Information on living with, training, and loving Dogs
From the Mailbag: Stacie writes: My daughter brought home a 2 month old Aussie pup. I had never had one or didn’t know anything about the breed. I have 2 dogs that got along great and just need affection and some backyard time and they are fine. I have some major medical challenges and am trying to make this work with the new pup. He ,as everyone says is super smart but I’m just not sure I can provide what … Read More
I was having a conversation with a friend who works with Australian Shepherd Breed Rescue. We were discussing how we both wish there was a better word than “Rescue.” It’s pejorative to all the people who have legitimate reasons for having to relinquish their dogs, and not sufficiently incriminating to those who irresponsibly or impulsively get a dog and then irresponsibly or impulsively look to dump the dog.
So, we were trying to come up with a new term that … Read More
You may have noticed lots of pics with Arrow lately. That’s because we’re keeping him while Cait finishes up a master’s program. And while I love this dog to pieces, going from two to three dogs wasn’t in my plan. It changes the whole dynamics from eating to who gets affection when, to playtime, to walks, to… you get the idea.
And from the title of this post, you should have guessed that having two males with a female, also … Read More
Updated: I don’t know about you, but around here, fireworks and thunderstorms are a source of anxiety and stress. For my dogs. And therefore, for me. It’s been decades since I’ve actually enjoyed either.
So I’ve created this Fireworks and Thunder Storm Survival Guide that also includes natural and over-the-counter remedies to help your dog get through the 4th of July and more. The good news is there’s a lot you can do to help your dog cope.
I grow my food forest because it makes me happy. But it also makes this guy happy!
Mulberries are in season!
… Read More
Who doesn’t love watching cute dog videos on social media? They can be very entertaining. But the quest for viral fame can sometimes lead to harmful trends, like the TikTok “Bark at Your Dog” challenge.
This is where you’re supposed to get very close to your dog’s face and bark loudly to capture a dramatic reaction on video. While this might seem funny, it can actually be very stressful and upsetting for your dog.
I recently received this question from a reader. Her situation brings up several tricky greeting/living situations, so I wanted to share my response with all of you. The way she writes her questions already lets me know that she’s more than a little worried and stressed about this. Anyone who’s had to deal with dominance issues can likely relate. It ain’t fun.
We have 2 female show Miniature Bull Terriers aged 5 yrs and 3 yrs both intact. There were … Read More
In my previous post on people thinking they want Aussies, I illustrated the energy and athleticism of Australian Shepherds.
Arrow is now 8 months old and is a complete joy for my daughter (and for me when I get to babysit). And he is a very typical Aussie.
If you’re not prepared for a Velcro watch dog, don’t get an Aussie.
… Read More
