Training, Exercise and Grooming

Caring for a dog requires attention to their physical, mental, and emotional needs. Training ensures they are well-mannered and obedient, exercise keeps them physically and mentally healthy, and grooming maintains their hygiene and overall comfort. Below, we break down these areas into concise and clear sections for clarity.

Addressing your dog's training, exercise, and grooming needs holistically ensures they live a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted life. These activities not only promote your dog's physical and emotional health but also deepen your connection with them.

Training

Training is essential for raising a well-behaved and obedient dog. It begins with early foundational skills in puppyhood and can progress to advanced levels depending on the needs and interests of both the owner and the dog. Proper training ensures dogs are good companions at home and well-behaved in public spaces.

    • Start Early: Puppy classes provide an excellent foundation, introducing young dogs to basic commands, socialization, and positive behaviors. Classes can be held at local vets or with certified trainers in safe environments.

    • Adolescence Training: As dogs reach adolescence, their behavior may become more challenging. Continued training during this phase helps reinforce good habits, address behavioral issues, and establish consistency.

    • Overview: Dogs Victoria-affiliated clubs offer accessible, affordable training programs suitable for all dogs, regardless of breed or size. These programs are run by experienced trainers and foster a supportive environment.

    • Training Opportunities:

      • Basic manners classes focus on essential behaviors like recall, walking on a loose lead, and appropriate social interactions.

      • Advanced obedience classes cater to those interested in competitive dog sports or higher-level training.

      • Regular weekly sessions provide ongoing practice and exposure to distractions, helping dogs learn to focus even in stimulating environments.

    • Importance of the Right Equipment: The success of training often depends on using appropriate tools tailored to your dog's size, age, and needs.

      • Collars and Leads: Flat collars are the most common, suitable for everyday use and identification. Slip collars, martingales, and other styles are also available for specific training goals.

      • Halters and Harnesses: These tools are useful for managing pulling behaviors or providing safety in the car. Correct usage is vital to avoid injuries and discomfort.

    • Introducing New Equipment: Familiarizing your dog with new tools is crucial. Follow a gradual process:

    1. Allow the dog to sniff the new item.

    2. Reward positive associations with treats or praise.

    3. Gradually introduce the equipment, ensuring the dog is comfortable before using it for training sessions.

    • Seek Expert Advice: Dog trainers, behaviorists, or knowledgeable pet supply staff can recommend equipment suitable for your dog's temperament and intended activities.

Exercise

Exercise plays a critical role in maintaining your dog's physical health and mental stimulation. Dogs of all breeds and sizes require regular activity, though their specific exercise needs vary significantly.

    • Matching Exercise to Breed

      • Breed-Specific Needs: Exercise requirements are influenced by a dog's breed, energy levels, and working heritage rather than just its size.

        • Example: Gundogs like Labradors or Spaniels thrive on two hours of daily activity, including walks, free play, and mentally stimulating tasks.

        • Conversely, breeds like Greyhounds, despite their size, are content with shorter bursts of exercise interspersed with rest.

      • Compatibility: Prospective dog owners should match their activity levels with their chosen breed to ensure harmony in their lifestyles and the dog's well-being.

    • For Puppies: Avoid intense or prolonged activities, as a young dog's joints and bones are still developing.

    • Adult Dogs: A mix of structured activities like walking, and unstructured play keeps adult dogs engaged.

    • Mental Stimulation: Incorporate enrichment activities such as sniffing games, agility training, or fetch to keep your dog mentally sharp and entertained.

Grooming

Grooming is not just about keeping your dog clean and presentable; it also promotes their overall health, enhances bonding, and provides opportunities for early detection of health issues.

    • Brushing: Regular brushing removes dead hair, reduces shedding, and maintains coat health. Labradors, for example, benefit from two to three weekly brushings, increasing to daily brushing during moulting periods.

    • Bathing: While necessary for hygiene, over-bathing can strip a dog's coat of natural oils. Use dog-appropriate shampoos and bathe only as needed based on the dog's lifestyle and coat type.

    • Grooming Tools: Choose combs, brushes, and clippers suited to your dog's specific coat type. Seek advice from professional groomers for breed-specific recommendations.

    • Kennels and Beds:

      • Ensure the kennel is comfortable, well-placed, and inviting, with a liner or bedding to encourage use.

      • Select durable, washable beds that suit your dog's age, size, and sleeping location.

    • Coats: Dogs in colder climates or those with short coats may need additional protection during winter months. A well-fitted, durable coat ensures comfort and warmth.

    • Toys and Bowls:

      • Offer toys tailored to your dog's breed and preferences. Experiment with different types to find favorites.

      • Invest in stable, easy-to-clean food and water bowls. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are often more durable than plastic alternatives.

    • Consult groomers, trainers, or knowledgeable pet store staff for tips on grooming and selecting tools suited to your dog’s coat and lifestyle.

Dogs Victoria has developed a series of insightful fact sheets to support responsible dog ownership and enhance understanding of dog behavior. These fact sheets, focusing on "Scary Noises – Thunderstorms & Fireworks," "Jumping Up on People," and "Children and Dogs," provide practical advice for fostering positive interactions and managing common challenges with dogs.

We commend Dogs Victoria for their commitment to educating the public and improving canine welfare. You can also access these resources directly on their Training and Behaviour Knowledge Centre or simply click on the tiles below:

Scary Noises - Thunderstorms & Fireworks

The "Scary Noises" sheet outlines strategies to help dogs cope with loud events, such as creating safe spaces and desensitizing them to triggers.

Jumping Up On People

The guide on "Jumping Up" explains how to discourage this behavior through consistent training and rewarding calm greetings.

Children and Dogs

"Children and Dogs" emphasizes supervision, teaching children how to safely interact with dogs, and recognizing canine body language to prevent conflicts.