Waggin' Tails Dog Obedience

04/18/2025

04/15/2025

National Dog Bite Prevention week.

03/31/2025

Minimize command repetition. When you continuously repeat commands without compliance from your dog, your authority diminishes. This increases the chances for your dog to ignore you, weakening your position and causing you to sound nagging. Over time, the dog may learn to tune you out. Instead, focus on delivering clear commands and reinforcing positive behaviors to strengthen your authority effectively.

03/01/2025

Daisy had sooooo much fun learning today!!

02/27/2025

Most dog bites do not "happen out of the blue" or "without warning." They are often preceded by subtle warning signs, such as yawning, lip licking, and turning away, all of which indicate the dog's discomfort. Recognizing and respecting these cues can help prevent stress and conflict in your dog, ultimately keeping them and others safe.

02/18/2025

Ginormous puppy fun was had by all at yesterday's Puppy Party!!

02/08/2025

The best students EVER!!

01/28/2025

ROFLMAO!!

01/02/2025

12/21/2024

Fozzy workin' his magic with the Salvation Army bell at Village Market in Edwards.

11/29/2024

We are so excited to announce that, for the entire month of December, ALL adoption fees have been waived for our adoptable animals! Thanks to the amazing generosity of our friends at Ruggs Benedict Carpet One Floor & Home our hope is that all of our dogs and cats can find loving homes.
Spread the word and stay tuned for lots of adorable, adoptable pet photos!

11/23/2024

Breaks my heart when someone does this.

Dumping dogs makes you an AS***LE. Please do not get a puppy if that means you are going to dump your senior. If they aren’t family don’t get one. Please don’t do this to any animal. They don’t survive “in the wild” they are either shot or eaten. A lucky few get found and go to the shelter to be put to sleep in 2 weeks.

💔 They love you even if you don’t love them. 💔

11/05/2024

A DOG'S POEM

I'm the one who's always waiting for you.

Your car has a special sound that I have imprinted on my senses; I can recognize it in a thousand.

Your steps have a magic bell.

Your voice is music to my ears.

When I see your joy, it makes me happy!

Your scent is the best.

Your presence moves my senses.

Your waking up wakes me up.

I am happy watching you sleep.

Your look is a ray of light.

Your hands upon me hold the lightness of peace and the sublime display of infinite love.

When you leave, I feel a huge void in my heart.

I keep waiting for you again and again.

I am the one who will wait for you all your life...today, tomorrow, and forever.

I am your dog.

10/31/2024

Why Dogs Should Be Allowed Choice

Imagine navigating through life with every detail tightly controlled—what you eat, where you sleep, who you interact with, and how you spend your time. Such a scenario can breed stress, anxiety, and a profound sense of helplessness. For many, this might be an abstract thought experiment, but for dogs, it is a daily reality. Just like humans, dogs thrive when given choices, and allowing them some control over their lives can profoundly impact their overall well-being.

Dogs are domesticated animals, generally reliant on humans for their needs and care. In this controlled environment, their simple desires—what to explore, when to rest, and how to engage with the world—often succumb to human decisions. However, denying dogs the opportunity to make choices, even in minor areas, can lead to negative emotional states. When their autonomy is limited, dogs may experience anxiety, a lack of confidence, and frustration, which can contribute to behavioral issues such as aggression or excessive barking.

Allowing dogs to make choices can significantly enhance their quality of life. Research indicates that animals granted the autonomy to choose exhibit improved behavioral and emotional health. For instance, giving dogs the option to select their toys or decide when to play can promote a sense of agency, making them feel more secure and less anxious. Moreover, dogs permitted to choose their paths during walks can explore their environment at their own pace, enhancing their mental stimulation and curiosity.

When dogs feel in control of elements of their lives, they become more resilient and adept at coping with stress. Providing choices encourages them to engage with their surroundings actively, fostering exploration and learning. This empowerment ultimately leads to a healthier, more balanced emotional state, reducing the likelihood of behavioral problems and enhancing the bond between dogs and their owners.

Incorporating choice into a dog’s life does not require radical changes. Simple, safe options can make a significant difference. For instance, rather than dictating when it’s time for a walk, allow your dog to indicate their readiness by leading you to the door. Alternatively, offer multiple toys and let your pet choose which one to play with. Meals can be made more engaging by providing various food options or stimulating food puzzles that require decision-making.

While implementing choices, it is essential to consider safety and boundaries. Some decisions may need guidance if they involve potential dangers, like selecting a route on a walk or interacting with unfamiliar animals. However, within safe parameters, the act of choice can be incredibly liberating for dogs.

Ultimately, dogs deserve the opportunity to experience agency in their lives. Allowing them to make choices and control aspects of their environment can diminish anxiety, foster emotional balance, and decrease behavior problems. By providing simple choices, we contribute to their happiness and overall quality of life. Just as we thrive on freedom and autonomy, so too do our canine companions. Embracing this philosophy can lead to a mutually fulfilling relationship built on trust, understanding, and respect for each other’s needs.