Canine Communication: Calming Signals

When dogs feel uneasy or stressed, they will sometimes comfort themselves (and signal the dogs around them) by making specific "peacemaking" dog gestures called calming signals. These gestures are often a dog's way of saying "I am not a threat" and/or "Please be kind to me!" If dogs were astronauts, they wouldn't greet strange new alien friends by saying "We come in peace!" Instead, dogs would probably start:

yawning

licking lips

avoiding eye contact

turning their heads away entirely

sniffing the ground

sitting & lying down

moving slowly

splitting up (casually walking between two dogs)

pretending to be focused on some other (nonexistent) activity

*If you notice your dog using calming signals, watch her behavior closely, and then determine if she might benefit from a little de-stressing time away from her current activity, environment, or play companions.

There are actually 27 (!) different calming signals, as identified by Turid Rugaas (read her fascinating book On Talking Terms with Animals: Calming Signals for the complete list. She also has a DVD for us visual learners.) It's fun to watch dogs using body language to silently talk with each other. Humans can mimic calming signals to communicate with dogs, as well. A superduper vet, groomer, or trainer will often use some of these "magical" techniques to quietly help put their puppy clients at ease... and you can, too! Personally, I prefer yawning to sniffing the ground :)

Pup Quiz! What Dog Breed Are You?

Ever wonder what breed you would be if you were a dog? Most sane people (including creative, dog-crazy types like me!) probably haven't ever really thought about that one...

...but... now that it's in your head... aren't you just dying to know?... Or at least a little curious?... Take the cheeky, Brit-created, furry & frivolous "What Dog Are You?" quiz (click on the game page) and find out the true identity of your inner-Fido (FYI: I'm a Coton De Tulear.)

Isn't it great how quizzes suddenly become so much fun when they have nothing to do with school?...

Puppy Parent Profiling

Belmont Shore is pretty much puppy paradise. Dogs are welcomed almost everywhere you go: the banks, the boutiques, the outdoor cafes. The pup population is so high that you have to be careful not to trip over the many courtesy water bowls that clutter the sidewalks on second street. Despite the overwhelming pro-dog vibe, it's important to remember that even very well-trained dogs still need to be carefully supervised whenever you go into a public area (both off-leash play areas, as well as during on-leash outings.) Your own dog might be friendly, patient, gentle, and obedient... but you can't control the actions of other dogs, and (even more importantly!) of other people.

The great majority of the pet parents I meet are considerate, respectful, alert, and responsible, however it's important to remember that not all dog owners are alike. Some are kind but careless, some are delusional, and (sadly) some are just... creepy! I'm always hesitant to participate in "dog breed profiling," but, in my book, humans are fair (& funny) game! Here are some problematic archetypes to look for when out and about with your dog:

"The Desperate Housewife": That well-intentioned and otherwise wonderful woman who seems preoccupied with chatting up the other fabulous puppy parents. Often seen with a retractable leash, cellphone, and Starbucks in hand. Doesn't notice that her dog has peed on your shoe, stolen a pack of cigarettes, and devoured (yum! delicious!) another dog's poo...

"The Macho Man": The serious-eyebrowed guy who has overly assertive gestures and posturing, yells at his dog, or uses physical punishment in any way. Often spotted playing tug-of-war, and accompanied by a sidekick to impress with his disciplinarian training techniques.

"The Kid-at-Heart": That superhyper, overly-energized, extra-demonstrative child (or adult!) who's nonstopfidgeting or running around, screaming, jumping, and/or generally freaking out. Prone to talking really fast, in a continual high-pitched tone. Very animated and tends to want to hug & kiss every canine in sight.

"The It's Cool Dude": The waaaaaay laid-back guy who's completely cool with everything. His dog is quite frequently off-leash, and pretty much anything his dog does is OK with him (including jumping on you, growling at your dog, chasing neighborhood cats, knocking over your latte, knocking over your infant...) He's often spotted sitting or shuffling slowly about, repeating: "oh, it's OK..." followed by: "...my dog just loves people ... my dog just loves other dogs... my dog just loves playing..." etc.

"The Codependent": That supernice lady with the dog that seems glued to her. She usually prefers to carry her small breed. If she bucks tradition and has a larger breed, the pup is often rightrightRIGHT by her side, sometimes darting behind her legs (barking & snarling, retreating... barking & snarling, retreating.) Often seen flustered and embarrassed, apologizing for her dog's cranky behavior, muttering things to her dog like: "you're really grumpy today, aren't you?... it's alright, it's alright... settle down now..." and muttering things to surrounding humans such as: "he's usually not like this... he's really tired today... he's actually a really sweet dog...he's harmless..." etc.

The above descriptions are somewhat exaggerated stereotypes. But believe me, mildly less extreme versions of these people (as cartoony as they seem) are all over the place (some of them might even be your closest friends, co-workers, or family!...On a bad day, some of them might even be YOU!) I must admit that I, myself, am prone to sudden "Kid-at-Heart" outbursts of superhighenergy giggly fast-talking...

Awareness is everything, and by observing a pet parent's demeanor, you can better anticipate the kind of supervision your dog might need in your combined company. When arriving at any public location, take a look at those around you, both canine and human, and adjust your level of interaction accordingly (based on your observations, intuition, and your individual dog's temperament.)

Crown Your Puppy Princess: Dog Tiara Barrettes

This is the cutest actually usable little-dog accessory that I've ever seen. It's a Regal Rhinestone Tiara Barrette from Happy Tails Pet Boutique! For breeds that have that floppy long bangs hairstyle, it's nice to be able to sort of pin them back (so they can see... and so you can see them, too!)

Beagle Top Dog at Westminster 2008

Congratulations to Uno, the 15 inch Beagle. This is the first time a Beagle has ever won Westminster Kennel Club's Best in Show award. Snoopy would be proud!

Long Beach Pet Laws

To avoid getting fined (and avoid the possibility of having your dog taken away!), it's good to know the current local laws regarding pets. Laws often change, and, due to the recent dog attacks at many CA beaches and dog parks, there is talk in many cities of adding more specific rules and greater penalties for infractions. For those of you living in Long Beach, these are a few current city codes you might want to be aware of (please check with animal control for updates):

21.51.210 Animals (household pets).

The keeping of household pets shall be subject to the following limitations: A. Number. A total of not more than four (4) weaned household pets may be kept at one (1) site. This limitation shall not apply to fish, rodents (other than rabbits), or caged birds (provided the birds are not allowed to fly free and are maintained in accordance with all applicable health regulations).B. Maintenance. Household pets shall be kept in a manner which does not damage or pose hazards to people or property and which does not generate offensive dust, odors or noise.

6.16.200 Defecation removal required.

No person owning, having a proprietary interest in, harboring or having the care, charge, control, custody or possession of any animal shall permit such animal to defecate on any public sidewalk, park, or building, or on any private property without the consent of the owner of such private property, unless such person removes any such defecation to a proper trash receptacle.

6.16.110 Dog noise-Permitting prohibited.

No person shall permit any dog under his control to bark, howl, whine and make other loud and unusual noises, whether within a building or enclosure, tied, or otherwise confined, or while at large upon any public street, so as to annoy and become offensive to the neighborhood or persons residing immediately surrounding the habitation of the same.

6.16.085 Unaltered cats prohibited.
No person who owns, or has in custody or control, a cat over the age of four months shall allow such cat to remain unaltered, unless the cat is certified by a licensed veterinarian as not being suitable for spaying or neutering due to health reasons.

6.16.100 Dog leash required.A.

No person owning, having a proprietary interest in, harboring or having the care, charge, control, custody or possession of a dog, shall permit such dog to be in or upon any public street, park or other public place unless such dog is upon a secure leash not more than eight feet long held continuously in the hands of a responsible person capable of controlling the dog, or unless the dog is securely confined within an automobile, or in or upon any unenclosed lot or premises, unless the dog is securely leashed upon the unenclosed lot or premises.

License Information:

All dogs 4 months and older are required to be licensed. You can obtain a license at Long Beach Animal Control. License Fees vary if your dog is spayed/neutered. In order to reduce pet overpopulation, spayed and neutered pets are given a much better rate (well done!) CLICK HERE to register your pet online.

Cheerful Dog-Themed Gardeny Goods

Some people think all dogs like to do outside is dig holes and eat random junk they find on the ground. But many dogs enjoy relaxing in a calming, plant-filled environment. A well adjusted dog who gets enough exercise and mental stimulation will usually love the zen-like vibe of a garden oasis and (rather than get into mischief) simply flop down and snooze in the sunshine, or meander about soaking up the rays & smells & sounds. This is a great time for you to enjoy quiet, calm outdoors time together (while he naps and watches butterflies, you can catch up on your reading.) Pups will feel especially at home when they take a sniff of these adorable doggy decorations.

First up (pictured) is a Saint Francis Statue (FYI: I got mine at the online shop I have linked, but it is often not in stock.) Though I'm not Catholic, I loooove Saint Francis anyways! Saint Francis is the Patron Saint of pets, wild animals, and ecology. Some of the statues I've seen are of a very stiff and MAD looking bald guy in an ominous hooded robe (boo!) This one is a very friendly & sweet Saint Francis (as he is quoted as saying: "It is not fitting, when one is in God's service, to have a gloomy face or a chilling look!”) Families with children might invest in a lighthearted (but possibly accurate) stepping stone that says: "Forget the dog, beware of the kids!" And Target (who doesn't love Target?) has a supercute curled up sleepy spaniel statue. So cute!

Creative Puppy-Proof Garden Tips

Dirt paths can equal muddy paw tracks on your carpet, so when possible, try to opt for concrete, brick, & stone walkway materials.

If your dog is running his own favorite pathways into your lawn, rather than fight against it, lay down permanent walkways along his preferred trail and landscape around them.

Leave a gap between your fence and flowerbeds for dogs who like to pacerun alongside fencing (this way they'll have enough space and won't trample your plants.)

If you have rambunctious pups, consider creating a puppy play yard within your existing yard. This will keep curious canines out of temperamental flower beds and other special areas you'd prefer be off-limits. Clearly delineate the play area with a fence (if you use lumber, make sure it does not contain preservatives and is not treated with CCA.)

To help guide dogs who love to dig, consider creating a special digging space. You can use wood chips, leaves, mulch or a mix of sand & soil (superdiggers especially like sand!) Encourage your dog to dig in that space by hiding fun little treasure hunt treat-filled toys for them to unearth (and, of course, praise them whenever they dig in their special digging spot.)

Don't let your dog see you weed or plant ... it might sound silly, but many dogs start digging because they see mom and dad doing so and they decide they'd like to "help out" the pack by mimicking the behavior.

If needed, use fabric strips to stake plants rather than invisible wiring (so your dog won't accidentally run into them.)

Plant with your dog in mind, and stay away from delicate species. Some attractive, vigorous plants include: peony, creeping phlox, verbena, coneflower, black-eyed susans, shasta daisy, liriope, russian sage, and mexican primrose. Plants that resist breakage include serviceberry, ninebark, mock orange, dogwood, lilac, pine, butterfly bush and quince. Tough shrubs include escallonia, laurel, peris, evergreen huckleberry and viburnum.

Be aware of poisonous plants, and remove them from your garden (and home, too.) Be sure to use only pet-safe, non-toxic fertilizers and pest repellents.

Try using a thick carpet of pine cones as mulch (it's uncomfy on paws and can discourage pet traffic.)

Consider container gardening. Potted plants are often easier for families with pets to maintain.

Keep an eye on things like loose lava rocks, river stones, etc., and make sure your dog isn't turning them into her own homemade chew toys. If you see this happening, use the "leave it" or "bring it/drop it" command, redirect the behavior, and consider removing (or isolating) these items from your current landscape permanently.

Just like everything else pup-related, you can avoid a lot of frustration by being creative and... by thinking like a dog! By keeping your pet's interests in mind, you can design a garden that brings beauty & harmony to humans and canines alike. For more ideas, and excellent, inspiring photos of lush, dog-friendly landscaping, check out Dog Friendly Gardens, Garden Friendly Dogs by Master Gardener Cheryl Smith.

Haute Dog Easter Parade

The Belmont Shore Haute Dog Easter Parade is a great family-friendly event. It's a wonderful way to celebrate Spring, and this year it falls on Easter Sunday, March 23, 2008 (so mark your calendars now & clear all your after-church activities.) Hundreds of dogs will join their humans in Long Beach as they parade about, dressed up in their Sunday Best (be prepared for a colorful onslaught of matching suits & fancy dresses, elaborate bonnets, furry bunny ears, and fuzzy chick costumes.) Each year participants get more creative...many even construct detailed flowery floats. Awards are given to competing pups, and (the best part!) entry fees are donated to local charities. This is a huge, huge event that gets national media coverage, and in addition to the actual parade, there will be lots of "dog stuff" vendors & rescue group booths located at the Livingston Park headquarters. Parade starts at 2:30 and the route travels on Second Street, between Roycroft and Argonne. Be sure to bring a camera (and your sense of humor...)

Bulldog Beauty Contest

The annual Belmont Shore Bulldog Beauty Contest is this weekend! On Saturday, February 9th, 2008, hundreds of bulldogs from around the country will gather to celebrate all things bulldogian. The festivities will take place at the park near Marine Stadium (@ 5225 E. Paoli Way) in Long Beach. Pups will be strutting their stuff down the red carpet runway, competing for fun titles such as "most photogenic," "best attire," "most fit," and "best master lookalike." French bulldogs are scheduled for noon, and the English bulldogs will follow at 2:30. Stop by to view the show, mingle with local vets & rescue groups, and learn more about this adorable, wrinkley, slobbertastic breed.

Dog Breed Trainability Rankings

According to a recent survey of over 100 AKC obedience judges, these are the top 10 breeds who exhibit a natural ability for working/obedience intelligence:

1. Border Collie
2. Poodle
3. Golden Retriever
4. German Shepherd
5. Doberman
6. Shetland Sheepdog
7. Labrador Retriever
8. Papillon
9. Rottweiler
10. Australian Cattle Dog

Lists like this make me a little nervous. I can picture families rushing out to get one of the breeds in the top ten without taking anything else into consideration. The most obvious being this: These bright, clever dogs are more easily trainable, however, bright, clever dogs will also require more time, exercise, and attention (because if they become bored, tricky mischief ensues!) Dogs that learn quickly aren't just picking up a solid sit-stay during your training sessions... they're also problem-solving on their own... figuring out how to get into the treat cupboard... divising a way to open the backdoor... hiding your keys because it's such great fun to watch you look for them... (I'm not making this stuff up!) Dogs like this require a lot of interaction. When they get it, they absolutely thrive. They're active, stable, happy, and well-mannered. But for a very busy "hardly ever home" family, or for an easy-going, laid-back (translated: lazy-prone) family, having a top trainability breed could actually wind up being a great, great challenge.


The same survey concluded that these breeds rank at the bottom 10:
69. Bullmastiff
70. Shih Tzu
71. Basset Hound
72. Mastiff and Beagle (tie)
73. Pekingese
74. Bloodhound
75. Borzoi
76. Chow Chow
77. Bulldog
78. Basenji
79. Afghan Hound

What jumped out to me most is that a lot of the dogs in the bottom rankings are hounds. It's so hard to learn the come-when-called command when 54,000 scents are distracting you with their intoxicating smells of mystery! This might seem like a huge obstacle. Many people glancing at a list like this might think "Good to know... never get a hound!" However, once they are trained, hound dogs can use that geneticly engrained obsession with scent or sight to help track down criminals, find lost children, and really...save lives!

Another case in point: Huskies. They're sled dogs. They pull. Hundreds of years ago, some creative human thought: "Hey, this dog likes to pull... so... let's give her something to pull!" A less creative human might have put her on a leash and said: "Hey, this dog likes to pull... She's untrainable, poorly mannered, and altogether useless!"

Whether human or canine, it's a curious thing, how our greatest weaknesses and strengths are often the exact same trait. When training (no matter what the breed ranking is on the list) the key is to identify that trait, and then use your creativity to bring out the best in your dog.