with the so-called “COVID puppies.” During lockdown, dog adoption rates soared, which was a good thing for both humans and dogs. But, as people began returning to work outside the home, what would happen to these dogs? With proper planning and training, we can successfully transition back to work without the fear of our dogs living in constant fear at home.
 
Managing Separation Anxiety 
    Now that we’ve discussed some of the causes of separation anxiety, it’s important to recognize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Every dog is unique and learns differently, at their own pace.
 
    At Peaceful Paws, I offer a comprehensive program tailored to address separation anxiety in dogs. If you’d like to learn more about how we can help your dog, feel free to contact me through my website at http://www.peacefulpaws.net or email me directly at pat@peacefulpaws.net. 
    By working together, we can help your dog feel more secure and content, even when they’re home alone.

As much as we love our dogs, not everyone who walks through our door wants to be greeted with enthusiastic barking or a jumping bundle of energy. If you've ever found yourself trying to calm your dog while welcoming guests, you're not alone. Training your dog to be calm around visitors can be a game-changer, creating a more peaceful environment for both your dog and your guests.
 
Here’s how you can teach your dog to stay calm when company comes over.
 
Set Clear Expectations
Before you can train your dog to be calm, it’s important to know exactly what behavior you want to see. Do you want your dog to sit quietly by the door? Go to a specific spot, like their bed? Or maybe you’d prefer they simply greet guests politely with all four paws on the ground. You might even teach your dog to fetch their favorite toy when visitors arrive instead of barking and/or jumping. Decide on your expectations and stick with them—consistency is key.
 
Start with Basic Cues
Basic cues like "sit," "stay," and "down" are the foundation of good manners. If your dog hasn’t mastered these yet, that’s the first step. Practice these cues regularly in different situations so your dog learns to respond to them, even with distractions.
 
Create a Calm Environment
Dogs feed off our energy, so if you’re excited or anxious when someone arrives, your dog will likely mirror those emotions. Stay calm and composed, and set up the environment for success. For example, you can have your dog on a leash when guests arrive, or use baby gates to create a barrier. This helps manage your dog’s excitement until they’ve learned how to behave calmly on their own.
 
Practice with Controlled Visits
Once your dog understands the basic cues, start practicing with controlled visits. Ask a friend or family member to help by coming to your door (without knocking or ringing the bell.) Before they arrive, put your dog on a leash and have them sit or go to their spot. When your guest enters, reward your dog for staying calm. If they get too excited, gently lead them away and try again or have your guest walk back out the door. This teaches your dog that only calm behavior gets them what they want, which is to say, “Hello.”
 
Reward Calm Behavior
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training. When your dog remains calm, reward them with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. The key is to reward the calm behavior you want to see more of, rather than reacting to the excitement. Over time, your dog will learn that calmness leads to good things.
 
Gradually Increase the Challenge
As your dog becomes more comfortable with the controlled visits, start increasing the challenge. This might mean having multiple guests arrive at once or practicing with more exciting situations, like someone ringing the doorbell. Continue to reward calm behavior, and be patient—training takes time.
 
Stay Patient and Consistent
Training your dog to be calm around visitors won’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Every dog learns at their own pace, so stay patient and consistent. Celebrate small victories along the way, and remember that setbacks are part of the process.
 
Consider Professional Help if Needed
If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior, don’t hesitate to contact me. I can offer guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs and help you develop a plan that works.
 
By following these steps, you can teach your dog to greet visitors calmly and create a more harmonious home environment. It’s all about patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement—and, of course, plenty of love.
 
If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you and your dog achieve peaceful, positive experiences together.

    Taking a stroll with your dog should be one of life's simple pleasures, but we all know that sometimes our four-legged friends have a different idea of what "leisurely" means! Whether it's the sudden sprints, the surprise sniffing detours, or the enthusiastic tug-of-war with the leash, walking with your dog can quickly turn into an unexpected workout.
    But fear not! Leash training can transform those unpredictable adventures into calmer, more enjoyable walks for both you and your pup. Here are some tips to get you started on the path to leash-walking bliss.
 
Start Indoors or in a Quiet Space
    Just like us, dogs can get distracted by all the sights, smells, and sounds of the great outdoors. So, before you head out into the wild, start your leash training in a calm, controlled environment. Whether it's your living room, backyard, or a quiet park, this gives your dog a chance to get used to the leash without too many distractions.
 
Keep It Short and Sweet
    Dogs have short attention spans, especially when they're excited about exploring the world around them. Keep your training sessions brief—think 5 to 10 minutes at a time. This way, your dog stays focused, and you can end each session on a positive note. Plus, you'll both look forward to the next session!
 
Reward Good Behavior
    Who doesn't love a treat for a job well done? When your dog walks calmly beside you, offer praise, affection, and a tasty treat. This reinforces the behavior you want to see and encourages your pup to keep up the good work. And don't forget to be patient—leash training is a learning process for both of you!
 
Practice Makes Perfect
    Consistency is key to successful leash training. Practice regularly, and try to walk your dog at the same time each day. (Times should be adjusted according to the season so not to be too cold/hot or dark.) This helps establish a routine and sets the expectation that walks are a time for calm behavior. Over time, your dog will start to associate the leash with positive experiences.
    That said, we want to be sure our dogs get the chance to sniff, greet other dogs and people (if it’s appropriate.) This makes the walk fun for both you and your dog because they get to be dogs and you get to watch them be dogs.
 
Hold On
    If your dog starts pulling on the leash, resist the urge to tug back, which will elicit an opposition reflex from them. Instead, stop walking and stand still. Wait for your dog to return to your side or loosen the tension on the leash. Once they do, resume walking. This teaches your dog that pulling doesn't get them where they want to go.
 
Switch It Up
    Vary your walking routes and environments once your dog is comfortable with the basics. This keeps things interesting and helps your dog learn to stay focused on you, even in new and exciting places. Plus, who doesn't love a change of scenery?
 
Stay Positive
    Leash training can take time, and that's okay! Celebrate small victories and stay positive. Every step forward is progress, even if it's just a small one. And remember, walking with your dog is about enjoying each other's company—so have fun with it!
 
    By following these tips, you'll soon be well on your way to having more relaxed, enjoyable walks with your dog. You’ll probably even start looking forward to those daily strolls as much as your pup does!

   Training a dog isn't just about teaching cues; it's about fostering a strong, trusting relationship. Perhaps, one of the most overlooked aspects of successful training is the environment in which it takes place. A stress-free environment is crucial for your dog’s well-being and plays a significant role in how effectively they learn.
 
Why a Stress-Free Environment Matters
    Just like us, dogs are sensitive to their surroundings. If they’re in a place that makes them feel anxious or overwhelmed, their ability to focus and learn diminishes. Imagine trying to study for an important exam in a noisy, chaotic room—it’s nearly impossible to concentrate. The same goes for our dogs.
    When a dog feels stressed, their brain releases cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with their ability to process information. This can lead to slower learning, frustration, and even behavioral problems. On the other hand, when a dog feels safe and calm, they are more likely to be open to learning, understanding, and retaining what you’re teaching them.
 
How to Create a Stress-Free Environment 

• Choose the Right Space: Start by selecting a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your dog feels secure. This space should be free from distractions like loud noises, other pets, or too many people. 
  
  
• Consistency is Key: Dogs thrive on routine. When teaching something new, do your training sessions in the same place. That way your dog will know what to expect, which can reduce anxiety. When your dog is fluent in the new behavior, then you can begin training it in a new location to help generalize it. 
  
  
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats, praise, and play, not only make training fun but also help your dog associate learning with positive experiences. This approach builds their confidence and makes them more eager to participate. 
  
  
• Pay Attention to Body Language: Your dog’s body language can tell you a lot about how they’re feeling. If they seem anxious—ears back, tail tucked, or avoiding eye contact—take a break and try to identify what might be causing their stress. Adjust the training environment accordingly or stop the session and resume at another time. 
  
  
• Keep Sessions Short: Dogs, especially young ones, have short attention spans. Keeping training sessions brief—around 10 to 15 minutes—will help prevent your dog from becoming overwhelmed. Short sessions two or three times per day are more effective than say, a single one-hour session. 
  ​
• Incorporate Calming Activities: Before and after training, engage your dog in activities that help them relax, such as a gentle walk, some quiet time with a favorite toy, or even a short nap. This helps to set the tone for a calm and focused training session.

 
The Impact on Training Success
    When your dog is in a stress-free environment, they’re more likely to be attentive, responsive, and eager to learn. This not only makes training more effective but also more enjoyable for both of you. Over time, this approach will strengthen the bond you share with your dog, making them more confident and well-behaved in a variety of situations.
    Remember, training is not just about the end result; it’s about the journey you take with your dog. By prioritizing their emotional well-being and creating a stress-free environment, you’re setting the foundation for a lifelong relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. 
    Creating a peaceful, supportive atmosphere during training is at the heart of what I do at Peaceful Paws. I believe that every dog deserves to learn in an environment where they feel safe and loved. Happy training!