Bored, under stimulated and under exercised dogs will try and find much needed ways to expend their energy and fill their time.

Provide your dog with the regular exercise they need.  This is very important in keeping your dog healthy physically as well as emotionally. Regular exercise not only helps prevent behavior problems from developing but also aids in resolving them.  Be aware that even with access to a yard a dog may not be getting enough exercise.  Regular walks, sports and games are also great ways to bond with your dog.

Many behaviors that are problems in our homes are actually normal dog behaviors that can be redirected and more positively expressed through the use of toys, games, sports and organized activities. For example, the need to chase can be satisfied with fetch, Frisbee, or flyball. Chewing can be fulfilled with the use of chew toys, bones, Kongs and stuffed animals.  The need to search can be expressed by hiding toys around the house or yard (especially Kongs stuffed with peanut butter or liver paste as this is reminiscent of the need to search for food and your dog also has to work the food out), playing the hide and seek game with yourself or hunting and field trials. In addition to stuffed Kongs, there are also many interactive puzzle toys on the market which fulfill your dog's need to be occupied and have a job to do, particularly in your absences. When playing with your dog or in your absences, a game can be invented for every natural dog behavior, the only limit is your imagination!

Variation of the environment is very important in channeling your dog's attention and energies. In addition to regular daily walks, rotate your dog toys each week, starting with 20 toys and rotating in groups of 15.

Regular walks, exercise, games and toys will not only help avoid behavior problems it will keep your dog at her physical and mental peak. It will also deepen and create a more harmonious relationship for you and your dog.

Fourth of July - Fourth of July can be very frightening for dogs. To prevent fear, it is best to keep dogs in a secure, sheltered environment such as a basement or bathroom and block out the noises and sights as much as possible. Insulate the environment by closing all windows, drawing the curtains and drapes and further muffling noises with a fan, CD/radio/TV, relaxing sound soother and/or air conditioner. There is evidence that classical music has a calming effect so that would be a good audio choice. Provide plenty of toys especially interactive toys such as puzzle toys, along with stuffed Kongs or bones to give your dog a relaxing job to work on. Put your animal in the comfortable, sheltered environment before they become apprehensive or frightened, i.e. before the fireworks have started. Of course, it is optimal if you can stay with and keep them occupied through play or practicing obedience training, if possible. Be aware that panicked dogs can bolt and become lost so be sure to lock all doors and be aware when opening and closing doors or transporting your dog in any way.