How to celebrate a dog's birthday

Every year it's nice to mark your dog's birth with a celebration. What's the best way to celebrate? Well, what is your dog's favorite thing to do? Besides eat? Go on a walk? Play with friends? Chase a ball? Go to the dog park? There's your answer. Give her special attention, an extra treat, a walk to her favorite shop or tree, a belly rub. You know what she likes. Let her know how happy you are that she came into your life.

Can an old dog learn new tricks?

We decided to test the old dogs/new tricks cliche with our 14 1/2 year old Yorkie.

She never learned to "shake." A week ago we asked her to shake before she got her morning and afternoon treats. She's very good at sitting, but doesn't know shake.

We have her sit, say "shake" and lift her paw, then treat her. The 3 year old yorkie got it in 3 treat sessions. The old dog hasn't gotten it yet. We're giving her 2 weeks to catch on. We'll keep you posted.

How ManyTreats Should I Give My Dog?

Dogs don't care HOW MUCH treat you give them...they care about the actual act of giving. So, treat your dog more often with very small morsels.

One big treat each day, teaches them that they get one big treat a day. Give your dogs smaller treats more often when they have done something to deserve a reward. If you want to give your dog a treat, have her perform first. Every time you reward her for an accomplishment, she learns something.

What sized treat should I give my dog?
Give toy-sized dogs approximately a 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch treat.

Give big dogs just enough so that he can tell you've given him a treat. Try a 1/4 inch x 1 inch circle. If you can go smaller, do.

Remember, treat LESS more OFTEN!