Inputs by Dr. Ajay Satbige, Senior Veterinary Officer, and Kushal Chipkar, Professional Dog Trainer and Behavior Specialist, at Wiggles.
The monsoons have arrived, bringing relief to the land from the unforgiving heat of the Indian summers. It’s the perfect season to stay cozy and become sentimental while staring at the downpour. But the monsoon season is a worrying time for pet parents. The rains bring risks of infections, skin allergies, and a multitude of water-borne diseases in pets. The loud noises of thunder and bright flashes accompanying lightning bring about confusion, fear, and anxiety. Keeping them safe, while also making time for fun is necessary, but not easy. That is why we have compiled a list of dog training essentials for monsoon.
Contrary to what many people believe, crate training is not cruel. Dogs need a safe space, a comfort zone they can run to when they’re scared or anxious by loud noises. We love our own private space and bedroom and in the same way, dogs are natural den animals which is where they spend their time in the wild. It keeps them safe from other predators and environmental elements. It needn't be a crate, it can also be a part of the house dedicated only to the dog.
In case there are heavy thunders, always remember to stay calm. Dogs feed off your energy, so their anxiety will worsen if you get anxious trying to comfort your dogs. Keep some toys in their comfort zone to chew on, and continue with your regular activities but make sure to give regular pats and try to increase their confidence.
Look at this distinguished gentleman, look at the way he is sitting
If you live in places like Mumbai, where it rains continuously at times, it’s impossible to take your dog outside to relieve themselves. It is imperative to prepare your dogs for such situations by getting them a portable potty and assigning them a spot with a pee pad or newspapers. It might be difficult initially, but they will soon get used to it and we can avoid unnecessary risks of waterborne diseases or health issues.
If the rains do let up and you get a chance to take your doggo out for a walk, we would suggest training them to get used to wearing socks and raincoats. Why? Because moisture is one of the prominent causes of skin diseases in dogs. The wet ground, along with all its bacteria in it is an open invitation to infections of the skin, and stomach.
Try the raincoat and socks in the house and let them get used to it. They are bound to remove this clothing a few times, but be patient and keep trying a few times. Give them time to get accustomed to these accessories and be sure to reward them with treats whenever they succeed. One of the best ways to make them comfortable with socks and raincoats is to associate them with going out, playing, and having fun times. This will distract them from the initial discomfort.
I am a good boi, I stay
Now, this training is very important for both us and our fur babies. After a nice walk outside to release all that pent-up energy, their paws and underbellies are bound to be dirty. Whenever dogs come back home, their first response is to run straight to their comfort spots. So unless you train them in advance, you can expect dirty paw marks all over the floor, sofa, and cushions. You need to create a routine where you make sure to never let the pet roam inside the house without cleaning their paws, undercoats, and private regions. You will now have a clean house and avoid any health risks. Make sure to reward them for their patience.
Tips From Our Experts
This is some really good info
We would like to leave with some important bits of information that will help you train your dogs in general.
- Never scold them when they refuse to wear leashes, raincoats, etc. Dogs will see your negative energy and associate these items with negativity, making the training even more difficult.
- Dogs trust you because of your providence. So use this to train your dogs. Instead of simply feeding them, make them earn all their meals. Ask them to perform tricks or follow commands and reward them with a meal. Not only will this improve their training, but also mentally stimulate them.
- Remember that dogs tend to be more obedient to humans that spend plenty of time playing with them. Always remember you are the fun part which makes the toys a fun activity for the pet, never just give a toy to a dog and expect it to play with it on its own.
- This may be difficult, but you need to correct certain behaviors in your dog, just as you would with a human child. Don’t overlook the wrong behaviors of your furbaby and make sure to correct them.
So what are you waiting for? Train your dogs and defeat the monsoon blues once and for all!
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*Disclaimer: This blog is a professional dog trainer and behaviorist approved and includes original content compiled after thorough research and authenticity by our in-house team of trainers and content experts. It is always advisable to consult a veterinarian before you try any products, pet food/treats, or any kind of treatment/medicines on your pets, as each pet is unique and will respond differently.
