Why does my dog have to be fixed? A male is more likely to be dominant and aggressive
if unaltered. Even if he is sweet & soft as a noodle, he exudes a unique scent which
challenges and affects our pack balance. Unspayed females in season attract suits from miles
away, plus lots of sniffing and humping by our Club dogs.
Is 4 months too early for my puppy to start? She is old enough for vaccine immunities,
but young enough to be more of a soaking sponge than a rehab candidate when it comes to
manners and behaviors. We safely broaden her exposures to people, other dogs and places
so she learns that the world is fun, not scary. Young pups with good experiences mature into
much friendlier, less fearful dogs than others, and are less likely to become aggressive.
Is my senior too old to join? It is never too late to start socializing a senior dog. It will take
longer, but we will do our best to help your pooch gain confidence and become a happier,
more balanced friend - and just plain HAVE FUN!
Can my dog wear a body halter or gentle leader instead of a neck collar? No. Attaching
the leash to the very top of the neck helps us more easily communicate with, guide and correct
your dog. Plus other dogs take great joy in mouthing and hauling halters and gentle leader
straps to the dismay of their unfortunate friends. We ask that you have your dog wear a cloth
or leather neck collar which is snug enough so that only two fingers can fit comfortably inside.
My dog is shy and afraid of other dogs. Will she be OK? Shyness and fear tend to reflect low confidence levels from a lack of socialization, or maybe bad past experiences. Being shy or fearful is an imbalance which can escalate into aggression after being a target of playground bullies. We skillfully help your dog become confident and balanced. Every new dog is first introduced to one other CLUB dog to establish a security basis and play mate. Single one-on-one introductions continue at the dog's own stress-free pace until he/she is comfortably mainstreamed into the CLUB. This process can take anywhere from five minutes to five or more days, depending on your dog.
You need to be careful that you are not reinforcing your dog's shyness/fear by being protective of him with verbal or physical reassurances when this is demonstrated. Ignore Rover's pleas for coddling - cheerfully "jolly him up" instead!