Not sure I put a link in the last post to the Shopping page, so I will this time. It's a neat page of shopping for travel necessities for you and your dog, for breed-specific items for show trophies or judge's gifts, check out Animal Den, for unique and custom gift items, check the goodies at the DP and Keeping to the Borders shops linked from that page. One thing I think is particularly helpful is the journals in the shops. They're handy for keeping track of shows, expenses, notes on judges, funny things the dog does, and health records for your dog.
Training Tip:
"Appearance and Grooming. Goal: Evaluator inspects dog, combs or brushes lightly, examines ears and each front foot."
Well, guess that means a bath before the test. lol But, it is important for the dog's health that he is groomed regularly. It is also an important way for you to keep track of fleas, ticks, lice, or other vermin or skin problems your dog might develop. You will be expected to bring a comb or brush to the test for the evaluator to use, so as to not pass on any possible infections.
Checking the ears is important, too, especially for the dogs with floppy ears. Mites can breed in there and it is easier for these dogs to develop ear infections. By checking them regularly and cleaning them with a cotton ball occasionally, this should be a breeze.
Now, the feet need to be inspected and you'll have to teach the dog first to accept having his feet handled. This really ought to be done from the time he is small, even before his eyes open, if possible. Dogs don't really care for their paws being handled, but since you're going to have to trim his nails, anyway, you might as well teach it early on.
Simply start by grasping the leg at the elbow (or, the hock) and run your hand down and off the paw. Your dog will likely pull away, but handle each paw (yes, even the back ones) every day until he gets the idea you don't mean to hurt him. Praise him when he allows you to touch his paws in a variety of ways, including inspecting the nails and the pads. When you start clipping the nails, be positive about it and praise a lot and try not to clip the quick. That way, the dog learns that having his paws handled is not a bad thing.
Well, that's it for this one. See ya at the shows,
Christi
*****
Animal Den - This Dog Lovers Gift Shop is highly recommended. Great products, top service, five stars.
For Border Terrier Lovers A place to find original Border Terrier gifts and items.
No comments:
Post a Comment