Top 5 Things to Know With Your New Puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are five key things to focus on to ensure your puppy grows into a confident, well-behaved adult:

1. Socialization Period
   The prime socialization period for puppies is between 7-16 weeks of age. During this window, expose your puppy to a variety of new sights, sounds, and environments. They are the most influential during this time which makes it the ultimate opportunity to shape them into a well adjusted, confident adult.  Do not wait until they are fully vaccinated!

2. Learn Dog Body Language
   Get familiar with your puppy’s signals. Researching dog body language will help you recognize when your puppy is feeling anxious or stressed. It’s crucial to know how your puppy feels in different situations to prevent negative experiences. This will help you understand if your puppy is having a good experience. If you don’t know how to read your dog- you don’t know how they are feeling.

3. Build a Strong Bond
   Focus on relationship-building by playing with your puppy and providing support when needed. Strengthening trust now will create a secure bond for life. In Calgary, where outdoor activities are abundant, use walks and playtime to deepen your connection. Play with your puppy, and be kind. As mentioned above, you are shaping them.

4. Be Selective with Socialization
   While it’s essential for puppies to meet other dogs, be selective about their playmates. Not all dogs are a good fit for your pup’s energy level or play style. Avoid random encounters during your walks and choose controlled environments to ensure positive experiences.

5. Don’t Rush Formal Training
   There’s no rush to jump into formal training. For now, focus on good experiences and introduce loose leash walking when the time is right. The goal is to ensure your puppy enjoys their surroundings and is having a good time in the world.

Need more guidance? If you’re looking for expert help to ensure your puppy grows into a confident, well-socialized adult, check out Partner in Paws. Whether it's learning proper dog body language, socializing in the best environments around YYC, or developing key training skills, we’re here to support you and your puppy every step of the way. Get in touch with us today!

My Internal Monologue as a Reactive Dog Owner

Being a reactive dog owner can be exhausting. You start asking yourself: "What did I do wrong? How did my dog get here?"

I took my dog to off-leash parks in Calgary and thought she was having fun. But then there were incidents—like when that lab lifted my dog's back end to sniff her, and things went downhill. I didn’t realize then that these were signs of discomfort. Now I know more about dog body language, and I’ve learned that my dog was trying to tell me she was stressed. She was licking her lips, freezing, and giving other signs that I missed.

The lunging, barking, and growling started soon after, and I was overwhelmed. I even tried a “whisperer” technique where I poked my dog’s neck and said “shh”—but that just made things worse. It didn’t reduce her reactivity; in fact, it made her fearful of me.

I finally found methods that work. I’ve learned to keep her at a distance from unknown dogs, give her treats when we encounter other dogs, and ensure she feels safe. Now, in YYC, we can enjoy events and outings without fear of reactivity. She even engages in normal dog behaviors without stress, knowing I have her back.

Feeling stuck with your reactive dog? At Partner in Paws, we specialize in helping reactive dogs and their owners feel more confident and in control. Whether it’s understanding your dog’s body language or finding safe, positive ways to socialize in Calgary, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to start your journey towards a happier, more relaxed life with your dog.

5 Ways to Support Your Reactive Dog (Without Formal Training)

Supporting a reactive dog doesn’t always require formal training. Here are some practical ways to help your reactive dog feel more secure, especially in a busy city like Calgary:

1. Get a Longer Leash
   Having a longer leash can help dogs feel less trapped.  This helps dogs that are fearful and dogs that are easily frustrated.  Having some more room in the leash will help your dog make better choices because they won’t feel as stuck and forced into the lungy/barky behaviours.  My daily walker is an 8-10 ft Biotane. 

2. Encourage Free Movement
   Our dogs having opportunities to move their body freely is key in supporting their mental health.  Think along the lines of 1-5 acres of space to run free, sniff and engage with their environment in a safe manner. Allow them to dig, roll and just be a dog.  Providing an outlet like this at least 2-3 times a week will help them be calmer and should aid in reducing reactivity. 

3. Understand Dog Communication
   Learning how your dog communicates is key to supporting their emotional needs. Take note of when they are stressed, excited, or nervous, and adjust your behavior or the environment accordingly. In big cities such as Calgary, where new experiences abound, this awareness can make outings much more enjoyable for both of you.

4. Play with Your Dog
   A few times a week, engage your dog in their favorite games. Whether it’s a fun game of fetch in one of Calgary’s dog-friendly parks or an interactive toy at home, play strengthens your bond and keeps your dog happy and relaxed.

5. Take Time for Yourself
   Sometimes, it’s okay to leave your dog at home. If you’re visiting places that aren’t ideal for your reactive dog, like busy downtown Calgary areas, take a solo outing. Prioritizing your own mental health will make you a better pet parent when you're spending time with your dog.

Need more support? If you’re struggling with a reactive dog, Partner in Paws is here to help! Our experts can guide you through practical ways to reduce reactivity, promote free movement, and improve your dog’s communication in YYC’s busy environment. Reach out to us today for personalized advice and training tips.