POSITIVE TRAINING FOR POSITIVE RESULTS
Call Us at (319) 362-1991 or stop in!
137 30th St. Dr. SE Cedar Rapids, Iowa

 
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Frequently Asked Questions


We try to anticipate questions you might have about our PRODUCT / SERVICE and provide the answers here. If you need additional information send email to pawsitivepawsaca@questoffice.net

 

Q. How Hot is too Hot for my Puppy/Dog?

A. Walking your Dog: consider how hot the sidewalks, black top, asphalt & sun on the beach get with the Sun shining on it all day. We wear shoes to protect us, our dogs do not. These things can actually burn your dogs' feet & cause them to blister. If you have to walk your dog, walk them in the grass.

Jogging: is also dangerous this time of year. As the weather warms up, humans change the type and amount of clothing they wear, and we sweat more. Dogs are still jogging in their winter coat (or a slightly lighter version) and can only cool themselves by panting and a small amount of sweating through the foot pads. Not enough! Many dogs, especially the 'athletes' will keep running, no matter what, to stay up with their owner.

Solution: Change the routine to early morning or late evening to prevent heat stroke. Keep your dog hydrated! You drink water (or some sort of Sport Drink) during you're work out, don't forget about your Best Friend!

Or bring him to our air conditioned building for "Daycare" or "Play Group"


 

Q. Will Playing Tug with my Dog Make Him Aggressive?

A. Not if you teach your dog there are rules while playing.

First, choose a tug toy that is comfortable for both you and your dog. Make sure it is flexible and soft enough for your hands, as well as flexible, enjoyable, comfortable (I prefer to use fleece) & the appropriate size for the dog's mouth. Be careful of pulling too hard with a puppy as it could pull out his baby teeth. Put the tug toy(s) away when not in use. Keep it as a special toy for the two of you. This keeps it exciting for the dog, something he will look forward to play with. 

Rule #1. 

You always start the game. Teach the dog the name of the game. Say "tug", or whatever you want to call the game. Repeat the name several times during the game. You need to stay in control of the tug at all times. If you are not in control & your dog is...STOP this game immediately and put the toy away. Try again later. If your puppy/dog is growling while playing tug with you it is more likely than not a “play growl.”

Rule #2. 

Teach the dog when the game is over. Again, choose a word such as "out" "release" "drop" "all done", etc. Your dog must learn that when you announce the release word, the game is over. The tug must be put away until time for the next game. You can play tug  with your dog on a daily basis or several times a day. It's good exercise for your dog.

Tip: If you have a soft dog that lacks confidence, let your dog “win” often. It will build his confidence!


 

Q. What is your opinion on dog parks?

A. Unfortunately, dog parks are not supervised.

The dogs playing in the parks have to be socialized prior to going to the park. Not all dogs know how to play nice. It takes only one bad experience to change your dog's behavior towards another & then you will be spending your free time trying to re-socialize your dog.

Solution: bring your puppy or dog to PPA's "Play Groups" where they are supervised, learn to socialize, play in a safe environment & go home dog tired.


 

Q. How do I stop my dog from digging holes in my yard?

A. There are 3 reasons why dogs dig. To keep cool, Boredom, Genetics.

Solution: keep them in the shade & give them a kiddie pool of water, they will thank you for it. if your dog is bored, you need to give him more exercise. If that is what your breed of dog was bred for, then you can bury their poo in the hole or...give them a sand box to dig in. You can bury some of their toys in it, bones, etc.

To resolve 1, 2, or all 3 of these problems, bring them 1 or 2 days a week to our "Daycare" where they are supervised & play all day long with their friends in an air conditioned building.


 

Why is Socialization so Important?