Behaviour & Training

There’s nothing worse than a puppy that won’t stop pulling on the lead. It can be extremely tiring for both you and your pup and can turn a simple walk into a complete nightmare. If your dog is straining at the lead, or your puppy refuses to walk without pulling with all their strength, it means that you are only controlling them with physical restraint, rather than with the training that should keep them happily trotting at your side. Not only that but, as they get older, the physical effort involved in controlling your dog could be overwhelming, especially if your canine friend is one of the larger, stronger breeds. To make life easier for you and your dog, all it takes is a little training and they’ll be overjoyed at the sight of their lead in no time. Keep reading to find out how to leash train a puppy! Why lead training puppies is important Exercise Being able to walk your puppy on a lead provides an opportunity to exercise your dog and keep them healthy while they grow and mature. Mental stimulation Exposing your puppy to new environments is essential to their growth and development, and walking on a lead is essential to exploring many new places. The act of training itself is also great mental stimulation for your dog! Further training Lead training also improves responsiveness to overall obedience training, and it may become easier to teach other commands such as ‘sit’ or ‘stay’ once your puppy has learned to be walked on a lead. What you’ll need before you start puppy lead training A collar or harness Buy a collar or harness that fits your puppy appropriately, never too loose or too tight – you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your puppy’s neck. Treats Use treats to reward them for good behaviour on the lead.

There’s no need for your dog to stay at home if you’re going on holiday – in fact, your dog can make a great travel companion. With so many dog friendly hotels and holiday homes, check out the basics of travelling with dogs right here. Travelling with dogs is easiest if you prepare everything well in advance – accommodation, travel arrangements, and paperwork can all be organised months before you go, which means less stress and more fun for both of you. Of course, you might not be planning on travelling abroad with your dog, but staying somewhere close to home, in which case things are even easier. Just keeping a few simple things in mind will really increase the ease of taking dogs on holiday. Get your pen ready and make sure you’ve thought about everything in the list below – and when you’ve done all that, the only thing left is to get excited about your trip. Health and safety arrangements when travelling with dogs The first thing to keep in mind when travelling with your dog to a new place is your pet’s health and safety. This task alone can make many dog owners reconsider their travelling plans, but it’s actually quite a simple process. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Anyone who’s ever spent time in the company of a dog knows that, just like people, dogs have personalities that are unique to them, and they experience many feelings in exactly the same way as humans and all other mammals. While they don’t experience higher emotions such as shame, spite or contempt, they have the same range of basic emotions as us, such as happiness, sadness, relief, frustration and fear. These feelings are essential in helping dogs learn about the world, and encourage them to behave in certain ways to protect or help them. If a dog feels fear, for example, they’re likely to seek out safety from the threat and gain a sense of relief, while the positive feelings they get from cuddles and grooming encourages good relationships with those around them. Watch our experts decode their expressions, signals, and behaviours.

Dog target training may be a less well-known way to train your dog, but it is definitely picking up in popularity among dog owners. No other training technique hones your dog’s concentration skills as effectively as target training, and the process can help your dog develop their cognitive abilities. Target stick dog training is a great technique to teach your dog, but what exactly is it and how do you begin to train your dog with this method? In this article, we explore all the questions you may have about target training and the benefits. What is dog target training? Target training is a method where you teach your dog to identify specific objects and react to those objects in a certain way. For instance, if you show your dog a mat, your dog’s first reaction will be to use all of their body to respond to that object—in other words, they will lie down on the mat. But what if you could teach your dog to only touch their nose to the mat or only put their front paws on it? This way, your dog will be responding to the mat in a specific way (or with a trained action) by using only one body part. You can see why dog target training is growing popular: it teaches your dog better motor control and concentration skills. It also allows them to identify objects better, which can be very useful if you want to train them to tidy up their toys or close the refrigerator door! How do you start target training? The easiest way to get your dog started on target training is to teach them to identify a specific object with a body part. Begin by using your hand as your dog will probably already be familiar with hand signals and is already comfortable around you. You will need a clicker, treats and lots of fuss and praise for this, as these reinforce positive behaviour. • Present your hand to your dog, around half an inch away from his nose. If your dog looks at your hand, click and reward your dog. • If they touch their nose to your palm, click and reward them. • Keep repeating this action until they can follow your palm to the left, right and above them, all the while touching their nose to it. Make sure to positively reward your dog with lots of praise and treats—that is how they know what you want them to do! Once your dog is good at focusing on an object and touching it with their nose, it’s time to progress onto target stick dog training.

There is no denying that one of your dog’s most defining traits is their loyalty. This loyalty can be overwhelming and humbling, and has often been cited as an example of what human beings can learn from dogs. But life lessons aside, where does your dog’s loyalty come from? Yes, you feed them and play with them and have your own deep sense of love for them, but does that fully explain the depth of emotion they hold for you? In this article, we explore loyal dogs, why dogs are loyal and when that loyalty may need to be contained. Are dogs really loyal? The concept of a loyal dog has been peddled so much in today’s media and advertisements that you can be forgiven for questioning its premise: are dogs really loyal? Let us get the question out of the way: yes, they really are. The stories of dogs who wait endlessly for their owners or who are overjoyed to greet them years later are not made up. You can see the evidence in your own dog, who is delighted when you return home from work and greets you as if they haven’t seen you in weeks. If that is not deep loyalty, we do not know what is. So, what makes a loyal dog? There are several theories on where your dog’s loyalty comes from and why it is so deep. Here we explore a few of the explanations for your dog’s loyalty, ranked from simple to intriguing. The simple explanation: you give them food The simplest explanation for your dog’s loyalty is that you give them food and shelter. Your dog is grateful to you for the essentials of life that you provide and so is loyal to you. There is a scientific basis for this: domestic dogs are descended from wolves, which man once took in and tamed with shelter and food in return for them acting as guard dogs. This reciprocal relationship remains in your dog’s genes and their loyalty is a by-product of it. Of course, this would mean that loyal dogs adore anyone who feeds them. This is also largely true, as dogs do tend to grow more attached to the family member that gives them their food. But it is not the only explanation. Looking to dog psychology for answers: dogs are pack animals Dogs are also pack animals and long to belong to a pack. They are much like humans in that way – it is said that no man is an island and the same can be said for a dog. To your loyal dog, your family is their pack and they have adopted you as their own. Loyalty in a pack is crucial. In order for a pack to survive in the wild, their members must work together to overcome dangers. Trusting, co-operating and putting the pack’s interests first are all a natural part of surviving. It would explain why dogs often put their own lives in danger to protect their owners; their pack instincts require it of them. But that cannot explain everything. After all, your dog still loves you when you return from a long vacation and you have not been feeding them during that time. And what about Hachito, the loyal dog who used to greet his owner each day at the train station after work – and continued to wait for him for nine years after he died? Neither pack instincts nor reciprocal relationships can explain that. But something else might. The intriguing explanation: dogs may love In 2005, Science Direct held an experiment on canine behaviour, where they presented dogs with their owner’s scent, a scent of a stranger and the scent of food. Brain scans were taken of the dog as they approached each scent. The study hypothesised that since smell is so important to dogs, it would be the best way to understand how canine brains work. They were right. Not only did dogs react more strongly to the scent of their owners, the part of the brain associated with enjoyment and positive emotions lit up when they were given their owner’s scent. Your loyal dog does recognise you. The same patterns in humans would usually be associated with love. In another experiment, a dog was allowed to watch a stranger be rude to their owner. When the dog was then allowed to interact with the stranger and the owner, the dog actively snubbed the stranger. If that is not loyalty, we do not know what is.

Even though some dogs will make more noise than others, all dogs bark. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a fully-grown Alsatian, you’ve probably heard them barking in a wide variety of situations. You might even be able to tell why they’re barking – for example, many dogs will bark if they encounter something that they perceive as threatening or even when they just want to say hello!

For those of us having to spend an extended period at home, the extra time we get to spend with our dogs is great of course – but, it’s a reality that we’ll likely have to return to work at home point which will be a huge change for your dog. Learn how to ease your dog into being left home alone with our guide. Finding yourself at home for an extended period of time can bring mixed emotions. Whether you’re unwell, taking a career break, on maternity/paternity leave or locked down due to a global pandemic, the change to your routine will impact you and your dog in different ways. While time with your dog is always a good thing, they will be affected by your emotions as you navigate your new situation and there are inevitable changes in your behaviour. You might notice changes in your dog’s behaviour too; are they following you around the house, becoming anxious when you leave to go shopping or finding places to hide around the house? It’s your responsibility to make sure that their world doesn’t come crashing down around them when your routine changes again. But before we get to the most effective ways to establish a routine for your pet, here are some of the most common symptoms for a dog struggling with change. Dog stress symptoms If your dog is going through a change in their life, it’s important that you keep a look out for any dog stress symptoms, which may indicate that they’re having a difficult time coping: • Excessive howling or barking • Going to the toilet in the house • Lack of interest in food and play • Digestive issues such as diarrhoea • Increased sleeping • Aggressive dog behaviour • Destructive behaviour The key to success will be the routine you put in place for your dog. It needs to blend their daily needs with the lifestyle you will be leading when you’re no longer at home most of the time. Whether you are bringing a puppy into your family, a rescue dog or your current canine family member is experiencing a change in their routine, it’s important to adopt a daily routine. Teaching your dog independence as a way of coping with change Encouraging independence involves teaching your dog that they’re safe to entertain themselves, focus on solo activities and settle alone. The best way to do this is through creating a daily routine. That way, they know what’s expected of them, they know what’s coming next and they won’t be confused by any sudden changes. Think about where your dog would be left alone when you’re not at home. This space needs to be comfortable for them; a familiar space that they’re used to relaxing in and the time they spend there can be built up slowly if they are no longer used to being alone. As much as you love spending time with your dog, encouraging independence is one of the kindest things you can do for them as they’re experiencing change with you. Daily dog routine: getting started The best time to start a routine is the moment your dog joins your family. The second best time is now! Regardless of whether your dog used to have a routine which has now changed or they have joined your family during a time that doesn’t represent your usual day to day life; start now and start small. Write down the daily routine that you will commit to and make sure that everyone involved in the dog’s care is in agreement. Make sure that when your dog is having time alone, that doesn’t become time when they’re snoozing next to you on the sofa. They need to be comfortable being away from you. Start by choosing two or three tasks a day that you can complete while your dog is relaxing in the space they’ll be left in when you’re not at home. If you’re worried that your dog isn’t going to cope with being left alone, you can start with small games that you set up but don’t engage with your dog while they enjoy them. If you scatter some of their daily food allocation around the garden or in a cardboard box with shredded paper, they will be focused on a natural behaviour and learn that they can enjoy time by themselves. It’s much more fun for a dog to sniff out their dinner than to inhale it from their bowl. Getting your dog used to the new routine Creating a routine will help your dog. They are creatures of habit and a routine helps them to feel secure in their environment. From a place of security, dogs are better able to deal with change. The daily routine that you create needs to be maintained regardless of what is going on around you. For example, in the morning your dog will be exercised and after a rest, will have their breakfast. They will then settle and have some time alone. There will be time scheduled in for play around midday and in the afternoon they have an activity that they can enjoy by themselves. After their evening walk, they have a rest and dinner before spending time with you. They’ll have their pre-bedtime toileting opportunity and then go to sleep. For puppies, the routine will include many more toilet opportunities! Remember that dogs need 14-16 hours rest so by giving them the time they need to do that, you’re absolutely doing the right thing. By adopting a routine like this, you can maintain it regardless of the changes you’re experiencing. The ‘exercise’ time can involve a number of different things if you’re not able to walk as far as usual, you need to ask someone else to walk your dog or you’re designing treat trails around the house/garden. Playtime can be a short training activity that will not only help your dog but will enhance the bond that you both have. The solo activity can be a pre-prepared brain game, a Kong or a long-lasting treat which will switch their focus from you to something they can enjoy by themselves. Within the routine, there’s room for improvisation, but your dog will be much more secure in their environment if they know what to expect.

We’ve all promised ourselves, “new year, new me” and set ourselves massive goals, but often these resolutions get abandoned within the first week of January. Find out how to achieve yourgoals with the adorable Luna, as your guide. ‘Ok, Luna, it’s a new year and it’s time to talk resolutions. You are going to march around the streets with me every day so that I can measure exactly how many calories you’ve burned. You are going to cut down on those treats you love, because while we’re grateful we didn’t have to use the hoover during the festivities, that hasn’t helped your waistline. You’re going to get organised and stop leaving your toys all over the house. You’re going to quit barking at other dogs when you’re in the car, that’s a bad habit you’ve got into and as of today, you’re going to completely ignore squirrels. Okay?’ With a confused head tilt Luna sank into her bed, no doubt thinking, ‘that sounds like fun, thanks human.’

Dog muzzles often get a bad rap, but did you know there are actually quite a few benefits to wearing them for certain types of dogs? Find out more about them and our dog muzzle training tips with this guide. Dog muzzles are fantastic! We know that they get a mixed response from people, but we also know how important they are and have written this article to help you with your dog muzzle training. If you read that and thought, ‘my dog doesn’t need a muzzle,’ then this article is for you. Not only are muzzles perfect for dogs that might be a little bit grumpy, frightened or anxious when they’re out and about, they’re also quite often necessary at the vet's or if your dog has been hurt. If your dog has learnt to love their muzzle then all the stress that’s often accompanied by wearing one goes away. Why do some dogs wear muzzles? Some dogs need to wear muzzles and most of the time, it’s not because they’ve ever bitten anyone. There are dogs in New Zealandthat are required, by law, to wear a muzzle in public because of their breed, not their bite history. Some ex-racing greyhounds wear muzzles because they have endured years of chasing something small and furry and that’s a hard habit to break. Some dogs wear one because vets and trainers recommend it when they are learning not to eat potentially dangerous objects, like stones or litter. Some dogs wear one because they need space and people tend to give dogs a wide berth if they’re wearing a muzzle. There are misconceptions about dog muzzles, there are judgements and there are quite often some unhelpful comments about them, but when did that stop you from doing your best for your dog?! The more we can all raise awareness about the positives of muzzles, the better! You could face a situation where your dog needs to be muzzled. You don’t know what the future holds and if you’re in a situation where your dog needs a muzzle as a matter of urgency; they won’t be feeling excited about one landing on their face. You can prepare them and take that stress away for them. Baskerville muzzles Baskerville muzzles are popular, safe and lightweight muzzles that allow your dog breathe. Never use a muzzle that clamps your dog’s mouth shut as that affects their breathing and leaves them unable to drink. With the Baskerville muzzle, they can take treats and drink, so once they’ve learned to love it, they’re not prevented from enjoying life while wearing one.

The fact that you love your dog and want to do your best for them isn’t in question, but do we really understand what our dogs need in order to thrive? Looking after our beloved dogs comes natural. We give them a shelter, food, water and countless cuddles. But is this enough? It turns out dog's needs are just as complex as ours. Luckily, there is a handy visual tool you can use to make sure you take all your pet's needs into consideration for a happy, healthy and fulfilled life together. Linda Michaels (MA)adapted Maslow’s hierarchy to create thedog'sversion of the hierarchy of needs. This helps explain what your dogs need from you and, importantly, what you need to prioritise in order to give your dog the life they deserve when they join your family. Like us, our dogs thrive in a safe environment. This model is built on the premise that kindness is the foundation for all of your interactions with your dog and at the heart of all of the decisions you make for your dog. Before you start to think about training cues, you have to have created an environment in which your dog is able to learn; that environment starts with the basics. Here are your dog's different levels of needs you need to take into consideration.

If you’re a dog owner, it’s likely you’re well versed in the sudden bursts of energy that have our dogs (and especially puppies) spinning like tornados and doing laps around the coffee table like it’s an Olympic track. But have you ever paused to wonder, what are they doing exactly? This behaviour is known as ‘dog zoomies’ and we’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about it. What is dog zoomies? The proper name for dog and puppy zoomies is ‘Frenetic Random Activity Periods’ or FRAPs. These periods usually display as sudden bursts of energy where your dog may run around in circles, usually with their backend tucked in, chase their tail and do laps of the house and/or garden. Typically, dog zoomies won’t last very long and will be over almost as soon as they began, and your dog will plonk themselves down for a much-needed rest. What causes dog and puppy zoomies? Zoomies is generally caused by a build-up of excess energy which is then released in one short burst. Don’t worry though, it’s a completely natural behaviour. It’s most common in and generally occurs less and less as they get older. But that’s not to say it’ll stop entirely – many older dogs will still have FRAPs! When do dog zoomies commonly occur? Although it’s caused by excess energy build-up, there are a few occasions that are likely to cause a FRAP, including: • Just before bed: your dog may be trying to blow off steam before a longer period of rest • After a bath: dogs may experience an adrenaline rush after bathing and may either feel relief that they’re out of the bath or are trying to dry off (or perhaps both) • After eating: this is particularly common with very food orientated dogs • During a training session: sometimes when we’re trying to teach our dogs something and they’re not quite getting it, it can lead to a build-up of nervous energy Are dog zoomies harmful? The behaviour itself isn’t harmful, but sometimes the area in which they do it can be dangerous, particularly if they’re constantly skidding on laminate or hardwood floors or running into furniture. If you think your dog will harm themselves in the house, instead of trying to stop the behaviour, just direct the behaviour outside instead or if not possible, a carpeted area.

For centuries, dogs have been considered our best friends and most loyal companions, so it’s only natural that there are numerous pups that have risen to fame. At Purina, we’ve put together this list of our favourite famous dogs in history which includes everyone from movie stars to decorated military dogs, keep reading to find out more! 1. Toto, The Wizard of Oz You may not have considered this, but without Toto, none of the events in The Wizard of Oz would have transpired to begin with. Dorothy runs away from home with Toto to save him from the horrible Miss Gulch who wants to have him euthanised for biting her. This is why Dorothy is outside the storm shelter when the tornado hits, transporting her and her tiny companion to Oz. What’s more, it’s also because of Toto that the company discover that the Wizard is a fraud too! Fun fact: The role of Toto in the 1939 film was played by a Cairn Terrier called Terry and it’s reported that she was paid $125 each week, which was more than some of the human actors! 2. Lassie, The Famous Rough Collie When it comes to famous dogs in movies and TV shows, they don’t get much more well-known than Lassie. This lovable Rough Collie that’s always getting into adventures and saving the day first appeared in a short story in 1939, but since then she’s appeared in novels, movies, TV shows and even video games! However, she’s perhaps most known for the 19-season long TV show ‘Lassie’ which aired from 1954 – 1973. Six different canine actors played the part, but the longest reigning was a dog called Baby who starred from 1960 – 1966. 3. Scooby Doo Despite not being a real-life dog, Scooby Doo is probably one of the most famous canines in the entire world. This famous dog has been around since the 60s and since then there’s been a wealth of movies, TV shows and games – not to mention huge amounts of merchandise – made starring the cowardly Great Dane. It’s no secret that Scooby Doo has made a huge cultural impact on us all too, in fact, many of the sayings from the show have found themselves woven into our vocabulary. 4. Rin Tin Tin Rin Tin Tin was a German Shepherd, discovered amidst battle-torn France during WW1, where he was adopted by American solider, Lee Duncan. After the war, Rin Tin Tin moved home to Los Angeles with Duncan, where he was soon scouted by a filmmaker who saw him jump an impressive 12-feet high at a dog show. After he landed his first role, he starred in almost 30 films, some of which were created with just him in mind, resulting in him becoming one of the most famous dogs in movies known today. It’s also been said that Rin Tin Tin was the unofficial mascot of Warner Bros Studios and he saved them from bankruptcy when they were just a small studio! Fun fact: Rin Tin Tin’s fame helped to increase the popularity of German Shepherds as family pets in America! 5. Balto