Austin Dog Trainer Blog

The expansion to our training and boarding facility is almost complete!

We've been working hard over the last few weeks to complete the expansion of our Austin Dog Training and Dog Daycare/Boarding facility. The new kennel room, designed to help the dogs have a more relaxing stay, is now complete and the dogs moved into it today. The new Austin dog daycare playroom is almost painted, the floors are complete, and we're busy assembling the small play areas that will line the large play area in the middle. This new set up will let us break off small play groups tailored to each dog's needs and play style on a particular day, keeping play groups personalized and small.

A few more days and he change over to the new play area will be complete. We can't wait to show the new space off to all of our clients and their four-legged friends!

Cara, Austin Dog Trainer.

Live In Apprentice Position Available

Have you always wanted to become a dog trainer? We have a live in dog trainer apprentice position available in our Austin Dog Training Center. Move in in January and immerse yourself in the science of dog training for one year. You'll work with hundreds of different breeds, ages, and temperaments of dogs, work with dog owners, and gain experience teaching classes and private sessions. For details, contact us through our email us form at the bottom of any page of our website at www.buddyschance.com.

When do I need to check with a vet?

There are several behavior problems that may be connected to medical or physical causes. How do you know when to call your veterinarian for behavior issues? Here is a list of times when you absolutely want to consult with your veterinarian. You should also ask your dog trainer or behavior consultant if they see any red flags that they think indicate a trip to your veterinarian is in order.

• Any sudden changes in behavior should prompt a call to your vet. For example, if you have a dog that was previously housetrained but suddenly begins to have accidents in the house or urinate on an odd place (like your bed), make tha call!
• If your dog has issues with being handled physically, it may just be a matter of never having taught your dog that human hands are a good thing. It may; however, also be a sign that your dog has a physical issue that needs to be addressed. For example, if your dog is sensitive about being touched, they may have some pain that is either causing or exacerbating the problem. It's worth asking your veterinarian for their opinion the next time you're in.
• If you're working on an anxiety issue, you may want to ask your veterinarian if they think supplements, herbal treatments, or medication should be considered. Don't try any herbal or other supplements or medications without checking with your veterinarian! Even over the counter supplements or treatments can interact with any other medications your dog may be on and can have an effect on your dog's body and health. Always consult your veterinarian before use!
• If you have worked with a professional dog trainer or behavior consultant to tackle a behavior problem and, despite following the training protocol and making adjustments to troubleshoot the training protocol, you do not see effects, you may want to ask your veterinarian if there could be a medical problem contributing to the problem.  

Cara Shannon, Austin Dog Trainer