The Hiking K9

12/07/2021

Sorry y’all 😇😂

11/25/2021

Happy Thanksgiving Hikers! 🖤

Set your dog up for success this holiday seasons with three easy steps:

🔸 TAKE A WALK! What better day to start a busy and stressful day for your dog than a structured walk to exercise their body and mind.

🔸 PLACE! Utilize their ‘place’ to allow them time to decompress, take in any new guests, calm down, and keep them from getting into the food.

🔸 CRATE TIME! When it gets too much for your dog, do them the favor of guiding them to their safe space to rest. Days like today can be very overwhelming for them. Look for signs of panting, pacing, whining, and inability to settle. These indicate our furry friend is feeling anxious and is relying on you for some help.

In reality though, it’s okay not to include your dog. If it is more stress than it’s worth, give them a walk before the activities start and then crate them. A stress-free day for everyone!

We are so, so thankful for all of you! 🖤

11/20/2021

Your dog doesn’t work to please you. They do it to please themselves. Let’s talk about it!

Think of a reward and what it means to your dog. They do something good (A), you give them a reward (B): treat, or a toy, or praise + affection. They do it again, you reward again and so on.

With consistency, this behavior becomes habit. They learn that A = B.

The key here is that the dog dictates what the reward (B) is. After all, it is the DOG’s reward, NOT YOURS.

So when they lay down on cue, it is because they are set on earning their reward, not because it makes you happy.

Dogs are instinctual animals. They quickly learn what will and will not earn them a reward and will behave accordingly.

And because I know this will raise the question, your verbal or physical praise can be (and often is) a valuable reward to your dog.

11/17/2021

“Why is my dog reactive?”

Short answer: 🤷🏽‍♀️

Long answer: It could be a number of things. Reactivity is a blanket term for any number of things like

-under socialized
-over socialized
-fear
-frustration
-lack of structure
-lack of leadership
-hyperactivity

and the list goes on! The good news is that you’re not alone and there are ways to resolve or manage this behavior.

The first step to start your journey is through relationship building. Establishing a line of communication and confirmation of trust will be the foundation of your relationship! 🖤

11/17/2021

🎁🎉 HOLIDAY ANNOUNCEMENTS! 🎉🎁

We have a fun December planned!
✨Thanksgiving through New Years we will be accepting donations. (All pet foods, blankets, toys, etc.)
✨Dec. 4th -Camden Holiday Parade @ 6pm
✨Dec. 18th -OPEN HOUSE 11am-2pm
Open House, lite refreshments, door prizes, discounts, & Santa Paws!! 🐾🎅🏽 Come get yours or your pets photo taken with Santa. While your here check out the new facility! 22 Sarah Circle, Suite B, Camden De

✨November 25-26 CLOSED
✨December 24-27 CLOSED
✨December 31- January 3 CLOSED

(Only leashed, social friendly dogs for open house please)

09/29/2021

You’re not a robot, which means your dog isn’t a robot either.

So when you’re going about your day, whether it’s good or bad, tiring or exciting, keep in mind that your dog also has emotions.

They have off days, just like us! Sometimes they are genuinely just not in the mood. I’m sure you can relate, right?

So, yes, they know better than to bark at the front door or whatever it may be that day. But again, they’re not robots! Have patience, provide extra guidance when needed, and most importantly...

Meet them where they’re at 🖤

Is there an unusual amount of stress that you hadn’t considered? Are they just tired? Are they feeding off your energy?

Give them a break. This doesn’t mean allowing them to do whatever (especially things they’re not supposed to do). Add in additional structure and rest time, and give them space.

This is why establishing a strong relationship is so important. Understanding when you’re dog isnt feeling it will only build trust when you meet them where they’re out give them a little break!

09/14/2021

09/06/2021

We love these collars!

Happy Labor Day! 🇺🇸

Our virtual sale starts NEXT WEEK! September 13-15th.

08/26/2021

A little bit of leadership goes a long way 👏🏼

When I first started working with Layla, her reactivity to the world was so intense. I have been very clear and fair with her since day 1 about what I expect when out on a walk.

We walked past a house at the exact moment a man opened his front door, releasing his 3 large dogs who ran across the yard barking and growling. This was extremely nerve racking for even me, so imagine how Layla felt. The Layla I used to know would have been uncontrollable.

The Layla with me now looked to me as I stepped in front of her, holding my arms out, and yelling “No.” This Layla did not react, though her raised hackles showed me how uncomfortable and nervous she was. This Layla looked to me for direction and was patient while allowing me to handle the situation.

This Layla did not happen over night, or even over a month. Be very, very clear with your expectations. Create a channel of communication, then be undeniably consistent.

If you and your dog are struggling with reactivity, you’re not alone! Reach out if you need help, confirmation, or even just words of encouragement. And always remember, leadership goes a long, long way.

🖤 Love,
Justine

08/12/2021

Hey hikers 👋🏽

It has been such a busy and packed summer, and I am so grateful for it!

Now that all board + trains have been wrapped up for the summer, I am not booking anymore for this year. I will open up my schedule to begin booking in January later on in the fall.

All clients currently enrolled in lessons will continue without issue. I will only be accepting a limited amount of new clients for lessons going into the fall.

For all past or current clients, boarding is still available to you

I’m finally going to enjoy some much needed time with my family 🖤

Thank you for your support, referrals, and dedication to giving your dog the best life!