OKC Pets Magazine Nov/Dec 2020

November/December 2020 • OKC Pets 15 and people. However, socialization is mostly getting a dog to be comfortable around new sights, sounds and textures. “There’s a lot of outdated information out there about socialization techniques,” Head said. “Some say that you should have every person you meet pet your dog when you are out. That can really overwhelm a dog, so limit the exposure to two or three people during a training field trip.” If you want your pup to be a trail dog, start with walks in a local park or a short local trail. If the dog is sensitive to new sights and sounds, limit the first walks to about 15 or 20 minutes. If the dog is more outgoing and confident, then go longer. “If your pet is sensitive to new sounds, you can train them by finding some nature sounds on YouTube. These sounds can be thunder, cars backfiring and general campground sounds,” said Head. “Start playing those sounds at low volume and around meal times so they have a positive association with the sound. Gradually turn up the sound. You can also use a licky mat with peanut butter and squeeze cheese while you play the new sounds. Dogs soothe themselves by licking, so you can associate those nature sounds with licking.” Car Dogs Most dogs love to go for a joy ride, but some may become nervous or car sick. When starting out, try short car trips around the block. If your dog has a queasy stomach, Head suggested giving ginger root capsules an hour before a ride to combat nausea. Rescue Remedy products can also be used to temper nervousness and anxiety in dogs. If the dog is hyper and likes to jump from window to window, you may want to invest in either a car crate or safety harness to keep him in place. “You want traveling to be a positive experience for your dog,” said Russell. “Bring a treat they can chew on if crated in the car. If you don’t want to crate, there are great safety harnesses out there. But you have to get your dog used to wearing a harness so they can be constrained safely in the car. Most dogs are happy if they are securely constrained.” Water Dogs Like Kathy, many kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts love to get their dogs into the kayak with them for a paddle down the river. Some dogs love that; others are scared to death. But with a few training tips, your dog can be comfortable around the water and in boats. “First, have a huge treat bag on you,” said Head. “If your dog is nervous about the kayak or boat, try tossing the treats in and around it. Make it a game. But don’t constantly chatter and encourage your dog. Be the silent cheerleader because you can ruin the chance for your dog to explore the new thing by talking and urging the dog.” Never force or drag a dog into a boat or kayak, or you’ll run the risk of losing the trust of your dog. Also, be sure your dog is protected by investing in a doggy life jacket or float collar. “Never try to force a dog to get into the water,” said Head. Russell also recommended to start the kayak training on land. “You want the dog to voluntarily get into things like a kayak. If the dog wants to jump out all the time, find out why. Does the dog just really like to swim, or is he freaking out?” said Russell. “If you know why your dog is having problems, you can take some steps back and adjust.” Camp Dogs Camping is a popular way to spend time outdoors with your pet, and if the animal is socialized to the outdoors, it can be fun for them too. However, no one likes to be woken up at 5 a.m. by a dog barking its head off in a public campground. “There may be times you need to tether your dog when you go to the bathroom or things like that,” said Head. “If your dog isn’t used to tethering, they will throw a huge tantrum when they see you walk away.” Stationing is a way of training the dog to accept a tether and be calm when you aren’t in their eyesight. Try tethering the dog at home by leashing them to a heavy piece of furniture. Be sure to give them a chew toy or licky pad and then go about doing your daily business and chores. “You want them to get used to being tethered but also used to the idea that you will return,” Head said. The Journey No matter what kind of adventures you want to have with your dog, remember to be patient and to know your dog. Professional dog training may be your best bet when it comes to socializing and behavioral issues, so you may want to invest in a good training course before you hit the road, the trails or the water. “Going into nature with a dog can help a dog that is struggling with issues,” said Russell. “You don’t want to put your dog into stressful situations, but there is nothing like sharing the outdoors with your four-legged friend. Sure, there are pros and cons to taking your dog on adventures, but it’s so nice to watch your dog just be a dog outdoors. It can be very therapeutic for the dog as well.”