The Dog Behavior Answer Book - Arden Moore [81]
ALWAYS TAKE MADISON on a vigorous power walk or play a game of fetch before you head for the eatery. This allows her to have a bathroom break and work off some energy so she is ready to rest when you’re ready to order. Don’t test her patience by staying so long that she becomes restless.
SCOPE OUT THE EATERY before you step inside. Look for other dogs and see how they are behaving and how their owners are reacting to them. Steer clear if you see an owner desperately yanking on a leash or allowing his dog to bark at passersby or to bully another dog.
POLITELY REQUEST A WATER BOWL for your dog (with ice, if she prefers it that way!).
LEAVE A GENEROUS TIP — the waiter will remember and be more apt to accommodate you and Madison on your next visit.
Fashions for Fido
Q Whenever I go to my local pet supply store, I see all kinds of dog sweaters, hats, and other outfits for sale. I’m tempted to buy something, because I love to shop for clothes and I know my darling Yorkie, Minette, would look absolutely adorable in some of these outfits. But I’m not sure she would enjoy wearing clothes. How can I tell if she minds if I dress her up in some clothing designed for canines?
A Dog clothing has become a huge category in the pet products market, and manufacturers are producing all kinds of canine garb these days. You can buy scarves, booties, jackets, bathing suits, and even bridal gowns and tuxedos for dogs. Owners of toy breeds like the Pomeranian, Yorkshire terrier and toy poodle especially seem to like dressing their dogs in some of this clothing. It’s almost as if they are reliving their childhood days of dolls and accessories.
To find out how your dog feels about wearing this kind of stuff, first think about her personality. Is Minette a happy-go-lucky dog who likes different experiences and eagerly greets new people? Or is she shy and withdrawn? Does she enjoy being handled and held, or does she just tolerate physical attention? Confident, happy dogs are much more likely to accept clothing than are dogs who are easily frightened by strange objects and new things.
If Minette seems like a good candidate for apparel, your next step is to buy a single outfit. Don’t get carried away until you’re sure she wants a new wardrobe! Make sure you get the right size so the clothes fit properly. Most dog apparel packaging provides guidelines on how to determine the correct size for your dog. The label may indicate the size based on the dog’s weight or breed.
Before you dress Minette up in her outfit, give her some treats to let her know that something fun is about to happen. When she’s focused on you and in a happy state of mind, take the clothing out of the packaging and show it to her. Let her sniff it while you talk to her in a happy voice. Make sure she isn’t afraid of the clothing before you go to the next step. By the way, have your first fitting at home, where Minette feels safe and comfortable.
When Minette ignores the clothing and focuses on you and the treats you’ve been giving her, it’s time for the fashion show. Gently and slowly place the clothes on the dog as you reassure her. Make sure Minette is comfortable with the process. If she becomes frightened, stop what you are doing and give her more treats.
Once she is dressed, let her walk around to get used to the new sensation. Praise her and talk in an enthusiastic voice to let her know that wearing clothes is a good thing. At first, she may seem awkward and confused, but after a few minutes, you should be able to get a sense as to whether Minette minds the apparel. If she is happy, with her tail up and a pleased look on her face, then you know she doesn’t have a problem with wearing canine garb. If she starts strutting her stuff, congratulations! You definitely own a diva dog who is delighted to don the latest in canine fashions.
If she walks around with tail drooping, head low, and ears down, however, you have an unhappy dog on your hands. If she bites at or tries to paw off the clothing, then she is definitely conveying her displeasure in being dolled