Breeds
Border Collie
Lab – Border Collie mix
Activities
The “socialization” myth
Walking the dog
Off-leash
City of Calgary off leash areas map
But don’t say I didn’t warn you!
From Leerburg (the best dog training site online IMHO) Dog Parks: Why They Are A Bad Idea
And if you must take your dog to a park be prepared: How to Break Up a Dog Fight Without Getting Hurt
Another good one here on how we misunderstand what “socialization” means for dogs! Leerburg How we Socialize our Dogs
Hiking with the dog
Dogs must be on-leash in National and Provincial parks.
They can be off in other areas.
Playing with the dog
Travelling
In the car
Training
Dog training is fun. It has three parts
- The dog
- The owner
- The trainer
Obedience
Puppy obedience
Agility
We tried
Rally Obedience
This was useful. And fun.
Scent Detection
We did an introduction when young and think it may have awakened his nose. Strongly recommend doing a course of it. Scent training basic protocols give a great way to “exercise” the dog with limited time or space. Scent working for the dog is very taxing for them. So it is a good way for using up their energy.
Health
Diet
- We feed raw. He’s got a fussy belly, and chicken didn’t agree.
- He also eats fabric, etc.
- He has has some itermittent mucousy poops. Vet said colon maybe irritated. We worry about Giardia as it’s common on Nose Hill and the dog drinks anything. We’ve added some canned pumpkin to the food. Thay may help. There are some veggies in the raw food.
- Article: Why Giving Your Dog Prebiotics Could Be a Big Mistake
Vets
Nail trimming
Electric trimmer, the highly rated BOSCH Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Cordless Pet Dog Nail Grooming & Grinding Tool
I ordered one and tried it, and don’t understand why it is so liked. I tried one nail touching the sanding disk to him, no way.
First Aid
Hiking, be prepared
Dog booties
Needed in winter due to cold and salt on streets. Also consider if long hikes to have along in case of paw injury. A couple of reviews 10 Best Dog Boots for Hiking, Hunting, and Extreme Conditions Which Dog Boots Are Best For Your Dog?
RUFFWEAR, Summit Trex on $67 on Amazon if available.
Mushers Secret
You can make your own or buy it to protect the feet. Some people say to use it in the summer.