Flying Pigs Dog Training

07/05/2025

The Briard’s origins trace back to at least the 8th century, with references to similar dogs appearing in early French records. A dog resembling the Briard is mentioned in Charlemagne’s reign (742–814 AD), and detailed illustrations appear in 14th-century tapestries and manuscripts.
• Known as the “Chien Berger de Brie” (Sheepdog of Brie), the breed was popular among French aristocrats for guarding estates and herding livestock.
• The Briard may have descended from or been influenced by now-extinct dogs such as the Chien d’Artois, and has possible genetic links to other French herding breeds and early European sheepdogs.

Military and Working Roles
• French Army Service: The Briard served in World War I and II as a messenger dog, sentry, and search-and-rescue dog. Its intelligence, loyalty, and keen senses made it ideal for battlefield work.
• Heroic Status: Briards were sometimes called “the heart wrapped in fur,” praised for their loyalty and courage.

Breed Recognition and Development
• Breed Standard: The first formal breed standard in 1897 described the Briard as a large, rugged herder with a long, wavy coat and a distinctive beard and eyebrows.
• AKC Recognition: The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Briard in 1928, although it remains a relatively rare breed in the U.S.

Traditional Role as a Herding Dog
• Sheep Herding: In rural France, Briards were prized for their agility and independence. They were capable of both herding and guarding flocks, a dual-purpose trait not all herding dogs share.
• Guardian Instincts: They developed a strong protective streak, making them both excellent watchdogs and family protectors.
Modern Use and Preservation
• Versatility: Today, the Briard is valued not just for herding, but for work in obedience, agility, therapy, and search and rescue. Their intelligence and drive make them highly trainable.
• Conservation Efforts: Though still relatively rare outside France, dedicated breeders work to preserve the Briard’s working instincts and rustic charm.

Temperament

The Briard is a loyal, intelligent, and protective dog, with a deeply ingrained herding and guarding instinct.

Key Traits:
• Loyal & Devoted: They form strong bonds with their families and are known to be very affectionate.
• Protective: Natural guardians, Briards are instinctively watchful and may be wary of strangers.
• Intelligent & Independent: Quick learners, but they can be headstrong—best trained with patience and consistency.
• Sensitive: Emotionally in tune with their people; they don’t respond well to harsh training methods.
• Energetic: They need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay balanced and content.

Watch For:
• May become overprotective or territorial if not socialized early.
• Can be aloof with people outside their family.
• Tends to herd people, especially children, without proper guidance.

Grooming Needs
The Briard’s long, wavy double coat is one of its most distinctive features—but also one of its biggest grooming commitments.

Coat Care:
• Brushing: Needs thorough brushing several times a week to prevent mats and tangles—daily is best.
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks, or as needed.
• Trimming: While not a breed that requires professional trimming, some light trimming around the feet and ears helps keep them neat.
• Shedding: Moderate. Despite the long coat, Briards don’t shed heavily if brushed regularly.

Other Care:
• Regular ear cleaning (hairy ears are prone to wax buildup).
• Nail trimming and dental care are essential, as with all breeds.

Suitability as a Pet
The Briard can be a wonderful family companion, but they are best suited for homes that understand working or herding breeds.
Best For:
• Active families with time to exercise and train regularly.
• Experienced dog owners who can provide leadership and mental stimulation.
• Homes with secure fencing, as they are alert and may roam if not contained.

Not Ideal For:
• Inactive households or people looking for a low-maintenance breed.
• Families unprepared for regular grooming.
• First-time dog owners without herding breed experience.

With Kids & Other Pets
• Generally good with children—especially those raised with them—but may try to herd them.
• Can live peacefully with other dogs and animals if well-socialized, but may chase or try to control smaller pets.

07/04/2025

The Brazilian Terrier (also known as Terrier Brasileiro) is one of only a few dog breeds native to Brazil. Its history is rooted in both European and South American influences, shaped by function, versatility, and adaptability.

Origins and Development:
The breed’s history likely dates back to the 1800s, when European immigrants, particularly from Portugal and Spain, brought small terrier breeds to Brazil. These were most likely:
• Jack Russell Terriers
• Fox Terriers
• Parson Russell Terriers

These dogs were prized for their vermin-hunting skills and adaptability, and they were often kept on farms and in rural areas.

Over time, these imported terriers were crossed with local dogs, helping create a breed well-suited to Brazil’s hot climate, varied terrain, and the lifestyle of both rural and urban families.

Function and Role:
The Brazilian Terrier quickly became known as a versatile working dog, excelling at:
• Pest control (ratting and hunting small game)
• Guarding property
• Being an active family companion

Its lively and intelligent temperament made it equally popular in cities and on farms. It was especially valued by small landowners who needed a multipurpose dog.

Recognition and Standardization:
Despite its long presence in Brazil, the breed wasn’t officially recognized until the 20th century:
• In 1973, the breed was formally recognized in Brazil.
• The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) provisionally accepted the Brazilian Terrier in 1995, and it is classified in Group 3: Terriers.
• The breed is currently enrolled in the AKC's Foundation Stock Service (FSS)

Today, the Brazilian Terrier remains more common in its native country but is gaining recognition internationally for its agility, intelligence, and charm.

Temperament:
The Brazilian Terrier is lively, alert, and intelligent—traits common to many terriers. Their personality includes:
• Energetic and playful – always ready for a game or an adventure
• Curious and clever – loves to explore and figure things out
• Loyal and affectionate with their family
• Protective and vocal – good watchdog tendencies
• Can be wary of strangers and sometimes bossy with other dogs, especially without socialization
• Needs mental stimulation and structure to avoid boredom-related behavior

They are highly trainable but require consistency and clear boundaries due to their independent streak.

Grooming Needs:
Brazilian Terriers are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming:
• Coat: Short, smooth, and dense
• Brushing: Once a week is usually enough to remove loose hair
• Bathing: Occasional—only when dirty or smelly
• Shedding: Moderate year-round
• Ears: Check and clean regularly to prevent buildup
• Nails & Teeth: Regular trimming and brushing

Their coat is not well-suited to cold weather, so they may need a sweater in chilly climates.

Suitability as a Pet
Best suited for:
• Active households
• Owners with time for training, play, and exercise
• Families with older children (due to high energy)
• Rural or suburban homes with a secure yard

Things to consider:
• Needs plenty of daily exercise (walks, playtime, agility, etc.)
• Can be a digging or chasing enthusiast due to strong prey drive
• May not be ideal for apartment life unless thoroughly exercised
• Needs early socialization to be calm and confident with people and other pets

The Brazilian Terrier is a smart, spirited, and loving companion with strong working instincts. They’re ideal for experienced or active dog owners who enjoy training and engaging with their dog regularly. If properly trained and socialized, they make loyal, fun, and entertaining members of the family.

07/04/2025

If your dog gets lost on July 4th—when fireworks, crowds, and travel can increase the risk of pets fleeing—act quickly and strategically. Here’s what you should do:

1. Start Searching Immediately
• Search your neighborhood on foot and by car.
• Call your dog’s name calmly; bring their favorite squeaky toy or treats.
• Ask neighbors and people nearby if they’ve seen your dog.
• Check hiding places like under decks, porches, bushes, garages, or sheds.

2. Notify Local Shelters and Animal Control
• Contact local shelters, animal control, and veterinary clinics right away.
• File a lost pet report and provide a photo, description, and your contact info.
• Visit shelters in person daily if possible—descriptions alone may not be enough.

3. Use Social Media and Lost Pet Websites
• Post on local Facebook groups, community pages, and apps like:
• Nextdoor
• Pet FBI
• PawBoost
• Petfinder’s Lost Pet section
• LostMyDoggie.com
• Include a clear photo, last known location, description, and contact info.

4. Make and Distribute Flyers
• Create brightly colored “Lost Dog” flyers with:
• Clear photo
• Dog’s name
• Your contact info
• Where and when they were last seen
• Post at intersections, parks, vet offices, pet stores, and gas stations.

5. Don’t Chase if You See Them
• If you spot your dog, don’t run after them—they may be frightened.
• Sit or crouch low, speak calmly, and offer treats or a familiar scent item.
• Let them come to you at their own pace.

6. Use Familiar Scents
• Place your dog’s bed, worn clothing, or crate outside your home.
• If possible, leave your car with the trunk open near where they were lost, with a scent item inside—dogs may return on their own.

7. Keep Phone Nearby
• Stay available 24/7 while your dog is missing in case someone calls or texts.
• Double-check that your voicemail is set up and not full.

Prevention Tip for Next Time
• Always use a collar with ID tags.
• Make sure your dog is microchipped and the info is up to date.
• Use GPS collars or trackers if your dog is prone to running off.
• On fireworks nights, keep them indoors, in a quiet, secure room.

07/03/2025

The Braque Saint-Germain is a French pointing dog with a history rooted in the 19th century, known for its elegant appearance and reliable hunting skills.

Origins and Development:
• Created in the Early 1800s: The breed originated in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, near Paris, when French hunters crossbred the English Pointer with the French Braque Français.
• The goal was to combine the speed and precision of the English Pointer with the endurance, adaptability, and close-working style of the French braques.
• The resulting dog was prized for its versatility in the field, pointing with style and retrieving game effectively.

Recognition and Popularity:
• The breed was first exhibited at the Paris Dog Show in 1863, quickly gaining attention for its beauty and hunting prowess.
• It was officially recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC), the French kennel club, and later by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
• Though never extremely widespread outside France, the Braque Saint-Germain enjoyed steady popularity among French hunters, especially in northern and central regions.

Use and Function:
• The Braque Saint-Germain was, and remains, a working gundog—used especially for upland game birds such as partridge and pheasant.
• It excels in pointing and retrieving, with a natural drive, gentle mouth, and cooperative nature.

Modern Status:
• Today, the breed is considered rare, even in France.
• It is maintained by a small but dedicated group of breeders and hunters who value its classic style, balanced temperament, and dual-purpose abilities (field and show).

Temperament:
The Braque Saint-Germain has a gentle, affectionate, and cooperative nature, making it not just an excellent hunting companion but also a loving family dog.
• Friendly and sociable: Typically good with children and friendly toward other dogs.
• Eager to please: Responds well to training and thrives on positive reinforcement.
• Sensitive: Doesn’t respond well to harsh correction—best with gentle, consistent handling.
• Energetic yet calm indoors: Active in the field, but generally calm and relaxed at home when well-exercised.
• Strong prey drive: May chase small animals due to its hunting background.

Grooming Needs:
The Braque Saint-Germain is low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
• Coat: Short, smooth, and dense—typically white with orange markings.
• Brushing: Weekly brushing is usually enough to remove loose hairs and keep the coat healthy.
• Bathing: Only as needed, such as after a muddy outing.
• Ears: Check regularly and clean to prevent infections, especially if used in the field.
• Nails: Trim regularly, particularly if the dog isn’t naturally wearing them down.

Suitability as a Pet:
The Braque Saint-Germain can make a wonderful pet in the right environment.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
• Needs plenty of daily activity, ideally including free running, tracking games, or training sessions.
• Enjoys activities like field trials, scent work, and hiking.
• Without sufficient stimulation, may become bored or destructive.

✅ Best Suited For:
• Active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.
• Homes with access to a yard or regular opportunities for off-leash running.
• People seeking a devoted and trainable dog with a calm demeanor indoors.

⚠️ May Not Be Ideal For:
• Apartment dwellers unless they can commit to a lot of daily exercise.
• Owners uninterested in meeting the breed’s physical and mental stimulation needs.
• Households with small pets like rabbits or rodents.

The Braque Saint-Germain is a rare but rewarding companion—gentle, devoted, and biddable, with strong working instincts. Ideal for active homes that can meet its need for exercise, structure, and affection.

07/02/2025

With all the fireworks happening in the area and all the lost dogs from last weekend, please consider doing this to protect your pets from being lost. Not everyone has a microchip reader if your pet is chipped and most places that do will not be open. Something this simple could protect your furbaby

07/02/2025

Fireworks can be terrifying and even dangerous for pets. The loud noises, flashing lights, and unfamiliar smells can cause extreme stress or panic.

Before the Fireworks: Prepare in Advance
1. Create a safe space
• Set up a quiet, secure area where your pet can retreat—ideally a room without windows.
• Add cozy bedding, familiar toys, and items that smell like you.
2. Desensitize (if possible)
• In the weeks before fireworks, play low-volume recordings of fireworks and gradually increase volume while rewarding calm behavior.
3. Exercise earlier in the day
• Give your dog a long walk or play session earlier to help them feel relaxed and tired before the noise begins.
4. ID tags & microchip
• Ensure your pet’s ID tags are up to date. Microchipping is strongly recommended in case they escape in fear.
5. Keep them indoors
• Even if they’re normally fine outside, keep dogs and cats inside during fireworks to prevent escape or injury.
6. Ensure that fencing is secure and gates are fully closed
• This will prevent escapes when your dog (who may still be frightened) goes outside after the fireworks are over

During the Fireworks:
1. Stay calm and reassuring
• Pets take cues from you—stay relaxed and speak in soothing tones.
2. Close windows, blinds, and curtains
• This muffles the sound and blocks the flashes of light.
3. Use background noise
• Play calming music, turn on the TV, or use a white noise machine to mask the sound of fireworks.
4. Distract with enrichment
• Offer long-lasting chews, food puzzle toys, or lick mats to keep them focused and relaxed.
5. Consider calming aids
• Options include:
• Thundershirts or snug-fitting vests
• Natural calming treats or pheromone diffusers (like Adaptil)
• Vet-prescribed anti-anxiety medications for more severe cases

After the Fireworks:
1. Check your yard and surroundings
• Look for firework debris or anything unsafe before letting your pet outside.
2. Observe for signs of distress
• Signs like shaking, drooling, hiding, or loss of appetite may linger. Give them time to recover, and seek veterinary advice if needed.
3. Reward and comfort
• Offer treats, playtime, or cuddles once they’ve calmed down to reinforce a sense of safety.

🚨 Bonus Tips for Cats and Small Pets:
• Keep them in a quiet, secure room with hiding spots.
• Avoid handling if they’re stressed—let them come to you.
• Cover cages of birds or small animals to help muffle noise and reduce light exposure.

Fireworks are a common source of stress for pets, but advance planning, calming techniques, and a secure environment can make a big difference. If your pet shows severe anxiety every year, talk to your veterinarian about long-term solutions.

07/02/2025

The Braque Français, Pyrenean type (or Braque Français, type Pyrénées) is a distinguished French pointing dog with a long and storied heritage. It is one of two recognized types of Braque Français, the other being the larger Gascogne type. The Pyrenean version is the smaller, lighter, and more agile of the two, developed specifically to navigate the rugged terrain of the Pyrenees mountains in southern France.

Origins and Development:
• Ancient Roots: The Braque Français lineage can be traced back to at least the 15th century, possibly earlier. These dogs are among the oldest pointing breeds in Europe and are considered the ancestors of many other continental pointing dogs.
• Regional

Specialization:
Over time, regional variations of the Braque Français developed due to geographic isolation and different hunting needs. The Pyrenean type was refined in the mountainous southwest of France, where hunters needed a smaller, more responsive dog.
• 19th Century Recognition: By the late 19th century, efforts were made to formally distinguish the two types—Gascogne and Pyrenean—based on their size, build, and style of work.

Official Standards:
The French Kennel Club (Société Centrale Canine) officially recognized the two types in the early 20th century. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) also recognizes both types separately today. The breed is currently enrolled in the AKC's Foundation Stock Service (FSS), a step toward full AKC recognition.

Characteristics and Hunting Style:
• The Pyrenean Braque is smaller, lighter-boned, and faster than its Gascogne counterpart.
• It is prized for its quick, close-working style, ideal for dense cover and rough terrain.
• Its temperament is typically gentle, intelligent, and eager to please, making it a favorite among hunters and families alike.

Modern Use and Preservation:
• Though once threatened by declining interest in traditional hunting dogs, the Braque Français Pyrenean type has enjoyed a resurgence due to its adaptability, friendly nature, and hunting prowess.
• It remains popular in France and is gaining recognition internationally, particularly in North America where enthusiasts appreciate its versatility in upland bird hunting.

Temperament:
• Gentle and affectionate: Known for their sweet and easygoing nature, these dogs form strong bonds with their families and enjoy human companionship.
• Eager to please: They respond well to positive training methods and thrive when given a job or activity.
• Energetic yet balanced: While very active outdoors, especially when hunting or exercising, they tend to be calm and well-mannered indoors.
• Intelligent and intuitive: They are quick learners and sensitive to their environment and their owner’s cues.
• Sociable: Generally friendly with people, children, and other dogs when well socialized.

Grooming Needs:
• Low-maintenance coat: Their short, fine coat requires minimal grooming.
• Weekly brushing: A quick brushing once a week helps remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.
• Bathing: Only needed occasionally or after getting dirty outdoors.
• Routine care: Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning (especially after fieldwork), and dental hygiene are important.

Suitability as a Pet:
• Ideal for active homes: They need regular physical and mental exercise—daily walks, runs, and playtime are essential.
• Great for hunters or outdoorsy families: They excel in homes where they can participate in fieldwork, scent games, or agility.
• Adaptable indoors: With enough exercise, they settle well at home and are known to be clean and well-behaved.
• Good with kids and other pets: Their gentle disposition makes them excellent family companions.
• Not ideal for apartment life: They thrive best in homes with access to a yard or regular outdoor activity.

The Braque Français, Pyrenean type is a loving, intelligent, and athletic dog. It combines the spirit of a dedicated hunting companion with the gentleness of a family pet. If you can meet its exercise needs and appreciate its responsive, affectionate nature, it can be a wonderful and rewarding dog to share your life with.

07/02/2025

07/02/2025

We have a favor to ask… This is Lincoln! He was adopted from us in 2024 as “Goliath”. Goliath’s owners will be returning him to our care this weekend due to personal reasons of the family, not related to Goliath. This is a difficult decision and we respect it.

Our hope is to find Goliath a new home before he has to physically come back to the pound.

Goliath probably weighs every bit of 90 pounds. He likes other dogs and is currently in a home with a cat, though he’s never left unsupervised with it. The youngest child in the home is 14, and due to his size and strength he would be most compatible in a home with older kids/teens.

If you’re interested in fostering or adopting Goliath, please let us know!

07/01/2025

Torre & Mickey were so afraid of fireworks that I had to do prep work to be ready for the inevitable booms: fans running, music and white noise playing, comfy beds in the bathroom (no windows in there), meds from the vet, and Thundershirts. I also had to make sure they had been fed and exercised at a time that they wouldn't need to go outside after dark.

I feel very fortunate that Jeter doesn't care about the booms at all and that Moose only barks once or twice when they start, then ignores them. But I will still have fans running and white noise playing because noise sensitivity can begin at any time.

How are you preparing your dog for the 4th?

07/01/2025

The Braque du Bourbonnais is one of the oldest known French pointing breeds, with a history that dates back to at least the 16th century. Originating in the historic province of Bourbonnais in central France, this versatile gun dog was bred for its natural pointing and retrieving abilities, particularly in hunting birds such as partridge and quail.

Early History:
The Braque du Bourbonnais is mentioned in hunting literature as early as 1598, described as a short-tailed, rustic dog with excellent hunting instincts. The breed was favored by French hunters for its keen nose, calm demeanor, and ability to work in dense cover. Its distinct appearance—a compact body, short tail (often naturally bobbed), and coat with liver or fawn ticking (called “wine dregs” or “peach blossom”)—set it apart from other pointing breeds.

Decline:
Like many European breeds, the Braque du Bourbonnais suffered a sharp decline during the World Wars. By the mid-20th century, the breed was nearly extinct. One reason for the decline was that early breeders often prioritized appearance over working ability, which led to a loss of performance quality and reduced popularity among hunters.

Revival:
A major revival effort began in the 1970s, led by Michel Comte, a dedicated French breeder. Comte located the few remaining dogs with the Bourbonnais characteristics and began a careful breeding program that prioritized both hunting ability and traditional appearance. This helped restore the breed’s reputation as a skilled, adaptable pointer.

Modern Day:
Today, the Braque du Bourbonnais has regained popularity, especially among hunters who appreciate its natural instincts, trainability, and close-working style. It remains relatively rare outside of France but is slowly gaining recognition in North America and other parts of Europe.

The breed is recognized by major kennel clubs, including:
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• United Kennel Club (UKC)
• American Kennel Club (AKC) Foundation Stock Service (FSS)

Temperament:
The Braque du Bourbonnais is known for its gentle, affectionate, and devoted nature. It makes an excellent companion for both hunters and families due to its calm demeanor and deep bond with humans.
• Friendly and loyal: Forms strong attachments with its family and tends to be very people-oriented.
• Gentle with children: Typically patient and kind with kids, making it a good family dog when properly socialized.
• Intelligent and eager to please: Highly trainable with a strong desire to work alongside its handler.
• Energetic but balanced: While the breed has considerable stamina for the field, it also enjoys relaxing at home with its people.
• Alert but not aggressive: May bark to alert, but is usually not a guard dog.

Grooming Needs:
The Braque du Bourbonnais has a short, dense coat that is relatively easy to maintain.
• Low-maintenance grooming: Weekly brushing is usually enough to remove dead hair and keep the coat healthy.
• Minimal shedding: Not a heavy shedder, though it does shed seasonally.
• Routine care: Clean ears regularly (especially if active outdoors), trim nails, and brush teeth.
• Bathing: Occasional baths as needed—typically not a dog with a strong odor.

Suitability as a Pet:
The Braque du Bourbonnais is well-suited for active families, hunters, and those who enjoy the outdoors, but it also thrives in a home setting with plenty of companionship.

✅ Best for owners who:
• Have an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities
• Want a loving, close companion
• Prefer a trainable dog with natural hunting ability
• Can provide regular mental and physical exercise

⚠️ Potential challenges:
• May become bored or anxious without enough stimulation
• Needs regular exercise and interaction—not ideal for sedentary households
• Strong prey drive means it may chase small animals if not trained

In Summary:
The Braque du Bourbonnais is a rare gem among pointing breeds—intelligent, affectionate, and versatile, with low grooming needs and a high desire to please. It’s ideal for someone seeking a devoted companion who can keep up in the field and settle down at home.

07/01/2025

UPDATE: Bear is no longer available! He will be going to a rescue organization who can properly place him in a forever home.

🚨 A yellow lab has been sitting at the pound for 19 whole days?! TAG your Lab-obsessed friends—Bear needs you!

Bear is a 3-year-old, 93-pound brick wall of a dog. He came to us after his owner was evicted, and sadly, he had nowhere else to go. He’s a big, strong boy with ZERO manners right now (we’re just keeping it real)—but he’s smart and full of potential. With a little training and a lot of love, this diamond in the ruff could be your next best friend.

We were told Bear is good with kids and cats, but we haven’t tested him yet. He reportedly isn’t a fan of other dogs, but we’re happy to do meet-and-greets with your dog.

Bear is ready for a fresh start. If you’ve got room in your heart and your home—and maybe a strong leash—come meet this lovable lug.