I got the chance today to do some staff training at Escape the Crate (doggy daycare and boarding) http://www.escapethecrate.com/ at 8453 W Elisa street in Boise Id. It is a great place with fun dedicated staff and some really great dogs!
If you use a doggy daycare or boarding facility there are some things you can do to help your dog be successful, and also help the daycare staff provide the best care for your pooch and others.
1. Make sure your dog is getting structured exercise with you leading him
Daycare is a great way to keep your dog from being bored while you are at work, but it can not be used for your dogs only exercise. He still needs his pack leader to lead him regularly.
2. Don't let your dog enter into the facility in an over excited state
Over excitement is setting your dog up to fail, as he will be so excited that he will not be able to control himself in a large group setting and not get the most out of his day.
3. Work at home with your dog on obsessive behaviors
A dog that is obsessing on anything (i.e. tail chasing, barking, mounting) will be a target in a large group of dogs. Dogs see this as unstable and will feel the need to correct it. Structured exercise and strong leadership at home are the best way to help your dog stop obsessing.
4. Listen to daycare staff
Often times the way your dog acts in a large group will be a wonderful way for you to know what areas you may need to work on at home. If the staff at your daycare tell you about a behavior you don't often see in your dog don't dismiss it. Use it as an opportunity to understand your dog on a deeper level.
5. Leave the facility the way you want to return
If you want your dog to be happy but relaxed next time you come to doggy daycare than make sure to take a moment for him to calm down and relax before you leave. Dogs will always come back to a place in the same frame of mind they left it, make sure it is a frame of mind you want to see again.
*For busy houses or frequent travelers doggy daycare is a great way to keep your dog busy and stimulated when you are not around, but don't forget to make it as pleasant an experience as possible. And don't let it be a substitute for good leadership and exercise at home!
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