By Anna Burke
Summer is definitely here in full force. It is that time of year when part of you secretly longs for the depths of February snow … if only for a few minutes. The whole family is looking forward to getting out of town, including your dog.
Other people’s dogs are like other people’s children. The well-behaved ones are wonderful. The bad ones are intolerable. If you want your dog to be invited back, pay close attention to these Retriever house rules.
Communication:
Nothing ruins a festive reunion like a surprise large dog bounding out of the car. Sure, you mentioned to your college buddy you were bringing the dog. Remind him anyway and ask for the house rules on canine behavior. In his excitement to see you, your host may have overlooked the “dog talk.”
Be Prepared:
People without dogs tend to value their possessions more than you, the proud owner of a Retriever and his coffee table clearing tail. Bring your own stuff.
You are well aware of the necessity of a dog towel. Don’t ask your host to borrow a fluffy, monogrammed bath towel to pat down your filthy dog. Puddles, stenches of dubious origin, rain – you name it, your Retriever will find it. Pack a dog towel along with a pet shampoo for emergencies.
Pack your own dog bowls for food and water. Bring a mat to place under them to avoid the inevitable flecks of kibble and water droplets. In fact, pack some wet wipes to remove the gobs from surrounding walls and cabinets.
Pack some cleanup bags or a poop scoop to assist in outdoor clean up. If your host graciously suggests that you don’t need to worry about it, then she is lying. She is just being polite.
Crates are your friend. Bring the crate along if your pup is crate trained. It gives your dog a familiar place to take a break from the excitement of new places and new people. More importantly, it gives you a place to put your pup if you go out to dinner. If you don’t have a crate, purchase a child gate or collapsible gate. Use it to keep your dog out of the kitchen, the baby’s room, and any other off limits areas. Only you can prevent the theft of sandwiches and stuffed animals.
Treats are a great way to convince your dog to behave. Pack a few treats your dog finds irresistible.
Leash The Beast:
There is only thing standing between a rapturous reunion and disaster: a leash. Don’t allow your dog to leap all over your hosts, depositing slimy kisses on unwilling participants and muddy paw prints on crisp, white pants. Bring a leash for your dog and use it. Keep it on until he grows accustomed to his surroundings.
Walk It Off:
Many behavior problems miraculously disappear after a nice walk. When your Retriever starts bouncing off the walls or looking for edible trouble, take a hike. Walking is a great way to burn off your dog’s excess energy and encourage good behavior.
After a few days (or hours) in the company of your loved ones, your Retriever is not the only one anxious to escape. Nobody will guess your secret agenda.
When Dogs Collide:
Well-socialized Retrievers usually got along with other dogs. Not every dog gets along with your Retriever. Your host’s pup might object to the idea of a new dog in his territory. Don’t panic.
Start by introducing your dogs on neutral ground. Take them to a park or a field. This prevents territorial dogs from feeling threatened. Even so, some dogs are not fooled by this trick. If snarls and vicious threats are all your dogs have to say to each other, do not force the issue. Instead, use your crate or dog gates to keep the dogs separate. Take your dog for several short walks a day to keep her energy levels down and to give your host’s dog a few moments to relax.
Your dogs may be friends by the end of the trip. Or not. Either way, don’t let the dogs dictate the vacation.
Make The Right Call: Not every vacation is suitable for dogs. Not every dog is a good house guest. Dogs that are food aggressive, think cats and other pets are a tasty snack, or frequently have accidents inside the home are bad house guests. Use common sense.
Say Thank You: Having a strange dog in your home is stressful. Show them that you appreciate their generosity with profuse thanks. Give them a small, dog-themed gift and say it came from your pup. Consider beer or wine with a cute dog logo.
Your Retriever depends on you to teach him manners and to enforce them. Good manners keep him safe and let you both enjoy your vacation together. No need to be ashamed of your best friend. Follow these Retriever rules to ensure your hosts invite you and your dog back next year.
