Page 302 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

302 C ARE AND TR AINING

HANDLING YOUR DOG

Getting your dog used to being handled early on will make his
day-to-day care much more pleasurable. Teach him to accept being
held without protest so that you can perform routine health checks
or administer occasional treatments such as ear drops. A dog that is
happy to be handled is a joy to groom, and tasks such as nail clipping

Accustom your puppy and tooth brushing will not be a chore or turn into a struggle.
to regular handling

How to handle your dog PETTING
Make handling an opportunity for your dog to receive lots of Pet your dog by
attention, treats, and praise. Handling sessions should be crouching down to
his level and talking
frequent and fun, but keep them short so that your dog to him in a gentle
does not feel smothered. Begin by calling your dog to you tone. Never lean into
and give him some gentle fuss and lots of praise when he his space. If he is
willing, slowly put
approaches. Then practice handling him by examining his your hand out and
ears, eyes, mouth, paws, and tail. After each examination, stroke his chest;
reward your dog with a treat. When you have finished, spend avoid placing your
some more time fussing over him. In the early stages, handling hand directly over
his head.
sessions should be no more taxing than that. If
your dog appears reluctant for any part of
his body to be handled, do not force him.

GOOD PRACTICE | EXAMINING YOUR DOG

LIFTING THE EARS
Get your dog used to
having the inside of his
ear handled. Check that
the ear is its usual dull
pink color, with no
unpleasant odor
or excessive wax.

EXAMINING THE EYES
Handle the area around your dog’s eyes
with great care. If the eyes need cleaning,
wipe them lightly using cotton pads
moistened with warm water.

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