Speak with your vet first about portions appropriate for your dog. A little goes a long way.  Too much can cause gastrointestinal issues and other health problems. There are recipes for dog-friendly stuffing, cookies, etc., and you can be as elaborate as you want, just be sure to run it through your vet! 

​Here is a brief overview of what they can have:

• Plain turkey (no seasoning, no skin) with fresh or frozen (fun!)
• Green Beans, fresh
• Peas,  fresh
• Carrots, fresh 
• Blueberries, fresh
• Raspberries, fresh
• Apple Slices, fresh

The rule here is to keep it fresh or frozen with no seasonings.

We touched base about gastrointestinal issues, but it is more than mere tummy issues. Pancreatitis is an awful stomachache. It is so bad that it requires a vet’s attention and it is the reason.

DID YOU KNOW? Thanksgiving Day and the day afterward are the busiest days of the YEAR for emergency veterinarian clinics.

It's easy to forget our pets have a very different digestive system than we do, especially when we sit down to the table to celebrate. During the holidays you can avoid going to or having to find an ER clinic, the long wait, and the Thank-you tab they give you before you can leave (the bill) by eliminating the table food. 

What is so wrong with table food you might ask: Two words: Poison & Problems. 

​
If there is any considered error here it is on the side of caution. Don’t forget the turkey bones or the carcass (splinters) and the cooking bag can be dragged from the garbage can. Store carefully. Lastly, a sugar substitute found in over 700 products humans consume from gum to toothpaste and peanut butter is Xylitol. It is deadly for our pets and quick-acting. Faster than many other poisons with less recourse. ​

If your pet is displaying out of the norm behaviors after they may have gotten a hold of people food call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435, there may there may be a fee.

REFERENCES:
“Merrick® Grain Free Adult Wet Dog Food - 12.7 Oz., Gluten Free, Grain Free.” PetSmart, www.petsmart.com/dog/food/canned-food/merrick-grain-free-adult-wet-dog-food---12.7-oz.-gluten-free-grain-free-5287727.html?gclsrc=aw.ds&gclid=CjwKCAjwx_eiBhBGEiwA15gLN_C_TdsKp9WRngXZEqRxluCIdWgG7bTd7lbBCk2dTbnoRHIgofBEWhoCSfQQAvD_BwE. ​​

Is there such a thing as too many toys?      
The bigger question is how often do you swap them out?  Like anything else, dogs get bored with the same ‘ole same ‘ole.  Keep it interesting by swapping out on the week you wash them.  Variety is nice but do not get crazy with too many choices, so we recommend less than 7 toys out at a time. 
 
What are the safest toys for small dogs?
Crinkle toys, soft toys, the Kong Plush Duck, squeaky toys, Goughnuts Tug Dog Pull Toy,
Hide and Seek toys to name a few. Kong has some of the best rubber toys. A squeaker bulb should be in good working order and very audible.
 
Are there toys that break/damage the teeth?
Thumbnail test:  if you cannot make a thumbnail imprint on the material it may be one to avoid.  Bones, hooves, antlers, tennis balls (fuzz ruins enamel), ice cubes by themselves not in the water, very hard nylon toys, sticks, hard cheese such as Yak chews because it fails the test for softness.  Pig ears are high in fat and can cause stomach problems.  Bully sticks pose choking hazards and while high in protein, dogs with kidney issues should not be given these.  There is a bully stick holder (The Bully Holder/ Bully Grip) available. Knotted rawhide chews should be avoided because the knot presents a choking hazard.  Older Toy dogs have notorious problems with their teeth and tarter.  Damaged teeth because of chewing bones and so forth, is one hazard that can be skipped.  Teeth need cleaning once every 3-4 years.  Check with your veterinarian.
 
Is the toy’s size important?
The size does matter whether you are talking about ring toys or others especially balls.  Balls need to be large enough they cannot be swallowed.
 
How often should you clean toys?
Clean toys about every 2 weeks in the dishwasher or other antibacterial wash.
 
What if your dog's mission is to destroy the toys?
There are toys made for these aggressive chewers such as
Outward Bound FireBiterz., GoDog, Chewy offers a monthly box of ‘Tough Dog Chews’, West Paw toys, Feeko dog toys and others.  As always it should be size appropriate.
 
What about toys for teething? 
‘Durability” seems to be the go-to word for these products, but it does not preclude safety.  Teething is a long period for puppies (34 weeks/almost 8 mos./238 days +/-).  Variety, patience, and recognizing it will slow down one day (except paper products).  My Havanese are older but still need their chew toys.  I really like teething toys with a texture like bumps.  Vary texture and all you can with chew toys for the long haul.   Remember trading out the toys helps prevent boredom.
 
What about Bully Sticks?
Bully sticks and rawhide products (aside from check origin issues) are a difficult subject for me.  Both products can cause digestive problems but have long been go-to products for chewing. One of the bigger concerns is when the product is chewed almost into oblivion and becomes a choking hazard.  There are bully stick holders.  Be sure to look for the odor-free variety.  It requires monitoring.  I used to offer rawhide sticks but no longer buy them because of processing concerns, etc.
 
Things to watch out for:                                       

• Hard nylon bones/toys if they are harder than a dog’s teeth.  Chipping or splintering is a danger with many nylon products
• Small Toys that can be swallowed. Things such as bells, balls, squeaking bulbs are hazardous.
• Bones of any type are not recommended because they can splinter and stick in the throat, intestine, etc, and puncture soft tissue.  They can also damage teeth. 
• Stuffing can be treated with dangerous chemicals - check the seams.  

                                                                             
Can tug-of-war be dangerous?
This is one of our family’s most fun games.  Kiwi is all business with a sock and tug-of-war but it is important not to launch the dog or have the feet leave the ground.  Why?  Well, launching your dog into space speaks for itself as a no-no but your dog’s teeth, shoulders, back, and neck can also be permanently damaged if the game gets out of hand.  Be sure all the players understand the rules.
 
What about rope toys? 
Cotton ropes are naturally safer products than other materials because of swallowing bits and pieces.
¨
What are some Safety Tips?
Watch your dog for a little while with a new toy.
Chemicals. Other safety issues should include if the toy is treated such as some rawhide products.  Flavorings can encourage bacteria growth. BPA.
Well Chewed chews need to be thrown out. Well chewed products disintegrate into smaller pieces than can be swallowing hazards.
Construction.  Some dogs need to be watched if they are determined to destroy a chew, but some chews come apart at the seams easily, break, or tear up too early.
Size matters with any toy.  Be careful of rings or circles since they can present a danger if they are not the right size.
Toys exposed to vastly varying temperatures outdoors deteriorate faster than indoor toys.
Wash the toys about every 2 weeks
If your fingernail cannot leave an imprint on a toy, it is too hard for your puppy’s teeth.
Is there any mention of BPA with your choice of toy?  See Jolly Pets, West Paw Design or Planet Dog.
 
REFERENCES: 
“7 Chew Toys That Can Damage Your Dog's Teeth - Cherry Hill.” Cherry Hill Animal Hospital, 28 Jan. 2020, https://cherryhillanimalhospital.com/chew-toys-can-damage-dogs-teeth/.


Arnold, Brandy. “Are Your Dog's Toys Poisoning Him?” The Dogington Post, 30 Mar. 2022, https://www.dogingtonpost.com/are-your-dogs-toys-poisoning-him/.


Ashley, Sarah. “The Best Chew Toys for Dogs That Are Safe and Vet-Approved.” PureWow, PureWow, 12 July 2019, https://www.purewow.com/family/dog-chew-toys-safe-vet-approved.


Cathy Madson, MA. “The Best Dog Chews and Toys.” Preventive Vet, 18 Aug. 2021, https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/best-dog-chews-and-toys.


Turner, Dr. Beth. “Potential Dangers of Popular Dog Chews.” Preventive Vet, 18 Aug. 2021, https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/potential-dangers-of-popular-dog-chews. 

It's a dogs world: 
A dog experiences their environment differently than a human does and in ways we mostly ignore. Beginning with the trainer’s attitude, a dog can almost immediately pick up on a human’s state of mind such as anger, aggression, happiness, etc. Guess which one helps a dog to relax and enjoy himself and his human? A dog senses things by smell, visually, hearing, taste, and touch significantly more than a human’s experience. A dog’s keen sense of can tell if a person is nervous, sick, or normal, and much more. His hearing can detect the rhythm of a heartbeat or identify a person’s excited breathing. The tone of a voice expresses the world to a dog beyond the vocabulary he may have. ​​Scientists are looking at something similar to a radar-related sense in dogs. 

​Studies are revealing there is a much greater depth and breath to what a dog’s senses covers than originally believed. Most dog lovers already know this, but the documentation and emerging facts are now being recorded, studied, and evaluated. 

​Even without his senses, a dog can get a well-rounded picture of his trainer just through the leash. The leash can offer things such as the trainer’s confidence, mood, and attention for starters. Before actively working with a dog, it is important to set the tone by establishing a happy, positive, and stress-free attitude. 
​​

Getting started: 
Leash training varies a little depending on the age of the dog and is a lot like swimming. If you just jump into the deep end you might end up drowning. With the dogs, it could be confusing and unpleasant to start the harness leash and walking all at the same time. So, taking some time upfront will allow for a better result. Remember, the goal here is for the dog to view the harness and leash as a promise of a great outing.

The first step is to find an indoor area with little distraction for the first couple of lessons. I would recommend letting the dog wear their harness if you are using one off and on for a couple of days before using a leash. This allows the dog to get used acclimate to it. Make it fun when you put the harness on and take it off. When he is no longer scratching at the harness add a leash. Do not hold it yet. Let the dog walk around with it on while under supervision until the dog is no longer interested in the leash. Be sure he does not consider it his new chew toy.  

How to hold your leash and more tips: 
How do you hold a leash? Hold your leash in your right hand, slipping the loop over your wrist where the V of the leash is secure in your palm, fisted at your waist on the right side of the body. The left hand is held downward toward the left from the body. You can also tie knots to hold on to in your leash where needed (It is a training leash – for both of you!). You always want to have the leash looped over your hand so that if your dog bolts or if there is a need you will not drop your leash. Gather excess leash in your right hand by laying it back and forth across your palm.  Your left-hand controls the leash. The leash itself should loosely draped towards the dog but should not touch the ground.  

TIP: IT IS A GOOD IDEA TO CARRY AN EXTRA LEASH & COLLAR IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Pre-Walk: 
Walk your puppy in your backyard, living room, or if they have had their 16 week shot and a week for their body to process it, front yard, and walk with him. Make sure they stay on your left side. Do not guide them. Your hand should remain at your waist at all times. Let them have a moment to be curious. Then you begin, name and then command, "Fido, walk/go/let's go/etc.  

The method we are using is called the loose-leash method. If the puppy is in the desired area, you walk, if they are not you stop. 

llow the pup to take you around meaning not on a walk but a wander where he goes. When you feel he has settled into being on the leash call your puppy to “Puppy Name, Come” and move in the direction you wish to go. If your puppy is too busy, use a treat to pull his attention back to training and you. If the puppy pays attention on his own and moves toward you, encourage the dog by praising him as he moves toward you.

One of the more important tips is to get the puppy's attention, look your puppy in the eyes and then give a command. Alternatively, you could signal him or call his name to get his attention. One trick is to tap the pup’s nose and bring your finger up to your nose to focus his attention on your face. Stand tall next to your puppy when you begin. Walk with the puppy at your left side - you want to always start with the left foot as a signal to begin simultaneously signaling or calling your pup to begin.  

Next session set your pup down next to your left leg. Shorten the leash but having it still loose between you. Step off on your left foot calling your pup and walk. If the pup follows keep walking. If not, stop, use a treat to encourage the dog forward. Lots of praise and treats as he progresses. Repeat as needed. No rush here.

Treats:
The funny thing about rewards today is that you reward the ‘Do’s’ and simply stand fast waiting for your dog to check in with you for the ‘Don’ts’. You may say your version of 'no' at the 'Don'ts.' Reward your dog when he is quiet and follows directions. Try not to over-treat and remember to vary your methods of positive reinforcement, i.e. praise, and scratches to keep the treat or reward interesting. 

Story Time! 
We received a phone call about a pup with diarrhea that went home the day before. Well, knowing the stool had been fine when the pup left, there were some questions to ask. The answer ended up being that the pup was given 5x the appropriate amount of treats resulting in a stomach problem. Case closed.  Be conservative in your treats.

Placement: 
At this point, an informal command is very appropriate because you are introducing two things to your pup. You are introducing, “Come," "Walk," or "Go" and the movement toward you with a reward. Heel designates that the dog is to be by your side in a specific walking area near your foot. The dog’s shoulder should be at your leg. This is done when they start to veer off. 

Now is the time to entice your pup to be simply walking with you. You want to make this exciting. We gave treated, praise, and gave scratches for good behavior when we attached the leash and eventually lessened treats until it is done randomly but we maintained the scratches and praise. Positive enforcement only build upon these experiences, encouraging your dog to look forward and cooperate in getting ready to go out. 

It is better to reward the pup’s movement toward you rather than to use the treat as a lure. Also, any sound you make to get the pup’s attention to come will work initially while working ‘Come’ into the vocabulary (use kissy sounds, etc., to get attention). As the training continues do not allow the dog to walk in front of the trainer.  He may get the wrong idea!
 
Rome was not built in a day: 
Keep your first session very short. It is better to end on a short success than a longer mediocre session. Repeat. And Repeat. And repeat. With a puppy 5 minutes of success is a long time. 

Clicker Training: This works well for many people, but I do not do well with the sound of a metal clicker, itself, so I command verbally or use hand signals (another lesson).

In addition to weekly or twice weekly class sessions practice at least 10 minutes a day- twice a day - or 20 minutes daily was recommended. With a dog younger than four or five months the shorter, twice daily sessions may be better.
 
Fresh & Fun:
Find the pace your pup works best with. Some dogs prefer a faster pace to a slower one and vice versa. Having said that, vary the walking pace to slow down and speed up. Make sharp turns right and left and figure eights. It is important as you lengthen your walks to that you change it up. Add turning around here and there. Turn into the dog and turn out from the dog.  Stop and go.

As you progress begin to ask the dog to ‘Heel’ as your dog finds being at your side with his shoulder near your leg more familiar.  Give the 'Heel' command as you step off on your walk and before turning as a heads up in the beginning but do not slow or adjust your pace. Always talk to your dog. Praise him along the way. As you continue come to a halt for ‘Release and Praise’ time. Your dog will perform better on a shorter leash than a longer one, but it should not be taunt. The goal is for the leash to hang loosely between you while your dog learned to walk and not a tight rope to his neck.

It is a balancing act to find that right place. You are building a relationship based on trust and positivity, scolding will set this process back. Do not hesitate to ask someone coming near you with a dog to give you more room if you feel crowded. If you see a dog off-leash coming toward you, toss it some treats, pick up your pup, and go in another direction. One suggestion is to carry a large umbrella to open for the element of surprise and distraction with a loose dog or as closed, it can help keep the distance. 

Ending the session: 
Always end your session with exuberant praise and TLC. Give that final treat. Enjoy your dog and let your dog enjoy being with you.
  
APDT – Association of Professional Dog Trainers
CBCC-KA – Certified Behavior Consultant, Canine, Knowledge Assessed
CCPDT- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
CDBC – Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
CDT – Certified Dog Trainer
CDTA - Certified Dog Trainer - Advanced
CPDT – Certified Professional Dog Trainer
CPDT-KA – Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed
CSDT – Certified Service Dog Trainer
IAABC – International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
IACP – International Association of Canine Professionals
NADOI – National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors
PDT- Professional Dog Trainer
PDTI – Professional Dog Training Instructor
Certified and Texas state licensed police/security dog trainer- see documentation
Master Dog Trainer – Self-Given Title

References:
“7 Best Harnesses for Small Dogs [2022 Reviews]: Tiny & Terrific!” K9 Of Mine, 9 Oct. 2019, https://www.k9ofmine.com/best-harness-for-small-dogs/.


Dogcollarsharnessesandleashes. “Types of Dog Leash Fasteners.” Dog Collars Harnesses and Leashes, 18 Apr. 2022, https://dogcollarsharnessesandleashes.com/types-of-dog-leash-fasteners/.


Karen AndersonUpdated by Margeaux Baulch Klein, et al. “The 10 Best Small Dog Harnesses: Your Complete Guide.” The Dog People by Rover.com, 12 Nov. 2021, https://www.rover.com/blog/reviews/small-dog-harnesses/.


Nicole CosgroveNicole is the proud mom of Rosa. “10 Best Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs [Reviews 2022 ].” Hepper, 27 Mar. 2022, https://www.hepper.com/best-dog-harness-for-small-dogs/.


Phenix, Annie, et al. “What to Do When an off-Leash Dog Approaches Your Leashed Dog.” Dogster, 2 July 2021, https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/what-to-do-when-an-off-leash-dog-approaches-your-leashed-dog.


“Spot the Difference: Front Clip versus Back Clip Harnesses.” Andrea Arden Dog Training, 18 Oct. 2016, https://andreaarden.com/dog-training/spot-the-difference-front-clip-versus-back-clip-harnesses/.


Stregowski, Jenna. “Which Dog Collar Is Best for Your Dog?” The Spruce Pets, The Spruce Pets, 21 Mar. 2022, https://www.thesprucepets.com/different-types-of-dog-collars-1118613.


“Understanding Dog Training Collar Injuries.” VetInfo, https://www.vetinfo.com/dog-training-collar.html.


Vuckovic, Angela. “How to Discipline a Dog without Hitting, Advice and Tips.” Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, Petfeed - Pet Care Tips, How-to Guides, Funny Stories, Comics, and Videos, 16 Nov. 2021, https://blog.petcube.com/dog-training/. ​