Puptown Dog Training Houston

Why Does My Dog Growl When I Pick It Up?

Posted on March 26, 2023March 26, 2023 by Gideon

Dogs are social creatures that communicate through a variety of means, including body language, vocalizations, and scents. Growling is one way in which dogs communicate, and it can indicate a range of emotions, from fear and anxiety to aggression and warning. If your dog growls when you pick it up, it can be a sign that your pooch is uncomfortable or stressed. We will explore some of the reasons why dogs may growl when picked up and what you can do to help your furry friend feel more comfortable.

Photo by Razvan Sassu

Pain or discomfort

One of the most common reasons why a dog may growl when picked up is because your pup is experiencing pain or discomfort. Dogs can suffer from a range of health issues, from minor ailments like sore muscles and joint pain to more serious conditions like arthritis or even broken bones. If your dog is experiencing pain, it may growl or snap when picked up because it is trying to protect itself.

To rule out any medical issues, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a thorough checkup. Your vet will be able to examine your dog and determine if there is an underlying health issue that may be causing your dog to growl when picked up. If your dog is diagnosed with a medical condition, your vet may recommend a course of treatment or medication to help manage the pain and discomfort.

Fear or anxiety

Another reason why a dog may growl when picked up is because it is is feeling fearful or anxious. Dogs can be afraid of a range of things, from loud noises and unfamiliar people to other dogs and even certain objects. If your dog is afraid, it may growl or snap when picked up because it feels threatened or overwhelmed.

To help your dog feel more comfortable, it’s important to identify what is causing this fear or anxiety and work to address it. For example, if your dog is afraid of loud noises like thunderstorms, you can try to create a safe and comfortable space to retreat to during storms. You can also try using calming supplements or medications to help your dog feel more relaxed.

It’s important to note that forcing your dog to be picked up or holding it when your pup is scared can actually make the problem worse. If your dog is afraid, it’s important to give it space and let your dog come to you when it feels comfortable.

Overstimulation

Some dogs may growl when picked up because they are overstimulated or excited. This is especially true for puppies and young dogs who have a lot of energy and can easily become overwhelmed. If your dog is overstimulated, it may growl or snap when picked up because it is trying to communicate that it needs a break.

To help your dog feel more comfortable, it’s important to give plenty of opportunities to burn off excess energy through play and exercise. You can also try using calming techniques like massage or aromatherapy to help your dog relax.

Lack of training or socialization

Finally, some dogs may growl when picked up because they have not been properly trained or socialized. Dogs who have not been exposed to a variety of people, animals, and situations may become fearful or aggressive when confronted with something new or unfamiliar. Similarly, dogs who have not been taught to accept handling may become defensive when picked up.

To help your dog feel more comfortable, it’s important to work on training and socialization from a young age. You can enroll your dog in obedience classes or work with a professional trainer to teach your pooch how to behave in different situations. You can also work on handling exercises with your dog to help it become more comfortable with being picked up and held.

The Role of a Dog in a Family

Posted on March 22, 2023March 22, 2023 by Gideon

Dogs have been called “man’s best friend” for centuries, and for good reason. They are loyal, loving, and often considered a member of the family. The role of a dog in a family can vary depending on the household, but there are some common themes that most dog owners would agree on.

Photo by Andrea Brambila

Companionship

One of the most important roles a dog plays in a family is that of a companion. Dogs are social creatures and enjoy spending time with their humans. They are always happy to see us and are eager to be near us. This companionship can be especially important for people who live alone or those who have lost a loved one. A dog can provide comfort and help alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Physical and Mental Health

Dogs also have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that owning a dog can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and increase our activity levels. They also provide emotional support, which can be helpful for people with anxiety or depression. Additionally, taking care of a dog can provide a sense of purpose and routine, which can be beneficial for our mental health.

Protection

Another important role a dog can play in a family is that of a protector. While not all dogs are bred for protection, many breeds are naturally protective of their families. They can bark to alert us of potential dangers or intruders, and their presence alone can deter criminals from targeting our homes. This can provide a sense of security for the entire family.

Teaching Responsibility

For families with children, owning a dog can be a valuable opportunity to teach responsibility. Children can learn how to care for another living being by feeding, walking, and grooming their dog. This can help instill a sense of empathy and responsibility in children, which can benefit them in other areas of their lives.

Bringing Joy

Perhaps one of the most obvious roles a dog plays in a family is that of a joy-bringer. Dogs have a way of making us laugh and smile, even on our toughest days. They are always excited to see us and are often eager to play. Their unconditional love and affection can bring a sense of happiness to our lives that is hard to replicate.

Choosing the Right Dog for Your Family

While dogs can bring many benefits to a family, it’s important to choose the right dog for your household. Different breeds have different temperaments and activity levels, so it’s important to do your research before bringing a dog into your home. Some things to consider include:

Activity level: Do you want a dog that is high-energy and requires lots of exercise, or would you prefer a more low-key companion?
Size: Do you have enough space in your home and yard for a larger dog, or would a smaller breed be a better fit?
Temperament: Do you want a dog that is good with children or other pets, or do you have a specific temperament in mind?
Grooming needs: Some breeds require more grooming than others, so consider how much time and money you’re willing to invest in grooming.

The role of a dog in a family can be multifaceted. From providing companionship to teaching responsibility to bringing joy, dogs can have a positive impact on our lives. However, it’s important to choose the right dog for your household to ensure a successful and happy relationship. With the right breed and proper care, a dog can become an integral part of any family.

Lastly, dogs are intelligent animals with complex social and behavioral needs. While they are often referred to as “man’s best friend”, dogs are not born knowing how to behave in human society. Just like humans, dogs need to learn and follow social rules to live successfully and safely in their environment. This is where Lodge & Learn Training becomes crucial.

How To Read Your Dog’s Subtle Cues

Posted on March 21, 2023March 21, 2023 by Gideon

Dogs are highly social creatures that communicate with us in many ways. Unlike humans, dogs cannot use language to express their needs and emotions. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to their body language and behavior to understand what they are trying to tell us. Here are some tips on how to read your dog’s subtle cues.

Photo by Angel Luciano

Tail Wagging

Most people think that tail wagging always means a dog is happy. However, this is not always the case. Dogs can wag their tails for different reasons, and it’s crucial to pay attention to the context in which the tail wagging occurs. For instance, a dog may wag its tail slowly and stiffly, which can indicate anxiety or aggression. On the other hand, a relaxed and loose tail wagging usually means that the dog is happy and content.

Ears

A dog’s ears can also tell you a lot about how they are feeling. When a dog’s ears are erect and pointed forward, they are usually alert and paying attention to something. If the ears are flat against their head, this can indicate fear or submission. Additionally, when a dog’s ears are pinned back against their head, this can indicate aggression or anxiety.

Body Language

A dog’s body language can also give you a lot of information about their emotional state. For instance, if a dog’s body is relaxed, they are probably feeling calm and content. However, if their body is tense or stiff, this can indicate anxiety or aggression. Additionally, if a dog is cowering or trying to make themselves small, this can indicate fear or submission.

Facial Expressions

A dog’s facial expressions can also tell you a lot about how they are feeling. For example, a dog with a relaxed face, with an open mouth and relaxed eyes, is likely feeling calm and content. However, if a dog’s lips are curled back, showing their teeth, or their eyes are narrowed and focused, this can indicate aggression or fear.

Vocalizations

Finally, a dog’s vocalizations can also give you some clues about how they are feeling. For instance, if a dog is barking loudly and rapidly, they may be excited or agitated. However, if a dog is growling or barking in a low tone, this can indicate aggression or fear.

It’s essential to pay attention to your dog’s body language and behavior to understand how they are feeling. By learning to read your dog’s subtle cues, you can better communicate with them and respond appropriately to their needs. Remember that every dog is unique, and it’s essential to pay attention to their individual personality and behavior. With time and practice, you can become an expert in understanding your dog’s body language and behavior.

If you’re having a difficult time figuring out your dog’s behavior, contact a professional now!

How To Teach Your Dog The Shake Hands Trick

Posted on March 17, 2023March 17, 2023 by Gideon

Photo by Bethany Ferr

Teaching your dog how to shake hands is not only a fun trick, but it can also be a useful behavior that can help you bond with your furry friend. Shaking hands is a basic trick that most dogs can learn, and it can be a great way to impress your friends and family. Here’s how to teach your dog the shake hands trick:

Start with a solid foundation

Before you start teaching your dog how to shake hands, it’s essential to make sure that they have a good understanding of basic obedience commands like “sit” and “stay.” This will help you communicate better with your dog and make the training process easier.

Get your dog’s attention

Get your dog’s attention by calling their name or using a clicker. You can also use treats to get your dog’s attention, but make sure not to give them a treat until they have completed the behavior you’re asking for.

Place your dog in a sitting position

Once you have your dog’s attention, ask them to sit. You can use a treat to lure them into the sitting position, or you can gently push their rear down while saying “sit.” Make sure to praise your dog and give them a treat for sitting.

Hold a treat in your hand

Once your dog is sitting, hold a treat in your hand, and make sure your dog sees it. Your dog will likely start sniffing and pawing at your hand to get the treat.

Repeat the process

Repeat the process several times until your dog is consistently lifting their paw when you offer your hand and say “shake.” You can also try using a different hand or changing the position of your hand to make sure that your dog is responding to the command and not just a specific hand or position.

Phase out the treat

As your dog becomes more familiar with the command, start phasing out the treats. Instead of giving your dog a treat every time they shake hands, give them a treat every other time or every few times. Eventually, your dog will learn to shake hands without the need for a treat every time.

Practice regularly

Practice the shake command regularly to reinforce the behavior and keep it fresh in your dog’s mind. You can also try adding variations to the command, like using a different hand or having your dog shake with both paws.

Teaching your dog how to shake hands is a fun and easy trick that can be a great way to bond with your furry friend. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to shake hands in no time. Remember to always use treats and praise to reward good behavior, and practice regularly to reinforce the behavior. With a little bit of training, your dog will be shaking hands like a pro in no time!

Contact Puptown Houston now and book an appointment to learn more about dog tricks!

How to Be an Incredible First Time Pet Owner

Posted on September 19, 2017January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

Congratulations on deciding to get your first pet! Pet ownership is a hugely rewarding experience that allows you to build a deep bond with your four-legged friend. As special as those first few weeks and months might be, there will undoubtedly be challenges and some unexpected situations that will inevitably pop up, even if you’ve made all the appropriate modifications to your home.

Being a pet owner for the first time can be confusing. Chances are, you might not even know where to begin. Take a few deep breaths, relax, and know that you can do this. In fact, millions of people own pets in the United States alone. You can do this!

Now… where to start?

Are you sure?

Chances are, if you’re reading this article, you’ve already made up your mind to get a pet. Just in case you’re still on the fence though, have you asked yourself whether you’re committed to taking care of a pet for the next several years or even decades? Do you have time for a pet? Can you afford a pet? Is your current living situation suitable for a pet? What will you do if and when your pet develops a serious health condition or disability?

Be patient.

It will take time to build a bond between yourself and your pet. This comes with practice – and yes, with making a few mistakes, too. Take it easy on yourself (and your new pet) if the two of you don’t quite have it all figured out just yet.
Training

You know those well behaved dogs you see your neighbors walking down the street? Or the animals in the movies who do the incredible stunts? Those animals (and their owners) have spent lots of time doing something called pet training. Training is one of the most important aspects of pet ownership because it builds trust, communication, and that strong bond we just mentioned above. For best results, consider watching some YouTube videos, getting a pet training book, or even hiring a professional to help you train your new pet.

The Basics of Protection Dog Training

Posted on December 12, 2016January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

Personal protection is very important, especially given today’s social climate, though in truth, protection has always been critical. The one thing that tends to differ from person to person is how they provide themselves with that protection, and in our experience many people rush out to the nearest store to buy a can of mace, a gun, or perhaps a stun gun. These are all outstanding methods of protection, but have you ever considered protection dog training?

The expense might be a bit more elevated with Woodlands dog training specialists, but the rewards are outstanding. You get a dog that is well trained, you get the protection you need, and you get a companion that will be with you for many years. There is nothing better than having a sentient being at your side ready to defend you in the event of an attack and there are so many different spots that will require this type of protection.

Woodlands Protection Dog Training – Where you Need It

At Home – The risk of burglary is elevated in urban areas and while an alarm system is certainly beneficial to you, you will find that having a weapon on hand, or some other form of protection is even better.

Outside – You might be out for an early morning jog or you may simply be walking around the neighborhood. Maybe you’re even going to the store – it doesn’t matter too much, as you’re going to find out eventually. Having protection on your walks both during the daytime and at night is essential and a well trained dog can definitely do the trick for you.

Shopping – Whether you’re at a mall or at the store, there is always going to be a chance of danger and you already know what we’re going to say: make sure you’re properly protected.

Above we’ve listed just a few of the occasions in which you might need that extra layer of protection, but it goes far deeper than you think.

The Ultimate Crime Deterrent

A dog is not always necessary when it comes to stopping a crime against you or your property, in most cases the very presence of a protection dog can stop crime from occurring in the first place. Most would be attackers, robbers, or other unscrupulous individuals are warded off easily when they sense that the dog in question is capable of defending you. In other words, your beloved companion can stop the crime before it even begins, and that’s very beneficial to you, especially if you are the type that likes to avoid confrontation.

Beyond Protection

You don’t need to buy a brand new dog specifically trained for protection. As a matter of fact, we can train your existing family dog, ensuring that you have one that is already familiar with your family, and already one that you love. The most important thing to remember is that your dog will be trained to defend you and your family rather than engaging, which reduces the chance of unprovoked attacks significantly.

Most importantly, while your dog will have a critical skill set that helps both you and your family, they will also be capable of having fun with you. It’s a mutual relationship that is highly beneficial and definitely something you will want to start investing in.

Help from the Professionals

Our trainers are industry leaders and capable of bringing out the best possible potential in your dog. It won’t be long before you have exactly what you need in a canine companion and the ability to keep your world protected. If you’re ready to change the way your dog functions within your family, and if you’re ready to bring about a complete change for your household, then maybe it’s time for you to give us a call and see what we have to offer you. We are without a doubt some of the best dog trainers in the country and we place your protection at the forefront in this comprehensive program.

Let a Dog Training Specialist Socialize Your Puppy

Posted on September 12, 2016January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

When it comes to a new puppy, early training is the key to a well-behaved pooch and overall good canine citizen. Socialization means polite interaction with other dogs and people, which can be a big relief when it comes to having your puppy out in public. The last thing people want to worry about is their dog hurting or scaring a person or another pooch. At the same time, you want to make sure your dog is properly acclimated to the elements they will encounter all of their lives. You also need to get your dog accustomed to being along, i.e. without their human by their side every moment. Continue reading “Let a Dog Training Specialist Socialize Your Puppy”

Training Your Puppy the Right Way

Posted on August 2, 2016January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

Do you live in or near The Woodlands, TX? If so you are fortunate enough to be close to one of the top-notch puppy and dog training businesses you can hope to find: Puptown Houston. For more information have a look at their terrific website. If you have a new puppy and you want to train this little one correctly from Day One, Puptown is your answer. Their Woodlands dog training specialists use behavioral and social based training to shape a well-mannered and well-trained pup which will be nothing less than an outstanding canine citizen plus a beautifully behaved companion for some very lucky humans. Continue reading “Training Your Puppy the Right Way”

Using Treats to Train Your Dog

Posted on July 5, 2016January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

The best way you can train your dog or puppy is through positive reinforcement. Not only is this an effective training method, it also allows you to form a special bond with your pup. Training is about developing good manners, obeying commands, and teaching your dog to be a good canine citizen. It is also a way for you and your dog to learn about each other and build a relationship based on love and trust. A dog can be an irreplaceable companion and quickly become a true family member. This is why training is so critical in that you teach your dog who is the “alpha” while the two of you develop mutual respect for each other. And one of the easiest ways to train your puppy or dog is with a variety of treats. Continue reading “Using Treats to Train Your Dog”

Three Behavioral Traits to Work out of Your Small Dog

Posted on June 7, 2016January 10, 2022 by WebDev2021

Small dogs can be the perfect companions for a large segment of the population. If you cannot handle a medium to large dog, don’t have much space, want to potty train your pup to “go” indoors, or simply prefer a smaller dog, you have countless options when it comes to choosing your furbaby. Yet while small dogs do have their upsides, they also have some very specific behavioral problems. Continue reading “Three Behavioral Traits to Work out of Your Small Dog”

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