DIGITAL ISSUE 8A | 2023
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER DOG MAGAZINE
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LUX Pet Pr life od & Serv ucts ices aw M
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www.paleopetpure.com JOHANNESBURG | PRETORIA | CAPE TOWN | GARDEN ROUTE | DURBAN
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FOOD M PET
CHOOSE AWARD WINNING RAW PET FOOD
Dear readers, How can it be that we find ourselves welcoming December again? This is the point in the year when we are always asking ourselves: where did the time go? It has been our absolute pleasure to share this year with you and your dogs. We are grateful to have you as part of the DQ community. Here in the office, we often take a moment to ask how it’s possible that we’re able to call this our job, and ultimately that’s down to you. So, thank you all for a fabulous (if challenging at points) 2023! We’re so grateful for your support. We’d also like to thank our loyal advertisers who, through their generous support, allow us to keep this magazine free for everyone! We couldn’t do it without them. Thank you! Whatever the festive season holds for you and yours, we hope it will be a good one! We look forward to seeing you on the fifteenth of January, 2024! With lots of Christmas love,
Lizzie and the DQ team xxx
Dr Lizzie Harrison | Editor
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Designer | Anne Royden-Turner
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DIGITAL ISSUE 8A | 2023
CONTENTS Giant Schnauzer Majestic and intelligent
Wolfdogs Cross-breeding between wolves and dogs
Hedgehog conservation With a Springer Spaniel called Henry
Sensory environmental enrichment Keeping your house-bound hounds happy and healthy
Step up Dog walks done differently
Common neurological and orthopaedic conditions Part 6: Canine hip dysplasia and rehabilitation
Basic tricks
DQ’s Christmas Quiz
Trick 2: Give a paw
Festive fun
Beware the braai
Q&A
Doggy dangers to watch out for
Your dog questions answered
Paw Prints Rescue and Rehoming A profile
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Products we love
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BREED PROFILE
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BREED PROFILE
Giant Schnauzer MAJESTIC AND INTELLIGENT
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BREED PROFILE
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he Giant Schnauzer, a majestic and powerful breed, embodies intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Originating in Germany, this robust working dog has earned its place as
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a cherished companion, guardian, and show dog. With its distinctive appearance, the Giant Schnauzer appeals to those seeking a devoted family member and a reliable protector.
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BREED PROFILE
ORIGINS The Giant Schnauzer shares its ancestry with the Standard Schnauzer and Miniature Schnauzer. The precise origins of the breed are not welldocumented, but it is believed that the Giant Schnauzer was developed in the Württemberg and Bavarian regions of Germany during the late 19th century. The breed was created by crossing the Standard Schnauzer with larger dogs, possibly including the Great Dane, the Rottweiler, the Boxer and the Bouvier des Flandres, to produce a larger, more powerful working dog.
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The original purpose of the Giant Schnauzer was as a versatile working dog on German farms. These dogs were utilised for various tasks, including herding cattle, guarding property, and serving as reliable companions to farmers and their families. Their intelligence, strength, and protective instincts made them invaluable in various roles. The first breed standard for the Giant Schnauzer was established in Germany in 1923. The breed's distinctive appearance and exceptional working abilities soon caught the attention of dog enthusiasts beyond Germany. The Giant Schnauzer was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1930, solidifying its status as a recognised breed on the international stage.
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During World War I and World War II, the Giant Schnauzer gained further recognition for his versatility and courage. The German military employed the breed for various roles, such as messenger dogs, guard dogs, and even Red Cross dogs. After the wars, the breed's numbers were significantly reduced, but dedicated breed enthusiasts worked to revive and stabilise the population.
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BREED PROFILE
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BREED PROFILE
DID YOU KNOW? Giant Schnauzers love to swim!
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Today, the Giant Schnauzer continues to excel in various roles, including as a police and military working dog, a search and rescue dog (including in urban areas), and a competitive participant in dog sports such as obedience, agility, and protection trials.
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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The Giant Schnauzer is a large, squarely built dog with a sturdy and well-muscled frame. Standing at 60 to 70cm at the shoulder and weighing between 25 and 40 kg, this breed exudes presence and power.
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The double coat is dense and wiry, with a beard and eyebrows that add to his distinctive look. Coat colours typically include solid black or saltand-pepper.
DID YOU KNOW? These dogs are often referred to as Velcro dogs because they never want to be far from their people.
TEMPERAMENT Known for his keen intelligence and unwavering loyalty, the Giant Schnauzer is an excellent family dog and protector. This breed is renowned for its assertiveness, making them effective guardians and watchdogs. While Giant Schnauzers may appear reserved with strangers, they are affectionate and playful with their families, especially children. Early socialisation and consistent training are crucial to channel the breed's natural protective instincts and create a well-mannered and friendly canine companion.
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EXERCISE AND TRAINING This energetic breed requires regular exercise to maintain his physical and mental well-being. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation through obedience training, interactive toys and enrichment are essential for a happy and balanced Giant Schnauzer. Intelligent and eager to please, this breed excels in various dog sports such as obedience, agility, and protection work.
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LIVING ARRANGEMENTS While the Giant Schnauzer can adapt to various living situations, he thrives in environments with ample space to move and play. A secure garden is ideal; regular exercise is necessary to prevent boredom and potential behavioural issues. This breed forms a strong bond with their family and prefers to be an integral part of daily activities.
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HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS Typically a robust breed, the Giant Schnauzer is prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and autoimmune disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for ensuring the well-being of this majestic breed.
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FINAL THOUGHTS The Giant Schnauzer, with his striking appearance and versatile skill set, is a remarkable addition to any household. A loyal companion, a vigilant protector, and a loving family member, this breed embodies the perfect balance of strength, intelligence, and devotion. Whether as a working dog, show dog, or a cherished pet, the Giant Schnauzer leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with this extraordinary canine.
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WOLFDOGS
Wolfdogs CROSS-BREEDING BETWEEN WOLVES AND DOGS
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WOLFDOGS
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WOLFDOGS
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n 1989, the South African police force decided to create a more aggressive dog, so it crossed their trained dogs with wolves in a bid to create a wolfdog hybrid. This was possible because both dogs and wolves belong to the genus Canis, and both their bodies are made up of 78 chromosomes grouped into 39 pairs, making them close relations. Yet, while this effort was deliberate, hybridisation is occurring in the wild with no human intervention at all, and interbreeding is a growing concern for the wolf population; it is even threatening the wolf as a separate species.
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The main concern is that hybrids are affecting the genetic pool, leading to fewer 'pure' wolves. The problem arises as wolves find themselves in closer and closer proximity to pet dogs, as human habitats encroach on natural spaces. Scientists worry that this breeding between the two will remove some of the inherent traits of wolves. These hybrid animals have been seen to lose their wild instinct, threatening their survival ability, and become unpredictable and dangerous. Added to this is the fact that there is no rabies vaccine for wolfdogs yet.
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NOTE It's important to note that not all dogs with wolf-like appearances are wolfdogs. Some breeds, such as the Alaskan Malamute or Siberian Husky, naturally resemble wolves but are domestic dogs with no wolf ancestry.
ABOUT WOLFDOGS Wolfdogs are canines that result from mating a domestic dog with a wolf (Canis lupus). These hybrids can vary widely in their appearance, behaviour, and characteristics, depending on the percentage of wolf and dog genes they inherit. The term 'wolfdog' is often used to encompass the whole range of hybrids with varying degrees of wolf ancestry.
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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS Wolfdogs can exhibit a wide range of physical features. Their appearance may include wolf-like characteristics such as a thick coat, erect ears, and a bushy tail. However, there can be considerable variation, and some may closely resemble domestic dogs.
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WOLFDOGS
BEHAVIOUR Wolfdogs may display a combination of wolf and dog behaviours. Wolves are generally more reserved and territorial than dogs, which can influence wolfdogs' behaviour. They may be more independent, less predictable, and potentially challenging to train compared to typical domestic dogs.
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CHALLENGES OF OWNERSHIP Wolfdogs can present unique challenges for owners. Their behaviour may be less predictable, and they often require specialised care and handling. Meeting their socialisation and environmental needs can be demanding, and they are certainly not suitable pets for everyone.
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WOLFDOGS
A coyote
HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS Wolfdogs may be prone to certain health issues common to both wolves and dogs. These can include genetic conditions, joint problems, and dietary needs that are different from those of standard domestic dogs. OTHER CANINE HYBRIDS What happens when domestic dogs start to encroach on wild canine territory? Hybridisation is a serious threat to populations of coyotes, dingoes and, of course, wolves, as already mentioned.
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THE COYDOG Coyotes and dogs are genetically close enough to produce a fertile canid hybrid. This is a common occurrence, and coyote DNA is becoming increasingly dog-like over time. The Eastern Coyote, for example, is a hybrid made up of 62 per cent Western Coyote, 14 per cent Western Wolf, 13 per cent Eastern Wolf and 11 per cent domestic dog.
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WOLFDOGS
A dingo
Hierran Wolfdog
DINGO HYBRIDS There has been so much hybridisation between the dingo and the domestic dog that the vast majority of dingoes are now mixed-breed. This has proven to be a real threat to the future of the species, as there are only a few 'pure' dingoes left with solely dingo heritage. This has led to an increase in the variety of colour patterns and build, blurring the species' typical characteristics. HIERRAN WOLFDOG The origin of this wolfdog is unknown, but it originated on the Canary Island of El Hierro. It bears many similarities to wolves, including its erect ears and strong build.
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SAARLOOS WOLFDOG Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos crossed a male German Shepherd with a European Wolf in the 1930s, creating a reserved canine with long legs, ears like a dog and a very strong pack instinct.
Saarloos Wolfdog
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WOLFDOGS
Czechoslovakian Vlcak
CZECHOSLOVAKIAN VLCAK This breed was formed by crossing a German Shepherd with a Carpathian Wolf. This wolfdog has become useful in search and rescue operations. It has the physical breed, head and hair of a wolf.
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FINAL THOUGHTS Wolfdogs, whilst popular, are a growing cause of concern for scientists across the globe. It is anticipated that legislation around these hybrids will tighten in coming years, hopefully keeping these wild species around for many generations to come.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: AMY WHITE MEDIA
JUMPING INTO THE NEW YEAR DQ|8A
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NEWS
TEXT: AMELIA CAMPBELL-HORNE
Hedgehog conservation WITH A SPRINGER SPANIEL CALLED HENRY
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t seems as if new developments are popping up everywhere you look across South Africa. Surely, within a few years, most of the remaining free holdings in the suburbs will be complexes, which begs an important question… What will happen to the wild animals that call this habitat their home when the remaining agricultural and natural land is developed?
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NEWS
One such creature that is threatened by habitat loss is the Southern African Hedgehog (Atelerix frontalis). This small mammal is considered to be ‘near threatened’, and their greatest threat before illegal harvesting is habitat destruction. A similar plight has afflicted hedgehogs in the UK. However, in the UK, developers are obliged to search and relocate the wildlife before they can clear a site - a process that is certainly easier said than done.
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Locating hedgehogs is particularly challenging. This is because they are nocturnal, so during the day, they will hole up in their nests, and also because they are impeccably camouflaged in long grass and shrubbery, making them difficult to find and relocate. A UK researcher and leading hedgehog conservationist, Dr Lucy BearmanBrown from Hartpury University, suspected that detection dogs might do a more efficient job of finding hedgehogs than any human could
so that these hedgehogs could be relocated and kept out of danger. Lucy teamed up with the People’s Trust for Endangered Species and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, as well as a Springer Spaniel called Henry and his trainer Louise Wilson from the Conservation K9 Consultancy.
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NEWS
DID YOU KNOW? Humans have approximately six million scent glands in our noses, while dogs have an incredible 300 million.
DETECTION DOGS Detection or sniffer dogs have been used by humans for a number of years and are well known for their ability to sniff out explosives, drugs, cash, tobacco and live people and cadavers. But that is not where their ability ends, as a dog’s sense of smell is over 10,000 times more sensitive than ours. Henry is one of several dogs from the Conservation K9 Consultancy who are specially trained to sniff out a wide variety of endangered animals. Henry is, however, the only dog in the UK currently trained to find hedgehogs, and he does so without harming or stressing them.
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Lucy (and Louise and Henry) carried out their research over a two-year period. The traditional method of hedgehog detection was for a surveyor to go out at night with a spotlight to find the creatures, so Lucy would use this traditional method the first night and mark the hedgehogs with a small tracking device. Henry would then be let out the next night, and Lucy would additionally use more modern technology (thermal cameras) to identify if any had been missed.
THE RESULTS They performed this research over summer and winter to determine the efficacy of each method. After completing his training, Henry was able to find significantly more hedgehogs than could be found using a spotlight and identified every single animal that could be seen on the thermal cameras! Henry was also able to cover a considerable area in a short space of time and found hedgehogs in the most unlikely places - even areas that they were thought not to inhabit.
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CURRENT WORK This winter, he will be testing out his skills again in order to assist with finding hibernating hedgehogs that are impossible to find using a spotlight or thermal imaging, as they are snug in their nests and are able to reduce their body temperature while they hibernate, leaving the modern technology redundant.
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FINAL THOUGHTS We think this is an exciting initiative that will hopefully play an important part in the future conservation of hedgehogs not only in the UK but also in South Africa! Just to add another ‘aww’ to this story, Henry is also a rescue!
REFERENCES https://www.hartpury. ac.uk/university/ research-innovation/ project-case-studies/ training-dogs-forhedgehog-conservation/
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D O G S AT H O M E
Sensory environmental enrichment KEEPING YOUR HOUSE-BOUND HOUNDS HAPPY AND HEALTHY
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We all hope to return home to well-rested and calm pooches.
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ith complex and estate living becoming increasingly popular in South Africa, more people are having to deal with issues that arise from keeping their pets in confined spaces and unattended for hours at a time. Pet day care is often available but may not be affordable to all, so what other options are available to assist with keeping your dogs occupied and out of trouble while they are unattended in a confined space? DQ had a look into some of the
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latest research to provide you with some sensory environmental enrichment ideas to help you keep your house bound hounds healthy and happy! WHAT IS SENSORY ENVIRONMENTAL ENRICHMENT? Environmental enrichment means providing stimuli to an animal’s environment to improve their physiological and psychological welfare. Most pet owners likely employ some environmental
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enrichment techniques already, such as providing their pet with toys, puzzle feeders, or friends for socialisation. But have you ever considered including sensory enrichment into the mix? Sensory enrichment takes into consideration your pet’s senses, and aims to provide auditory (hearing), olfactory (smell) and visual (sight)
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stimulation to improve an animal’s welfare. Research has proven that sensory enrichment is a valuable tool in the management of house bound dogs, and the added benefit is that these techniques are generally easy to implement and, in most cases, relatively inexpensive! AUDITORY ENRICHMENT A significant amount of research has been conducted into the use of auditory enrichment in dogs. Studies have investigated the impact of different types of music on the behaviour of dogs, including classical, heavy metal, pop and human conversation as compared with a no-music control.
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TOP TIP Due to the varying genres of music experienced, leaving the radio on is potentially not the safest option.
Classical music resulted in more relaxation-type behaviour including reduced vocalisation and longer periods of resting/sleeping compared to other genres of music and has the greatest potential to reduce stress-related behaviour. Exposure to classical music has also been proven to reduce heart rate in dogs which suggests it reduces stress. However, research has shown that the effects might be short-term due to dogs becoming used to the music, meaning you might need to vary your playlist! If classical music is not your thing, alternative genres of music that
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may assist with relaxation in your dog include soft rock and reggae! Stay away from heavy-metal and hardrock though, as these two genres can increase barking, reduce sleeping and even cause nervous body shaking! Audiobooks may also provide a solution! Research has indicated that exposure to audiobooks results in more resting behaviour, reduced sitting and standing in dogs and less stress behaviours. This might be because the audiobooks provide the illusion of human company, which dogs highly value.
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D O G S AT H O M E
Dogs respond well to lavender.
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OLFACTORY ENRICHMENT Considering how strong a dog’s sense of smell is, it is quite surprising that there are so few studies on olfactory enrichment in dogs. Two studies have been conducted that looked at the effects of various essential oils on the behaviour of kennelled dogs and found varied responses to the various odours. So, which are beneficial, and which are not? YES – Chamomile and lavender odours resulted in less vocalisation and more time spent resting, suggesting that they induce relaxation much like they do in humans. YES - Vanilla, coconut, ginger, and valerian also reduce levels of vocalisation and general activity, while coconut and ginger additionally increased sleeping behaviour.
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NO - Stay away from peppermint and rosemary, as these may result in more barking and dogs becoming more active. The studies used essential oil diffusers and scented cloths (essential oil on cloths), both of which effectively delivered olfactory stimulation, so there is no need to buy a diffuser if you don’t have one - you can just apply the oils to an old facecloth and leave it out of reach of your dogs!
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VISUAL ENRICHMENT Once again, relatively few studies have investigated the impact of visual enrichment in dogs, but those that have may have an easily implementable idea for you (ESKOM allowing). A study investigated the behavioural effects of a blank television screen verses moving television images of dogs, other animals and people sitting and walking inside a house. The study found that dogs spent significantly more time observing moving images than a blank screen, vocalised less, and
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were less active in general than when the television was off. However, the dogs quickly got used to the television and became less interested in the TV, spending only 10% of their time looking at the screens. GETTING STARTED So, perhaps implement auditory and olfactory stimulation first and then supplement it with visual enrichment, and hopefully with these affordable options you will return home to a happier hound (and neighbours). DQ|8A
D O G H E A LT H
STEP UP DOG WALKS DONE DIFFERENTLY
As we’ve discussed before, adding a few tasks or challenges to your walk can tire your dog out more effectively than a simple stroll alone. Here, we give you some straightforward ways to jazz up your walking routine to encourage your dog to flex his thinking muscles, ensuring he comes home ready to rest!
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1. CHANGE SPEED Say your dog’s name to get his attention before walking fast (double your average pace) or slow (half your usual pace). This helps to gain focus and build up your walking bond. The more you practice this, the more you’ll find your dog keeps (at least some of) his attention on you when you’re out and about.
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2. STRAIGHT SITS A ‘straight sit’ is when your dog sits by your side with his nose pointing in the same direction as your toes. Try to achieve a few of these every walk.
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3. SNIFF IT OUT Randomly hold a treat and drop it to the ground. Point to it and allow your dog to locate and eat the treat. Make the scentwork challenge greater by dropping the treat into some long grass – just beware of ticks! This exercise helps train focus away from undesirable distractions and items.
4. ‘ABOUT TURNS’ An ‘about turn’ is you and your dog turning 180 degrees and walking back in the direction you just came from. Say your dog’s name, turn away from him and encourage him to come with you. Try to do a few of these each walk.
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5. SWAP SIDES If you are used to walking your dog on one side, swap sides and walk him on the other side. You may need some treats to encourage this to begin with.
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6. GO ‘HAND-OVER’ STYLE Apply common sense and caution, but allow your dog to dictate the direction of your walk. This can tell you a huge amount about your dog’s motivation and where his favourite places are located. 7. WAIT Occasionally, stop walking and wait. The second your dog looks up at you or returns to you, praise him and continue with the walk. This might be a bit slow to begin with, but it gets quicker the more you play.
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8. STOP AND START If you are walking your dog on a lead, you can do this exercise to help teach him to walk without pulling. When his lead becomes taught, stop. When the lead is slack, keep walking. Repeating this throughout the walk encourages your dog to think and ultimately trains him to be better on the lead.
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9. SIT AND WATCH Find a quiet place and simply allow your dog to look around. Every time he goes to investigate something new, give him a treat. This is calming and helps build positive associations. It also allows you to take a break mid-walk!
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COMMON NEUROLOGICAL AND ORTHOPAEDIC CONDITIONS - CAN REHABILITATION HELP?
CANINE HIP DYSPLASIA AND REHABILITATION Text | Bianca Rootman Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) is a common condition affecting our canine companions. Hip dysplasia is defined as an “abnormal development of the hip joint, resulting in coxofemoral laxity due to decreased coverage of the femoral head by the acetabulum, and ineffective soft tissue stabilisation of the joint” (in essence, an unstable hip joint!)
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Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition and is more prevalent in large and giant breeds. The condition usually affects both hips. Many people will have experienced the sadness of having a large breed companion diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Typically, the picture has been one of an old German Shepherd that perhaps cries when it rises, no longer has the stamina or strength to walk the distance or play with the other members of the pack or starts to drag his/her hind legs. However, new research shows that this debilitating condition is not restricted to bigger companions; it is also seen in English Cocker Spaniels and Pugs. Furthermore, as veterinarians gain more knowledge in the development of the disease, a new pattern is emerging. This is one of pain in puppies as young as five months, accompanied by hind quarter weakness, a typical swaggering gait and generally poor development of the gluteal region. Your companion may be reluctant to jump up, have difficulty rising, cry out in pain, and be unable to be physically active. The good news is that if this condition is diagnosed early in its course, then surgery can be avoided in as many as 70% of dogs. For the cases that will require surgery, there are several options.
SURGICAL OPTIONS • Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) This surgery aims to increase the acetabular rim coverage of the femoral head. JPS causes premature closure of the pubic symphysis. The procedure should be performed in dogs at 16 – 18 weeks of age. • Triple/Double Pelvic Osteotomies (T/DPO) A TPO is usually performed on dogs from 6 – 12 months of age. The procedure rotates the acetabular segment over the top of the femoral head to increase the dorsal coverage. • Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) This procedure is also referred to as femoral head and neck excision (FHNE) arthroplasty. The femoral head and neck are removed, which eliminates bone-on-bone contact. Success relies on peri-articular fibrosis and muscle to support the body weight. Even though this procedure gives rise to an abnormal post-operative gait, FHO is still a viable treatment for CHD because of its technical ease, relatively low surgical costs and effective relief of pain. However, muscle atrophy, limb shortening, and a decrease in hip extension are common and affect outcomes. • Total Hip Replacement (THR) This procedure is performed in dogs usually older than a year when they are skeletally mature. The acetabulum and femoral head are replaced with a prosthesis. The choices are cementless and cemented implants. The expected outcome is to restore normal hip function, range of movement, and muscular development. • Non surgical options Hip dysplasia is characterised by instability of the joint. It makes sense then that any exercise that strengthens appropriate musculature will decrease the extent of the instability, thereby slowing down the condition’s progression. Exercise must be low impact (as in hydrotherapy) and aim at strengthening the glutes while maintaining the range of motion in the hip joints. The crux of managing hip dysplasia lies in early intervention with appropriate therapeutic exercise. Weight management also plays a massive role in guaranteeing a comfortable life for your companion.
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FINAL THOUGHTS If you suspect your adolescent companion is showing signs of hip dysplasia, do not delay in obtaining a diagnosis. The sooner you know, the more likely your companion will live longer, with a good quality of life.
ANIMAL HEALTH AND HYDRO RYNFIELD 154 President Brand Str, Rynfield, Benoni Contact: 083 230 2188 Email: animalhealths@gmail.com ANIMAL HEALTH AND HYDRO PRETORIA EAST 218 Mark St, Grootfontein County Estates, Pretoria East, Grootfontein Country Estates Contact: 074 251 4410 Email: ahahpretoria@gmail.com
DOG TRAINING
TRICK 2: GIVE A PAW
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eaching your dog to give a paw is a fun trick, and the results are frankly adorable. Here are the simple steps… 1. Start simple: To teach your dog to ‘give a paw’, kneel in front of him and ask for a sit. 2. Have treats ready: Use small, tasty treats that your dog loves. Having treats readily available will motivate your dog during the training session.
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3. Use your treat: Hold a treat in your closed fist for him to sniff, positioning your hand a little to the side. This will put him slightly off balance, making it easier for him to lift a paw.
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4. Use your voice: Encourage him to get the treat by saying, ‘Where is it?’ or something similar. Most dogs will eventually try to use a paw to open your hand. 5. Yes! As soon as his paw makes contact with your hand, you can say ‘Yes’ or, if you prefer to use a clicker, you can click and open your hand to give him the treat.
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6. Repeat Repeat this process on both sides and once your dog understands the game, you can introduce a verbal command such as ‘Touch’ for the right and ‘Tap’ for the left. 7. Advance it You can progress the trick by holding a treat in one hand and opening the palm of your other hand towards the leg you want your dog to lift. As soon as his paw touches your open palm, you can click and reward. Repeat this on both sides and gradually move from a kneeling position to a standing one.
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DOG TRAINING
Now your dog can say hello!
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Beware the braai
DOGGY DANGERS TO WATCH OUT FOR
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s we all embark on our festive break, few of us won’t be looking forward to a good braai. However, several pet insurance companies have advised us to just be wary of our dog’s antics during these festive events to ensure we keep them safe from harm.
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D O G B E H AV I O U R
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D O G B E H AV I O U R
THE HIDDEN HAZARDS OF THE BRAAI Vets warn owners to beware of skewers, matches, plastic wrapping and aluminium foil, which can all injure our dogs. As a side note, the statistics on the increase in skewer injuries in dogs once the warmer weather hits are really pretty alarming!
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Similarly, they advise that we keep all human food and drink out of the way of our dogs at these events, particularly if it is very hot or contains alcohol. This includes meats, especially meat with bones like chicken drumsticks, to avoid choking risks.
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Other barbecue dangers include sharp bristles from wire cleaning brushes, hot grids, hot coals and smoke, which can irritate your dog’s lungs.
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BRAAI RESPONSIBLY None of us can resist the smell of a good braai, and with our dogs having 10,000 times the sense of smell of a human, it’s no wonder they can’t stay away either. So, keep an eye on your precious pooch incase he hopes to snag his bit of the braai-action!
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W E L FA R E
PHOTOGRAPHY: AMY WHITE MEDIA
PAW PRINTS RESCUE AND REHOMING A PROFILE
P
aw Prints' main focus is the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of puppies that have been abandoned, neglected or orphaned.
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Since 2015, Paw Prints has rehomed over 6000 puppies and dogs, not only the ones that have been taken into the adoption centre but also by networking on social media, where they share other dogs in need of homes due to their owners emigrating, divorcing, down-sizing, or no longer being in a financial position to be able to care for their dogs.
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The Adoption Centre is based in Bothas Hill, KZN, on a two-hectare property, surrounded by lush green trees, misty hills, and a small river. Paw Prints is open on weekends for Furkid cuddles and adoptions or during the week by appointment only.
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We love having visitors, so please pop in! We can't wait to see you." – the PawPrints Team
CONTACT INFO: +27 82 210 4235 (WhatsApp Only) +27 82 227 5999 Email: talktous@pawprints.org.za Address: 4 Clement Stott Road, Botha's Hill, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa @pawprintsrescues
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FESTIVE FUN
DQ’S CHRISTMAS QUIZ
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FESTIVE FUN
1. HOW MANY TEETH DO NORMAL ADULT DOGS HAVE? A: 24 B: 36 C: 42 D: 44 2. WHAT PART OF THE DOG IS AS UNIQUE AS A HUMAN FINGERPRINT? A: Nose B: Paws C: Tongue 3. WHAT IS A GROUP OF PUPPIES CALLED? A: A horde B: A litter C: Pups 4. WHICH PART OF THE BODY DO DOG’S SWEAT THROUGH? A: Nose B: Ears C: Underbelly D: Paws 5. WHICH SENSE IS MOST HIGHLY DEVELOPED IN THE DOG? A: Vision B: Hearing C: Smell D: Taste
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6. WHICH COUNTRY DOES THE BREED SHIBA INU ORIGINATE FROM? A: Japan B: Tibet C: Siberia 7. WHAT BREED, ORIGINALLY FROM SIBERIA, IS KNOWN FOR PULLING SLEDS? A: Husky B: Malamute C: Samoyed 8. WHAT BREED OF DOG WAS LASSIE? A: Border Collie B: Rough Collie C: Chow Chow 9. PUPPIES ARE DELIVERED HOW MANY WEEKS AFTER CONCEPTION? A: 4 weeks B: 9 weeks C: 12 weeks D: 24 weeks
10. WHICH WAS THE LATE QUEEN’S FAVOURITE BREED OF DOG? A: Corgi B: Pomeranian C: Dachshund D: Malamute 11. WHICH BREED OF DOG IS THE FASTEST? A: Greyhound B: Whippet C: Irish Wolfhound 12. WHO IS THE VILLAIN IN 101 DALMATIONS? A: Darth Vader B: Cruella de Vil C: Pongo D: Perdi 13. WHICH TV SERIES HAD A DOG NAMED K9? A: Star Wars B: Doctor Who C: i-Robot D: My Family
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FESTIVE FUN
14. WHICH IS THE SMALLEST DOG BREED? A: Shih Tzu B: Dachshund C: Chihuahua D: Pekingese 15. WHERE DO GOLDEN RETRIEVERS ORIGINATE FROM? A: America B: Scotland C: Wales D: Alaska 16. WHAT BREED OF DOG PLAYED MARLEY IN THE FILM ‘MARLEY & ME’? A: Golden Retriever B: Labrador Retriever C: Basset Hound D: Husky 17. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE THREE HEADED DOG THAT GUARDS THE GATES TO THE UNDERWORLD IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY? A: Canis B: Cerberus C: Caecilius D: Horto
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18. WHAT WAS THE NAME OF DOROTHY’S DOG IN THE WIZARD OF OZ? A: Bobo B: Toto C: Magic D: Dug 19. WHICH DOG BREED IS KNOWN FOR ITS WRINKLY SKIN? A: Shar Pei B: Chinese Crested C: Chow Chow 20. WHICH DOG HAS A WATER-RESISTANT COAT? A: The Newfoundland B: Irish Wolfhound C: Shar Pei 21. WHICH BREED WAS ONCE KNOWN AS THE ST JOHN’S NEWFOUNDLAND? A: Newfoundland B: Golden Retriever C: Labrador Retriever D: Jack Russell
24. WHICH DOG BREED HAS A BLACK TONGUE? A: Labrador B: Poodle C: Weimeraner D: Chow Chow 25. WHAT IS THE TALLEST BREED OF DOG? A: Great Dane B: Irish Wolfhound C: Greyhound 26. WHAT IS A GROUP OF DOGS CALLED? A: A horde B: A litter C: A pack D: A clan
22. HOW MANY EYELIDS DOES A DOG HAVE? A: 1 B: 2 C: 3
27. WHICH OF THESE DOG BREEDS HAS WEBBED FEET FOR SWIMMING? A: The Portuguese Water Dog B: Akita C: Border Collie
23. WHAT BREED IS SNOOPY FROM THE COMIC STRIP PEANUTS? A: Beagle B: Basset Hound C: Yorkshire Terrier
28. WHICH DOG BREED IS KNOWN AS THE AFRICAN LION HOUND? A: The Basenji B: The Rhodesian Ridgeback C: The Newfoundland
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FESTIVE FUN
29. WHICH DOG BREED WAS BRED TO KEEP RATS OUT OF CLOTHING MILLS? A: Yorkshire Terriers B: Dachshunds C: Corgis 30. WHAT IS THE LAST SENSE TO FULLY DEVELOP IN A PUPPY? A: Taste B: Smell C: Vision D: Hearing 31. NORMAN BRIDWELL WROTE A CHILDREN’S BOOK SERIES ABOUT A BIG RED DOG. WHAT WAS HIS NAME? A: Bob B: Red C: Big Red D: Clifford 32. WHICH BREED OF DOG IS KNOWN FOR ITS ABILITY CLIMB TREES? A: Rhodesian Ridgeback B: Louisiana Catahoula Leopard dog C: Puli
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33. WHICH BREED OF DOG IS CONSIDERED THE LARGEST OVERALL? A: Mastiff B: Great Dane C: Samoyed D: Chow Chow 34. WHAT IS THE NAME OF MICKEY MOUSE’S DOG? A: Goofy B: Pluto C: Jiminy D: Snow White 35. WHICH DOG IS KNOWN FOR ITS DISTINCTIVE LIONLIKE MANE? A: Shih Tzu B: Tibetan Mastiff C: Puli 36. WHAT IS THE MAIN WAY FOR A DOG TO COOL DOWN? A: Sweating B: Panting C: Barking
38. WHICH DOG YODELS RATHER THAN BARKS? A: Basenji B: Otterhound C: Basset Hound D: Malamute 39. WHICH DOG BREED IS KNOWN AS THE ‘SACRED DOG OF BURMA’? A: The Lhasa Apso B: Basenji C: Puli 40. WHICH DOG IS KNOWN FOR ITS DISTINCTIVE HOWL, CALLED A ‘BAY’? A: Basenji B: Dalmation C: Coonhound D: Siberian Husky
37. WHICH DOG BREED IS KNOWN AS THE ‘KING OF TERRIERS’? A: Yorkshire Terrier B: Airedale Terrier C: West Highland Terrier
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FESTIVE FUN
41. WHICH DOG BREED SERVED AS A COMPANION FOR ROYALTY IN ANCIENT CHINA? A: Pomeranian B: Shiba Inu C: Pekingese 42. WHICH BREED OF DOG IS COMMONLY USED AS A PIECE IN MONOPOLY? A: Yorkshire Terrier B: Scottish Terrier C: West Highland Terrier D: Corgi 43. WHICH DOG BREED HAS HAIR MOST SIMILAR IN TEXTURE TO HUMAN HAIR? A: Smooth Fox Terrier B: Yorkshire Terrier C: Otterhound D: Pekingese 44. A DOG’S SENSE OF SMELL IS BETTER THAN OURS BY: A: 10 x B: 100 x C: 1000 x D: 10,000 x
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45. WHICH BAND PERFORMS THE SONG ‘DOG DAYS ARE OVER’? A: Arctic Monkeys B: Florence and the Machine C: Razorlight D: Stereophonics 46. WHICH IS THE MOST POPULAR DOG BREED IN THE USA? A: Labrador Retriever B: Golden Retriever C: German Shepherd D: Dachshund 47. WHO HAD A SONG CALLED HOUND DOG? A: Westlife B: Elvis Presley C: The Beatles D: Billie Eilish 48. WHICH DOG BREED WAS ORIGINALLY BRED IN CROATIA? A: Basenji B: Dalmation C: Pomeranian
49. THE NORWEGIAN LUNDEHUND HAS: A: 4 toes B: 5 toes C: 6 toes D: 7 toes 50. THE BEST AGE TO BRING A PUPPY HOME IS: A: 3-6 weeks B: 6-8 weeks C: 8-12 weeks 51. AVERAGE DOG LITTERS HAVE: A: 2-3 dogs B: 4-6 dogs C: 7-8 dogs 52. THE CHIHUAHUA IS NAMED AFTER A REGION IN: A: Argentina B: Brazil C: Bolivia D: Mexico
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FESTIVE FUN
TRUE OR FALSE 10. THE PULI IS KNOWN FOR ITS DISTINCTIVE DREADLOCKLIKE COAT? A: True B: False 11. THE DOG THAT PLAYS BEETHOVEN IN THE MOVIES IS A WEIMARANER. A: True B: False
1. DOGS SEE IN BLACK AND WHITE ONLY. A: True B: False 2. BASENJIS WERE CONSIDERED SACRED IN ANCIENT EGYPT. A: True B: False
6. RIN TIN TIN, THE MOVIE STAR DOG, WAS A GERMAN SHEPHERD. A: True B: False
3. DACHSHUNDS WERE BRED TO HUNT BADGERS. A: True B: False
7. SHIH TZUS WERE ORIGINALLY BRED IN CHINA. A: True B: False
4. DALMATIANS ARE BORN WITH SPOTS. A: True B: False
8. THE AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG ACTUALLY ORIGINATED IN NEW ZEALAND. A: True B: False
5. DOGS ARE THE FIRST ANIMAL THAT HUMANS EVER DOMESTICATED. A: True B: False
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12. ‘FIDO’ MEANS FAITHFUL IN LATIN. A: True B: False 13. GOLDEN RETRIEVERS WERE THE FIRST GUIDE DOGS. A: True B: False
9. THE SALUKI IS THE OLDEST KNOWN BREED OF DOG. A: True B: False
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FESTIVE FUN
14. THE KEESHOND IS KNOWN FOR ITS DISTINCTIVE ‘EYEGLASSES’ – CIRCLES OF DARKER FUR AROUND THE EYES. A: True B: False 15. THE POODLE IS KNOWN FOR ITS CHARACTERISTIC TROTTING GAIT. A: True B: False
17. NEWBORN PUPPIES HAVE HEAT SENSORS IN THEIR NOSE SO THEY CAN FIND THEIR MOTHERS. A: True B: False
16. PETTING A DOG CAN LOWER YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE. A: True B: False
18. STRAY DOGS IN MOSCOW LEARNED TO RIDE THE SUBWAY. A: True B: False
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19. PAUL MCCARTNEY RECORDED A HIGH-PITCHED WHISTLE AT THE END OF THE BEATLES SONG “A DAY IN THE LIFE” FOR HIS DOG. A: True B: False 20. WHEN OVERHEATED AND PANTING A DOG’S SENSE OF SMELL IS REDUCE BY UP TO FORTY PERCENT. A: True B: False
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FESTIVE FUN
ANSWERS QUIZ 1C: 42 2A: Nose 3B: A litter 4D: Paws 5C: Smell 6A: Japan 7A: Husky 8B: Rough Collie 9B: 9 weeks 10A: Corgi 11A: Greyhound 12B: Cruella de Vil 13B: Doctor Who 14C: Chihuahua 15B: Scotland 16B: Labrador Retriever 17B: Cerberus 18B: Toto 19A: Shar Pei 20A: The Newfoundland 21C: Labrador Retriever 22C: 3 23A: Beagle 24D: Chow Chow 25B: Irish Wolfhound 26C: A pack 27A: The Portuguese Water Dog 28B: The Rhodesian Ridgeback
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29A: Yorkshire Terriers 30D: Hearing 31D: Clifford 32B: Louisiana Catahoula Leopard dog 33A: Mastiff 34B: Pluto 35B: Tibetan Mastiff 36B: Panting 37B: Airedale Terrier 38A: Basenji 39A: The Lhasa Apso 40C: Coonhound 41C: Pekingese 42B: Scottish Terrier 43B: Yorkshire Terrier 44D: 10,000 x 45B: Florence and the Machine 46A: Labrador Retriever 47B: Elvis Presley 48B: Dalmation 49C: 6 toes 50C: 8-12 weeks 51B: 4-6 dogs 52D: Mexico
TRUE OR FALSE 1B: False 2A: True 3A: True 4B: False 5A: True 6A: True 7A: True 8B: False 9A: True 10A: True 11B: False 12A: True 13B: False 14A: True 15A: True 16A: True 17A: True 18A: True 19A: True 20A: True
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YOUR DOG QUESTIONS ANSWERED
What’s the ideal length of a training session at home?
span, so avoid long sessions where they may become disinterested or even frustrated.
Effectively training your dog at home involves short and frequent sessions to maintain interest. It is vital to keep your dog engaged and eager to learn. Dogs have a limited attention
Instead, we would advise aiming for several threeminute training sessions throughout the day. You don’t need to get your stopwatch out and become too regimented about this, but three minutes definitely serves as a reasonable guide.
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Q&A
Do I need to teach my puppy to play and how important is play for him? My three-month old doesn’t seem to have any interest in toys. He doesn’t chase balls or interact with the toys at all, although he does sleep with a soft dog toy. Does this matter and, if so, how can I encourage him to play?
Play is beneficial as it teaches balance, coordination, safe interactions with others, and learning to use the mouth safely around humans. Dogs are generally lifelong players so your situation is unusual, especially for such a young dog. Our first priority, would be to get your vet to check for any medical reason, such as pain, that your dog does not feel like engaging with play.
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If your vet confirms that your dog is happy and healthy, it may just be that your dog is young and his playfulness should develop as his confidence grows. Be careful not to overwhelm him with over-encouragement. Let him watch you quietly playing with his toys yourself; curiosity may lead him to want to join in. You can also try rewarding good behaviours with games, e.g. playing when he has come when called. Fun, physical activity together strengthens relationships! Yet, just as some people love active sports while others are more jigsaw types, finding the ‘right’ game is key. If you get stuck, we would recommend chatting to a puppy trainer. Accredited instructors generally have a compendium of games to entice your pup to play with you, as well as recommendations for a variety of good toys including those with different textures, those that release food and those that makes different noises.
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