PerkyPets

Caring with clear leadership

Into the park
From an early age I wanted Wilbur to meet dogs of all shapes, sizes and disposition.

We socialised with steady mature dogs whose behaviour I wanted Wilbur to model. The older dogs would gently correct Wilbur if he got too big for his boots. A quick snap or bark is all that should be needed. If the pup doesn’t take notice try and interrupt the behaviour before the other dog has to react.

I avoided bouncy, boisterous dogs who encouraged Wilbur to wrestle or chase them. Being a working cattle dog I didn’t want to reinforce chasing or nipping behaviours. Puppies are cute and funny but their play can get overwhelming quite quickly especially when they play uninterrupted for extended periods. I like to interrupt play sessions every couple of minutes. Call your pup over do sit and drop then reward with another play session or treat.

Millie and Mia were small confident dogs, happy to tolerate Wilbur as he tagged along. Wilbur was growing quickly, I wanted him to respect all the dogs no matter their size


Rocco was huge (more like a horse). He was a gentle giant who didn’t overwhelm Wilbur.
Wilbur barked at him several times as he tried to work him out. He was more curious than scared and built his confidence quickly by just hanging around Rocco.


Carrying a stick in his mouth when playing reduced the temptation to nip.
Please don’t throw sticks for your pup, they can go through their mouth.

One dog I walk had a boil on her neck and when the vet operated he found a splinter from a stick that entered through the mouth. She was very lucky that it hadn’t created more problems.

Sharing balls and toys was also important. If he became too focused on one toy I could change to another so he wouldn’t become too obsessive or protective of the object and would be more willing to share with others.

Here is a good example of a Play Bow where Wilbur is saying come play with me Gomez. “Pleeasse I am no threat to you I just want you to chase me”.