Alpha Dog Training

Now that Fall is finally here and the weather gradually turns colder, are you looking for a fun indoor exercise for you and your dog? Ever tried or wanted to try agility? Starting on October 23 I will be running some new Recreational Agility classes at Urban Puppy Shop & Daycare. Saturdays with two class time options. For more details: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/class-list/

Working on some new Recreational Agility class schedules coming up in October/November. Dates to be posted soon. Watch this space

As life slowly begins to return to a more normal state, if you haven't already, start preparing now by practicing short departures and leaving cues so that your dog won't panic when you have to go out for longer periods of time. Ensure your dog has plenty of exercise and a short training session prior to leaving them at home and make sure they are in a safe area where they can't get into any trouble or get hurt.

Aced the weave poles and now the jump!!!!!

Due to some unforeseen circumstances, the Puppy Basics & Social class is moving to a new start date of June 21. If you or anyone you know is looking for a puppy class that covers the basic commands, learning appropriate meeting and greeting manners, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, leave it, drop it, how to manage problem behaviours such as biting, chewing and jumping up as well as play socialization with other puppies. Information and registration details can be found here: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

There are a couple of spots left for the nextPuppy Basics & Social class. Starting on June 14 to July 12. Monday evenings from 6:15pm to 7:15pm held at Urban Puppy Shop & Daycare. Info and registration: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

May 3rd Puppy Basics class is full, but have another one scheduled to start on May 25 at Urban Puppy Daycare. Tuesday evenings 6:15pm to 7:15pm. For puppies around 6 months or under to learn simple commands and basic manners that are the foundations for a better relationship with their human families. The class covers meeting and greeting manners towards other dogs and people, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, leave it, drop it, how to manage problem behavio...urs such as biting, chewing and jumping up as well as play socialization with other puppies. Pre-requisite: First two sets of vaccinations required Registration and info: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

There are a couple of spaces open for the next Puppy Basics & Social class at Urban Puppy Daycare. Monday evenings from 6:15pm to 7:15pm May 3 to June 7 (no class May 24)... For puppies around 6 months of age or under to learn simple commands and basic manners. The class covers meeting and greeting skills towards other dogs and people, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, down, leave it, drop it, how to manage problem behaviours like jumping up on people and biting as well as play socialization with other puppies. Pre-requisite: First two sets of vaccinations required Registration: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

I have a client that is looking to get rid of her puppy play/ex pen. If you know anyone that may be interested, let me know and I can connect them to the owner to discuss. I think she is looking for around $55. It's almost new and hardly used. Dimensions: 48" long x 31" wide x 38" tall.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone

A little Friday chuckle.

This last year has been a difficult and challenging one for all of us, but as we look back and wave goodbye to 2020, take a few moments to reflect on the important and positive things. May the beautiful moments and treasured memories of years past carry you through. Wishing everyone, people and pets a Happy New Year and hoping for a better year ahead.

There are some unwritten rules for dog park etiquette and if we adhere to them everyone can enjoy them safely. Here are a few tips and suggestions to keep in mind for when you and your canine companion visit the dog park: In my opinion, it’s important to have a place where dogs can go to play and have some freedom when you live in a City and don’t have the luxury of a yard. But that being said, it’s also really important to be aware of safety and appropriate behaviour. Don’t ...let your dog become a nuisance to other dogs or people. Teach your dog basic manners so he doesn’t jump up on strangers or steal other dog’s toys. If he’s still at a young age where jumping and running amok is what he does best, consider keeping him on a longer leash for safety until he learns appropriate behaviour. If your dog really enjoys chasing a ball be aware of others around you. Some dogs do not like to share their toys and take offense if another dog tries to steal their toy which could easily and quickly turn into a fight. Perhaps consider going to a quieter area of the park or at a time when it’s less busy. One of the most important things to remember is safety. If your dog is being a bully to other dogs, give him a time out or leave. Dog parks are for all dogs to share and enjoy equally. Be observant about what is going on between your dog and other dogs and step in if needed. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember why you’re at the dog park in the first place which is to have fun and allow your dog to socialize with his own species. Be courteous and teach your dog to do the same

The last Puppy Basics & Social classes for the year coming up on November 23 at Urban Puppy Shop & Daycare. Monday evenings from 6:15pm to 7:15pm for five weeks. For puppies 6 months or under to learn simple commands and basic manners that are the foundations for a better relationship with their human families. The class covers meeting and greeting manners towards other dogs and people, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, leave it, drop it, how to manage pro...blem behaviours like jumping up on people and biting as well as play socialization with other puppies. Pre-requisite: First two sets of vaccinations required. Info and registration: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

Or perhaps pumpkin spice and butt

Wishing everyone, four legs and two a very Happy Thanksgiving. It has been a tumultuous year with so much uncertainty, but hoping that we can all still find time to give thanks for the people and good things in our lives.

One space left for the upcoming Recreational Agility class starting on Tuesday October 20th at Urban Puppy Daycare. A perfect activity to do with your dog on those dark Winter evenings. A fun and casual class for dogs of any age, size and breed with no previous training experience required. Just come and have fun and learn how to direct your dog through a series of obstacles and tunnels. Information and registration details: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

Training requires a few simple rules. be realistic with your expectations and timeline be consistent practice daily... set them up for success See more

There are two new classes coming up in October/November. PUPPY BASICS & SOCIAL CLASS October 19 to November 16 Monday evenings 6:15pm to 7:15pm... RECREATIONAL AGILITY CLASS October 13 to November 10 Tuesday evenings 6:30pm to 7:30pm Both classes are to be held at Urban Puppy Shop & Daycare at Hemlock Street and 6th Avenue. Further information and registration details: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/class-list/

Can dogs see colour? The popular belief that dogs can only see black, white, and shades of gray is not true. In reality, although dogs do not see the same colours as humans do, they can still see some colours. Here’s why. Both humans and dogs are able to see thanks to two main types of cells in the retina rods, which detect light levels and motion, and cones that helps us to differentiate colours. Human eyes have three different types of cones, which allows us to identify c...ombinations of red, blue, and green. Dogs, on the other hand, have only two types of cones, which means they can only discern blue and yellow. As a result, dogs are red-green colour blind. While humans have more cones, allowing us to see all the colours of the rainbow in their brightest form, dogs have a higher amount of rods, which helps them to see things better in low light or identify moving objects at a faster pace than you do. The colour that stands out most for your dog is blue! Which is why when playing a game of fetch with a ball, your dog might have a hard time telling the difference between a red, orange or green ball on the grass since it all looks the same to him and he will use his nose rather than eyesight to try to locate it. So if you’re wondering which colour ball to buy your dog, they will have an easier time with blue and/or yellow over any other colour.

Four weeks ago I lost my beautiful girl Daisy so thought I would share some of my favourite photos of her in celebration of National Dog Day. Enjoy your furry friends and spoil them just a little more today.

Last session of outdoor puppy classes starting soon. The next Puppy Basics & Social class will be starting on Tuesday August 18th at 6pm and will be held at Granville Loop Park near Granville Island. Puppy Basics & Social Class For puppies 6 months or under to learn simple commands and basic manners that are the foundations for a better relationship with their human families. The class covers meeting and greeting manners, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, lea...ve it, drop it, how to manage problem behaviours like biting, chewing etc as well as play socialization with other puppies. Pre-requisite: First two sets of vaccinations required Info and registration: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

Owning a dog is a major commitment in many ways. Training is probably one of the biggest investments we can give our dogs to help teach good manners (particularly important during puppyhood). But during any phase of your dog's life, training is the key to preventing future bad habits/manners. A daily training routine helps build confidence in shy/timid/fearful dogs and provides a mentally stimulating job for those bossy/unruly dogs to help bring calmness and shape cooperation as well as build a loving and trusting bond.

The outdoor puppy classes have been really successful. I wouldn't normally do outdoor puppy classes due to the high distraction level, but with Covid keeping all the locations I use closed, had to adapt. So with that in mind, I will be offering outdoor Puppy Basics & Social class again through the Summer. New classes starting on Tuesday August 4th at 6pm and will be held at Granville Loop Park near Granville Island. Puppy Basics & Social Class For puppies under 6 months of a...ge to learn simple commands and basic manners that are the foundations for a better relationship with their human families. The class covers meeting and greeting manners, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, leave it, drop it, how to manage things like biting, chewing etc and play socialization with other puppies. Pre-requisite: First two sets of vaccinations required Details: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

TICKS!!!! It’s that time of the year when we have to be vigilant about ticks and Lyme disease spread by ticks who carry and transmit bacteria through their bites. It’s one of the many reasons pet parents need to know how to find ticks and remove them safely. As tick season is already underway, we should check our dogs whenever they spend any time outdoors in wooded, brush or areas with long grass. ... How should you check your dog and what should you do if you find ticks? It’s probably a good idea to wear nitrile gloves since you can also catch disease if you come into contact with the tick’s fluids. Run your hands over your dog’s body (go slowly so you don’t miss anything), feeling for lumps. If you feel something, spread the fur so you can get a closer look at the skin. Ticks can attach anywhere, but the most common spots are around the ears, head, neck (under the collar), shoulders, groin, and between the toes. You’re looking/feeling for tear-shaped bodies with eight legs. They can be as small as a sesame seed before a meal, or, when engorged with blood, about as large as a pea. They can be brown, black, tan, or reddish. First thing to remember Don’t Panic! You want to remove the tick as soon as possible and, will need fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. With the tweezers or tool, grasp the tick by its head or mouth parts, as close to your dog’s skin as possible. Don’t grab the tick’s body or squeeze; this can make the tick expel disease-carrying fluids. When you’ve got a grip on the tick, pull straight back, steadily and firmly. Don’t squeeze or twist as you pull. Drop the tick into rubbing alcohol to kill it. These hardy buggers can survive being flushed down the toilet or drain. Squeezing the tick with your fingers isn’t recommended, as the fluid that comes out can cause diseases. Clean the bite area with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol. You may want to follow it up with a dab of antibiotic ointment. Don’t worry if the tick’s head is still attached to your dog; it will probably come out on its own but do keep an eye on the area, and if you see signs of infection, visit your vet.

Due to Covid-19 all indoor group classes were cancelled, but with some restrictions now being lifted, it's possible to offer outdoor puppy classes. All measures will be in place for proper sanitization and social distancing. Classes Starting Soon!! Puppy Basics & Social Class:... For puppies under 6 months of age to learn simple commands and basic manners that are the foundations for a better relationship with their human families. The class covers meeting and greeting manners, leash walking, handling skills, sit, stay, recall, leave it, drop it, how to manage inappropriate behaviours such as jumping up on people, biting, barking etc and play socialization with other puppies. June 16 to July 14 Tuesday evenings 6pm to 7pm Pre-requisite: First two sets of vaccinations required and a regular leash not less than 6 feet. Registration and information: https://alpha-dogtraining.ca/urban-puppy-registration-form/

We've known for some time the benefits of coconut oil for humans but it's also extremely beneficial for our dogs too. For joint health and skin particularly but also for digestion and a teeth cleaning.

A little Friday humour.