How Dog Gone Amazing Helps First Responders and Their Dogs

The Dog Gone Amazing team created a special blog post dedicated to the incredible people who are first on the scene to take care of our communities. We could not be more grateful for the individuals who spring into action every day to keep those we love and our furry companions safe. From firefighters to paramedics to police officers and military personnel, we thank you for your dedication and commitment.

We also fully acknowledge the demanding and often highly stressful nature of our first responder’s day-to-day duties. The feeling of coming home to a companion that offers support and a sense of calm after a long day can truly make all the difference. However, providing your dogs with the attention and consistent training they need to be there for you can be time-consuming and energy-intensive.

So, whether you’ve just welcomed an energetic puppy into your life or have a dog needing some behavior refinement, our goal is to lighten the load and help you have dogs you can depend on, no matter how challenging your day has been.

Here are TWO ways Dog Gone Amazing can take care of your pup while you are taking care of our communities.

Board and Train

Our Board and Train services can be a game-changer in saving you time and seeing faster results for your dog’s behavior. We get it, your schedule can be hectic. Our done-for-you service is an excellent approach if your dog needs to work on a couple of behavior tweaks. They receive one-on-one training in a focused environment, minimizing distractions and speeding up the learning process. This approach means less time to be distracted and fall back into bad habits with a faster turnaround on unwanted behavior.

Here are the benefits you can expect from Board and Train:

• A focused environment allows for faster results and the ability to master skills.
• All-inclusive boarding accommodations (an $80/day value!)
• Daily, one-on-one attention and training.
• Includes a Private Lesson at pickup. We give you the keys to communicate with your dog!

Sounds like what you need? View our Board and Train packages here.

Turn-Key In-Home Training

Not all dogs are the same, and some may need specialized attention right in the comfort of their home. Our TurnKey In-Home Training is all about meeting your dog where they’re at – literally.

Whether it’s addressing habits unique to your home environment, preventing door-darting incidents, or mastering manners when you have visitors, our DGA team brings the same top-level instruction we offer at our facility directly to you. It’s a convenient and easy way to help your dog learn better manners and obedience without traveling away from home.

Here are the benefits you can expect from In-Home Dog Training Lessons with DGA:

• Stop habits that only happen at home
• Stop your dog from running away or darting out the door
• Teach your dog to happily go on walks without tugging or pulling on the leash
• Set off-limit areas in and around the home
• Learn to hike off-leash – we’ll join you and your dog on the trail for training!

Again, as we acknowledge First Responders Day, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who tirelessly serve our communities.  If you’re seeking the perfect dog training to transform your pup into the ultimate support system, explore our Dog Training services and discover the full range of benefits our packages offer.

Decoding Your Dog: How DNA Testing Can Change The Way You Care for Them

From the wag of their tail to the shape of their ears, our beloved dogs have unique traits that go back thousands of years. So, if you adopted a dog or looked at your mixed-breed pup and found yourself guessing their ancestry, you are not alone. Many owners get stumped when confronted with these questions: What is your dog’s breed? What kind of dog is that?

That is where DNA tests for dogs can help! DNA testing for dogs not only provides answers to those common questions that arise during your daily walks or café runs but also offers valuable information about potential health risks, behavior, training techniques, and more. Whether you already know your pup’s breed or not, it’s like unlocking the blueprint to their well-being.

Whether your pup inherited its curly tail from a Pug or its high energy from a Border Collie, knowing its breed allows you to tailor their care and training to suit its needs.

So, What Exactly Is A Dog DNA Test?

First, before we dive in, here’s a quick rundown of what DNA tests are and how they work. A dog DNA test could reveal your four-legged friend’s ancestry and genetic makeup. It involves collecting a sample, such as a cheek swab or saliva from your dog, and sending it to a specialized laboratory for analysis. Then, the DNA test analyzes the genetic material to identify specific markers that reveal the percentage breakdown of a dog’s breed.

It’s important to note some veterinarians have raised questions regarding the accuracy of these tests for your pet, as they are not regulated like human DNA tests. It’s hard to guarantee the exact reliability of the information you receive. But DNA tests for dogs are still beneficial (especially to us as dog trainers), and we recommend looking for well-reputed companies with positive reviews. If you’re curious about what others have to say, here is “The Best Dog DNA Tests of 2023,” according to USA Today.

Here are five ways dog DNA testing can help you care for your pet.

1.   Ensuring a Healthy Future

We all want our furry friends to lead long, healthy lives. Dog DNA tests lend a helping paw and give more insight into your dog’s ancestry. Many tests include health screenings that can help detect genetic mutations and potential predispositions to specific diseases. By uncovering these potential risks, you can work with your veterinarian, who can address concerns and offer guidance with regular check-ups.

2.   Decoding Your Dog’s Behavior and Temperament

As mentioned, dogs have been selectively bred for generations to exhibit specific behaviors and fulfill tasks. For example, Dobermans were bred to protect a hated tax collector, while Australian Shepherds were made to be skilled sheep and cattle herders. Fun fact, right?!

Although many people now own these dogs as lovable companions rather than for their original purposes, it’s important to recognize they still retain their instincts. DNA tests for dogs can provide insight into the breeds that make up your pup and give you the answers to why they behave the way they do. For instance, you may discover the reason for your dog’s independent nature could be that they are a mix of stubborn breeds.

3.   Better Nutrition and Exercise

Different dog breeds have varying exercise requirements and nutritional needs. By identifying the lineage in a mixed-breed dog’s DNA, owners can better determine appropriate exercise routines and suitable diets that cater to their dog.

4.   Personalized Training

As professional dog trainers, understanding your dog’s breed allows us to create a more customized training regimen for them. Different breeds have unique characteristics and traits that may influence their learning. Just like humans, dogs have all kinds of different personalities. The Myers-Briggs Company created its own personality Dog Type Table that reveals your dog’s personality type, making it easier to determine their training styles.

5.   Building a Stronger Bond

At the heart of Dog Gone Amazing, our mission is to help dogs and their people build a bond based on love, freedom, and adventure. So, we saved the best takeaway for last. Dog DNA testing can create a more meaningful connection between dogs and their owners. Just as understanding someone’s background helps us relate to them better, the same applies to our furry friends. By uncovering their genetic origins, we can learn how certain breeds and mixed breeds would like to be cared for, treated, and trained.

DNA tests for dogs provide valuable information that truly helps us take better care of our cherished pets. And we know one thing for certain – all dogs, no matter the breed, can benefit from dog training!

Click here to learn more about Dog Gone Amazing’s training services and packages.

How Dog Training Can Help You Prepare for Six Common Life Events.

The benefits of dog training can make a world of difference when facing the twists and turns in life. Big life events can be exciting but can also come with their fair share of challenges. So, when it comes to your dog’s behavior, it doesn’t have to be another source of stress during these moments.

These events can be overwhelming, from moving to a new home to welcoming a new family member to traveling with your pup. Having a well-trained dog that can adapt to different situations and environments will reduce stress while making these moments more enjoyable for you and your furry friend.

This is why it is never too late to invest in dog training and prepare for anything that may come your way. Here is how dog training can be beneficial when faced with our list of six everyday life events.

 

1. Moving to a New Home: Home Sweet Home, Stress-Free

Moving to a new home or environment can cause a whirlwind of emotions. It can be a chaotic and exhausting time for both humans and dogs with changes in your routine, environment, and exposure to new sights and sounds. Dog training before a new move helps your pet feel more secure, confident, and comfortable in the new environment, which can reduce anxiety, fear, and undesirable behaviors that may arise during the moving process. We recommend crate training, basic obedience commands, and desensitization. That way, your pup will be ready for the big day and settle into its new sweet home.

 

2. Welcoming a New Baby: Preparing for a Pawesome Arrival

Introducing a new baby into a household with a dog requires careful preparation and training. Dogs need to learn appropriate behaviors around babies, such as not jumping or nipping and must be comfortable with the baby’s presence. Gradually exposing a dog to baby-related sounds and smells while rewarding calm and relaxed behaviors can help them associate positive experiences with the baby’s arrival. With time, patience, and proper training, you can be confident that your pup will be the best fur sibling for your new addition to the family.

 

3. Traveling with Your Dog: Adventure Buddies on the Go

Whether a road trip or a vacation, traveling with your dog can be an exciting adventure. But it also requires proper training to ensure a safe, stress-free, and enjoyable trip for you and your pup. Training your dog to be comfortable in a crate or carrier, to obey commands in unfamiliar environments, and to have good leash manners can make traveling together a breeze.

You might still be wondering if dog training is that effective when it comes to being on the go with your four-legged friend. If so, you can look at one of Dog Gone Amazing’s success stories from one of our very own clients. Kristi and Penny’s journey is a prime example of how proper training can lead to a well-behaved and joyful dog during trips, making your life much easier!

 

4. Introducing a New Pet: BFFs in the Making

We understand the excitement of adding another dog or a new pet to your home. After all, who wouldn’t want their dog to have a bestie and keep them company when you’re not around? However, if your pup hasn’t received proper socialization training, it could leave their first interaction and ongoing relationship with other animals up in the air and at risk. That’s why our facility offers services with socialization training to help your pup feel comfortable around fellow canines and ensure you feel confident adding new members to the fur fam.

 

5. Managing a Busy Schedule: Multitasking Made Easy

Life can get busy, and sometimes juggling work, family, and other commitments can leave you with limited time for your dog. This can cause unwanted behaviors, such as separation anxiety. It’s a complex yet common problem among owners that can cause substantial distress and frustration. But no need to fear. It is possible to create a positive association with being away from your pup by following simple training practices. If you’re looking for more information on how to deal with dog separation anxiety and how Dog Gone Amazing can help, check out our 10 Helpful Tips here.

6. Handling Visitors

If you enjoy hosting friends and family for holidays and gatherings, having a well-behaved dog can make these occasions less stressful and allow you to focus on being present during these events. Dogs can often become overly excited or anxious when visitors arrive, leading to undesirable behaviors such as jumping on guests, nonstop barking, or other bad manners. Proper dog training can ensure your pup learns good habits and behaviors when guests are present, making your hosting experience more enjoyable for everyone!

Dog training can benefit you and your furry companion, especially during significant life events. By investing in training, you can prepare your pet for any challenges that may come your way and develop a stronger bond with them in the process. So, whether you’re facing one of these six everyday life events or any other changes, remember that dog training can help make life easier and stress-free.

Click here to learn more about Dog Gone Amazing’s training services and packages.

 

Ever Wonder Which Vaccines Your Dog Needs and Why? Here’s Your Answer.

As a pet owner, one of the best ways to ensure your four-legged friend stays healthy and happy for years to come is by staying up to date with dog vaccine requirements and recommendations.

These vaccines can help protect your pooch from mild to severe diseases. But, with so many different vaccinations available and an overwhelming amount of information on the web, it can be hard to know which vaccines your dog needs and when to get them.

For that reason, we put together a complete guide to dog vaccines. Whether you just got a new pup or need a refresher, we have gathered all the information that every owner should know about vaccinating their dog.

Understanding Vaccines for Dogs: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Vaccines help your dog’s immune system fight off certain diseases. They work by introducing a harmless, small amount of a disease-causing agent known as an antigen into your dog’s body. This triggers their immune system to produce antibodies to fight off the antigen. That way, if your dog is exposed to the disease in the future, its immune system will recognize it and be better equipped to fight it off entirely or minimize the intensity of the illness.

Do Dogs Really Need Vaccines?

Like humans, dogs need a series of vaccines at a young age and annual shots to protect their health. Not vaccinating your dog can increase their risk of contracting dangerous and potentially fatal illnesses that can be spread through contact with other animals and humans. For example, most deaths caused by canine parvovirus happen within the first 48 to 72 hours after symptoms start. However, a tiny needle prick, in addition to good hygiene, can avoid the unthinkable.

The Core Vaccines That All Dogs Need

So, let’s look at the different types of vaccines for dogs, the ones you should consider, and those that are often required.

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), “core” vaccines are recommended for all dogs regardless of their environment or lifestyle to safeguard against potentially deadly illnesses. These vaccines include:

• Canine distemper virus (CDV)
• Canine adenovirus (CAV)
• Canine parvovirus
• Rabies

Which Dog Vaccines May Also Be Recommended or Required?

Non-core vaccines are typically voluntary, but they may be required or recommended depending on where you live. We recommend consulting your vet about which non-core vaccinations are right for your dog. The AAHA includes the following vaccines on its non-core list:

• Leptospira
• Borrelia burgdorferi (canine Lyme disease)
• Bordetella bronchiseptica and canine parainfluenza virus
• Bordetella bronchiseptica
• Canine influenza virus-H3N8/H3N2
• Crotalus atrox (Western diamondback rattlesnake venom antigen)

Our Dog Gone Vaccination Checklist

Doggy daycare, grooming, and training facilities, including Dog Gone Amazing, also require dogs to be vaccinated to keep all our furry friends here healthy and safe. At Dog Gone Amazing, our vaccination checklist includes the following:

• Bordatella/kennel cough
• Rabies
• Parvovirus
• Parainfluenza
• Adenovirus

These vaccines need to be administered before coming to our facility. Vaccines must be given at least seven days before arrival at our Reno dog training facility to be up to date.

How often should my dog’s vaccines be boosted?

Dogs should be boosted every three years with their core vaccines. The first rabies vaccine is effective for one year, and any rabies vaccine after the first year will last for three years.

How long do vaccines take to become active?

The time it takes for a vaccine to take effect can vary depending on its type and the dog’s immune system.

Although walking right when your puppy comes home may be tempting, completing the entire vaccination series and following the recommended waiting period is crucial to provide complete protection for your pet. Most vaccines require two weeks to take effect, and the rabies vaccine takes about 28 days.

What Dog Vaccine Should My Pup Get At What Age?

The AAHA and other veterinary experts recommend vaccinating your dog for different diseases at different ages.

3 Weeks Old: Bordetella

Puppies at risk due to their environment may receive a Bordetella vaccine as young as three weeks old. The current recommendation is to administer this vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks of age.

Ages 6 to 16 Weeks Old: Core vaccines

At 6 to 8 weeks of age, your puppy will receive their first round of core vaccines. At least three doses of a combination vaccine between 6 and 16 weeks of age should be administered about two to four weeks apart. In Nevada, every dog 12 weeks of age must have a rabies vaccine.

Although we have outlined the typical vaccination schedule, visiting your veterinarian once a year is best to ensure your pup is current on all vaccinations.

Once your puppy has completed its vaccinations and the waiting period has passed, it’s time to get out and learn something new! We offer a variety of puppy training packages that will help create a strong foundation and set your dog up for good health and great behavior.

Click here to learn more about our puppy training services and the benefits you and your dog will receive.