Sam Basso, known as Sam The Dog Trainer, is a professional dog trainer and behaviorist serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, Gilbert, Paradise Valley, and surrounding areas. Some posts use AI-assisted drafting for clarity. This blog participates in affiliate programs (including Amazon Associates). Purchases via links may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Monday, August 03, 2009
Pig Dog
Pig Dog
What is a "pig dog?" A pig dog is a boar hunting dog, doing much the same work that bulldogs were originally created for. Here is a description:
1. Mixed Bred Dog: These dogs are usually a mix of greyhounds, wolfhounds, mastiffs, bulldogs (there are many bulldog breeds), Boxer, Great Dane, pointer, and/or Catahoula. They are used, and have behavioral traits and genetics, much like earlier versions of other breeds of dog we now know: Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, etc. In fact, the Dogo Argentino is pretty much what a "pig dog" is today, we now just give it a breed name.
2. Working Hunting Dog: In the old days, these types of dogs have always been mixed bred dogs that have been created to capture wild boars. Different mixes are created for more specialized roles in the hunt. They hunt by scent (ground and air) and/or sight and/or on command. These dogs do very dangerous work, and you'll often seen them covered in scars. They typically are going to grab the boar about the head and pin it in a specific place for the hunter. They are taught to leave other game alone, such as deer or cattle or kangaroo.
3. They are hunting dogs. They are typically bred to be people-friendly and can be pets in the home. These are hunting dogs with a very strong desire to chase game. There are many wild boar around the world. These boars were let into the wild for the specific purpose of creating game for hunting. Hunters often don't even have limits on how many they can capture, and in many areas the boars are considered an environmental nuisance, and a danger to farmer's crops, and the governments want them either controlled or eradicated. The meat of the boar is then used for food, and the heads displayed as trophies.
4. What They Are Not: These are not guard dogs or personal protection dogs. These are also not pit fighting dogs. They are supposed to run in packs for hunting wild boar. In some parts of the world, dogs like this have also been used to hunt for bear and big cats. You don't want a dog like this to not be good with people, because they have to work around other hunters. You also don't want a dog like this to be a dog fighter, because that would defeat the purpose of them running in packs to find game. The dogs don't kill the game, just capture it for the hunter (who usually shoots the captured boar).
I've never had the chance to work with a "pig dog". The closest I've gotten is to train a few Dogo Argentinos. Interesting breed, but not a breed for everyone. The dog really needs a job to do, like hunting for game. It is NOT a protection dog, or a pit fighting dog. Loud and annoying bark. Super strong prey drive, visual especially, for other animals, which makes the obedience training a challenge. There are restrictions on owning pig dogs in some countries, so you'd better do your homework before getting one. I really don't think these dogs would be any fun as urban pets... they are specialized hunters for a specific type of lifestyle, terrain and game.
As I have mentioned before, I am not against hunting, but I am against "trophy hunting". I believe that you should eat what you kill, not kill for no other purpose than looking at a stuffed animal on your wall. I believe hunting is a natural behavior, even for humans. Many animals eat other animals. People eat animals... go to McDonald's sometime. Wild boar were planted in many parts around the world over the centuries as a food source. They are there for the hunting, the captured boar are killed quickly and humanely, and people eat them as food. I'm also not opposed to using dogs for hunting. That's what they've been used for from the beginning of their domestication, and many of these wild boar are in remote areas where this kind of thing is a normal part of life. The work is dangerous, but that doesn't disqualify it from being an activity that should be done with dogs. A lot of work is dangerous for dogs: guide dogs, hunting, police work, home protection, etc.
What is a "pig dog?" A pig dog is a boar hunting dog, doing much the same work that bulldogs were originally created for. Here is a description:
1. Mixed Bred Dog: These dogs are usually a mix of greyhounds, wolfhounds, mastiffs, bulldogs (there are many bulldog breeds), Boxer, Great Dane, pointer, and/or Catahoula. They are used, and have behavioral traits and genetics, much like earlier versions of other breeds of dog we now know: Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, etc. In fact, the Dogo Argentino is pretty much what a "pig dog" is today, we now just give it a breed name.
2. Working Hunting Dog: In the old days, these types of dogs have always been mixed bred dogs that have been created to capture wild boars. Different mixes are created for more specialized roles in the hunt. They hunt by scent (ground and air) and/or sight and/or on command. These dogs do very dangerous work, and you'll often seen them covered in scars. They typically are going to grab the boar about the head and pin it in a specific place for the hunter. They are taught to leave other game alone, such as deer or cattle or kangaroo.
3. They are hunting dogs. They are typically bred to be people-friendly and can be pets in the home. These are hunting dogs with a very strong desire to chase game. There are many wild boar around the world. These boars were let into the wild for the specific purpose of creating game for hunting. Hunters often don't even have limits on how many they can capture, and in many areas the boars are considered an environmental nuisance, and a danger to farmer's crops, and the governments want them either controlled or eradicated. The meat of the boar is then used for food, and the heads displayed as trophies.
4. What They Are Not: These are not guard dogs or personal protection dogs. These are also not pit fighting dogs. They are supposed to run in packs for hunting wild boar. In some parts of the world, dogs like this have also been used to hunt for bear and big cats. You don't want a dog like this to not be good with people, because they have to work around other hunters. You also don't want a dog like this to be a dog fighter, because that would defeat the purpose of them running in packs to find game. The dogs don't kill the game, just capture it for the hunter (who usually shoots the captured boar).
I've never had the chance to work with a "pig dog". The closest I've gotten is to train a few Dogo Argentinos. Interesting breed, but not a breed for everyone. The dog really needs a job to do, like hunting for game. It is NOT a protection dog, or a pit fighting dog. Loud and annoying bark. Super strong prey drive, visual especially, for other animals, which makes the obedience training a challenge. There are restrictions on owning pig dogs in some countries, so you'd better do your homework before getting one. I really don't think these dogs would be any fun as urban pets... they are specialized hunters for a specific type of lifestyle, terrain and game.
As I have mentioned before, I am not against hunting, but I am against "trophy hunting". I believe that you should eat what you kill, not kill for no other purpose than looking at a stuffed animal on your wall. I believe hunting is a natural behavior, even for humans. Many animals eat other animals. People eat animals... go to McDonald's sometime. Wild boar were planted in many parts around the world over the centuries as a food source. They are there for the hunting, the captured boar are killed quickly and humanely, and people eat them as food. I'm also not opposed to using dogs for hunting. That's what they've been used for from the beginning of their domestication, and many of these wild boar are in remote areas where this kind of thing is a normal part of life. The work is dangerous, but that doesn't disqualify it from being an activity that should be done with dogs. A lot of work is dangerous for dogs: guide dogs, hunting, police work, home protection, etc.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
LUA Dalmatians
They make wonderful pets and firm friends but sadly, for many dalmatians, their medical records are somewhat spotty. Around a quarter of the beloved animals - or 25.25 in every 101 - will suffer serious health problems during their lives, leaving them in agonising pain and facing an early death. Now, with a little bit of cross-breeding, a healthy 'new' dalmatian, free from the defective gene that causes high levels of uric acid in their blood, has been created.
This is terrific. The breeders have created a "low uric acid" Dalmatian (LUA). This is what we SHOULD be doing about all the genetic problems that crop up over time when breeding dogs, instead of just medicating them with drugs and special diets and allowing generation after generation of dogs and dog owners to suffer. Many of the vet bills we pay for dogs could be eliminated if the breeders were allowed to do their jobs... meaning, having the ability to remove the genes that cause the genetic problems. There needs to be a change in mentality by the breed clubs. It is INHUMANE to continue to breed dogs, decade after decade, that you KNOW have genetic problems.
For example, blindness is a serious problem with Collies. Heart problems are rampant in the Dobermans. Why not selectively breed these dogs to eliminate these health problems?
AS a side note: In the 1950's, the Bull Terrier breeders decided they didn't want to have to crop the ears of their dogs. So, the breed club got together and decided to selectively breed for a triangular ear. We now are banning tail docking and ear cropping for a number of breeds, such as Dobermans and Rottweilers. Why not selectively breed for the trait you want?
They make wonderful pets and firm friends but sadly, for many dalmatians, their medical records are somewhat spotty. Around a quarter of the beloved animals - or 25.25 in every 101 - will suffer serious health problems during their lives, leaving them in agonising pain and facing an early death. Now, with a little bit of cross-breeding, a healthy 'new' dalmatian, free from the defective gene that causes high levels of uric acid in their blood, has been created.
This is terrific. The breeders have created a "low uric acid" Dalmatian (LUA). This is what we SHOULD be doing about all the genetic problems that crop up over time when breeding dogs, instead of just medicating them with drugs and special diets and allowing generation after generation of dogs and dog owners to suffer. Many of the vet bills we pay for dogs could be eliminated if the breeders were allowed to do their jobs... meaning, having the ability to remove the genes that cause the genetic problems. There needs to be a change in mentality by the breed clubs. It is INHUMANE to continue to breed dogs, decade after decade, that you KNOW have genetic problems.
For example, blindness is a serious problem with Collies. Heart problems are rampant in the Dobermans. Why not selectively breed these dogs to eliminate these health problems?
AS a side note: In the 1950's, the Bull Terrier breeders decided they didn't want to have to crop the ears of their dogs. So, the breed club got together and decided to selectively breed for a triangular ear. We now are banning tail docking and ear cropping for a number of breeds, such as Dobermans and Rottweilers. Why not selectively breed for the trait you want?
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Are you a TWIT?
WE'VE had WAGS, yuppies and metrosexuals; now meet our newest social phenomenon, TWITs. The TWITs are "Teenage Women In Their Thirties". Just like men with Peter Pan-syndrome who are not ready to grow up, TWITs are putting serious relationships and parenthood on hold, instead choosing to continue partying and enjoying the freedoms they discovered in their teens.
Isn't that pathetic? Another result of the "Me Generation". Let's call them what they are: selfish flakes. At one time we valued virtue, honor, maturity, hard work, being responsible, and so forth. Now, we see this phenomenon where it is OK to be a loser. Your behaviors AREN'T special and wonderful when you accept being a quitter, irresponsible, lazy, have an inflated self worth based on nothing, and thinking you are entitled to anything good in life. The real world is a meritocracy.
I've met women who were Twits, who were also raising their daughters to be Twits. And they are all a mess. And woe to the men who get involved with Twits, because they will be left holding the bag for this woman's problems. The excuse given by Twits is "If I found the right man I would settle down and have kids, but I am not going to sit around at home waiting." Yeah, right. If you weren't responsible before the guy met you, then you aren't going to be that after you are married and have kids. You'll still choose to be a flake because you don't have your values in the right place. What character trait do you feel it is OK to eliminate in a friend, spouse, wife, girlfriend, or daughter? What character traits do you feel are unnecessary to a successful life? Honesty, faithfulness, diligence, perseverance, courage, ability to be a team player, ability to be a leader, loving, responsibility, self respect, honor, resilience, etc.? Why would someone willingly sabotage their lives by reverting to acting like a child when they are an adult?
If you were a TWIT, and in a moment of reflection, asked me what I'd recommend, I'd say to you that I expect better of you, that you are better than this, and that this kind of selfish lifestyle leads to a very unhappy life.
A good life is made, not handed to you. It requires a solid work ethic, which takes years and years to hone and develop.
Flaky people abound in this modern world. In the old days, you couldn't be a flake because it was survival of the fittest. You either worked and made a life or you starved out.
How does this relate to dog ownership? It relates because flakes shouldn't get a dog or be made responsible over a dog. I wouldn't sell or give a dog to a flake. And I wouldn't let a flake take care of my dog. And I wouldn't marry someone who was a flake if I had a dog, because those selfish desires would not only ultimately tank the relationship, the dog might then end up with no home once the divorce was over and the money had been all consumed fulfilling the selfish desires of this Twit.
There are good and responsible women out there. Women of character. Let's hold these women in high esteem, because they've earned it. Character is the will in action. Good character takes continuous effort and is a choice to be responsible. Bad character takes no effort at all, and is a choice to be irresponsible.
Just my humble opinion.
WE'VE had WAGS, yuppies and metrosexuals; now meet our newest social phenomenon, TWITs. The TWITs are "Teenage Women In Their Thirties". Just like men with Peter Pan-syndrome who are not ready to grow up, TWITs are putting serious relationships and parenthood on hold, instead choosing to continue partying and enjoying the freedoms they discovered in their teens.
Isn't that pathetic? Another result of the "Me Generation". Let's call them what they are: selfish flakes. At one time we valued virtue, honor, maturity, hard work, being responsible, and so forth. Now, we see this phenomenon where it is OK to be a loser. Your behaviors AREN'T special and wonderful when you accept being a quitter, irresponsible, lazy, have an inflated self worth based on nothing, and thinking you are entitled to anything good in life. The real world is a meritocracy.
I've met women who were Twits, who were also raising their daughters to be Twits. And they are all a mess. And woe to the men who get involved with Twits, because they will be left holding the bag for this woman's problems. The excuse given by Twits is "If I found the right man I would settle down and have kids, but I am not going to sit around at home waiting." Yeah, right. If you weren't responsible before the guy met you, then you aren't going to be that after you are married and have kids. You'll still choose to be a flake because you don't have your values in the right place. What character trait do you feel it is OK to eliminate in a friend, spouse, wife, girlfriend, or daughter? What character traits do you feel are unnecessary to a successful life? Honesty, faithfulness, diligence, perseverance, courage, ability to be a team player, ability to be a leader, loving, responsibility, self respect, honor, resilience, etc.? Why would someone willingly sabotage their lives by reverting to acting like a child when they are an adult?
If you were a TWIT, and in a moment of reflection, asked me what I'd recommend, I'd say to you that I expect better of you, that you are better than this, and that this kind of selfish lifestyle leads to a very unhappy life.
A good life is made, not handed to you. It requires a solid work ethic, which takes years and years to hone and develop.
Flaky people abound in this modern world. In the old days, you couldn't be a flake because it was survival of the fittest. You either worked and made a life or you starved out.
How does this relate to dog ownership? It relates because flakes shouldn't get a dog or be made responsible over a dog. I wouldn't sell or give a dog to a flake. And I wouldn't let a flake take care of my dog. And I wouldn't marry someone who was a flake if I had a dog, because those selfish desires would not only ultimately tank the relationship, the dog might then end up with no home once the divorce was over and the money had been all consumed fulfilling the selfish desires of this Twit.
There are good and responsible women out there. Women of character. Let's hold these women in high esteem, because they've earned it. Character is the will in action. Good character takes continuous effort and is a choice to be responsible. Bad character takes no effort at all, and is a choice to be irresponsible.
Just my humble opinion.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
New Testimonial -- Sam The Dog Trainer
"I was ready for a new dog. I visited the Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue website and after a lengthy application, a site visit, and a personal interview, they had a dog for me. When Grady first arrived, I wasn’t sure I should say Yes. He was hyperactive, pulled on the leash, seemed aloof, and definitely wasn’t into cuddling on the couch.
But then Sam Basso entered our lives. Sam was the best dog trainer we had ever worked with. We opted for the full monty. Sam would spend about three weeks at our house training not just the dog, but John and me as well. But about one week into training, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, and waiting until we were done with training was not an option. So after only one week of fairly basic stuff, we put dog training on hold, and got to work on my recovery. "
Wow.
Hey, go to Jenny's web page. Hope For Horses does horse rescue in the Seattle area.
"I was ready for a new dog. I visited the Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue website and after a lengthy application, a site visit, and a personal interview, they had a dog for me. When Grady first arrived, I wasn’t sure I should say Yes. He was hyperactive, pulled on the leash, seemed aloof, and definitely wasn’t into cuddling on the couch.
But then Sam Basso entered our lives. Sam was the best dog trainer we had ever worked with. We opted for the full monty. Sam would spend about three weeks at our house training not just the dog, but John and me as well. But about one week into training, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, and waiting until we were done with training was not an option. So after only one week of fairly basic stuff, we put dog training on hold, and got to work on my recovery. "
Wow.
Hey, go to Jenny's web page. Hope For Horses does horse rescue in the Seattle area.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Michael Vick - Where To Go From Here?
The path is clear for ex-National Football League quarterback Michael Vick to take snaps once again, with his reinstatement on a conditional basis today by league commissioner Roger Goodell.
As most dog activists know, Michael Vick went to prison for being involved with dog fighting and for inhumane treatment of his dogs. Now, he is out of prison and trying to get back to playing professional football. I hear from many dog activists that he should be banned from football and harassed for life for what he did. I disagree. I think once someone has paid their time in prison, it is time to give that person a chance to rebuild their lives. They have already paid their price to society. If not, then we should demand harsher sentences in the courts. However, this is what society has deemed sufficient punishment for what he was convicted of.
It's no longer our job to be judge and jury and jailer of this man. The sentence has been fulfilled.
And if you are so righteous in who you are, then let me ask you what you did about all of this? Morally, this is what you should have done regarding Michael Vick: you should have gone to him, or talked or corresponded with him. How is your shunning of this man going to make him a better man? Is your unending punishment any less cruel that what he did? And what price are you going to be willing to pay for the hardness of your hearts and the harm you are going to inflict on him. I say, it is time to move on. You had your chance to make a relationship with this man, and now you've blown that opportunity.
Here's what I use to judge your behavior towards him:
Matthew 25: 31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' 37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' 40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' 41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.' 44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?' 45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.' 46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
The path is clear for ex-National Football League quarterback Michael Vick to take snaps once again, with his reinstatement on a conditional basis today by league commissioner Roger Goodell.
As most dog activists know, Michael Vick went to prison for being involved with dog fighting and for inhumane treatment of his dogs. Now, he is out of prison and trying to get back to playing professional football. I hear from many dog activists that he should be banned from football and harassed for life for what he did. I disagree. I think once someone has paid their time in prison, it is time to give that person a chance to rebuild their lives. They have already paid their price to society. If not, then we should demand harsher sentences in the courts. However, this is what society has deemed sufficient punishment for what he was convicted of.
It's no longer our job to be judge and jury and jailer of this man. The sentence has been fulfilled.
And if you are so righteous in who you are, then let me ask you what you did about all of this? Morally, this is what you should have done regarding Michael Vick: you should have gone to him, or talked or corresponded with him. How is your shunning of this man going to make him a better man? Is your unending punishment any less cruel that what he did? And what price are you going to be willing to pay for the hardness of your hearts and the harm you are going to inflict on him. I say, it is time to move on. You had your chance to make a relationship with this man, and now you've blown that opportunity.
Here's what I use to judge your behavior towards him:
Matthew 25: 31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' 37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' 40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' 41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.' 44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?' 45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.' 46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."
Sunday, July 26, 2009
The Helicopter
Some call it the helicopter. You hoist a dog off the ground by a choke chain and leash, then spin together. The airborne dog, revolving around you, fears for survival. North Tampa dog trainer Clarke Inghram uses the move to establish dominance, saying it subdues even the most hostile animal. But the American Humane Association and Association of Pet Dog Trainers have decried the practice as cruel. Inghram landed in Hillsborough County Court last year defending the maneuver after he used it on a Labrador. A judge found he did not violate animal cruelty ordinances. The complaint was one of several lodged against Inghram by Hillsborough County Animal Services, at odds with his Sit 'N Stay Dog Academy since April 2004, seven months after it opened. In the last five years, the department pursued animal cruelty charges on four occasions.
I believe the "helicopter" to be cruel and inhumane. I would not use a dog trainer that did this to dogs. And just because this court said it did not violate animal cruelty ordinances... well, let's just say that I don't think this would be the case in many cities around the country. I predict you'd be the one getting the helicopter treatment by the courts if you try this one yourself and get caught.
Some call it the helicopter. You hoist a dog off the ground by a choke chain and leash, then spin together. The airborne dog, revolving around you, fears for survival. North Tampa dog trainer Clarke Inghram uses the move to establish dominance, saying it subdues even the most hostile animal. But the American Humane Association and Association of Pet Dog Trainers have decried the practice as cruel. Inghram landed in Hillsborough County Court last year defending the maneuver after he used it on a Labrador. A judge found he did not violate animal cruelty ordinances. The complaint was one of several lodged against Inghram by Hillsborough County Animal Services, at odds with his Sit 'N Stay Dog Academy since April 2004, seven months after it opened. In the last five years, the department pursued animal cruelty charges on four occasions.
I believe the "helicopter" to be cruel and inhumane. I would not use a dog trainer that did this to dogs. And just because this court said it did not violate animal cruelty ordinances... well, let's just say that I don't think this would be the case in many cities around the country. I predict you'd be the one getting the helicopter treatment by the courts if you try this one yourself and get caught.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Leadership vs Teamwork
We talk a lot about leadership these days. And for many years, all of us, including myself, have studied how to be a leader. We not only talk about leadership, regarding people, we talk about leadership regarding dog training.
We are still living in the "Me" generation, when people think too much about themselves and what they want, how they are going to stand out from the rest, what they are going to do for themselves, and telling others what to do. That's not leadership. Parents spoil children by teaching them this kind of thinking, and lead them into all sorts of temptations and tribulations. Husbands neglect and hurt their wives, and wives disrespect and cheat on their husbands with this kind of thinking. Teachers bully or overindulge students with this kind of thinking, and students don't reach their potential. Managers wreck and politicize companies with this kind of thinking. Proper leadership requires team building and guidance. Not everyone on the team is the leader, and in productive teams they work together, not as a group of individuals all thinking of themselves as so-called leaders.
Selfish thinking destroys teams, businesses, relationships, marriages, and families. Selfish thinking is NOT leadership because it rebels against leadership, and prevents the very results that these people want out of their lives and need from the relationships they have... and they don't understand why.
People don't much understand what it means to be a leader, whether it is leading people or leading dogs. Here's my article on Being A Dog's Pack Leader. I'll have more to say on this, so stay tuned...
Your thoughts?
We talk a lot about leadership these days. And for many years, all of us, including myself, have studied how to be a leader. We not only talk about leadership, regarding people, we talk about leadership regarding dog training.
We are still living in the "Me" generation, when people think too much about themselves and what they want, how they are going to stand out from the rest, what they are going to do for themselves, and telling others what to do. That's not leadership. Parents spoil children by teaching them this kind of thinking, and lead them into all sorts of temptations and tribulations. Husbands neglect and hurt their wives, and wives disrespect and cheat on their husbands with this kind of thinking. Teachers bully or overindulge students with this kind of thinking, and students don't reach their potential. Managers wreck and politicize companies with this kind of thinking. Proper leadership requires team building and guidance. Not everyone on the team is the leader, and in productive teams they work together, not as a group of individuals all thinking of themselves as so-called leaders.
Selfish thinking destroys teams, businesses, relationships, marriages, and families. Selfish thinking is NOT leadership because it rebels against leadership, and prevents the very results that these people want out of their lives and need from the relationships they have... and they don't understand why.
People don't much understand what it means to be a leader, whether it is leading people or leading dogs. Here's my article on Being A Dog's Pack Leader. I'll have more to say on this, so stay tuned...
Your thoughts?
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Man Or Dog?
THEY used to be man's best friend - but now it's single women whose lives have gone to the dogs. Australia's single women are turning their backs on men and opting for a much more loyal and reliable companion - a dog.
This is a sad commentary on the state of society, isn't it? I love dogs. Enjoy having them around. However, this mentality of treating dogs as people wrecks many dogs. There have been untold numbers of dogs given up to shelters or put down because they were spoiled (treated as humans) and had become behavioral messes.
Relationships with people require practicing the Golden Rule, and many people just don't have it in them to do that, and would be better off if they never got married in the first place. I have learned it takes consistent practice of good character to be in a healthy relationship: sacrifice, teamwork, love, commitment, forgiveness, integrity, drive, faithfulness, doing the right thing, helpfulness, respect, effort, having a higher purpose than yourself, putting the marriage first, selflessness yet being true to yourself, etc. Good relationship with your dog also requires a lot of love and effort, yet also an understanding that dogs are just animals and not furry little babies. Likewise, a good relationship with your dog requires a lot of personal commitment and good character, and many people don't have it in them to do that, and would be better off if they never got a dog at all.
A dog is no substitute for a spouse. A dog is no substitute for a child. And if you treat your spouse like a dog, then all you'll end up with is an empty home and your dog.
THEY used to be man's best friend - but now it's single women whose lives have gone to the dogs. Australia's single women are turning their backs on men and opting for a much more loyal and reliable companion - a dog.
This is a sad commentary on the state of society, isn't it? I love dogs. Enjoy having them around. However, this mentality of treating dogs as people wrecks many dogs. There have been untold numbers of dogs given up to shelters or put down because they were spoiled (treated as humans) and had become behavioral messes.
Relationships with people require practicing the Golden Rule, and many people just don't have it in them to do that, and would be better off if they never got married in the first place. I have learned it takes consistent practice of good character to be in a healthy relationship: sacrifice, teamwork, love, commitment, forgiveness, integrity, drive, faithfulness, doing the right thing, helpfulness, respect, effort, having a higher purpose than yourself, putting the marriage first, selflessness yet being true to yourself, etc. Good relationship with your dog also requires a lot of love and effort, yet also an understanding that dogs are just animals and not furry little babies. Likewise, a good relationship with your dog requires a lot of personal commitment and good character, and many people don't have it in them to do that, and would be better off if they never got a dog at all.
A dog is no substitute for a spouse. A dog is no substitute for a child. And if you treat your spouse like a dog, then all you'll end up with is an empty home and your dog.
Friday, July 17, 2009
PetSmart Considering New Business Model
PetSmart Inc., the largest U.S. pet- store chain, is considering expansion into in-home services including dog walking, backyard clean-up and aquarium set-up to distinguish itself from retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores Inc. PetSmart currently offers grooming, training and kenneling at many of its 1,137 stores, he said. “In-home services are a big opportunity, but we have a lot of work to do before we determine how to make that work,” Moran said in a July 15 telephone interview. “It becomes a competitive advantage if we can break the code on how to provide that.” Wal-Mart is targeting the $45.4 billion market for pet goods, putting pressure on PetSmart as shoppers consolidate buying trips, according to David Strasser, an analyst with Janney Montgomery Scott LLC. Wal-Mart competes in about 20 percent of the items carried by PetSmart, he said in a report last month.
Interesting. But, I don't think they can make this strategy profitable. The article indicates, indirectly, that PetSmart is having trouble going head-to-head with Wal-Mart because consumers are increasingly cost conscious because of commuting costs. These things, like dog walking and backyard cleanup are low margin businesses. I have other ideas, but hey, no one is asking (or paying) for my advice.
PetSmart Inc., the largest U.S. pet- store chain, is considering expansion into in-home services including dog walking, backyard clean-up and aquarium set-up to distinguish itself from retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores Inc. PetSmart currently offers grooming, training and kenneling at many of its 1,137 stores, he said. “In-home services are a big opportunity, but we have a lot of work to do before we determine how to make that work,” Moran said in a July 15 telephone interview. “It becomes a competitive advantage if we can break the code on how to provide that.” Wal-Mart is targeting the $45.4 billion market for pet goods, putting pressure on PetSmart as shoppers consolidate buying trips, according to David Strasser, an analyst with Janney Montgomery Scott LLC. Wal-Mart competes in about 20 percent of the items carried by PetSmart, he said in a report last month.
Interesting. But, I don't think they can make this strategy profitable. The article indicates, indirectly, that PetSmart is having trouble going head-to-head with Wal-Mart because consumers are increasingly cost conscious because of commuting costs. These things, like dog walking and backyard cleanup are low margin businesses. I have other ideas, but hey, no one is asking (or paying) for my advice.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Leonberger
The German breed has webbed feet. A Leonberg councilman gave the dogs to royalty in the 19th century to promote the town and his new breed. After World War I, 30 Leonbergers were tracked down and a breeding program was started with six males and six females.
If I was looking to get a giant breed of dog for a family situation, this is one of the first dogs I'd be looking at. This is the most amazing breed! Great with kids, natural guard but good with people, likes to swim, affectionate, etc. I was totally impressed with this breed the first time I saw them at a rare breed dog show about a decade ago. I don't praise breeds all that much, but this is one that made a very good impression. Obviously, you want to choose a good breeder, and at my web page, www.SamTheDogTrainer.com, I have suggestions on how to screen breeders. But, combine a good breeder with this breed, and you are going to be mighty happy!
The German breed has webbed feet. A Leonberg councilman gave the dogs to royalty in the 19th century to promote the town and his new breed. After World War I, 30 Leonbergers were tracked down and a breeding program was started with six males and six females.
If I was looking to get a giant breed of dog for a family situation, this is one of the first dogs I'd be looking at. This is the most amazing breed! Great with kids, natural guard but good with people, likes to swim, affectionate, etc. I was totally impressed with this breed the first time I saw them at a rare breed dog show about a decade ago. I don't praise breeds all that much, but this is one that made a very good impression. Obviously, you want to choose a good breeder, and at my web page, www.SamTheDogTrainer.com, I have suggestions on how to screen breeders. But, combine a good breeder with this breed, and you are going to be mighty happy!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
All Pet Airline? Stay Tuned...
Binder and Wiesel used their consulting backgrounds and business savvy to start Pet Airways in 2005. The last four years have been spent designing their fleet of five planes according to new four-legged requirements, dealing with FAA regulations and setting up airport schedules. The two say they're overwhelmed with the response. Flights on Pet Airways are already booked up for the next two months. Pet Airways will fly a pet between five major cities—New York, Washington, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. The $250 one-way fare is comparable to pet fees at the largest U.S. airlines.
Keep an eye on this one. Airlines are typically meant to fly people not pets, and that's why I avoid flying dogs if at all possible. This new airline might just fit the bill. Do you have any experience with Pet Airways and what is your opinion of them (please be polite and factual).
Binder and Wiesel used their consulting backgrounds and business savvy to start Pet Airways in 2005. The last four years have been spent designing their fleet of five planes according to new four-legged requirements, dealing with FAA regulations and setting up airport schedules. The two say they're overwhelmed with the response. Flights on Pet Airways are already booked up for the next two months. Pet Airways will fly a pet between five major cities—New York, Washington, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. The $250 one-way fare is comparable to pet fees at the largest U.S. airlines.
Keep an eye on this one. Airlines are typically meant to fly people not pets, and that's why I avoid flying dogs if at all possible. This new airline might just fit the bill. Do you have any experience with Pet Airways and what is your opinion of them (please be polite and factual).
Criminal Charges? That's Criminal!
Corky and Koo-Boosh are the convicted law breakers, but it's northeast Phoenix homeowner Renee Maurer who was criminally charged for her two vocal dogs. Maurer's predicament mirrors similar barking-dog conflicts across the Valley: Anxious or lonely dogs bark incessantly, causing tempers to flare and neighbors to use city noise ordinances.
This is another example of a silly, overkill dog law. Dog barking violations shouldn't be prosecuted criminally. Sorry. That's a miscarriage of justice and abuse of police powers. There are huge issues here, including Constitutional problems with this kind of thing. Someday, Phoenix will be the one sued... and they will lose... a LOT of money. In the meantime, control your barking dog and move out to the suburbs.
Corky and Koo-Boosh are the convicted law breakers, but it's northeast Phoenix homeowner Renee Maurer who was criminally charged for her two vocal dogs. Maurer's predicament mirrors similar barking-dog conflicts across the Valley: Anxious or lonely dogs bark incessantly, causing tempers to flare and neighbors to use city noise ordinances.
This is another example of a silly, overkill dog law. Dog barking violations shouldn't be prosecuted criminally. Sorry. That's a miscarriage of justice and abuse of police powers. There are huge issues here, including Constitutional problems with this kind of thing. Someday, Phoenix will be the one sued... and they will lose... a LOT of money. In the meantime, control your barking dog and move out to the suburbs.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Ozzy Osbourne's Dog Eaten By Coyote
ROCKER Ozzy Osbourne's favourite pet dog has been eaten by a coyote inside the grounds of his mansion in Los Angeles. The Osbournes now have 18 dogs at their sprawling home. Mrs Osbourne is a regular at the Los Angeles stray dog home and often gives homeless dogs a new home.
Really too bad. Many people underestimate the cunning and ferocity of wild animals. They think their pets can escape, or fight back... and they can't. I've always figured Ozzy's a good guy. Really sorry this happened.
ROCKER Ozzy Osbourne's favourite pet dog has been eaten by a coyote inside the grounds of his mansion in Los Angeles. The Osbournes now have 18 dogs at their sprawling home. Mrs Osbourne is a regular at the Los Angeles stray dog home and often gives homeless dogs a new home.
Really too bad. Many people underestimate the cunning and ferocity of wild animals. They think their pets can escape, or fight back... and they can't. I've always figured Ozzy's a good guy. Really sorry this happened.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Aggressive Puggle
I keep hearing from people who have aggressive Puggles (Pug / Beagle mix bred dog). This confirms what I predicted a couple of years ago regarding this new breed. People are buying this designer dog not considering the training needs of the dog, and making tons of mistakes. It's not the dog's fault! If you are having problems, or better yet want to prevent problems, then you need to hire a professional trainer. Simple as that.
I've met a number of very nice Puggles. It's not the breed, it's the unrealistic expectations of new dog owners, and them not hiring a professional to help them as problems arise.
I keep hearing from people who have aggressive Puggles (Pug / Beagle mix bred dog). This confirms what I predicted a couple of years ago regarding this new breed. People are buying this designer dog not considering the training needs of the dog, and making tons of mistakes. It's not the dog's fault! If you are having problems, or better yet want to prevent problems, then you need to hire a professional trainer. Simple as that.
I've met a number of very nice Puggles. It's not the breed, it's the unrealistic expectations of new dog owners, and them not hiring a professional to help them as problems arise.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
The Kids Should Go To Jail... But, What About The Dog?
Four children between the ages of 11 and 15 used a pit bull to attack two women in SeaTac on Sunday evening after one of the victims questioned the group's treatment of the dog.
There's something seriously wrong with a bunch of kids that would command a dog to attack an innocent woman. These aren't "children", they are thugs! These fools, if convicted, should go to jail of some sort, and be forced to do counseling and community service. But, what of the dog? It is now being held by Animal Control. The dog was being abused, was taunted by the kids to the point it was ready to attack, and then it bit an innocent person. The dog is innocent, and unless the dog has been wrecked by abuse and is now vicious, it should be given to a good home. We'll see what the courts do with this dog.
Four children between the ages of 11 and 15 used a pit bull to attack two women in SeaTac on Sunday evening after one of the victims questioned the group's treatment of the dog.
There's something seriously wrong with a bunch of kids that would command a dog to attack an innocent woman. These aren't "children", they are thugs! These fools, if convicted, should go to jail of some sort, and be forced to do counseling and community service. But, what of the dog? It is now being held by Animal Control. The dog was being abused, was taunted by the kids to the point it was ready to attack, and then it bit an innocent person. The dog is innocent, and unless the dog has been wrecked by abuse and is now vicious, it should be given to a good home. We'll see what the courts do with this dog.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Dog & Cat Bites
Dog and cat bites make up about 1 percent of emergency room visits in the United States.
Some facts presented in the journal:
* Women and the elderly are most at risk of being bitten by a cat.
* Men in general and those aged under 20 of both sexes are most likely to be injured.
* Most bite exposures occur in young children, involve unrestrained dogs on the owner's property, and about 20 percent involve a non-neutered dog.
* Risk is highest in young boys aged 5 to 9 years, due to their small size and lack of understanding of provocative behavior.
Severe infections can occur in about 20 percent of all cases, the researchers state, and are caused by Pasteurella, Streptococcus, Fusobacterium, and Capnocytophaga bacteria from the animal's mouth, plus possibly other pathogens from the human's skin.
In other words... don't do things that will cause an animal to bite you. or someone else Too often we blame the animal, when instead, we should look at what we are doing to the animal.
Dog and cat bites make up about 1 percent of emergency room visits in the United States.
Some facts presented in the journal:
* Women and the elderly are most at risk of being bitten by a cat.
* Men in general and those aged under 20 of both sexes are most likely to be injured.
* Most bite exposures occur in young children, involve unrestrained dogs on the owner's property, and about 20 percent involve a non-neutered dog.
* Risk is highest in young boys aged 5 to 9 years, due to their small size and lack of understanding of provocative behavior.
Severe infections can occur in about 20 percent of all cases, the researchers state, and are caused by Pasteurella, Streptococcus, Fusobacterium, and Capnocytophaga bacteria from the animal's mouth, plus possibly other pathogens from the human's skin.
In other words... don't do things that will cause an animal to bite you. or someone else Too often we blame the animal, when instead, we should look at what we are doing to the animal.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Three Dog Rule At Off Leash Parks?
Six months after the city passed a law limiting each person to three dogs at its nine off-leash dog parks, scores of dog walkers far exceed their legal mutt max.
How many dogs should you be allowed to take to an off leash park at any one time? I think this is an interesting question. I think this is a question that must balance freedom, reasonableness and legal liability. The freedom argument would say that you'd be able to do whatever you wanted to, wherever you wanted to. For the most part, I'm a live and let live kind of guy: be responsible and take care of your own business so it doesn't affect others, and leave me alone so I can do my life. Then again, I'm an experience dog trainer and behaviorist. I have worked as head trainer at a doggie daycare, and at a certain point, you get to the point where you need a reasonable dog handler-to-dogs ratio in order to ensure the safety of the dogs. In daycare for kids, you need a certain number of supervising adults per child. There isn't any similar kind of regulation for doggie daycares or kennels, but common sense tells you that at some point, one individual can't supervise an unlimited amount of dogs. I have seen a number of homes with 5 or more dogs, and the management of the dogs gets pretty difficult at that point. I can't imagine taking 32 dogs, from different homes, to an off leash park. Lastly, there is the issue of liability. The more dogs you have to supervise, the more potential that something could go wrong in an unregulated environment. I think that the 3 dog per handler rule is a good balance. I am of the opinion that these dog walkers are using the off leash parks as a kind of doggie daycare, where they get use of the premises for free, and are transfering most of the cost and risk to the public. It is therefore unreasonable and isn't what these parks were created for.
Six months after the city passed a law limiting each person to three dogs at its nine off-leash dog parks, scores of dog walkers far exceed their legal mutt max.
How many dogs should you be allowed to take to an off leash park at any one time? I think this is an interesting question. I think this is a question that must balance freedom, reasonableness and legal liability. The freedom argument would say that you'd be able to do whatever you wanted to, wherever you wanted to. For the most part, I'm a live and let live kind of guy: be responsible and take care of your own business so it doesn't affect others, and leave me alone so I can do my life. Then again, I'm an experience dog trainer and behaviorist. I have worked as head trainer at a doggie daycare, and at a certain point, you get to the point where you need a reasonable dog handler-to-dogs ratio in order to ensure the safety of the dogs. In daycare for kids, you need a certain number of supervising adults per child. There isn't any similar kind of regulation for doggie daycares or kennels, but common sense tells you that at some point, one individual can't supervise an unlimited amount of dogs. I have seen a number of homes with 5 or more dogs, and the management of the dogs gets pretty difficult at that point. I can't imagine taking 32 dogs, from different homes, to an off leash park. Lastly, there is the issue of liability. The more dogs you have to supervise, the more potential that something could go wrong in an unregulated environment. I think that the 3 dog per handler rule is a good balance. I am of the opinion that these dog walkers are using the off leash parks as a kind of doggie daycare, where they get use of the premises for free, and are transfering most of the cost and risk to the public. It is therefore unreasonable and isn't what these parks were created for.
Friday, May 29, 2009
BEING A DOG’S PACK LEADER
I’ve seen, heard and read a lot written about being the pack leader of your dog.
Most of popular dog training literature is wrong on leadership.
I’ve seen, heard and read a lot written about being the pack leader of your dog.
Most of popular dog training literature is wrong on leadership.
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