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To the editor:
The tragic incident involving a cocker spaniel being mauled by a larger dog at Putnamville Reservoir is just one of a string of sad tales that I hear every day as a professional dog trainer.
While dogs are animals, and thus unpredictable, there are many things dog owners, or prospective owners, can do to minimize the chances that their dogs will be on either the perpetrating or receiving end of such encounters, and to minimize any damage if such an incident does occur.
For puppies, the optimal socialization period happens very early, between the ages of 8 to 12 weeks. Thus, even before they have all their shots, the window of opportunity for socializing the puppy properly is closing fast. Veterinary behaviorists suggest that owners pay attention and get their puppy into safe social situations during this critical period.
A well-socialized dog is far more likely to develop bite inhibition, and far less likely to be a bully, or a victim. Adequate socialization generally requires that the pup play with lots and lots of other puppies and some safe adult dogs during that critical period, as well as be introduced to people of different ages.
Owners, even those who have trained dogs before, should find a really competent trainer and begin classes early. The distractions present in a class environment can help your dog learn to pay attention to you no matter what else is going on.
Look for someone with real dog-handling experience, knowledge of dog behavior and teaching ability. Audit a class or ask your veterinarian for a recommendation if you aren't sure where to go.
Breeding is important, too. If you buy from a pet store, an Internet source that you don't know or a backyard breeder, you risk getting a puppy that's sick or whose parents weren't tested for the genetic disorders common in their breed. Often these pups are bred from stock that has not been assessed for good temperament either. Start with the local breed club, go to the AKC or UKC Web page, or ask your vet or trainer — and stay off Google — when looking for a pup. Expect reputable breeders to be stringent in what they will require of you. After all, they have the pup's best interest at heart!
A good breeder will provide pups on a spay/neuter contract and will offer a lifetime guarantee, not just 72 hours and a health certificate. They will be able to provide evidence of genetic testing of the parent dogs (OFA, CERF, etc.) and will have either shown or worked the parent dogs to know that they were capable, both temperamentally and structurally.
If you a person who would rather adopt and give a homeless pup or dog a home, that's great; but again, try to find an adequately socialized dog with a good temperament. Many shelters now have behavior programs, and many reputable breed rescuers use foster situations, so the foster family has some knowledge of the dog before you adopt it.
If you have some dog experience, and can safely manage a dog that has an "iffy" temperament, fine. But you should think twice about taking a dog home that could pose a threat to others because of its lack of social experience.
Lastly, don't allow your dogs to meet nose-to-nose while on leash. If you do, don't be surprised if your normally placid dog suddenly decides to feel "trapped" and respond with a growl or snap.
In encountering other dogs, remember not to ask: "Does your dog like other dogs?" Rather, ask: "Does your dog like unfamiliar dogs?"
There is a huge difference.
Anne Springer
Owner/Head Trainer
Paws for Praise
Danvers
