Gabriel Riesco | Pawmos Dog Training

How to Foster Confidence and Self-Esteem in Your Dog.

by Gabriel Riesco | Sep 28, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning, For Dog Trainers, Mindfulness & Psychology with Dogs

How to Foster Confidence and Self-Esteem in Your Dog.

According to Learning Theories, Positive Reinforcement is widely recognized as the best and, in fact, the only effective way to impart skills and build self-confidence. However, there are two subtle nuances and flaws within this statement that deserve your attention:

1. Learning skills are distinct from behavioral skills.

2. Self-esteem and resilience also develop when faced with failure and adversity, not solely in times of success.

It is crucial to emphasize that Positive Reinforcement remains an essential tool for nurturing confidence and self-esteem in your dog. Positive Reinforcement stands as the primary method for teaching dogs new tasks or skills, as it hinges on motivation and rewards. Yet, it is not the sole element at play and for many dogs it is not enough.

Let’s talk about those two very important aspects that you should consider to build self esteem in your dog:

1. Learning Skills vs. Behavioral Skills

Boundaries, rules, and discipline fall under the realm of social behavior and coping mechanisms rather than learning theory methodologies. These are two distinct fields. To illustrate, let me share an example:

Years ago, during my tenure as a jazz musician, I began teaching music to troubled kids in the South Bronx Projects. My teaching approach was rooted in positive reinforcement, yielding fantastic results. Why? Because there were two other staff members responsible for discipline; they adeptly set boundaries and rules, maintaining clarity with the children. My role revolved around the enjoyable task of music instruction, while theirs involved handling conflict and behavioral issues. It’s evident that these roles differ significantly.

I want to stress that, in behavioral training, there is no requirement for physical corrections or the use of tools like prong collars, e-collars, or choke chains. While these tools might have their place when used by knowledgeable trainers, they do not align with my training philosophy and are not, in my opinion and experience, necessary.

2. Self-Esteem and Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Teaching your dog to navigate through distressing situations contributes not only to enhanced self-esteem and resilience but also to self-control, a vital skill in behavioral training. Confronting unfamiliar or uncomfortable circumstances and mastering them cultivates resilience and confidence. This capability enables your dog to respond appropriately and independently when confronted with conflicts. The goal is to teach your dog the ability to cope and react autonomously when conflict arises. Which is what Behavior Training exercises are about.

Relying solely on Positive Reinforcement may lead to a constant need for redirection and the offering of alternative behaviors.

In contrast, behavioral training exposes your dog to stressful situations while maintaining a manageable level of discomfort (under threshold), allowing your dog to learn coping skills, independent thinking, and the power of true choice. This fosters self-control and the development of social skills not impulse control and obedience performance skills like “sit”, “down”, “wait”, “place”, etc

Consider the following example:

If another dog barks and lunges at my dog, my objective in Behavioral Training is not to command my dog to “sit” and “wait”. Instead, my aim is to equip my dog with the skill to control his reactions. It becomes his choice to either ignore the dog, attempt to facilitate socialization, or move away. These choices come from my dog’s self-control, as opposed to my direct commands like “sit,” “wait,” or “leave it.” The ability to control his responses and remain in the “green zone” characterizes Behavioral Training. Conversely, instructing my dog to “sit,” “stay,” or “leave it” constitutes Obedience Training, focusing on conditioned learning from external cues.

Let’s take another example: jumping at guests.

Dogs jumping results from overexcitement and human reinforcement. In Behavioral Training, the goal is to teach your dog to manage his excitement during guest interactions, preventing jumping from occurring. This avoids the need for correction or redirection. Dogs naturally greet by sniffing and investigating, not by jumping. In Behavior Training we’ll teach the dog to greet guests without jumping.

In Obedience Training, the objective is to condition your dog to “sit” and “wait” for guests. The issue with Obedience Training arises when dogs lack self-regulation, potentially breaking the “stay” command or barking while in the “place” position. The fundamental problem with this approach is that your dog is “waiting”. At some point you have to release him/her. When you do, then they usually jump on your guests. The other problem is that a lot of high energy dogs, who are usually the jumpers, will bark excessively while waiting in their “Place position”. Teaching your dog to “wait” on Place is not the same as teaching your dog to greet your guests without jumping.

Behavioral Training exercises and methods are designed to teach your dog self regulation and independent thinking. This eventually translates into social skills and coping skills which will enhance self esteem and self confidence. Obedience Training is designed to condition your dog to obey your cues on command with positive reinforcement. Very different outcomes and methodolgies.

Trends and misleading mantras:

Now, let’s address a recent trend promoting the idea that confidence and self-esteem can only be nurtured through positive reinforcement, banning the use of the word “No,” and cautioning against establishing boundaries.

This mantra goes as follows: “Never tell your dog ‘don’t do that’; instead, teach them what to do.“

As with any decision in life, there are trade-offs to consider. To adhere to this mantra, you must navigate a complex labyrinth of environmental control until your dog reaches a state of readiness. This complexity arises due to a lack of clarity regarding boundaries.

In my experience, this mantra has led many dog parents to frustration, failure, and considerable distress for extended periods of time. It does not apply universally to all dogs. I am well aware of this because I find myself busier than ever, inheriting dogs that have gone through programs and protocols failing to establish clear and direct boundaries.

There are methods to impart clear boundaries and rules without resorting to force, corrections, or dominance-based Alpha theories. This reflects my vision and what I have successfully accomplished over the past 13 years designing exercises and routines to teach dogs self control through Behavioral Training.

Labradoodle Breed

by Gabriel Riesco | Sep 23, 2023 | Breeds, Dog Training, Fun Doggy Wisdom

Labradoodles are one of the most common breeds for families and for good reason. A Labradoodle is a crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. This mixed breed dog is known for its intelligence, playful personality, and affectionate nature. They can also be high energy type of dogs , so both obedience training and behavior training is highly recommended since most of these dogs are first choice for families with kids.

Labradoodles are also known for being low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a popular choice for people with allergies.

Because Labradoodles are a relatively new breed, there is some variation in their appearance and temperament. Some Labradoodles may have more characteristics of a Labrador Retriever, while others may take after the Poodle more.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Labradoodle breed is their intelligence. Both Labradors and Poodles are known for their smarts, and Labradoodles inherit this trait from their parents. This makes them easy to train and a great choice for families with children.

In addition to their intelligence, Labradoodles are also known for their playful and affectionate nature. They are happy-go-lucky dogs that love to be around people and are known for their friendly demeanor. Having said that any dog breed can develop behavioral issues, so don’t take it for granted that your labradoodle does not require any training. They can also be a handful.

When it comes to grooming, Labradoodles may require regular brushing and haircuts to keep their coat looking its best. They are low-shedding and hypoallergenic, but they may still require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting.

Overall, Labradoodles are a wonderful breed that make great companions for families with children. They are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, and their low-shedding and hypoallergenic coats make them a great choice for people with allergies.

7 Most Rare Dog Beeds

by Gabriel Riesco | Sep 11, 2023 | Breeds, Fun Doggy Wisdom

If you are into interesting and rare breeds here are 7 of the most rare breeds. I did some research about their traits. Let us know if you have one of these breeds and can share some of their traits!

1.Azawakh

2.Bergamasco Sheepdog

3.Cirneco dell’Etna

4.Dandie Dinmont

5.Lagotto Romagnolo

6.Peruvian Inca Orchid

7.Carea

1.Azawakh:

The Azawakh is a unique and elegant breed of dog that originates from the Sahara desert region of West Africa. This breed is known for its slender and athletic build, as well as its striking coloring, which can range from sandy to reddish-brown, with white markings on the chest and legs.

Despite their slender appearance, Azawakhs are incredibly agile and athletic, and are able to run at great speeds for long periods of time. They were originally bred to hunt and guard livestock, and are known for their independent and protective nature.

Azawakhs are intelligent and loyal dogs, and form strong bonds with their owners. They can be reserved and aloof with strangers, but are very loving and affectionate with their families. They are also highly trainable, and can excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

One of the unique aspects of the Azawakh breed is their relatively short coat, which requires minimal grooming. They do shed, but not to the same extent as many other breeds. They are also relatively low maintenance in terms of exercise, and can be happy with a moderate amount of daily activity.

Overall, the Azawakh is a beautiful and intelligent breed that makes a loyal and protective companion for the right owner. If you are considering adding an Azawakh to your family, be sure to research the breed thoroughly and consult with a reputable breeder to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized puppy

2.Bergamasco Sheepdogs

The Bergamasco Sheepdogs are intelligent and easy to train, making them a great breed for families with children. They are also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, and they are generally good with other dogs and pets. However, like all dogs, they need to be socialized from a young age to prevent them from becoming aggressive or anxious around other animals.

In terms of exercise and activity, Bergamasco Sheepdogs are a relatively active breed. They enjoy going for long walks and playing in open spaces, but they are also content to spend time at home with their family. Because of their thick coats, they do not do well in hot or humid climates, and they should be kept indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Overall, the Bergamasco Sheepdog is a unique and intelligent breed that makes a great companion for families and individuals alike. With their thick, matted coats and gentle dispositions, these dogs are a sight to behold

3.The Cirneco dell’Etna:

The Cirneco dell’Etna is a small, sleek and athletic breed of dog that originates from the island of Sicily in Italy. They are part of the Hound group, and are known for their keen hunting abilities and keen sense of smell. They are thought to be descendants of the ancient Egyptian hunting dogs, and were traditionally used to hunt small game and rabbits on the rugged terrain of Mount Etna.

Despite their small size, the Cirneco dell’Etna is a strong and hardy breed that is well-suited to life in harsh environments. They are known for their stamina and endurance, and are capable of running for long distances without tiring. They have a distinctive appearance, with a lean and muscular body, long and slender legs, and a pointed, triangular-shaped head. They have a short, fine coat that is typically red, orange, or chestnut in color, with white markings on the chest and paws.

The Cirneco dell’Etna is an intelligent and independent breed, and they can be somewhat difficult to train. They have a strong prey drive and can be prone to chasing small animals, so they need to be kept on a leash or in a secure area when not in training. They are generally gentle and affectionate with their families, but can be reserved and aloof with strangers.

Despite their long history and unique abilities, the Cirneco dell’Etna is not a well-known breed outside of their native Sicily. They are recognized by the American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club, but are still considered to be a rare breed in the United States. If you are interested in owning a Cirneco dell’Etna, it is important to do your research and find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and well-socialized puppy.

4.Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in the border region between England and Scotland. They are known for their long, low-slung bodies and distinctive “topknot” of hair on their heads.

Dandie Dinmonts are intelligent, independent, and can be a bit stubborn at times. They are loyal and affectionate with their families, but can be reserved with strangers. They are highly adaptable and can live in a variety of environments, but do best in homes with a secure, fenced yard where they can play and run.

One of the most striking things about Dandie Dinmonts is their appearance. They have long, soft hair that is typically two-tone in color, with a dark “pepper” color on the back and lighter “mustard” on the face, legs, and belly. Their bodies are long and low-slung, and they have short legs that give them a distinctive, low-to-the-ground appearance.

Despite their small size, Dandie Dinmonts were originally bred for hunting, and they have a strong prey drive. They are known for their courage and tenacity, and are capable of tackling larger prey than their size would suggest. They excel at tracking and hunting small game, such as rats and rabbits, and are often used as earthdogs in underground quarry work.

In addition to their hunting abilities, Dandie Dinmonts are also intelligent and trainable. They can excel in obedience and agility competitions, and make great therapy dogs. They are sensitive and responsive to their owners, and can be easily trained using positive reinforcement and rewards-based methods.

Overall, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a unique and endearing breed that is known for its intelligence, adaptability, and tenacious spirit. While they may be a bit stubborn at times, they are loving and loyal companions that make great pets for families and individuals alike

5.Peruvian Inca Orchid :

The Peruvian Inca Orchid, also known as the Peruvian Hairless Dog, is a unique and ancient breed of dog native to Peru. This breed is known for its lack of fur, which is caused by a genetic mutation that occurred thousands of years ago. Despite their lack of hair, Peruvian Inca Orchids are not completely hairless; they often have a few patches of hair on their head, tail, and paws.

Peruvian Inca Orchids are thought to have been bred by the ancient Inca civilization, who valued them for their warmth and companionship. They were often kept as pets by royalty and were considered a symbol of wealth and status.

In modern times, Peruvian Inca Orchids are prized for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. They are also known for their endurance and are often used in agility and endurance competitions.

Despite their ancient origins and unique appearance, Peruvian Inca Orchids are not well-known outside of Peru. However, they are gaining popularity among dog lovers who appreciate their unique qualities and are looking for a companion that is both affectionate and intelligent.

Overall, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is a fascinating and unique breed of dog with a rich history and a loyal and loving personality. If you’re considering adding one to your family, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable breeder to ensure that you get a healthy and well-adjusted pup.

6.Lagotto Romagnolo:

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small to medium-sized breed of dog that originates from the Romagna region of Italy. They are known for their thick, curly coats and their keen sense of smell. The breed is highly intelligent and eager to please, making them great companions and easy to train.

One of the unique characteristics of the Lagotto Romagnolo is their water-resistant coat, which is thick and curly and helps to protect them from the elements. This makes them an excellent choice for activities such as hunting and water sports.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a versatile breed that is well-suited to a variety of activities, including agility, obedience, and search and rescue. They are also great family pets and are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities.

Despite their friendly nature, Lagotto Romagnolos can be reserved with strangers and may need proper socialization to feel comfortable around new people. They are also highly energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Overall, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a loving and loyal breed that makes a great companion for active families and individuals. With their intelligence and eagerness to please, they are easy to train and adapt well to a variety of living situations.

7.Carea Breed:

Carea is a rare and ancient breed of dog that originated in the Basque region of Spain. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism, and are prized as both working dogs and companion animals.

The Carea is a large breed, with males standing between 24 and 29 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 60 and 80 pounds. They have a muscular, athletic build and a thick, waterproof coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, and fawn.

One of the most striking features of the Carea is their head, which is large and square-shaped, with a distinctive ridge of fur running down the center of their forehead. They have triangular ears that stand erect, and their eyes are dark and intelligent.

The Carea is an intelligent and trainable breed, and they are often used as working dogs for tasks such as herding and guarding livestock. They are also very athletic, and excel in activities such as agility and flyball. In addition to their physical abilities, Careas are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, making them excellent companion animals.

Despite their many positive qualities, Careas are not a well-known breed outside of their native Spain. They are still quite rare, and can be difficult to find outside of their home country. However, for those who are able to find and own a Carea, they are a highly rewarding and loyal companion

How Long Does It Take to Potty Train a Dog?

by Gabriel Riesco | Aug 26, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning, Fun Doggy Wisdom, Puppy Training

Potty training is one of the first priorities when you first get a dog. Just like any other training, it requires patience, consistency, and understanding. While every dog is different and here’s no one-size-fits-all answer there are several aspects that can affect the time.

Here are some of them:

Breed and Age: The breed and age of the dog play a significant role. Puppies have smaller bladders and shorter attention spans, so they may need more frequent potty breaks. Larger breeds might take a little longer to fully grasp the concept.

Consistency: Consistency in training methods and schedule is key. Dogs thrive on routine, so sticking to a consistent feeding and potty schedule can speed up the training process.

Previous Training: If the dog has had any prior training or exposure to potty training, it might adapt more quickly. Rescue dogs or those transitioning from a different environment may take some extra time.

Individual Temperament: Just like humans, dogs have unique personalities. Some dogs are quick learners, while others might take a bit more time to catch on. Being patient and adapting your training approach to your dog’s personality can make a big difference.

Owner’s Commitment: How committed you are to the training process matters. Especially at the beginning while you are setting up routines. If you’re dedicated and consistent, your dog is likely to learn faster. On the other hand, inconsistent training can confuse your dog and prolong the process.

Positive Reinforcement: Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, can encourage your dog to associate proper potty behavior with rewards. This can speed up the learning process significantly.

Timeline Expectations:

Potty training can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Some dogs can get it in a few days. Here’s a general outline of what you might expect:

First Few Weeks: During the initial weeks, focus on establishing a routine. Take your dog out frequently, especially after crate time, meals, naps, and playtime. Be patient and use positive reinforcement when your dog eliminates outside.

First Month: By the end of the first month, many dogs will have a good grasp of the concept, but accidents can still happen. Continue with consistent training and gradually extend the time between potty breaks.

Months 2-4: As your dog becomes more familiar with the routine, accidents should become less frequent. However, some dogs might still have occasional slip-ups, especially in new environments.

Months 4 and Beyond: By this point, most dogs should be reliably potty trained. Keep in mind that younger puppies might take a bit longer to fully control their bladder.

Tips for Successful Potty Training:

Establish a Routine: Set a regular schedule for feeding, playtime, and potty breaks.

Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog, especially during the initial stages of training, to prevent accidents indoors. Don’t let your puppy wonder freely around the house without constant supervision, this is when they make mistakes.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for successful outdoor potty breaks to reinforce good behavior.

Be Patient: Stay calm and patient throughout the process. Punishing accidents can hinder progress.

Clean Accidents Properly: Use enzymatic cleaners to thoroughly clean any indoor accidents, as regular cleaners might not remove the odor completely.

Potty training is all about having a good schedule. The timeline can be very different depending on your dog. Remember that each dog is unique. Effective housetraining depends entirely on your ability to predict when your puppy needs to eliminate so you can direct him/her to an appropriate toilet area.

Is Crate Training Necessary?

by Gabriel Riesco | Jul 30, 2023 | Dog Problems. Behavior Modification, Dog Training, Dog Training & Conditioning, Puppy Training

Crate training is a controversial topic among dog parents, with some believing it to be essential for their pet’s safety and well-being, while others see it as cruel and unnecessary. So, is crate training necessary? Let’s discuss it.

What is crate training?

Crate training involves using a crate or confined area as a safe and secure place for a dog to rest, sleep, and eat. The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The aim is to teach the dog to view the crate as their den.

Dogs are den animals so it is natural to them to relax and rest in a reduced space. I can see how from a human perspective crate training can be viewed as un- natural, but it’s really not. What’s un natural to them is to be left alone, since they are pack-social oriented animals. So we need to teach them gradually and slowly. Crate training sometimes can help in this process. Another way of looking at it is to think of bears. Bears hibernate for months at a time in a very small area. Other animals might do similar things that we humans might view as unbearable or cruel, but that’s their nature.

Is crate training necessary?

Whether or not crate training is necessary depends your situation and on your dog. For example, a dog that spends a lot of time alone in the house may benefit from having a safe and secure place to rest, while a dog that is never left alone may not need a crate. Note that dogs that are never left alone can develop separation anxiety. Which is not a good problem to have. Some dogs might have develop a fearful/anxious association with the crate. In this case the crate might not be the best option.

However crate training can make the process of potty training much faster and easier, since it’s easier to avoid accidents without having to constantly supervise your puppy.

In some cases, crate training may be essential for a dog’s safety and well-being. For example, if a dog is destructive when left alone, they may be at risk of harming themselves or damaging the home. A crate can provide a safe and secure environment while preventing destructive behavior.

Additionally, some dogs may benefit from a crate during travel or when staying in a boarding facility. Being comfortable in a crate can reduce stress and anxiety in unfamiliar situations.

Why do people crate train their dogs?

There are several reasons to crate train your dog. These include:

Potty training.The crate can be very helpful to teach your dog two things: a. to avoid 90% of accidents without constant supervision and b. to hold the bladder. Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so using a crate can help setting up a schedule where accidents can be easily avoided.
Safety: A crate can keep a dog safe from potential hazards, such as electrical cords, toxic substances, or other pets in the home.
Housetraining: A crate can keep your house safe from destructive behaviors. Puppies do not know the difference between a expensive furniture or objects and chew toys.
Travel: A crate can be a convenient and safe way to transport a dog. Sometimes it’s actually mandatory. if your dog is not crate trained your dog will have a hard time traveling in a crate or carrier.
Separation anxiety: For some dogs, a crate can provide a sense of security and comfort when left alone.
Vet visits or grooming. If your dog gets sick and needs to stay over night, most likely the vet is going to use a crate. Groomers very often use crates while the dogs wait for their owners to pick them up.

Havng said this, crate training should never be used as a punishment or as a way to confine a dog for extended periods. Dogs are social animals and need interaction and exercise to stay healthy and happy.

How to crate train a dog?

If you decide to crate train your dog, it’s essential to do so in a positive and gentle way. Here are some tips:

Introduce the crate gradually: Start by leaving the crate door open and placing treats or toys inside to encourage your dog to explore.
Make the crate comfortable: Add a soft bed or blanket to make the crate inviting.
Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they enter the crate voluntarily.
Start with short periods: Initially, leave your dog in the crate for short periods while you’re at home, gradually increasing the time as they become comfortable.
Never force your dog into the crate: If your dog seems reluctant to enter the crate, don’t force them. Instead, try using treats or toys to encourage them.

In summary, crate training can be beneficial for some dogs in certain situations. However, it’s not necessary for every dog, and it’s crucial to use a mindful approach when introducing a crate. Remember, a crate should be a safe and secure place for your dog, not a form of punishment or confinement.

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