OBEDIENCE

PROBLEM TRAINING

Constantine "Gus" Marnel

REGISTERED MASTER TRAINER

State Licensed Facility

Member of P.D.T.A.

Milford, CT 06460

(203) 874-7299

   There are around 74 million dogs in the United States and about 800 different breeds. Dogs are selectively bred to develop specific traits according to human needs. As an example, hunting dogs were developed in all shapes and sizes, specific to the game they would be tracking, hunting, and retrieving.

   Constantine "Gus" Marnel, owner of K-9 Communication here in Milford, offers sound advice for anyone considering welcoming a dog into their home and their family. "Every dog on the face of the Earth is born with a genetic blueprint," he expalins. "Check the AKC (American Kennel Club) website (www.akc.org) to research breed specific traits. For example, working dogs need a job to do. If you're looking for a couch potato to watch TV with you, you may not want to buy a Border Collie."

   Most people have experienced a dog that jumps by way of greeting. When a teeny pooch does it, it may be considered cute. When a larger dog (sixty pounds and up) does it, you can end up on your backside. Training is essential for any dog - from small to tall - to make them a part of your family. "Dogs are pack animals; they are joining your pack, not the other way around," says Marnel. "Most canines will try to attain alpha status - the leader of the pack. Its up to people to establish the desired behavior of their dogs." Realistically, he adds, "Training the owners is usually tougher than training the dog."

   House training is the first step for the new member of your family. Training is a procedure and accidents will happen. Marnel's advise is to "Keep an eye on the dog for an hour after they eat or drink. Take them outside until they have done their business. Habits establish themselves quickly and you will learn the signal that your pup needs some outdoor time."

   "No animal should ever jump on the dining room furniture unless absolutely certain that he can hold his own in the conversation." - Frank Lebowitz

   Choosing a proper diet helps dogs develop into healthy adults. Dog food made headlines recently as some brands were tainted with melamine. "The Whole Dog Journal (www.whole-dog-journal.com) offers a thoroughly tested list of commercially available foods. It also offers ratings about ingredients," Marnel says. "Higher quality ingredients may be a little more expensive, but the animal will consume less food because the nutrition is superior. Food that is more thoroughly absorbed also creates less yard cleanup for owners."

   What is the most important part of training your dog? "Consistency; it is easy to get confused with so much information available. Pick a program and stick with it. Dogs are opportunists; if they find an opening they will exploit it," says Marnel. "Be sure everyone who lives with your dog knows what program you're running. Everyone should use the same commands."

   Socialization will help your dog acclimate to different people and pets. Experiencing a variety of situations will help your dog roll with life's unending distractions. "Dogs want your affection and they will behave to get it," Marnel says. "Training may be a frustrating process, but never hit or yell - you get what you give."

   With patience, consistency, and affection owners can avoid the self-created troubles of in-house accidents, jumping, and counter surfing. Studies have shown that pet ownership can benefit people mentally, emotionally, and even physically. There is nothing better at the end of a long stressful day than to come home and be greeted with unconditional love. Our four-legged friends become part of our families, grow up with our children, and keep us cozy on cool autumn evenings. They truly are man's best friend.