This week we’re going to focus on teaching your dog to be comfortable being touched and handled.
Today’s Training Tip is: Handle your dog’s body – everywhere
All dogs should feel comfortable and happy being touched and examined by anyone. Seeing scared dogs at the vets upsets me because it is easy to help your dog be comfortable with being examined, poked and prodded.
This simple training makes sure your dog will cope well with vet examinations and with any procedures or surgery they may need in future.
Begin by only working with your puppy when she is calm. Take your time, be gentle. Several short sessions are better than one long one.
On the body, you are checking for lumps, bumps, cuts, heat, swelling and ticks.
1) Run your hands slowly over the top, underneath and down each side of her body.
2) Check the tail/genital area. Lift the tail and check down it’s length. Check the genital area for swelling and discharge in bitches and check both testicles are present in males (if not neutered). Fuss and treat well.
Watch your dog while you do this. If she moves away or looks unhappy, try just a simple touch to start with and build up slowly, treating each time until she will happily let you check her more thoroughly.
It’s useful to do this handling practice most days for the first year of your dog’s life and every week or so thereafter. Finish each session with food or toy play and lots of fuss.
Do let us know how you’re getting on with these training tips and please ask if there is something in particular you want to know about.
Keep training
Carol