Kathleen Troy's Blog - Posts Tagged "puppies"
An excerpt from my latest book
An excerpt:
Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad,
I’m getting a Boxer pup in two weeks. I’ve puppy proofed my house, lined up a vet visit, have all the supplies he will need, and Puppy Class starts in three weeks. I think I’m ready, but I keep hearing people say I need to train him to be a Velcro dog. What’s that?
Thanks, Leo
Dear Leo,
The term Velcro dog can refer to a dog that is clingy, often suffering from separation anxiety. We’re offering the following explanation instead.
Velcro dog can also refer to training a dog to follow you or to stay near you. The goal is to teach the pup where it can go rather than let it wander around and get into trouble eating things and doing things it shouldn’t. This type of training is especially useful if your dog has a history of bad behavior.
To do this attach a four-foot, lightweight leash to your dog’s collar. (Anything longer and you will trip over it.) If you walk across the room, always take your dog with you. If you walk from one room to another, always take your dog with you. Be consistent.
After a few weeks keep the leash on your dog but let it drag on the ground. (Another reason for a short leash.)
When you leave the room, your dog should follow you without being told to do so. If not, take him with you until he can successfully follow you on his own.
There are many different training programs—for you and your dog. (That’s right. You are being trained too.) Always be patient and kind to your dog. Never yell at him and never use his name with a negative command. Praise and reward with yummy treats.
Good luck with your pup!
Dylan's Dog Squad
Get your copy on Amazon and Kindle: https://amzn.to/4fnlBNd
Dear Dylan’s Dog Squad,
I’m getting a Boxer pup in two weeks. I’ve puppy proofed my house, lined up a vet visit, have all the supplies he will need, and Puppy Class starts in three weeks. I think I’m ready, but I keep hearing people say I need to train him to be a Velcro dog. What’s that?
Thanks, Leo
Dear Leo,
The term Velcro dog can refer to a dog that is clingy, often suffering from separation anxiety. We’re offering the following explanation instead.
Velcro dog can also refer to training a dog to follow you or to stay near you. The goal is to teach the pup where it can go rather than let it wander around and get into trouble eating things and doing things it shouldn’t. This type of training is especially useful if your dog has a history of bad behavior.
To do this attach a four-foot, lightweight leash to your dog’s collar. (Anything longer and you will trip over it.) If you walk across the room, always take your dog with you. If you walk from one room to another, always take your dog with you. Be consistent.
After a few weeks keep the leash on your dog but let it drag on the ground. (Another reason for a short leash.)
When you leave the room, your dog should follow you without being told to do so. If not, take him with you until he can successfully follow you on his own.
There are many different training programs—for you and your dog. (That’s right. You are being trained too.) Always be patient and kind to your dog. Never yell at him and never use his name with a negative command. Praise and reward with yummy treats.
Good luck with your pup!
Dylan's Dog Squad
Get your copy on Amazon and Kindle: https://amzn.to/4fnlBNd
A Treat for Dog Lovers
Because the holidays are a time for stories that warm the heart, I want to share something truly special: Andy: A Dog’s Tale.
It’s an award-winning animated short film that touched me deeply—beautiful, inspiring, and full of hope. If you love dogs (or just a good cry in the best way), I think you’ll adore it.
[Watch Andy: A Dog’s Tale here: https://theandyfilm.com/]
However you’re celebrating—whether it’s with family, friends, or a quiet moment for yourself—I hope it’s filled with joy, peace, and a good book or two.
It’s an award-winning animated short film that touched me deeply—beautiful, inspiring, and full of hope. If you love dogs (or just a good cry in the best way), I think you’ll adore it.
[Watch Andy: A Dog’s Tale here: https://theandyfilm.com/]
However you’re celebrating—whether it’s with family, friends, or a quiet moment for yourself—I hope it’s filled with joy, peace, and a good book or two.
