Dog Behaviour Blog - Nick Jones from Alpha Dog Behaviour

Max & Pip. Trimpley Forest. January 2012.

2012-01-27T15:00:00.001Z

I had a wonderful walk with Max & Pip to day at Trimpley, just outside Bewdley. Nobody else to be seen (which I always like to be honest) so I could get a few nice shots of the dogs when they kept still long enough. I used my trusted Lumix LX3 which is still holding its own, especially with a bit of post processing. Cropping, levels, contrast and local sharpening only. Enjoy.

Benson makes great strides...

2012-01-22T20:01:00.002Z

This email has been reprinted with kind permission from the owner Kathy. Let me start by saying that Kathy and Alan have done a superb job with Benson. They represent owners that took a dog with existing issues and worked hard, no, very hard at improving his behaviour with my guidance to start them off.He had reactivity issues towards other dogs in public, visitors to the home (he leapt on the sofa and very nearly bit my face on the initial visit - I'm still reasonably quick) and lack of recall to name a few.

They both had to make marked changes in their handling styles to bring Benson, a young and very strong Lab x Staff round to their way of thinking and behaving. A firm but fair approach was needed and used. No aversives were used. He has been directed into better behaviour with the help and motivation of his stomach...always a good approach when it works.

It may also serve as a gentle reminder that there are few quick fixes to such behaviours. As I often explain, I give the tools, you work with them with my support.

~~~

Hi Nick,

Hope you had a good Xmas and New Year,

Thought you would like to read update on Benson;

We had guests on Xmas Eve, and as it was still daylight when they arrived we all met outside and they threw Benson treats (he loves the liver cake) while giving him little attention and then all walked in together. He barked a little once inside, but the guests continued with a few treats then I gave him a rope toy smeared with peanut butter and this distracted him for some time. I did keep him tethered so we could all relax, as Alans sister isn't overly keen on dogs and I didn't want Benson to pick up on her anxiety if he got too excited, I think meeting them outside helped greatly.

We took Benson on the Forest Dog Rescue sponsored walk in late December in the Wyre Forest. There were about 50 people and their dogs, and Benson was fine with all the dogs he met. As it was in the woods he did pull rather a lot, but so did all the other dogs, but we felt it was a good chance for him to socialise with so many people and dogs.

On New Years Eve we took him on a late afternoon walk down a country lane, so he would not be out when fireworks went off. It seemed that lots of others had the same idea as we met about 14 dogs coming in the opposite direction and he met all in a friendly way, although I did notice that most were bitches.

We purchased the Baskerville Ultra Muzzle as you suggested and it is a much better fit. He is fine with me putting it on him, but after 10 mins or so he tries to rub it off on the ground and it distracts him when I am recalling. I suppose this will just take time, and I am working on that every day.

I am still dropping the line in the afternoons and his recall is very good now, and as there are few, if any other dogs he is really listening to me. If we do see a dog in the distance he will stop and look, but I find I can distract him by throwing treats one at a time and telling him to "find"as we move along until he loses interest. We still take him to Habberley Valley, but sometimes I find there are too many dogs and they surround him and me (Liver cake on me), and at times become a nuisance especially as their owners do not recall them. Twice I have had to ask another owner to call their dog when they have been trying to get in my pocket or are jumping up at me. I will carry on dropping the line locally where it is quieter until he accepts muzzle before dropping it at Habberley Valley.

At the moment he has about 40 min walk down a country lane in the mornings, and a 45 min runaround plus 15 min walk every afternoon, and I think he is calmer generally. He also waits well now when I have stopped to chat to people. Thats all for now, will keep you posted.

Regards

Kathy

Max & Pip. Autumn 2011.

2011-11-25T14:33:00.000Z

Questionnaire. Masters in dog behaviour.

2011-09-13T22:16:00.007+01:00

Thank you for checking in on this link. I am carrying out my final research project for my Masters degree in dog behaviour with Middlesex University, London.

Please download the following two Word documents that will give you all you need. By assisting me you will be assisting other dogs and owners down the line. Thank you for your time and help.

Document 1. Letter of introduction and survey link.
Document 2. Material for review.

Sincerely,

Nick

Padstow Holiday. August '11

2011-08-30T14:32:00.000+01:00

Padstow July '11.

2011-07-28T16:34:00.000+01:00

Border Collie behaviour...

2011-06-08T16:04:00.001+01:00

Some heart warming feed back here folks:

"Hi Nick,

Just wanted to let you know that we had a leak over the bank holiday and had to call out a plumber. In the past I would have taken Millie out or gone up to my moms with her until they had been and gone, otherwise she would have barked and scratched at the door the whole time she was here.

However using "on your bed" and clicker, Me and Millie were able to stay at home in the lounge whilst they worked, and she only barked once!

Also Ted was mixing plaster with the plaster tool on his drill, Millie went over and started to bark and straight away he told her to lie down, which she did and he carried on with her just sat on the floor watching.

I really did not realise how she had taken over us.....but not any more!

She doesn't seem at all bothered and is as happy as ever.

We walked around the park this morning before work and she walked lovely behind another dog without bothering with it at all. Before she would have pulled to get to it. When the dog turned to look at her she looked at me straight away.

See you next week."

Max in Somerset. June 2011

2011-06-06T18:09:00.000+01:00

Free training and behaviour advice this Saturday!

2011-05-05T14:04:00.002+01:00

This Saturday I shall be at the Just For Pets store in Northfield Birmingham. Between 10am and 3pm. I have been working with this terrific group of stores for some time now, and always have plenty of people dropping in to talk on my in store days.

Please refrain from bringing in any aggressive dogs, as other dogs and people will be present and I am unable to address such behaviour in the store.

I hope you can make it and I shall be looking forward to your questions and meeting with you and your dogs!

Max at nearly 18 months!

2011-04-12T11:22:00.001+01:00

All taken about two weeks ago, but first to be published here. As you can see Max is growing (and growing!) into a fine looking lad. He is only just settling down enough to take on board some of the finer points in life, but he's great with it.

For those that often ask, he's a Hungarian Wire-Haired Vizsla. Not that hairy I'll grant you. My last girl Amber of the same breed and the same strain was really quite shaggy, so they vary quite a bit in my experience. For me his coat is perfect, and just what I wanted this time round. He's already an 'Advanced' truffle hunter, and I shall take this up again later in the year for more fun. He has an AMAZING nose on him and he is more driven to run with his nose down than perform other HPR duties...so far at least.

So, I give you Max.

Do let me know what you think.

Feeding Nature Diet...

2011-04-07T13:51:00.002+01:00

For some time my own dogs have been enjoying the healthy benefits of Nature Diet - a moist complete dog food. I am excited to announce that I shall be working closely with http://www.NatureDiet.co.uk in the future!

I approached the company recently to let them know how highly I rated the food and to also describe how I use it in most of my behaviour work. Nature Diet is a complete moist meal containing meat, brown rice and vegetables and therefore requires no additional supplements for the dog to receive all the essential nutrients required for a healthy life. All of the ingredients are UK sourced too which I love.

What I find Nature Diet does for the dog:

It is a 'clean' food, free from additives and low grade ingredients. So many supermarket brands are poor in nutritional quality that can lead to poor behaviour in the dog.

When looking to use food in behaviour work I want it to do three things...

1) To gain attention.

2) To keep attention.

3) To mark and reward desirable behaviour.

I have found time after time that Nature Diet is able to do this, leading the dog into better behaviour.
It is also excellent in use as a Kong stuffing food helping overcome separation anxiety, aggression to visitors to the home and the recall along with numerous other behaviour problems.

So a brief insight into how and why I use this excellent food.

Keep tuned for further announcements.

Nick

Calming a Border Collie....

2011-04-07T10:44:00.002+01:00

It's always great to get positive feed back after a job, but here's one that is of interest. The dog, a border collie female aged 5 yrs, had been in a stressed state for quite some time, the dog would follow the owner intensely about the home and had never relaxed during the day as a result. There are some dog to dog issues also which we have made start upon. Collies are often good candidates for clicker training in my experience and with the owner here that has a good sense of timing it's a perfect match making swift progress in the first week. It further proves the point I often make that older dogs can learn new tricks, the magic is in identifying the best approach with each dog and owner, and to remain flexible in doing so.

Hi Nick

It was really good to meet you on Monday. I don't know who was more tired me or Millie. I think we were ready for bed at 7!

I have had two really good days with Millie, its almost as if someone has stolen my dog and put a similar one in her place!

She is responding really well to her basic commands again such as sit and down. We are working on stay as she is doing this but tries to get up and move before I want her to, but she's thinking about it now at least.

We have already got a calmer dog going outside by making her wait until we want her to go out which has reduced this mad barking when she goes outside.

The nudging of my arm has improved as I tell her down and now she just lies down and sighs at me! She isn't following me half as much, she doesn't seem that bothered if I am there or not!

Most of all, because I am off this week I have been able to increase her walks and we have been to the park for an hour, I am amazed at the improvement in her behaviour with other dogs already, although not perfect and I know it will take time, I feel more confident that I can handle her when she sees another dog. She seems less bothered by them too. Nick when with Ted she is off lead but at the moment I when am an my own I use the extension lead as I feel happier at the moment with this. Is this ok in the short term until I am confident that she will do what I want her to when she sees other dogs?

Millie responds really well the the click and treat. I had forgotten a couple of other things which we had trouble with such as using spray bottles (when cleaning for example) or if Ted is using a drill or anything that moves and makes a noise. I successfully cleaned the window yesterday using the down and stay, and today while Ted was using the drill used the click and treat. Both times we only had one bark instead of a constant barking from her.

I feel really positive about how we can develop this further and its so nice to see her lie down and sleep.

Think that's all for now but I will keep you updated.

Regards

Lisa

I have been interviewed for the Hall of Fame...

2010-12-20T11:21:00.002Z

http://canisbonus.com/2010/11/28/blimey-my-dogs-barmy/

With thanks to Laure-Anne Visele for her time and effort in putting together a well crafted interview.

Turid Rugaas weekend!

2010-10-21T17:28:00.003+01:00

Look here for some highly interesting details of a Weekend's workshop with Turid.

Rottweilers most expensive breed...

2010-10-12T19:52:00.000+01:00

People with rottweilers face the highest vets' bills, with treatment for the dogs typically costing 61% more than for the cheapest breed, research shows.

The average cost of treatment for a rottweiler is around £441, nearly a third more than the average bill run up by all types of pedigree dogs, according to Sainsbury's Finance.

Weimaraners are the next most expensive dogs when it comes to vets' bills, with each treatment costing an average of £407.84, followed by bulldogs at £396.37.

But at the other end of the scale, West Highland Whites are the cheapest dogs to have treated, running up average bills of only £271, followed by Yorkshire terriers at £279.96 and King Charles spaniels at £284.72.
The group, which analysed claims on Sainsbury's Pet Insurance, also found a big variation in the cost of treating different breeds of cat.

A Maine Coon was the most expensive breed, costing an average of £487.93 per treatment, 40% more than the average, followed by a Bengal at £409.79.

Persian cats are the cheapest felines, with their average treatment bill around a quarter cheaper than for all breeds at £266.83, while taking a Burmese to see the vet costs around £296.17.

Neal Devine, Sainsbury's Pet Insurance manager, said: "The average cost of treating different breeds can be huge, but many people don't consider the likely difference in cost between different breeds before buying a pet.

"We would urge people to look at all the costs they could face, from food to veterinary fees, before choosing a pet."

Alpha Dog Behaviour - New web site intro.

2010-10-05T19:15:00.000+01:00

Folks! A video taken yesterday to celebrate my new web site!

Watch it enjoy the dogs on a glorious Autumn day. I even throw in a bit of entertainment to keep you perked up and on the ball.

Nick

New dog behaviour web site!

2010-10-04T16:51:00.000+01:00


Max. 04.10.10

Today brings excitement and a big change to my web site which has been developed (by me originally) and indeed served me well for well over 5 years. My brother Andrew has crafted this new web site with the existing and fresh content. His creative enthusiasm is clear for all to see. I hope you find something of interest, and please let me know if you see anything that needs to be adjusted, or any user experience problems you might have.

Perhaps you could spread the word for me?

Thank you.

Nick Jones
Alpha Dog Behaviour

The site can be seen here: http://www.alphadogbehaviour.co.uk

Just For Pets free behaviour and training open days coming soon!

2010-09-20T20:44:00.001+01:00

Free training and behaviour advice with Nick Jones of Alpha Dog Behaviour at Just for Pets stores.

The stores can be located here

Just For Pets Kidderminster. 2nd October 10am-3pm.

Just For Pets Droitwich. 9th October 10am-3pm.

Just For Pets Wolverhampton. 16th October. 10am-3pm.

Due to the success of last year's mini road show, I shall be repeating it again this Autumn with the new and latest store to open in Wolverhampton.

You'll have an opportunity to ask me what you like (though no sport questions please), and you can also bring your dog along on the day. No aggressive dogs please, as the venue is not suitable for it.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Max is 12 months old...

2010-09-20T19:45:00.003+01:00

Max my Wire-Haired Vizsla is now 12 months old, and this is a useful time to stop and reflect. I can't reflect for too long as he's quick and always ready to go go go!

As I tell most of my clients in my behaviour work, I like to focus on polite behaviour and good manners more than anything. Once we have this, we have an excellent foundation to start to bring in other disciplines or more interesting and varied training work. My own boy Max is no exception, and I think you'll find he has a cracking nature that is willing to please and he also has a high work drive to boot.

Max has Achilles heel. It's called 'Liver'. I buy big packs cheaply, cook it all off in the oven, let it cool, chop it up, and and then bag it up ready for use in recall training or anything else that takes my fancy. I freeze it ready for future use.

Last week I took Max down to Somerset to be introduced to the ways of truffle hunting. Well that was superb fun and he took to it like well, a duck to water. He impressed both Marion the instructor and me, and I shall be using my frozen samples as training 'bait' again this week. I have had a long standing and (to some) peculiar interest in fungi. I know a few now that I can eat, and I never fail to be impressed by these seasonal delights that spring up in all sorts of weird colours and shapes. Photographing them can add an extra wonderful dimension too, as to find your self flat on the forest floor with those earthy smells up your nose, well, I just love it. Always careful to check nobody can see me...goodness knows what they'd think. At least I usually have a dog with me which seems to be a good excuse to go most places! It's not unusual for me to be setting up a shot only to have a dog trample the sample in front of my eyes.

Here are the details of Marion Dean's truffle school should you be interested: http://www.plantationsystems.com/dog-school

So a few pictures of Max a Million for you. All taken in the last week:

He looks so noble with the mushroom...maybe it's a calling in life for him too? The mushroom is a Boletus type. Most of which are edible. Boletus Edulis is the prized 'Cep' , 'Porcini' or 'Penny Bun' depending on your country.

Time allowing I hope to develop Max to a good standard on the truffle hunting front. This could open some interesting doors, and a great excuse to mess about in other people's woods.

Best wishes reader,

Nick

December '10 update:

I am very pleased to say that Max was awarded 'Truffle Hunter of the Year' by Marion Deane and her truffle hunting school. A great honour which I hope to further secure with next season's truffles as they emerge! Max has an incredible nose...he was born to run with his nose to the ground...astonishing to watch if I say so myself.

We still love Pip of course!

Dog Aggression. Positive feedback here!

2010-08-06T18:31:00.003+01:00

As you will know I find my blog to be the best way to extend positive feed back, and here is my latest:
Oh and by the way, I have to say that little Rossi whilst a determined little lad, was easily one of the best looking dogs I have met this year. For the best part, calm and charming.

(I have highlighted certain words in the thank you letter for you to think about.)

Nick's advice and understanding of our concerns has been a great help. With Nick's guidance and by applying his suggested action plan we have been able to make great progress with Rossi's training and social behaviour. The work continues, and Nick remains available to support if needed.

We are happy to recommend Nick's services!
Thanks, Jon & Lyn & Rossi

Click 'Add This' to spread the word...

Customer feed back...

2010-07-26T18:32:00.001+01:00

This is not new feed back, as it was found down a pile of things to do. None the less another customer seeing good results by following my calming and control measures for dog to dog aggression.

Hello Nick

Just a formal thank you really as we have seen good improvement.

I mostly walked Sidney in France alone and he has vastly improved. He still has a tendency to go into stalk mode but is easily distracted.

Now back in England I have reverted to walking both together mostly on river side dunes as we meet lots of dogs there. I keep him on v long leash but Archie comes too and is off leash.

Sid is amenable with most dogs but still has unexplained (to me) occasions when he makes a jump at another dog - I have realised he rarely does this with bitches - but that is not exactly a clinical trial viewpoint!

With 1 group of dogs who we meet a couple of times a week - 6 or 7 - in total I am confident enough to have him off lead and he is fine but interestingly will go into a stalk mode if another new dog approaches and sometimes chases it briefly.

The spray collar unprimed has helped with Archie's barking and he is a lot more confident. He jumps in out of car in a very relaxed fashion now.

It was such beautiful weather in France that doors were always open so we have only just restarted having them sit and wait at the door but good progress.

We are very grateful for your support.

Kind regards Maggie

2010-07-12T18:38:00.001+01:00

Responsible Dog Owners Campaign.

Very simply, follow the above link and read for yourself the smart initiative by Jez Rose.

German Shepherd ... On lead aggression / reactivity in general.

2010-07-09T14:31:00.001+01:00

As you know I always like to post up good progress. Many owners (this one included) have a very pessimistic view of what can/could be achieved when at the lowest point in a relationship. This is a large long coated GSD that has the looks to die for. A stunning and very bright dog. The owner had to come to a point where all confidence was shattered. It was my job to build it up in her, so that she can pass it on to the dog, and start to reintegrate to her outside life with the dog.

Just the beginning, but a highly auspicious start!

Hi Nick,

First of all thank you for all the help you gave us just over a week ago I have studied the manual and the notes you made for us!!

Last week I slowly introduced the moist food into his diet and practised everything you showed me, this week I have done both walks so far with all the moist food eaten out on his walk.

Last week I tried training treats (wainwrights) to help me along a little but I must say the moist food seems to be working much better!!

He has remembered everything you showed him - I'm amazed at his ability to learn! He has been working for everything like you said and has much less affection he works for that too (although harder on my part me thinks!! )

All has been good so far I have encountered lots of people, bikes and cars the only dog we have seen was a distance away and he was hard work to say the least I made him sit as much as I could and fed to try and keep interest, the lady I don't think was sure what i was doing and popped her dog on a lead (he was in his front garden) and popped him inside, I wasn't planning on walking past but thought it would do him good as he wasn't to know he wasn't there anymore. We mus have stopped 8 times before we passed (lady thought I was mad I think ha) but we got past eventually, prob the only time he has really been hard to maintain, which is amazing to be honest I'm used to being dragged around the whole time.

Overall amazed at his progress and cant wait to have our second lesson so if you want to let me know when you think it would be best to do that?

Sorry for long email, but we are very excited (the dog is calm!) with everything so far so thank you.

Hope I am doing it all correctly!

Border Terrier aggression...

2010-07-05T13:10:00.002+01:00

You might like to read this (printed with permission as always).

This Border Terrier had become very reactive to other dogs (especially on lead...well he was hardly ever off it due to his behaviour!). I know I say this each time, but here is another example of how well dogs can do with a calm structured approach to walking and just 'being' in public. Well done to these people for your hard work and calm approach so far! I love my customers...I love my work!

Hi Nick
Thought i'd just give quick update re. Doug
He is still doing well and we haven't lapsed on any of the rules !
He seems generally a lot calmer - seems to know we're more in charge now and listens to us
Getting out the door is no problem now. When friends come or we go out we ask everyone to ignore him and he is so much better, just lies down and has a kip.
He is not barking at the birds in the garden half as much - and if he does he normally stops when we say leave it.
Still getting him used to the muzzle - he has worn for very short time - but he doesn;t seem too adverse to it.
We think he has only barked at one dog since your visit - that was when it came round the corner suddenly
So there are definitely huge improvements - hopefully you will see the differences at your next visit.

Talking puppies....

2010-07-01T15:50:00.002+01:00

Here is a snippet of a chat I had with a puppy owner recently, and thought it might be of interest:

Training any dog is a matter of personal approach of course and what suits one may not suit another. This also applies from breed to breed.

A quiet, balanced approach is what I like to drum on about, and it sounds as though you're on the right lines.

Other people with your puppy can be your worst enemies as they love to be marauded by a puppy and then walk away leaving you to put it all back together again. I am polite but firm, and tell people that I do not want him to jump up when saying hello (for example) I then show them the sit, hold the collar and then offer the back of hand and then progress to calm fussing. Start as you mean to go on I say, so of course the pup gets a puppyhood, but we start to introduce the rules from an early stage so it's not a shock at any point.

Very young dogs are very able to get the rules right from the start I can assure you. I do a few puppy visits that address problem behaviours, and it never ceases to amaze me how controlling and out of control some 12 week (or thereabouts) pups can be!

Sometimes we do need to constantly redirect for certain what appear to be persistent unwanted behaviours. If you let it go by without addressing it there and then, when will it stop? Will it stop? Puppyhood can at times feel like one constant noooooooooooooo. Be sure to mark positively the behaviour you do want and then you'll have a ratio which is perfectly acceptable. I read in The Times this morning at a coffee shop that experts advocate a ratio of 1 correction to 6 praises for teenagers...I thought that would work well for a young dog too.

Don't stress about bonding as you have a life time to do that. Correcting a dog will not adversely affect your relationship. If anything you may find the opposite. Keep it fair, keep it balanced. No shouting, no smacking etc required.

I don't like shaker bottles personally (though I have used them in certain circumstances) it can (you have a collie remember) set up a bit of a 'flinch' reaction, and I would rather use my voice and attention or withdrawal of attention for example.

Go with the flow and keep it balanced (gawd I sound like a hippie) and you'll be fine.

Best of luck.

Nick

Repeal and replace the Dangerous Dogs Act with better legislation Petition

2010-06-25T16:01:00.000+01:00

Please read and sign this petition...it positively affects you and your dog!

Repeal and replace the Dangerous Dogs Act with better legislation Petition

Border collie puppy aggression.

2010-06-22T11:48:00.000+01:00

This was a collie pup I first saw for quite bad aggression towards the owners. An increase in direction and leadership training for the owners was needed immediately as the dog was nearly going back to breeder or worse. Many new puppy owners are surprised at how strong willed and 'bity' young dogs can be.

Hi Nick,

Just wanted to thank you for all your help with Molly. Since your first visit Molly is a much more settled puppy and more importantly we feel more in control. We found the immediate transformation in her quite remarkable. She is now much calmer in the house and no longer biting us which has enabled us to start some training with her. Through your guidance we are now able to walk her on a short lead in her obedience class and are no longer having to deal with her jumping up, biting and grabbing hold of the lead. (The class leader is also amazed with the difference in her). We would also like to thank you for encouraging us to crate train her as this has been invaluable. We would not hesitate in recommending you to anyone who has a problem with their dog, we found you to be very understanding and knowledgeable. It is a comfort knowing that we are able to contact you at any time for further advice should we need it.

Many thanks the Roberts family.

Great client feed back...

2010-06-16T14:19:00.001+01:00

As always, so nice to get good feed back. This is a Border Terrier in the London area that has become selectively aggressive towards some dogs. No point in keeping it to myself is there? Reprinted with permission:

Hi Nick,

It was nice to meet you on Monday - we are taking everything on board and already seeing changes!

He has now spent 2 nights on the landing and is perfectly happy there.
Getting out the gate and door much easier - this morning he just sat and waited for me to call him from the gate first time (the front door took 4 goes).
He loves the Nature Diet (knew he would).
We bought a muzzle - he has not tried yet but have been showing him it so he gets used to it. (introduction notes sent to client).
Both doing the '123' thing and so far so good. (My famous 123 method is employed here).
Our new routine is I take him out early for a walk / jog (7ish) on short lead, partner takes him out 11 ish and then we both go out in the evening with the training lead.
For the training lead , we have found a field with no other dogs around at top of the park which is perfect - after an intital 5 mins of totally ignoring us because of all the smells he was recalling to us both and really enjoying his freedom on the long leash and leaping around in the long grass like he used.
Also doing the postman thing with the leash on.

How to Find the Right Dog Behaviourist

2010-06-08T17:35:00.000+01:00

I now write for Field & Rural Life Magazine re dog behaviour. Nice to be aboard!

How to Find the Right Dog Behaviourist

Public Consultation on Dangerous Dogs

2010-05-25T12:08:00.000+01:00

Public Consultation on Dangerous Dogs

The above text is a direct link, though I have cut and paste details for you to scan through as below:

Does current dangerous dogs legislation adequately protect the public and encourage
responsible dog ownership?
9TH March 2010
www.defra.gov.uk
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Nobel House
17 Smith Square
London SW1P 3JR
Telephone 020 7238 6000
Website: www.defra.gov.uk
© Crown copyright 2007

Copyright in the typographical arrangement and design rests with the Crown.
This publication (excluding the royal arms and departmental logos) may be reused
free of charge in any format or medium provided that it is re-used
accurately and not used in a misleading context. The material must be
acknowledged as crown copyright and the title of the publication specified.
Information about this publication and further copies are available from:
Rebecca Kenner
Animal Welfare Act Implementation Team
Area 8B LMB
c/o 17, Smith Square,
London,
SW1P 3JR
Tel: 020 7238 5801
Email: animalwelfareconsultations@defra.gsi.gov.uk
This document is available on the Defra website:
www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/dangerous-dogs/index.htm .
Published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
1
Consultation Document:
Contents:
Part I: This consultation
1. Scope of this consultation
2. Basic information
3. Definitions
Part II: The current situation
1. Background
2. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
3. The Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997
4. The Dogs Act 1871, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1989
Part III: Proposed actions
Possible options:
1) An extension of criminal law (i.e. section 3 of the 1991 Act) to all places, including
private property
2) Additions or amendments to (including possible repeal of) section 1 of the 1991 Act
3) Repeal of the 1997 Dangerous Dogs Act to prevent any more prohibited types of dog
being added to the Index
Other options for consideration:
4) The introduction of Dog Control Notices
5) A requirement that all dogs are covered by third-party insurance
6) A requirement that all dogs, or puppies, are microchipped
7) More effective enforcement of the existing law, including a consolidation of existing
statutes into one new updated Act
Part IV: Responding to this consultation
Part V: Consultation Criteria
Annex A – Summary of questions
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
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Part I: This consultation
1. Scope of this consultation:
1. This consultation is seeking views as to whether current legislation relating to
dangerous dogs adequately protects the public and encourages responsible dog
ownership.
2. Legislation on dangerous dogs is a partially devolved matter. Scotland has its own
Dangerous Dogs Act and Northern Ireland its own legislation on this issue. This
consultation applies to dangerous dogs in England and Wales.
2. Basic information:
To: We would like to hear from those responsible for enforcing the law
relating to dogs, those who have been the victim(s) of dog attacks,
animal welfare organisations, veterinarians, dog homes, dog owners,
and anyone else concerned about dangerous dogs.
Body/bodies
responsible for the
consultation:
Defra - Animal Welfare Act Implementation Team.
Duration: 12 weeks.
Enquiries: Enquiries about the content or scope of the consultation can be
addressed to Rebecca Kenner on 020 7238 5801, email
animalwelfareconsultations@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Requests for hard copies can also be obtained from the above email
address or Defra, Animal Welfare Act Implementation Team, Area 8B,
No 9 Millbank, c/o 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR or tel: 020
7238 5801
How to respond: Please send responses to either: Rebecca Kenner, Defra, Animal
Welfare Act Implementation Team, Area 8B, No 9 Millbank, c/o 17
Smith Square, London, SW1P 3JR
or by email:
animalwelfareconsultations@defra.gsi.gov.uk clearly stating the name
of the consultation in the subject header e.g. Dangerous Dogs.
Additional ways to
become involved:
Preliminary discussions have already taken place with a number of
relevant stakeholders so this will be a purely written exercise.
However, depending on the outcome of the consultation,
consideration may be given to wider stakeholder involvement.
After the
consultation:
A copy of the responses will be placed in the Defra library at Ergon
House, London. We will also summarise all responses and aim to
place this summary by a date to be confirmed on our website at:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/dangerous-dogs/index.htm .
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
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3. Definitions
1. For the purpose of this consultation, we shall use the definition of “dangerously out of
control” as it is used in section 10(3) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. This defines
“dangerously out of control” as: “a dog shall be regarded as dangerously out of control
on any occasion on which there are grounds for reasonable apprehension that it will
injure any person, whether or not it actually does so, but references to a dog injuring a
person or there being grounds for reasonable apprehension that it will do so do not
include references to any case in which the dog is being used for a lawful purpose by a
constable or a person in the service of the Crown”.
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Part II: The current situation
Background
1. There has been growing concern over public safety issues relating to dangerous and
status dogs. The term „status dog‟ describes the ownership of certain types of dogs
which are used by individuals to intimidate and harass members of the public. These
dogs are traditionally, but not exclusively, associated with young people on inner city
estates and those involved in criminal activity. In recent years, incidents, attacks and
fighting of these dogs has increased and some of these incidents have involved
children resulting in tragic fatalities. This is an issue which the Government takes
very seriously.
2. The Metropolitan Police alone have reported a rise in the number of dangerous dogs
processed through the courts from 35 in 2002/3 to 719 in 2008/9 and in March 2009
they set up a new Status Dogs Unit to specifically address these issues. In 2008, the
RSPCA received 188 calls related to dog-fighting in the street or park involving young
people.
3. Stakeholders have informed us that there is an increasing number of dangerous dogs
which are difficult to re-home. The resources required to enforce the law places an
increasing financial burden on those responsible: the Metropolitan Police spent £1.35
million last year kennelling seized dogs while waiting for an outcome at court. The
cost to the health service and the court service has not been estimated.
4. In 2007, following a number of tragic dog attacks on young children, Defra conducted
a thorough review of dangerous dogs legislation. Defra consulted all chief officers of
police in England and Wales to find out their views on how effective the dangerous
dogs legislation is, what could be done to improve enforcement, and whether any
parts of the law needed to be changed. Defra discussed the results of the
consultation with the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). The conclusion of
this review was that, while there was a range of powers available to tackle dangerous
dogs, the use of these powers by the police and partner agencies was not consistent
and more needed to be done to raise awareness of the current law and ensure its
enforcement.
5. To this end, Defra has been working on a number of initiatives to better help
enforcement of the law:
 In June 2008 Defra published an „easy to read‟ leaflet for the public on dangerous
dogs law („Control of Dogs – the Law and You‟). The leaflet was drafted in
collaboration with the RSPCA and the Metropolitan Police (as well as the Dogs Trust
and the Kennel Club).
 In April 2009, Defra published new guidance for enforcers of the law. The leaflet
was written in conjunction with the Metropolitan Police and the RSPCA and sets out
the current tools and powers available to enforcement agencies to tackle dangerous
dogs.
 In May 2009 Defra commissioned a research project to study human-directed dog
aggression. The project will last for 15 months, ending in December 2010, and will
entail both a systematic review of relevant research as well as a meta-analytical
study into the risk factors for human-directed dog aggression.
 In July 2009, Defra provided £20,000 to help fund ACPO training courses for new
Dog Legislation Officers, because every police force should have, or have access to,
a Dog Legislation Officer who has a thorough knowledge of dangerous dogs law.
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 In December 2009, Defra published a code of practice for the welfare of dogs which
provides advice on owning a dog and responsible dog ownership.
6. Defra is currently working with the Ministry of Justice to see what can be done to
improve the way courts handle dangerous dogs cases, to help ensure dogs are
kennelled for as short a time as possible to help reduce the costs to police. Guidance
to courts on the handling of dangerous dogs cases is currently being prepared, and
Defra has also had an article “Cave canem” published in the journal „Criminal Law
and Justice Weekly‟ 6th October 2009 (which is read by practitioners in the
Magistrates‟ Courts) on dangerous dogs law and how courts can improve the
processing of cases.
7. The Home Office has recently sponsored the passage of the Policing and Crime Act
2009 which includes a new prohibition within the gang-related violence provisions to
prevent gang members from being in charge of an animal in a public place if it has
been proven that the gang member has engaged in, or encouraged or assisted,
gang-related violence.
8. More widely, many animal welfare organisations and local councils are tackling the
problem of dangerous dogs and irresponsible dog ownership. Some local authorities
have already implemented compulsory microchipping, such as Wandsworth in
London (Under rules introduced in January 2009, all council tenants and
leaseholders must get their animals chipped and registered on a borough-wide
database.) Organisations such as the RSPCA are actively involved in the
enforcement of the law where it affects the welfare of dogs (such as in cases of dog
fighting) as well as participating in local initiatives that involve local agencies (the
local police force, local authorities, housing associations and local rescue centres)
working together to promote responsible dog ownership. Other organisations such
as the Dogs Trust and the Blue Cross are also extremely active in providing
information and guidance to dog owners, as well as promoting the use of
microchipping on all dogs.
9. However, concerns about the current law continue to be expressed in Parliament and
are also shared by law enforcement bodies and veterinary and animal welfare
organisations.
10. We therefore feel that it is appropriate to give interested stakeholders and the
general public the opportunity to express their views on whether it is necessary to
amend the current laws relating to dangerous dogs and if so, how these might be
changed.
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
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The current legislation
11. Two regimes, a criminal and a civil, exist to deal with dangerous dogs. The
Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, including the amendments in the Dangerous Dogs
(Amendment) Act 1997, created criminal offences in relation to all dangerous dogs.
Other legislation, including the Dogs Act 1871, contain civil remedies. The Dogs Act
1871 contains important powers that are still effective today. The Dangerous Dogs
Act 1989 complements the Dogs Act 1871, and provides a court with additional
powers, on complaint, about dangerous dogs.
12. Powers under the two regimes exist to: order destruction of dangerous dogs;
disqualify individuals from owning a dog; require individuals to keep their dog under
control; fine; and (in some circumstances) imprison owners of dangerous dogs.
13. It is also an offence to deliberately use an animal as a weapon to injure someone; a
successful prosecution under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861 could result
in a maximum sentence of life imprisonment where the defendant intended to cause
really serious bodily harm and such harm was caused. Where it cannot be proven
that a defendant intended to cause really serious harm and/or the injury is not really
serious, the maximum sentence is five years imprisonment. Where a defendant
deliberately uses their dog to cause someone to apprehend immediate unlawful
violence but no injury is caused, an offence of common assault (causing someone to
apprehend immediate unlawful violence) could still have been committed contrary to
the Criminal Justice Act 1988. This offence is punishable by a fine and/or a prison
sentence of a maximum of six months. In addition, under sections 34 and 35 of the
Policing and Crime Act 2009 ("Injunctions to prevent gang-related violence"), the
court can grant an injunction against a person forbidding him/her from having charge
of a particular species of animal in a particular place. This consultation deals with
dog-specific laws only.
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
14. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 was passed following a number of severe attacks on
members of the public (predominantly by pit bull terriers). At the time there was also
concern that there had been a rise in ownership of a number of other types of dog
which had been bred specifically for fighting.
15. It was therefore considered that prohibitions should be placed on four types of dog
that had been identified as specifically “bred for fighting”. Section 1 of the Dangerous
Dogs Act 1991 bans the ownership of four specific types of dog:
- pit bull terrier
- Japanese tosa
- Fila Brasiliero – added by Order in 1991
- Dogo Argentino – added by Order in 1991
16. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 refers to “the types known as” rather than “breeds”,
as the pit bull terrier and Japanese tosa are not officially recognised breeds in the
United Kingdom, and there are no breed standards. This section of the Dangerous
Dogs Act 1991 also refers to types which appear “to be bred for fighting or to have
the characteristics of a type bred for that purpose”.
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
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17. It is an offence to own or keep any of the above types of prohibited dog (“section 1
dogs”), unless the dog is on the Index of Exempted Dogs (“the Index”) and is in
compliance with the requirements of the Index. The Index was set up immediately
before the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 came into force so that owners of section 1
dogs, rather than having to destroy their dogs, could claim exemption from its
banning provisions and such section 1 dogs on the Index could live out their natural
lives. The intention was the eventual elimination of the population of section 1 dogs.
18. Exemptions were only granted if stringent conditions were met. Exempted section 1
dogs had to be neutered, tattooed and microchipped, and when in a public place had
to be on a lead, in the charge of someone over 16 years old and muzzled. Owners
also had to maintain insurance against their dogs injuring third parties and to provide
continuous evidence of that third-party insurance to the Index.
19. In 1991 owners who satisfied the Index that they had complied with the requirements
were issued with a Certificate of Exemption. Some 8,600 pit bull terriers were
notified to the police and the Index with a view to registration. Of these, 5,223
applicants complied fully with the requirements by the relevant dates and were
issued with a Certificate of Exemption.
20. In addition, section 1 of the Act provided for a scheme for the payment to owners of a
section 1 dog who arranged for them to be destroyed before 30 November 1991.
294 owners took up the offer at a cost to the Government of £14,700 (£25 was
available in the case of a pit bull terrier, with £25 payable to a veterinarian in respect
of the costs of the euthanasia of the dog).
21. The Index was destined to cease operating when the last of the original 5,223
registered section 1 dogs died.
22. It is an offence to breed, or breed from any of the section 1 dogs. It is also an offence
to sell or exchange, or advertise or offer for sale or exchange, any of the section 1
dogs.
23. The police and local authorities have powers of seizure under the Dangerous Dogs
Act 1991. In addition, the police are able to search premises for such dogs by
warrant. The maximum penalty for illegal possession of a prohibited dog is a fine of
£5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment.
24. After 30th November 1991 it was an offence to have a section 1 dog that was not on
the Index of Exempted Dogs. Any dog suspected of being a prohibited type could be
seized. If the seized dog was then found to be of a prohibited type, the Court had to
order its destruction. (See paragraph 32 below relating to the Dangerous Dogs
(Amendment) Act 1997.)
Section 2 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
25. Section 2 (1) provides for restrictions to be made in relation to “other specially
dangerous dogs” (other than section 1 dogs “bred for fighting”). The effect of a
section 2(1) Order would simply be to require breeds of dogs specified in the Order
(“section 2 dogs”) to be “muzzled and kept on a lead in the charge of someone over
16 years old when in public”. It is an offence to breach the requirement, and the
section 2 dog could be destroyed by order of a Court. The maximum penalty would
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
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be a fine of £5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment. No Orders in relation to “other
specially dangerous dogs” have been made under this provision.
Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
26. Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 creates an offence where a dog of any
type or breed (including a section 1 dog) is dangerously out of control in a public
place. Additionally, an offence is committed where, in a private place where it has no
right to be, any dog injures or causes reasonable apprehension of injury. If anyone is
injured, the offences become “aggravated”, which makes the offence triable on
indictment exposing the owner to a higher criminal penalty.
27. The police and local authorities have powers to seize any dog in a public place which
appears to be dangerously out of control. With a warrant, the police can also enter
any premises and seize any dog if they believe it has been involved in an offence.
28. “Public place” means any street, road or other place (whether or not enclosed) to
which the public have, or are permitted to have, access whether for payment or
otherwise and includes the common parts of a building containing two or more
separate dwellings.
29. After conviction the court has the power to impose a muzzling order or other
measures to keep the dog under control on any dog of any type. Section 4(5)(b) of
the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 enables a Court to order that male dogs may be
neutered in addition to, or instead of, other measures or controls.
30. A person found guilty of a “dangerously out of control” offence under section 3 may
face 6 months imprisonment or a fine of £5,000, or both, and the courts may
disqualify the offender from having custody of a dog for any period. Where an injury
is caused by a dog which is dangerously out of control in a public place, or an injury
caused in a private place where the dog is not permitted to be, the offence is
aggravated and if tried on indictment the fine is unlimited and the maximum sentence
of imprisonment is 2 years. The dog may also be destroyed, and the courts may
disqualify the offender from having custody of a dog for any period.
The Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997
31. A number of organisations, including the Kennel Club, the Dogs Trust and the
Metropolitan Police formed the Dangerous Dogs Act Reform Group to assess how to
improve the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.
32. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 was then amended in 1997. In the main this
amendment repealed the mandatory destruction orders that courts applied to dogs
found to be of those types prohibited by the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. It is now
possible for section 1 dogs to be added to the Index of Exempted Dogs, but only at
the direction of the court and only if the necessary conditions are met. In determining
whether the section 1 dog could be placed on the Index the Court must be satisfied
that it represents no danger to public safety. In such a case the Court makes a
Contingent Destruction Order and the owner then has two months to meet all the
preliminary requirements (neutering, tattooing, microchipping and providing evidence
of third-party insurance) before a Certificate of Exemption is issued and the dog
released back to the owner.
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33. No owner may „apply‟ to have their dog added to the Index – it is entirely a matter for
the courts to decide whether a dog can be added to the Index. New exemptions can
only be authorised at the discretion of the courts once a dog has been seized and
adjudicated on. As of January 2010, there are approximately 800 live dogs on the
Index, with approximately 10,000 dogs having been added to the Index in total since
1991.
34. Table 1 below shows the number of convictions and sentences under sections 1 and
3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991(1)(2) and numbers of prohibited dogs added to
the Index of Exempted Dogs – 2004 to 20091 for England and Wales.
Section 3 Section 1
Year Persons found
guilty of
offences
under Section
3 (dog of any
type or breed
being
dangerously
out of control,
etc)
Sentences
imposed on those
found guilty of an
offence under
Section 3
Persons
found guilty
of offences
under
Section 1
(ownership
of illegal pit
bull terriers
etc.)
Sentences
imposed on those
found guilty of an
offence under
Section 1
Section 1 dogs
permitted to be
added to the
Index (actual
certificates of
exemption issued
in brackets)4
Fine Custody Fine Custody
2004 547 203 5 17 16 0 6 (6)
2005 605 210 3 11 4 2 1 (1)
2006 658 232 8 6 3 0 6 (6)
2007 703 238 13 74 12 12 185 (141)
2008
(3)
763 247 21 115 54 6 330 (255)
2009 Not yet
available
- -
Not yet
available
- -
396 (314)
1
(1) The statistics relate to persons for whom these offences were the principal offences for which they were dealt with. When
a defendant has been found guilty of two or more offences the principal offence is the offence for which the heaviest penalty is
imposed. Where the same disposal is imposed for two or more offences, the offence selected is the offence for which the
statutory maximum penalty is the most severe.
(2) Every effort is made to ensure that the figures presented are accurate and complete. However, it is important to note that
these data have been extracted from large administrative data systems generated by the courts and police forces. As a
consequence, care should be taken to ensure data collection processes and their inevitable limitations are taken into account
when those data are used.
(3) Excludes Convictions for Cardiff magistrates' court for April, July and August 2008
Source; Evidence & Analysis Unit, Ministry of Justice
(4) The first figure in this column is the number of dogs courts have ordered to be added to the Index of Exempted Dogs (which
may be other than on a conviction), the figure in brackets is the number of Certificates of Exemption eventually issued by the
Index. Dogs that do not receive a Certificate of Exemption within 2 months of the order are usually destroyed. Source: Index of
Exempted Dogs
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Table 2 - The table below extracted from Table 1 shows the increasing number of section 1
dogs being added to the Index by Court Order
Year Orders made Orders complied
with
Percentage of
Orders complied
with (nearest %)
2007 185 141 76
2008 330 255 77
2009 396 314 79
35. The statistics show that in about just under a quarter of the cases Contingent
Destruction Orders are not complied with by the owner in the two-month period
stipulated. This suggests the Courts and owners are over-optimistic regarding
immediate ability and willingness to comply. These 201 ineffective Orders reflect an
additional 33 years of kennelling costs for the police (201 dogs at 2 extra months
each = 402 months).
Table 3 - The number of live dogs (as far as known) on the Index of Exempted Dogs for
which the insurance has not been renewed – 2004 to 2009 (source: Index of Exempted
Dogs)
Year 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Number 9 5 0 0 32 124
36. These statistics show that an increasing number of owners who have had their dogs
added to the Index are subsequently not keeping up the third-party insurance
requirement of the Index. It is possible that this may be indicative that some of the
other requirements (muzzled and on a lead in the charge of someone over 16 years‟
old at all times when in a public place) are not being adhered to either.
The Dogs Act 1871, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1989
Civil remedies
37. The 1871 Dogs Act provides courts with powers to impose restrictions or controls on
any dog it considers to be dangerous. Unlike the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, the
Dogs Act 1871 applies everywhere, including in and around a private house where a
dog is allowed to be. Any person can make a complaint under the Dogs Act 1871 to a
Magistrates' Court that a dog is dangerous.
38. Where a Magistrates' Court makes an order under the Dogs Act 1871 directing a
dog to be destroyed, it may also, under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1989 -
(a) appoint a person to undertake its destruction and require any person having
custody of the dog to deliver it up for that purpose; and
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(b) if it thinks fit, make an order disqualifying the owner from having custody of a dog
for such period as is specified in the order.
39. Any person who fails to comply with an order under the Dogs Act 1871 to keep a dog
under proper control, or deliver it up for destruction under the Dangerous Dogs Act
1989 is liable for a fine not exceeding £1,000 and the court may also disqualify that
person from having custody of a dog.
40. The strength of the Dogs Act 1871 is that, as the civil standard of proof applies, an
order may be made by the court on the balance of probabilities that a dog is
dangerous.
Dog Control Orders
41. Dog Control Orders (DCOs) were introduced by the Clean Neighbourhoods and
Environment Act 2005. They enable local authorities to progressively replace dog
byelaws without recourse to sign off by the Secretary of State. Under a DCO a local
authority may designate an area, and select from a number of activities that are to be
offences in that area, such as:
a) failing to remove dog faeces;
b) not keeping a dog on a lead;
c) not putting, and keeping, a dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised
officer;
d) permitting a dog to enter land from which dogs are excluded; and/or
e) taking more than a specified number of dogs onto land.
42. If an authority wishes to designate an area (which could be as limited as a park, or as
wide as the district) they must consult locally, taking into account the needs of dog
owners as well as others. Once a DCO is in place, anyone breaching the terms may
be prosecuted in a Magistrates‟ Court or receive a fixed penalty notice from an
authorised officer of the local authority. Police Community Support Officers are also
able to issue Fixed Penalty Notices under this Act.
43. Dog Control Orders are related to any dog being in a certain public place and being
prohibited from doing certain things – they do not target a particular animal. As such
they are easier to police.
Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs)
44. An Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC) or Agreement (ABA) is a voluntary written
agreement made between a person who has been involved in anti-social behaviour
and their local authority, local police force or landlord. ABCs are designed to engage
an individual in acknowledging their anti-social behaviour and its effect on others,
with the aim of stopping that behaviour. A number of areas have employed the use of
ABCs to deal with irresponsible dog owners.
45. ABCs are not set out in law, and the informal, flexible nature of the contract means
they can be used for various types of anti-social behaviour. An ABC that has been
breached may also be used as a basis for taking more stringent action, such as an
ASBO.
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Anti-social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs)
46. Section 1 (1) of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 defines anti-social behaviour as
acting in „a manner that caused or was likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress
to one or more persons not of the same household as the perpetrator‟. The types of
anti-social behaviour this may include are deliberately not defined in the Act, to allow
for the legal remedy or ASBOs to be used in a variety of circumstances and to tackle
a wide range of behaviours.
47. Therefore, where a clear pattern of behaviour has been identified, for example,
where an individual routinely uses their dog to harass or threaten others, ASBOs may
be used to effectively deal with and prohibit future occurrences of this kind of
intimidating behaviour.
48. The purpose of an ASBO is to protect the public from behaviour that causes, or is
likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress. Therefore, for an ASBO to be
appropriate, the applicant agency will need to provide evidence that the dog‟s
behaviour has caused harassment, alarm or distress to members of the public or
named persons, victims or witnesses.
49. One incident of anti-social behaviour may be sufficient for an order to be made,
however earlier incidents can be used as background information to support a case
and show a pattern of behaviour. If a catalogue of events where an individual failed
to control his/her dog can be shown, this will add weight to an ASBO application,
demonstrating that an order is both proportionate and necessary to protect the wider
community.
50. An ASBO can prohibit the named individual from owning or being in possession of
certain items such as knives, firearms or alcohol. Therefore, there is no reason why
agencies should not seek a prohibition preventing ownership or possession in public
of a dog. Prohibitions could include:
- Having in his/her possession, keeping or controlling any dog in any part of the
premises including the gardens and outbuildings at any time.
- Allowing any other person residing at the above premises from having,
keeping or controlling any dog on any part of the premises at any time.
Anti-social Behaviour Injunctions (ASBIs)
51. As with ASBOs, Anti-social Behaviour Injunctions under section 153a of the Housing
Act 1996 may also be used by social landlords to prohibit intimidation and
harassment caused by individuals using or allowing their dogs to threaten others.
The same principles apply – social landlords will need to demonstrate that the
individual has behaved in a way that is capable of causing nuisance or annoyance to
any person; and that the behaviour directly or indirectly relates to or affects their
housing management functions.
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Part III: Proposed actions
Possible options
52. Defra is aware that there are a range of possible options for amending dangerous
dogs law: These include:
1) An extension of criminal law (i.e. section 3 of the 1991 Act) to all places,
including private property.
2) Additions or amendments to (including possible repeal of) section 1 of the
1991 Act.
3) Repeal of the 1997 Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act to prevent any more
dogs being added to the Index.
53. Other options for consideration:
4) The introduction of Dog Control Notices
5) A requirement that all dogs are covered by third-party insurance.
6) A requirement that all dogs, or puppies, are microchipped.
7) More effective enforcement of the existing law, including a consolidation of
existing statutes into one new updated Act.
54. The above options are discussed in more detail below, and the Government would
like to hear people‟s views on them. Each option may be taken separately, or some
options could be considered together as a „package‟. There may be other options
respondents consider that the Government should look at. We would be happy to
receive any further ideas people have to amend dangerous dogs law. It would be
helpful to the Government if any proposals for other changes were supported by
evidence or argument as to why that proposal was necessary.
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Option 1: An extension of criminal law (i.e. section 3 of the 1991
Act) to all places, including private property
55. Although section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 makes it a criminal offence for
an owner to allow any dog (regardless of breed) to be dangerously out of control in a
public place, or a private place where the dog is not permitted to be, the 1991 Act
does not apply to attacks committed on private property where the dog is permitted to
be.
56. The Communication Workers Union launched the “Bite Back” campaign in 2008,
calling for “the law to be modernised and made effective in order to hold to account
the irresponsible, careless and reckless owners of vicious dogs”. 2 They have
reported that 6,000 postal workers are attacked each year by dangerous dogs, and
this number is increasing. They believe that the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 should be
extended to include private property where a dog is allowed to be, thereby making it
a criminal offence. The case of R v Bogdal [2008] EWCA 1 shows how the law
currently operates. 3
57. The Dogs Act 1871 can be applied to private property. Any person can make a
complaint to a Magistrates‟ Court that a dog is dangerous, or report the matter to the
police. The Dogs Act 1871 is not part of the criminal law, as such it operates on a
lower standard of proof, and proceedings can be taken even when a criminal offence
has not been committed. It provides a remedy in a wide range of circumstances for
the destruction of, or imposition of controls on, dangerous dogs. However, while
there are a number of actions that can be taken to tackle dangerous dogs under the
Dogs Act 1871, since it is not criminal law, a dog being dangerously out of control on
private property where it is allowed to be, is not a criminal offence.
58. Where an attack has taken place on private premises it is possible for a person who
has been attacked by a dog to initiate civil proceedings to claim damages on the
basis that the person owning or controlling the dog was negligent.
Possible financial impact of extending the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to all places,
including private property
59. If the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 were extended to cover all places, including private
property, this may result in increased numbers of investigations and prosecutions
under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. This would represent an increased cost to the
police, the Crown Prosecution Service and the custodial service. There would also be
increased costs as a result of any legal aid that was required.
2 Taken from http://www.cwu.org/dangerous-dogs-bite-back.html
3 Whilst within the grounds of his owner‟s large house Mr Bogdal‟s dog bit 3 people (on 3 separate occasions)
including the investigating police officer. Mr Bogdal was acquitted of all offences by the Court of Appeal because
the dog (an unnamed Alsatian) was not in a public place or on another‟s private land where not permitted to be.
Two of the victims were using Mr Bogdal‟s drive to get to an old people‟s home (Sycamore House) which had
been built in the former back garden of his home. (Visitors to Sycamore House had been granted a licence to use
the drive rather than there being a public right of way across Mr Bogdal‟s private land.)
Q1: Do you think that the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 should be extended to cover all
places, including private property where a dog is permitted to be? Why?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
15
60. In the event of an increased number of prosecutions, there could be larger numbers
of dogs that were required to be kennelled by the police. This would represent an
increased cost for the police.
61. If the terms of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 were widened to cover all places, it is
also possible that larger numbers of the currently prohibited dogs might be
abandoned by their owners. This could result in an increased cost to dog welfare
organisations and dog rescue homes, which may have to kennel the larger numbers
of abandoned dogs.
Option 2: Additions or amendments to (including possible repeal
of) Section 1 of the 1991 Act
62. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 currently includes four types of dog which are illegal
to own. These were banned following attacks on members of the public from these
types of dog, and reported increases in their usage in dog fighting.
63. In recent years, the number of dangerous dog convictions has increased (see Table
1). Some of these involve the types of dog banned in 1991, but not all. In cases
involving these non-banned breeds, it is where they are deliberately being used to
intimidate and harass communities or undertake criminal activities, including dog
fighting.
64. Many animal welfare organisations in England and Wales are generally inclined to
the view that breed-specific legislation does not work. This view is shared by some
professional veterinarian bodies. We understand that a move to repeal the legislation
that prohibited certain breeds would be welcomed by some groups. However, other
welfare groups, local authority interests, and the Association of Chief Police Officers
consider that while breed-specific law is not easy to enforce at present, there are no
viable alternatives and it should not be repealed. Concerns have been raised about
the difficulties of identifying the breed “type” dogs and there are studies showing that
breed identification based on appearance alone may be inaccurate.
65. There are concerns by those who oppose breed-specific legislation that it does not
take into account the role of the owner in a dog‟s behaviour. Additionally, it does not
take into account an individual dog‟s behaviour. Breed is seen as only one factor
which may affect a dog‟s behaviour. However, even though scientific literature
acknowledges that there may be a genetic component to dog‟s behaviour, a large
number of research papers suggest that other factors such as obedience training,
neutering, sex, age, owner behaviour and owner competency etc. have a major
influence over individual dog‟s behaviour. Furthermore, there is also international
evidence supporting that there is a substantially greater injury and fatality rate for
children when compared with adults and that male children are injured and killed
more often than female children. This indicates that human behaviour may also be a
Q2: Do you think that extending the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to cover all places could
have a financial impact upon the police/court service/Crown Prosecution Service? Why?
Q3: Do you think that extending the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to cover all places could
have a financial impact upon welfare organisations/dog homes? Why?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
16
major factor. Human and dog population densities are also risk factors identified by
research. These factors may explain why inappropriate behaviours are widespread
across many breeds.
66. However, many correspondents to Defra, and some representatives of local
authorities, take the view that the list of dogs specified in the 1991 legislation should
be extended further to protect the public. They believe breed-specific legislation
should include all bull breed types, including Staffordshire Bull Terriers. It has also
been suggested that other breeds, such as the Japanese Akita, be added to the list
of prohibited breeds.
67. Defra is currently of the view that before considering amending or repealing breedspecific
legislation, it would be necessary to have robust risk-based evidence to
support the move. We have discussed the possibility of an extension with key
stakeholders including the police and local authorities, and they do not consider that
it would be a helpful development. Nevertheless the consultation provides an
opportunity for us to seek the views of the public on this issue.
68. It should be noted that under the current legislation, it is an offence to allow any dog
to be dangerously of out of control in a public place or a place it has no right to be.
This is not restricted to any particular breed.
Possible financial impacts of extending/amending breed-specific legislation
69. If breed-specific legislation were to be extended, there may be an increased number
of dogs seized by the police – this could cause additional costs for those responsible
for enforcing further bans. However, in the long-term there could be savings for law
enforcement agencies and those responsible for treating dog attack injuries.
70. If breed-specific legislation were to be extended, there may be a larger number of
dogs abandoned or taken to dog homes and shelters, which would result in an
increased cost to these facilities while it was determined whether or not the dogs
were illegal breeds.
71. If breed-specific legislation were to be extended, there may be a saving for the
Police, Crown Prosecution Service, custodial service and those providing legal aid as
there may be a reduced long-term cost from fewer attacks and incidents involving
Q4: Do you think that breed-specific legislation, in its current form, is effective in
protecting the public from dangerous dogs? Why?
Q7: Do you think that breed-specific legislation should be repealed? Why?
Q5: Do you think that breed-specific legislation should be extended to include other
breeds or types of dogs? If yes, which?
Q6: If breed-specific legislation were extended to include other breeds or types of dogs,
what is the evidence to justify doing so?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
17
dangerous dogs. Likewise, there could also be a saving for the health service due to
fewer dog bites and attacks.
72. If the breed-specific legislation were to be repealed there may be fewer numbers of
dogs of that type abandoned/taken to shelters so this may represent a saving for the
animal welfare organisations and shelters. At present dog homes/shelters also
kennel a number of healthy dogs which are of prohibited types, so if breed-specific
legislation were to be repealed this would result in a saving for animal welfare
organisations as they would be able to re-home the healthy dogs once they had
undertaken a behavioural assessment.
73. If breed-specific legislation were to be repealed, there may be a reduced number of
dogs seized by the police. As a result there would be a saving on the cost of
kennelling these seized dogs as well as in the legal proceedings which may take
place following seizure. There may also be a saving in police officers no longer being
trained
Option 3: Repeal of the 1997 Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act to
prevent any more dogs being added to the Index.
74. The 1997 amendment to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 introduced an exemption
which repealed the mandatory destruction orders that applied to dogs found to be of
a type prohibited by the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. This allows dogs of prohibited
types to be added to the Index of Exempted Dogs, but only at the direction of the
court.
75. The organisations which originally lobbied for the exemption introduced by the 1997
amendment would oppose the removal of this exemption, unless there is an
alternative monitoring scheme which prevents the destruction of prohibited types of
dog. They believe that if you were to remove this exemption, it could result in dogs
which do not present any danger to the public being destroyed, and a number of
dogs of the prohibited type being abandoned. The soundings that we have taken of
other key stakeholders indicate that they would have considerable misgivings
concerning the removal of the Index, as it would be unpopular with many dog
owners, and could lead to the destruction of dogs that are well-adjusted family pets.
76. In order for a dog to be added to the Index of Exempted Dogs, there must first be a
breach of the law, even if no prosecution takes place. It is now not possible for an
owner to apply to have their dog added to the Index. However, this does mean that if
a dog of a prohibited type is seized by the police and the owner is prosecuted in
court, the dog can be kept legally, so long as the court is satisfied the dog is of no
danger to public safety and the requirement for registration of the Index of Exempted
Dogs are complied with.
Q8: Do you think extending breed-specific legislation would have a financial impact upon
other organisations, such as the police and dog shelters? If yes, in what way?
Q9: Do you think repealing breed-specific legislation would have a financial impact upon
other organisations, such as the police and dog shelters? If yes, in what way?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
18
77. The conditions which the owner must comply with are:
 The dog is neutered, tattooed, microchipped and has third-party insurance before it
can be registered and released to the owner .
 Thereafter when in a public place the dog must be on a lead, in the charge of
someone over 16 years‟ old and muzzled at all times.
 The owner must maintain third-party insurance in relation to the dog.
78. If the exemption which was introduced by the 1997 amendment were removed, it
would mean that any dog of a prohibited type could not be placed on the Index of
Exempted Dogs, and would have to be destroyed unless an alternative monitoring
control is put in place (e.g. registration or licensing).
79. By removing the exemption, in theory it would eventually lead to the complete
eradication of the pit bull terrier type of dog from the country, as after all the current
dogs on the Index had died there would no longer be such a thing as a legally kept
dog of a prohibited type.
Possible financial impacts of removing the exemption without alternative monitoring
systems put in place
80. If the exemption were to be removed, there may be reduced costs for dog homes and
animal welfare organisations as they would not have to house a dog of a prohibited
type while its behaviour was assessed, in order to place it on the Index of Exempted
Dogs.
81. Removal of the exemption may also reduce costs for the police as they would no
longer have to have the behaviour of a dog of a prohibited type assessed in order to
assist the Court in deciding whether or not it should be placed on the Index of
Exempted Dogs.
82. However, removal of the exemption is more likely to result in increased costs of
kennelling for the police force as owners of dogs which are suspected to be of
prohibited types may want further scientific evidence to prove that they are of not that
type. Appeals where dogs are found to be of the prohibited type (and therefore have
to be destroyed) are likely to be much more common. This may result in longer-
Q12: Do you think that introducing an alternative monitoring system to the Index introduced
by the 1997 amendment would improve the current situation regarding dangerous dogs?
Which system would you consider best?
Q11: Do you think that the exemption should be kept, but with tighter restrictions? If yes,
what sort of restrictions do you think should be added?
Q10: Do you think that the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment should be
removed? Why?
Q13: Do you think that removing the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment would
allow more effective enforcement of the current dangerous dogs legislation?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
19
running cases, so longer kennelling times. This will also result in higher court costs,
impacting upon the custodial services and those providing legal aid.
Option 4 : The introduction of Dog Control Notices
83. The Dogs Act 1871 provides courts with powers to place control orders on dogs and
their owners. However, the process of going to court can be costly and time
consuming, and it may be more effective if the powers to impose control noticescould
be provided direct to enforcement authorities themselves.
84. Dog Control Notices are being considered as part of the Dog Control Bill, which is
currently being debated through the Scottish Parliament.
85. Dog Control Notices could enable a police officer or local authority representative to
serve a dog owner direct with a “control notice” where the owner has failed to
properly control a dog. This control notice allows an officer to require a number of
remedial measures including:
a) Keeping the dog muzzled when in public;
b) Keeping the dog on a lead when in public;
c) Arranging for the dog to be neutered (such a decision would have to be
confirmed by a court before it is put into effect);
d) Microchipping the dog;
e) Arranging for the dog and owner to undergo training; and/or
f) Arranging for the dog to be confiscated and re-homed.
86. Another option might be to use Dog Control Notices on private property, where a dog
has the right to be, for example in the garden or yard of a house. It could be possible
to issue a Dog Control Notice which stipulated, for example, that a dog had to be
muzzled while in the front garden.
87. It is accepted that much depends upon the standard of the enforcement agency. In
many local authorities, dog wardens are highly-trained, knowledgeable and
conscientious. In others, wardens may not have appropriate training in people or dog
skills. In addition, owners who disagree with a particular control notice (for instance
that a dog needs to be neutered) should have the opportunity to appeal or object to a
notice. That might be a matter for the Magistrates‟ Court, alternatively for referral to a
third party, such as a dangerous dogs specialist.
88. In addition, there is anecdotal evidence that inner city areas, including parks, are
gathering points for youths with „status‟ or dangerous dogs. We would be grateful for
views as to whether this perception is true, and if local authorities or the police need
Q14: Do you think that removing the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment could
have a financial impact upon welfare organisations/dog rescue homes? Why?
Q15: Do you think that removing the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment could
have a financial impact upon the police force/other enforcement agencies? Why?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
20
to be given powers in legislation to ban all dogs from certain areas on public safety
grounds.
Possible financial impact of introducing Dog Control Notices:
89. There are likely to be enforcement costs as well as savings in introducing Dog
Control Notices. Enforcement officers will need training in using the Notices, but
Notices may save time and enforcement effort over seeking an order through the
courts under the 1871 Dogs Act. Courts may also save time by not having to hear
1871 Dogs Act cases, although they may need time to hear cases where Notices
have been ignored or appealed. Dog rescue homes may also have to deal with an
increase in dogs if Notices are ordered to be re-homed.
Option 5: A requirement that all dogs be covered by third-party
insurance
90. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, any owner of a dog on the Index of Exempted
Dogs must maintain insurance against their dog injuring third parties. Another option
which may protect the public could be to extend this measure so that all dog owners
must have third-party insurance. Alternatively it could be extended so that it is
Q18: Do you think the proposed remedial measures are appropriate or would you remove
any of them? Why?
Q16: Do you think Dog Control Notices might be an effective preventative measure for
tackling dogs which are not being properly controlled?
Q17: What sort of incidents do you think could be covered by Dog Control Notices?
Q20: Do you think there should be an appeal process for all Dog Control Notices?
Q21: Who do you think should be responsible for Dog Control Notices, if they were to be
introduced?
Q23: Do you think that introducing Dog Control Notices will have a financial impact on
enforcement agencies? Why?
Q22: Do you think enforcement authorities should have powers to ban dogs from certain
areas on public safety grounds? Why?
Q19: Do you think it should be possible to issue Dog Control Notices which apply to
private property, where a dog has the right to be? Why?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
21
compulsory for owners of certain breeds of dogs to have third-party insurance. There
would need to be penalties for those who fail to insure their dogs.
91. It is likely that insurers would charge differently by breed due to the risk being higher
of more severe injuries from larger, more powerful breeds. Insurance charges may
also vary depending on the number of dogs insured.
Possible financial impacts of requiring all dogs to be covered by third-party insurance
92. We would be interested to hear people‟s views on the likely financial impact of
introducing a third party insurance requirement. There will be a financial impact on
dog owners, but there will also be an impact on dog rescues. Would those kennelling
dogs, such as rescue centres or breeders need to have third party insurance until
such time as a dog has a permanent owner? Would dog rescues have to take in
more dogs because owners were reluctant to obtain insurance?
Option 6: A requirement that all dogs, or puppies, are microchipped
93. Microchipping is recognised as a permanent method of identification that greatly
improves the identification and traceability of dogs and their owners. It is generally
argued that owner‟s details are more easily accessible. Likewise, the dog is more
easily traceable in the event that it strays.
94. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, any owner of a dog on the Index of Exempted
Dogs must have their dog microchipped. The Docking of Working Dogs‟ Tails
(England) Regulations 2007 requires all dogs whose tails have been legally docked
to be microchipped. Likewise, under the Welfare of Racing Greyhounds Regulations
2010 only greyhounds that are microchipped with the details of the dog and its owner
on a publicly accessible database are allowed to race or trial.
95. It has been suggested that microchipping is a measure that could be extended to all
dogs, or alternatively it could be made compulsory that all dogs of a certain breed
Q24: Do you think that third-party insurance should be compulsory for all dog owners?
Why?
Q25: If you support the requirement that all dogs should be covered by third-party
insurance, how should such a requirement be introduced and enforced?
Q26: Do you think that third-party insurance should be compulsory for owners of only
certain breeds of dog? If yes, why and which breeds?
Q27: Do you think that requiring all dogs to be covered by third-party insurance could
have a significant financial impact upon individual dog owners? Why?
Q28: Do you think that requiring all dogs to be covered by third-party insurance will
have a financial impact upon welfare organisations/dog homes? Why?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
22
have to be microchipped. Sir Patrick Bateson recommended in his recent report that
all puppies should be microchipped before they are sold. 4
96. Since being introduced in 1989, over 4 million dogs and cats have been
microchipped. There are an estimated 8,000 registrations every week. 5
97. The largest microchipping database in the UK is Petlog, which operates as a not-for -
profit organisation. In 2009, Petlog registered over 512,000 pets. 6 The Petlog
database is accessible 24 hours a day to authorised bodies such as animal wardens
or animal welfare centres, who can scan the microchips in dogs or cats and trace
their owners via the Petlog database. Today between 40-50% of dogs in the United
Kingdom are registered on the Petlog system.
98. Were microchipping to be made compulsory, then those who either failed to
microchip their dog or keep records up to date would need to be subject to penalties.
This would place a further responsibility on enforcement bodies. The benefit of
microchipping is that it may deter people from keeping a dog that is dangerous, as
microchipping increases the chances that the dog could be traced back to them.
However, others would argue that only responsible owners would have their dog
microchipped, while irresponsible owners would ignore any such requirement.
Possible financial impact of requiring all dogs to be microchipped
99. If a requirement that every dog be microchipped were introduced, there would be a
number of financial implications. As well as the obvious enforcement costs
(enforcement authorities having to keep scanners, courts having to consider a new
offence), there would be costs on all dog owners who had not already had their dog
microchipped, as well as potential costs on dog rescues who may not already
microchip all dogs that pass through their establishment. Dog rescues may also find
themselves having to take in more dogs, as some owners may be unwilling to keep
their dog if they have to pay to get it microchipped.
100. Another possible financial impact may be the cost of maintaining the database
which stores the details of the microchipped dogs and their owners. At present, this is
included in the initial cost of microchipping, however, if there were a larger number of
microchipped dogs, there may need to be more databases set up. Likewise, in order
4 Sir Patrick Bateson, Independent Inquiry into Dog Breeding, 14th January 2010.
5 www.dogstrust.org.uk/az/m/microchipping
6 http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/petlog/
Q29: Do you think that all dogs should have to be microchipped? Why?
Q32: Do you think that it should be compulsory for some specific breeds of dog to be
microchipped? If so, why and which breeds?
Q30: Do you think that all puppies born after a specified date should be microchipped before
the age of one year? Why?
Q31: How do you think such a requirement could be introduced and enforced?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
23
to ensure details were up to date and accurate, it may be necessary to have annual
checks for each dog, which would also result in an increased cost.
Option 7: More effective enforcement of the existing law, including
a consolidation of existing statutes into one new updated Act
101. Last year, Defra provided the Association of Chief Police Officers with a grant of
£20,000 to assist in the training of more police officers to become Dog Legislation
Officers (DLOs). This training has been popular, but there are still a number of forces
which do not have a DLO. ACPO believes that more DLOs would help tackle the
current problem with dangerous dogs, as the police would be able to enforce current
legislation more effectively. It is clear though that the law as it currently stands is
piecemeal, and often not readily understood. Defra has also issued written guidance
on dangerous dogs aimed at the police service and the general public.
102. An option that could also be considered would be whether there is a case for
strengthening the costs regime to allow courts to make cost orders against
defendants to recover the expenses incurred when kennelling seized dogs.
103. In consultation with other Government Departments and stakeholders, it has also
been raised that some of the reported problems with the enforcement of current
legislation is a failure of the courts to understand the law as it is. Welfare groups, the
police and other Government Departments have been working together to create
guidance for courts on how to approach cases involving dangerous dogs. It is thought
that this guidance could reduce the time it takes for cases to be processed by the
Courts, which would improve animal welfare and could also reduce kennelling costs
for the police and costs for the custodial service and those providing legal aid.
104. We also welcome the initiative taken by some local authorities/providers of assisted
housing to deal with tenants who have dangerous or unruly dogs.
105. It has been suggested that one possible option would be to bring all the existing dog
control statutes (Dogs Act 1871, Dangerous Dogs Acts 1989, 1991 and 1997)
together. There is undoubtedly plenty of scope for tidying up the dangerous dogs
legislation without necessarily changing what the current legislation does. The
Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (as amended by the 1997 Act) is poorly worded and can
lead to confusion amongst the police and the courts as to what the Act means. There
are a number of areas where the legislation could be clarified, or loopholes closed.
For example, dangerous dogs law allows the courts to disqualify people from having
Q33: Do you think that requiring all dogs to be microchipped will have a significant
financial impact upon individual dog owners? Please provide evidence.
Q34: Do you think that requiring all dogs to be microchipped could have a financial
impact upon welfare organisations/dog homes? Why?
Q35: Do you think that maintaining an up-to-date database of owners‟ details would
have a financial impact? Who do you think should be responsible for maintaining this
database?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
24
custody of dogs. However, this can be easily circumvented by claiming the
ownership of any dog has been transferred to a relative or friend (even though the
person continues to have control of the dog). It should be possible to amend the law
to ensure that disqualified people have nothing to do with dogs whatsoever. There
are other areas where redrafting would aid enforcement by making the legislation
more straightforward to use.
Q36: Do you think that all legislation relating to dangerous dogs should be consolidated
into a single piece of legislation? Why?
Q37: Do you think that more effective enforcement of current legislation would improve
the current situation regarding dangerous dogs? Why?
Q38: Do you think further training for police officers to become Dog Legislation Officers
would improve the current situation regarding dangerous dogs?
Q39: Do you think the government needs to do more to raise public awareness of the
existing law and what to do if you are aware of a possible breach?
Q40: Do you think there are better ways for the government to communicate with the
public and dog owners, including owners of „status dogs‟?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
25
Part IV: Responding to this consultation
105. We welcome your views on any aspects of the proposals contained in this
consultation. We are particularly interested to hear your views on the specific
questions asked throughout this consultation. A summary list of these questions can
be found at Annex A.
Please fill in our online questionnaire at:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/dangerous-dogs/index.htm
Or send comments to:
Rebecca Kenner – Defra,
Animal Welfare Act Implementation Team,
Area 8B, No 9 Millbank,
c/o 17 Smith Square,
London
SW1P 3JR
Or email: animalwelfareconsultations@defra.gsi.gov.uk clearly stating the name of the
consultation in the subject header eg: Dangerous Dogs.
Or fax: 020 7238 6009 clearly stating the name of the consultation and addressed to the
Animal Welfare Act Implementation Team.
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
26
Part V: Consultation Criteria
This consultation is in line with the Code of practice on Consultations. This can be found at
http://www.berr.gov.uk/bre/
 Criterion one - When to consult
Formal consultation should take place at a stage when there is scope to influence the
policy outcome.
 Criterion two - Duration of consultation exercises
Consultations should normally last for at least 12 weeks with consideration given to
longer timescales where feasible and sensible.
 Criterion three - Clarity of scope and impact
Consultation documents should be clear about the consultation process, what is being
proposed, the scope to influence and the expected costs and benefits of the proposals.
 Criterion four - Accessibility of consultation exercises
Consultation exercises should be designed to be accessible to, and clearly targeted at,
those people the exercise is intended to reach.
 Criterion five - The burden of consultation
Keeping the burden of consultation to a minimum is essential if consultations are to be
effective and if consultees‟ buy-in to the process is to be obtained.
 Criterion six - Responsiveness of consultation exercises
Consultation responses should be analysed carefully and clear feedback should be
provided to participants following the consultation.
 Criterion seven - Capacity to consult
Officials running consultations should seek guidance in how to run an effective
consultation exercise and share what they have learned from the experience.
Comments or complaints
If you wish to comment on the conduct of this consultation or make a complaint about the
way this consultation has been conducted, please write to:
Rhonda Marshall,
Defra‟s Consultation Co-ordinator,
Area 7C Nobel House,
17 Smith Square,
London SW1P 3JR,
or email consultation.coordinator@defra.gsi.gov.uk.
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
27
Annex A: Summary of questions:
Option 1: An extension of criminal law (i.e. Section 3 of the 1991 Act) to all places,
including private property.
1. Do you think that the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 should be extended to cover all places,
including private property where a dog is permitted to be? Why?
2. Do you think that extending the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to cover all places could have
a financial impact upon the police/court service/Crown Prosecution Service? Why?
3. Do you think that extending the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to cover all places could have
a financial impact upon welfare organisations/dog homes? Why?
Option 2: Additions or amendments to (including possible repeal) of Section 1 of the
1991 Act
4. Do you think that breed-specific legislation, in its current form, is effective in protecting
the public from dangerous dogs? Why?
5. Do you think that breed-specific legislation should be extended to include other breeds or
types of dogs? If yes, which?
6. If breed-specific legislation were extended to include other breeds or types of dogs, what
is the evidence to justify doing so?
7. Do you think that breed-specific legislation should be repealed? Why?
8. Do you think extending breed-specific legislation would have a financial impact upon other
organisations, such as the police, court service and dog shelters? If yes, in what way?
9. Do you think repealing breed-specific legislation would have a financial impact upon other
organisations, such as the police, court service and dog shelters? If yes, in what way?
Option 3: Repeal of the 1997 Dangerous Dogs Act to prevent any more dogs being
added to the Index
10. Do you think that the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment should be
removed? Why?
11. Do you think that the exemption should be kept, but with tighter restrictions? If yes, what
sort of restrictions do you think should be added?
12. Do you think that introducing an alternative monitoring system to the Index introduced by
the 1997 amendment would improve the current situation regarding dangerous dogs? Which
system would you consider best?
13. Do you think that removing the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment would
allow more effective enforcement of the current dangerous dogs legislation?
14. Do you think that removing the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment could
have a financial impact upon welfare organisations/dog rescue homes? Why?
15. Do you think that removing the exemption introduced by the 1997 amendment could
have a financial impact upon the police force/other enforcement agencies? Why?
Option 4: The introduction of Dog Control Notices
16. Do you think Dog Control Notices might be an effective preventative measure for tackling
dogs which are not being properly controlled?
17. What sort of incidents do you think could be covered by Dog Control Notices?
18. Do you think the proposed remedial measures are appropriate or would you remove any
of them? Why?
19. Do you think it should be possible to issue Dog Control Notices which apply to private
property, where a dog has the right to be? Why?
Consultation on Dangerous Dogs
28
20. Do you think there should be an appeal process for all Dog Control Notices?
21. Who do you think should be responsible for Dog Control Notices, if they were to be
introduced?
22. Do you think enforcement authorities should have powers to ban dogs from certain areas
on public safety grounds? Why?
23. Do you think that introducing Dog Control Notices will have a financial impact on
enforcement agencies?
Option 5: A requirement that all dogs be covered by third party insurance
24. Do you think that third-party insurance should be compulsory for all dog owners? Why?
25. If you support the requirement that all dogs should be covered by third-party insurance,
how should such a requirement be introduced and enforced?
26. Do you think that third-party insurance should be compulsory for owners of only certain
breeds of dogs? If yes, why and which breeds?
27. Do you think that requiring all dogs to be covered by third-party insurance could have a
significant financial impact upon individual dog owners? Why?
28. Do you think that requiring all dogs to be covered by third-party insurance could have a
significant financial impact upon welfare organisations/dog homes? Why?
Option 6: a requirement that all dogs, or puppies, are microchipped
29. Do you think that all dogs should have to be microchipped? Why?
30. Do you think that all puppies born after a specified date should have to be microchipped
before they are one years old? Why?
31. How do you think such a requirement could be introduced and enforced?
32. Do you think that it should be compulsory for some specific breeds of dog to be
microchipped? If so, why and which breeds?
33. Do you think that requiring all dogs to be microchipped will have a significant financial
impact upon individual dog owners? Please provide evidence.
34. Do you think that requiring all dogs to be microchipped could have a financial impact
upon welfare organisations/dog homes? Why?
35. Do you think that maintaining an up-to-date database of owners‟ details would have a
financial impact? Who do you think should be responsible for maintaining this database?
Option 7: More effective enforcement of the existing law including a consolidation of
existing statutes into one new updated Act
36. Do you think that all legislation relating to dangerous dogs should be consolidated into a
single piece of legislation? Why?
37. Do you think that more effective enforcement of current legislation would improve the
current situation regarding dangerous dogs? Why?
38. Do you think further training for police officers to become Dog Legislation Officers would
improve the current situation regarding dangerous dogs?
39. Do you think the Government needs to do more to raise public awareness of the existing
law and what to do if you are aware of a possible breach?
40. Do you think there are better ways for the Government to communicate with the public
and dog owners, including owners of „status‟ dogs?

Puppy behaviour.

2010-05-19T16:19:00.002+01:00

So, you have a new puppy and you may be having issues such as:

• Toilet training problems.
• Puppy aggression.
• Nipping / biting.
• Night time barking.
• Feeding / diet concerns.
• Unsure how to socialise your pup.
• Wanting to start basic training.

A puppy visit could be your solution!

Having a puppy is one of the nicest things that you could experience, and people have them for many reasons. Most of course simply want a companion dog that fits in well with the family be it on holiday or on leafy Sunday walks. Others may have other roles lined up for the dog, say a dog to run with, do agility, obedience work or a hunting dog. The vast majority of these dogs will live in the home, and will need to start off on the right foot in terms of fitting in with our rules and ideas of human living.

However, many people soon begin to lose that warm feeling when they see and experience the behaviour that such a cute furry ball can show! It is perfectly possible to bring things quickly back on track and this is why I offer a special puppy visit.

There is already a great deal written on puppies, their early days, weeks and months, and sensible approaches to choosing the right breed or type for you. I won't be going into great detail here for this very reason, but I do want to high-light a few things that could save you unnecessary heart ache now and into the future. I see my puppy visits as an excellent opportunity to address the element of prevention rather than cure later on once the wrong behaviour has become learned and indeed a real problem.

I offer a special puppy visit whereby we can take a few hours to go through each of the areas you may be finding problematical, and to address them in detail leaving you feeling confident on how to handle and deal with behaviour which you may find surprising in such a young dog. I have spoken to many a distressed owner of very young dogs that are at their wits end as to how to deal with a few issues that have grown and are making the experience a misery instead of the joy it could be. It needn't be this way...
For example, such young dogs can be doing some (or all!) of the following behaviour:

• Biting / Nipping problems
• Aggressive play or behaviour
• Chewing the house to pieces
• Barking at night - broken sleep patterns (great fun for you when you need to go to work and the dog can sleep all day!)
• Toileting in the 'wrong' places
• Jumping up problems
• Grabbing and holding of clothing
• Harassing the older dog / cat
• Rudimentary training

A number of these can start by finding a particular behaviour amusing or funny, and then we continue not fully realising how this could be a problem for you later on.

Here is a brief guide as to how to create a well mannered pup:

• Socialisation should be your main thought from the very beginning. This period begins to close down at approximately 12 weeks, and the brain is less receptive to new experiences. Therefore from day one introduce as much variety as possible. Dogs and people of all ages and sizes, shapes etc. Be sure the dog is safe at all times, and that you are able to quickly intervene if things get ‘out of hand’. Some keywords for you to consider: Dogs, People, Cars, Buses, Livestock, Pubs, Towns, Traffic, Your local vet…simply drop in for a pleasant hello and leave again! Ignore proper socialisation at your peril!

• Now is the time to introduce simple training. Sit, Down, Come and Stay is a good start, and the introduction to the lead and collar whilst walking with you in the home and garden and then outside as you progress. Keep it short, fun and simple.

• Be sure your dog remains on a good brand of food and that you are avoiding the supermarket end of brands…these contain many unnecessary additives that can affect behaviour and do not meet the dog's nutritional requirements.

• Set up good early practice with toilet training for a reliable dog into the future. Feel free to call me for further advice.

• Be sure that you dog is showing good manners, and don’t let your pup get away with behaviour you would find unacceptable in the adult dog; start as you mean to carry on.

• The use of a crate for your puppy is invaluable. I can provide high quality crates at less than shop prices…a free guide would be provided also.

• Be sure your dog will allow full body inspections and grooming. Start now with short sessions to prevent future problems.

I can be Contacted at any time for one to one puppy visits in the comfort of your own home. Please call free of obligation for costs and further details.
All puppy visits are followed up with free on-going advice and support via telephone or email for the life of the dog.

Nick Jones MCFBA
Alpha Dog Behaviour

Car chasing dog turns corner!

2010-05-19T13:01:00.000+01:00

(Reprinted with owner's permission.)

Again we can see here after only one week with a great deal of effort by the owner how much dogs can improve in a relativley short time. This dog was obsessing with traffic and would have got itself killed if let off the lead near traffic. It's fair to say that smaller dogs are easier to control initially with this sort of behaviour as we are able to gain control more easily. So much easier when we can kneel down next to the dog.

The owners have used a clicker extensivley in this case as they have the timing to get it right. Clickers are not right for every case in my opinion :)

Hi Nick

just thought I would update you on how we are going. Flash has been put through her paces as it were and is responding extremely well. She is now walking to heal really well and even did this off lead yesterday!!!

Walking to heel off lead?! Astonishing. I'm delighted to hear this! Well done folks!

She does return if tweeked on the long extension rope and is getting better at not ignoring!

Again excellent news!

The roadside work continues and she is responding really well to this and very often looks at cars now and does not always need distracting. However she will bark and go for a car every now and again, so still early days but getting there.

You are definitely off to a great start here. Stay really consistent and frequent with the approach you are employing. I'm loving all this good news!

She occasionally goes for the feet/shoes but again this is less frequent.

Again keep working at this and set yourself up for success by arranging opportunities for her to 'fail' so you are able to correct her behaviour there and then without delay. Any opportune feet grabbing should result in a stand still (keep moving and it rewards the chase for her) as you issue a 'Ah-Ah!' type sound in an displeased tone. Then calmly remove her from the shoe and place her into a time out either on her wall line or in her crate for a minute.

She is returning to her basket when instructed and tries every now and again to go on the sofa but will stay off if removed.

Going to her basket when asked is a great boon in the home, so I'm pleased about that for you. Again very well done! practice a few send to bed exercises whereby you reward her once she is in the bed and sitting there nicely. Build up the duration she is to remain in the bed to make it steady. Catch sofa jumping early where possible.

She still appears a little uncertain when we have visitng children as she barked at my friends little boy who appeared nervous in front of Flash. I removed her with a stern NO but again was not too sure the best way of overcoming this apart from the leave it command.

If you know the visiting child is nervous and the dog is also uncertain I would place her in the crate and be done with it. If the visiting child is more confident, then place her on the lead and allow them to drop in food from a distance free from pressure. Gradually shorten the distances and go from there. Always use a lead with visiting children until you are utterly confident. I suspect she will always be a little unsure...it's in her nature.

She likes the nature diet but although we are feeding the puppy/junior, the website suggsts by 6 months she should be on adult so any suggestion on this would be appreciated.

Place her on adult as she's 8 months now.

Overall definitely a step or few in the right direction and I am feeling happier as well when on my own with the dog.

Simply awesome work there. very well done. As I explained you've made that rapid 70-80% improvement very quickly, now you will settle into a slightly slower improvement curve and this is where you need to stick at it for lasting effect.
Can I suggest you keep on with this now and re contact me in a couple of weeks?
I remain on phone/email should you need additional support.

Best wishes,

Nick Jones MCFBA

Alpha Dog Behaviour

Fox befriends dog.

2010-05-19T11:34:00.001+01:00

Something a little more heartwarming though, as an adopted fox makes friends with a lurcher dog:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/8690881.stm

Dog theft...

2010-05-19T11:31:00.001+01:00

What part in a human motivates somebody to steal another persons dog?

I read this harrowing story just this morning about a little boy that was previously silent in that he didn't speak. He had a puppy Pug, and he started to speak again. The dog was stolen, and now he has returned to silence.

Apparently the boy is still looking for the dog in the home as he is only 4.

Just breaks my heart.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2010/05/19/unspeakable-115875-22268504/

Crufts 2010. Alpha Dog Behaviour

2010-05-05T09:19:00.000+01:00

Wire Haired Vizsla and border terrier run riot. Spring walk.

2010-05-05T09:18:00.000+01:00

Orchid pictures and others after a quick break.

2010-04-30T16:28:00.004+01:00

A swift 48 hour break that allowed me to meet up with an old and dear friend Stewart to get some walking and photography in.

The Orchids were taken near Swanage Thursday morning. Not long after the rain crept in and we were forced to call it off. The terrier is Stewart's own dog, and the lab is a dog that came over to say hello and eat Stewart's Dorset apple cake.

I take so few pictures in comparison to days gone by, but a love that is not far away.

Still, hope you enjoy these and thank you for looking.

Nick Jones MCFBA

Dog Behaviourist and trainer.

Frustrated photographer.

Cairn terrier turns corner!

2010-04-26T13:04:00.001+01:00

I like to post up feedback (with permission of course) to reassure you folks that your dog is very capable of change!

Dramatic change is very possible, and I regularly see it. Dogs are so inspiring when you stop to consider it. They live in this moment here and now. Not thinking about the loss of an old dog or past experiences, or even considering the future (well maybe about a meal or a walk...but not much further ahead than that!).

This being in the moment facilitates change. They can change because they are open to it- free from hindrances of the past or a future.

Of course dogs learn poor behaviour as well as good behaviour (though these remain somewhat subjective I know), but they are often ready for fresh input and a new way of doing things. Read on for a nice example of adopting change after only three days. These two Cairn terriers, and caring owners are a super example:

Dear Nick

Thank you so much for our training session last Friday.

We have been rigid with the training and not let up.

Their walking antics has improved by at least 40% just in this small space and time, and keeping them calm around the house has really worked.

We have had a few times out in the kitchen, but again working wonders.

They no longer get excited and jump in the mornings, so vast improvement there too.

I would just like to thank you for helping us, and realise they are still work in progress, (or we are work in progress should I say) – not to revert to our old habits.

It makes them a pleasure to walk now too. Only the odd session from Treacle and we have the tools to rectify her straight away.

The food is also going down a treat too, so thank you for that as well. They actually sit at the side of me waiting for their food to be prepared and clean bowls afterwards – how nice.

Completely dry nights too, and they seem to be responding to commands instantly now – just totally different calmer dogs.

I will keep you posted as to progress.

With warm regards

Lisa, Darren, Honey and Treacle.

I love my dog day! Open day.

2010-04-14T13:00:00.000+01:00

Click here to view the National Trust 'I love my dog day'

I'm pleased to announce that I shall be at the National Trust Clent Hills open day on the 25th April.

I shall be there to offer free dog behaviour and training advice on the day!

Feel free to come along and meet me there.

Clent Hills vets will also be there to offer guidance on the health of your dogs.

Event Details

Event

I Love My Dog Day

Venue

Clent Hills (in Worcestershire)

Description

Join us for a special day to celebrate your four legged friend. The National Trust, in partnership with Clent Hills Vets, and Nick Jones of Alpha Dog behaviour, will be on hand to give free pet health advice and information about walking your dog on this beautiful countryside site. There will also be a chance to enter your dog into various competitions and lots of freebies to take advantage of.

Admission

Normal Admission Charges Apply

Booking

Booking Not Needed

Where to Meet

Walton Hill Car Park, B62 0NQ

Bassett Hound aggression...

2010-04-12T19:57:00.001+01:00

Another superb example of how with hard work, commitment and the acceptance of change, dogs and owners can turn very big corners. Nicky and her family have my full admiration for the work and devotion they have put in since my visits, and will continue to do so I know. As always I facilitate...the owners 'do'. I offer the tools and show how to use them, the owners 'do'.

I love Bassetts, I admit to having a soft spot for them. They can suffer from the 'Oooooh look!' syndrome, and some may fail to see that there is actually a lot of dog under those flaps, folds and ears! All dogs regardless of the breed require guidance and control in certain circumstances, so this is far from a breed specific point I make.
~~~

I telephoned Nick late one evening a virtual wreck having witnessed my beloved Bassett Hound 'go for my mum'. This was the second occasion and I felt that I had two options left to me; get help, some serious help, or get rid of my dog.

I approached Nick as his website was so detailed, and as an added bonus the cost of his support in behaviour modification would be covered by my dog insurance. Nick gave me some instant advice over the telephone, and lots of reassurance that this awful situation could be turned around with hard work and consistency on my part.

Within 30 minutes of Nick's first visit I learnt some fantastic techniques, and was astounded at how both of my dogs responded to Nick. Bassett's are stubborn in my opinion, but here were my hounds looking to Nick for instruction. To cut a long story short, and leaving out all of the training, changes in my behaviour, house leads and mooring points! I now have two happy, content, easy going dogs, who know I am in charge and act accordingly.

Our training continues, and I know that Nick is on the end of a telephone should I need any further advice. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Nick to anybody and am sincerely grateful for his support and guidance!

Cornwall holiday pics... Pt.4

2010-04-09T22:03:00.001+01:00

Cornwall Pics...Pt.3

2010-04-08T10:11:00.001+01:00

Cornwall pics...Pt.2.

2010-04-08T10:00:00.001+01:00

Cornwall holiday pics... Pt.1.

2010-04-08T09:44:00.000+01:00

Change of tack re insurance for dogs.

2010-03-17T09:45:00.002Z

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8570830.stm

The government has ruled out forcing all dog owners to insure against their pets attacking people - a week after suggesting the idea.

Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said the proposal would not be turned into policy, as ministers did not "want to penalise" responsible owners.

The insurance suggestion for England and Wales was part of a consultation on dangerous dogs launched last Tuesday.

The Tories said the change represented a "humiliating U-turn" for Labour.

More than 100 people a week are admitted to hospital after dog attacks.

Ministers had argued that forcing five million owners to take out third-party insurance would ensure victims were compensated.

Nick Jones MCFBA
Alpha Dog Behaviour

BBC News - All dogs could be insured under dangerous breeds plans

2010-03-09T13:25:00.000Z

These new measures could have an impact on a number of owners.

It all seems a bit unclear still at this stage, but we shall see what the outcome is.

If I were an insurer, I would be rubbing my hands with glee at the prospect of good profits!

Nick Jones MCFBA
Alpha Dog Behaviour

BBC News - All dogs could be insured under dangerous breeds plans

Customer testimonial

2010-03-01T09:41:00.001Z

I love my customers. More great feed back here from a family that have put their heart and soul into this head strong male yellow labrador. Lovely dog, lovely family:

As owners of a very lively, headstrong, 18 month old Labrador, we felt that we needed help with his dominating behaviour. Nick was recommended to us by our vets, and we had 2 sessions with him....in November and February. We were very impressed by Nick’s simple, logical & practical approach to a number of issues. We certainly did not pamper or molly-coddle our dog, and felt that we were fairly disciplined with him. However, sometimes you need to be guided by someone....even if it is subtle changes in your own behaviour towards your pet. Nick was, without doubt, very adept at doing this. He showed us how, by making a number of changes (mainly in our behaviour) and to the surroundings, things would change. They certainly did and, within a few days, it was like living with a different dog. The second visit looked at the progress we had made, and tackled any further issues that had arisen in the intervening period. We are still a ‘work in progress’, but with Nick’s help (and ongoing offer of support), we are looking forward to living with an angel rather than a devil!

The thing to emphasise here folks is that dogs really are able to change...quite quickly in most cases too. I was blown away with the improvements that were clearly visible within the dog and watching the proud owners show me what they had done was a joy. As they state they need to carry on and maintain the work they have started.

Nick Jones MCFBA
Dog Behaviourist

More good feed back!

2010-02-22T23:20:00.001Z

Some great feed back after a puppy visit last week.

Hello Nick, since your visit he's been introduced to so much new stuff - the lead, walking, strangers, other dogs, cats, rabbits etc and he's been an absolute legend. We're using your advice about keeping a lead on him and such a simple thing has changed our whole approach, we can control him without him mistaking it for play. The tie up point is in place in the lounge and he knows he can only go in if he's super calm. Yesterday he sat in his bed in there for two hours without a single mistake; it was like he was plastic!

More than anything we want to thank you for reminding us he is a dog, not a human and his needs are very different. With your three hours teaching we are so much happier and have a happy balanced puppy that is so well behaved that everyone we meet is amazed he's so young. He's still a bit ‘bity’ on the clothing, but we're using the forced mistake method you taught us and are making excellent progress.

We'll keep you updated on our progress but thanks again for your excellent advice.

~~~

Thanks Andy...cheques in the post ;)

Parting shots...

2010-02-19T23:05:00.001Z

The last batch of pictures from today and yesterday. Still bright today, but very cold indeed. I spent most of my morning walk wishing I'd put my gloves on after all. At least I had a big bag of warm dog poo to warm my left hand...a shame it loses its heat so quickly.

Finished the day with a swim with Katie. She gave me some instruction which was enlightening :)

Going home much more relaxed, but a ton of work to clear! Feeling fitter after long walks every day...wish I had the time for that every day.

More holiday snaps...

2010-02-18T09:59:00.001Z

A picture says a thousand words they say, so we have an essay here...

Monday holiday snaps

2010-02-15T22:36:00.000Z

We've had all four seasons in one day today, but to our amazement managed to avoid getting wet.

Hope you like these shots.

Nick

Holiday snaps in Cornwall...

2010-02-14T23:10:00.001Z

What an amazing first day here in Cornwall. We adore Harlyn Bay, and today lived up to out greatest expectations with bright mildly warm sun on our backs and face.

I think I realised how much I needed the break as I felt my feet seep into the soft sand when standing still. Both dogs are exhausted and we have perfect silence back at the home.

A bit of a foodie day being Valentine's, what with egg on toast to start the day, a pastie for lunch and a three course dinner all made by me here at our place. The pastie was made by Rick Stein's. Never fail to get a good pastie from there. I'm rather full!

Not sure if we'll see such sun again this week, but here's hoping!

Enjoy the pics. Once again my LX3 camera offers a nice result.

Great feedback...

2010-02-12T17:53:00.003Z

Always nice to hear from people after a visit. I've had a run on puppy visits this week, and here's a comment from one of them:

Hi Nick,

Thanks so much for your advice yesterday and for confirming it all in writing. We have had a very enjoyable day with Charlie today. I put him in his crate this morning while I got the kids ready. He was happy to go and as a result we had a much more stress free morning. I took away the puppy pads and have taken him outside every hour using treats as a reward when he goes and so far no accidents for the first day yet !!!! He is already happy to sit and wait by the door. I'm absolutely over the moon at how well he's responded to your suggestions and I feel much better being in control. So thanks once again.

My puppy visit page can be seen here.

2010-02-11T15:56:00.000Z

Max all taken this morning in the light snow we had over night, and in the sun today.

What a handsome boy he is becoming! 5 and a bit months now.

Enjoy.

Nick

Mondays are for talking!

2010-02-08T09:27:00.000Z

Just a reminder that Mondays are now my 'official' day in the office. I am here most days to be fair, but seeing clients keeps me on the road Tuesday to Friday including the occasional Saturday.
It's the perfect opportunity for you to call me whether you're a prospective client or a colleague in the 'trade' wanting to make contact.

Office. 01299 404356
Mobile. 0775 9093394

Nick Jones MCFBA
Dog behaviourist,
Father,
Partner,
Entrepreneur,
Failed comic,
Frustrated Singer.
New Caravanner.

Dog quotations...

2010-02-08T09:21:00.000Z

I have loved quotations relating to dogs for some time now. I would like to have the time and presence of mind to write some of my own one day.

In the meantime here's a nice list I found today here http://www.quotegarden.com/dogs.html

~~~

There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face. ~Ben Williams

The great pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too. ~Samuel Butler, Notebooks, 1912

From the dog's point of view, his master is an elongated and abnormally cunning dog. ~Mabel Louise Robinson

Dogs are miracles with paws. ~Attributed to Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy

Man is a dog's idea of what God should be. ~Holbrook Jackson

The dog is the only animal that has seen his god. ~Author Unknown

Dogs' lives are too short. Their only fault, really. ~Agnes Sligh Turnbull

My little dog - a heartbeat at my feet. ~Edith Wharton

We long for an affection altogether ignorant of our faults. Heaven has accorded this to us in the uncritical canine attachment. ~George Eliot

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive. ~Gilda Radner

I think we are drawn to dogs because they are the uninhibited creatures we might be if we weren't certain we knew better. They fight for honor at the first challenge, make love with no moral restraint, and they do not for all their marvelous instincts appear to know about death. Being such wonderfully uncomplicated beings, they need us to do their worrying. ~George Bird Evans, Troubles with Bird Dogs

Our dogs will love and admire the meanest of us, and feed our colossal vanity with their uncritical homage. ~Agnes Repplier

One reason a dog can be such a comfort when you're feeling blue is that he doesn't try to find out why. ~Author Unknown

Scratch a dog and you'll find a permanent job. ~Franklin P. Jones

I talk to him when I'm lonesome like; and I'm sure he understands. When he looks at me so attentively, and gently licks my hands; then he rubs his nose on my tailored clothes, but I never say naught thereat. For the good Lord knows I can buy more clothes, but never a friend like that. ~W. Dayton Wedgefarth

When a dog barks at the moon, then it is religion; but when he barks at strangers, it is patriotism! ~David Starr Jordan

Properly trained, a man can be dog's best friend. ~Corey Ford

If you think dogs can't count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and then giving Fido only two of them. ~Phil Pastoret

With the exception of women, there is nothing on earth so agreeable or necessary to the comfort of man as the dog. ~Edward Jesse, Anecdote of Dogs

The dog is a yes-animal, very popular with people who can't afford to keep a yes-man. ~Robertson Davies

Dogs laugh, but they laugh with their tails. ~Max Eastman, Enjoyment of Laughter

My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am. ~Author Unknown

If dogs could talk, it would take a lot of the fun out of owning one. ~Andy Rooney

A dog is not "almost human" and I know of no greater insult to the canine race than to describe it as such. ~John Holmes

If you get to thinking you're a person of some influence, try ordering somebody else's dog around. ~Will Rogers

The more I see of man, the more I like dogs. ~Mme. de Staël

Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window. ~Steve Bluestone

To his dog, every man is Napoleon; hence the constant popularity of dogs. ~Aldous Huxley

They never talk about themselves but listen to you while you talk about yourself, and keep up an appearance of being interested in the conversation. ~Jerome K. Jerome

Did you ever walk into a room and forget why you walked in? I think that is how dogs spend their lives. ~Sue Murphy

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. ~Roger Caras

The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven, not man's. ~Mark Twain, letter to W.D. Howells, 2 April 1899

The most affectionate creature in the world is a wet dog. ~Ambrose Bierce

A dog is one of the remaining reasons why some people can be persuaded to go for a walk. ~O.A. Battista

In order to really enjoy a dog, one doesn't merely try to train him to be semi human. The point of it is to open oneself to the possibility of becoming partly a dog. ~Edward Hoagland

If dogs could talk, perhaps we would find it as hard to get along with them as we do with people. ~Karel Čapek

Near this spot are deposited the remains of one who possessed Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, and all the Virtues of Man, without his Vices. This Praise, which would be unmeaning Flattery if inscribed over human ashes, is but a just tribute to the Memory of Boatswain, a Dog. ~George Gordon, Lord Byron, "Inscription on the Monument of a Newfoundland Dog"

The dog was created specially for children. He is the god of frolic. ~Henry Ward Beecher

The greatest love is a mother's; then a dog's; then a sweetheart's. ~Polish Proverb

A man may smile and bid you hail
Yet wish you to the devil;
But when a good dog wags his tail,
You know he's on the level.
~Author Unknown

Dogs have given us their absolute all. We are the center of their universe. We are the focus of their love and faith and trust. They serve us in return for scraps. It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made. ~Roger Caras

No philosophers so thoroughly comprehend us as dogs and horses. ~Herman Melville, Redburn. His First Voyage, 1849

Anybody who doesn't know what soap tastes like never washed a dog. ~Franklin P. Jones

Any member introducing a dog into the Society's premises shall be liable to a fine of one pound. Any animal leading a blind person shall be deemed to be a cat. ~Oxford Union Society, London, Rule 46

A cat, after being scolded, goes about its business. A dog slinks off into a corner and pretends to be doing a serious self-reappraisal. ~Robert Brault,

In the world which we know, among the different and primitive geniuses that preside over the evolution of the several species, there exists not one, excepting that of the dog, that ever gave a thought to the presence of man. ~Maurice Maeterlinck

Happiness is a warm puppy. ~Charles M. Schulz

No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as the dog does. ~Christopher Morley

If you are a dog and your owner suggests that you wear a sweater... suggest that he wear a tail. ~Fran Lebowitz

Dogs feel very strongly that they should always go with you in the car, in case the need should arise for them to bark violently at nothing right in your ear. ~Dave Barry

A door is what a dog is perpetually on the wrong side of. ~Ogden Nash

Amount of time it takes for a dog to "do its business" is directly proportional to outside temperature + suitability of owner's outerwear. ~Betsy Cañas Garmon,

The reason a dog has so many friends is that he wags his tail instead of his tongue. ~Author Unknown

Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies. ~Gene Hill

I loathe people who keep dogs. They are cowards who haven't got the guts to bite people themselves. ~Author Unknown

The average dog is a nicer person than the average person. ~Andy Rooney

My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to 99 cents a can. That's almost $7.00 in dog money. ~Joe Weinstein

I always like a dog so long as he isn't spelled backward. ~G.K. Chesterton

If your dog is fat, you're not getting enough exercise. ~Author Unknown

The dog wags his tail, not for you, but for your bread. ~Portuguese Proverb

A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down. ~Robert Benchley

The best way to get a puppy is to beg for a baby brother - and they'll settle for a puppy every time. ~Winston Pendelton

I am not your dog, but if every time you saw me, you gave me a backrub, I would run to greet you, too. ~Robert Brault,

Life is like a dog sled team. If you ain't the lead dog, the scenery never changes. ~Lewis Grizzard

You ask of my companions. Hills, sir, and the sundown, and a dog as large as myself that my father bought me. They are better than human beings, because they know but do not tell. ~Emily Dickinson

There is no faith which has never yet been broken, except that of a truly faithful dog. ~Konrad Lorenz

If a dog will not come to you after having looked you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience. ~Woodrow Wilson

Dogs, the foremost snobs in creation, are quick to notice the difference between a well-clad and a disreputable stranger. ~Albert Payson Terhune

You think dogs will not be in heaven? I tell you, they will be there long before any of us. ~Robert Louis Stevenson

To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring - it was peace. ~Milan Kundera

When a man's best friend is his dog, that dog has a problem. ~Edward Abbey

A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself. ~Josh Billings

I wonder what goes through his mind when he sees us peeing in his water bowl. ~Penny Ward Moser

A dog can express more with his tail in seconds than his owner can express with his tongue in hours. ~Author Unknown

I love a dog. He does nothing for political reasons. ~Will Rogers

Children are for people who can't have dogs. ~Author Unknown

I named my dog Stay so I can say, "Come here, Stay. Come here, Stay." ~Steven Wright

When a shepherd goes to kill a wolf, and takes his dog along to see the sport, he should take care to avoid mistakes. The dog has certain relationships to the wolf the shepherd may have forgotten. ~Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

If you can look at a dog and not feel vicarious excitement and affection, you must be a cat. ~Author Unknown

The more one gets to know of men, the more one values dogs. ~Alphonse Toussenel

When a dog wants to hang out the "Do Not Disturb" sign, as all of us do now and then, he is regarded as a traitor to his species. ~Ramona C. Albert

Both humans and dogs love to play well into adulthood, and individuals from both species occasionally display evidence of having a conscience. ~Jon Winokur

The pug is living proof that God has a sense of humor. ~Margo Kaufman

Dachshunds are ideal dogs for small children, as they are already stretched and pulled to such a length that the child cannot do much harm one way or the other. ~Robert Benchley

I wonder if other dogs think poodles are members of a weird religious cult. ~Rita Rudner

Fox-terriers are born with about four times as much original sin in them as other dogs. ~Jerome K. Jerome, Three Men in a Boat

Labradors [are] lousy watchdogs. They usually bark when there is a stranger about, but it is an expression of unmitigated joy at the chance to meet somebody new, not a warning. ~Norman Strung

Newfoundland dogs are good to save children from drowning, but you must have a pond of water handy and a child, or else there will be no profit in boarding a Newfoundland. ~Josh Billings

Bulldogs are adorable, with faces like toads that have been sat on. ~Colette

The nose of the bulldog has been slanted backwards so that he can breathe without letting go. ~Winston Churchill

I like a bit of mongrel myself, whether it's a man or a dog; they're the best for everyday. ~George Bernard Shaw

Dog Flaps

2010-02-04T20:20:00.001Z

The dog flap.
We all love an easy life, and a dog flap can offer a big opportunity to take a back seat and let the dog do as it wishes. I often see problem behaviour associated with dog flaps. The dog can let itself in and out and is not within your control when it is outside. They are I recognise handy for allowing the dog out to toilet, but even then a young dog may be prone to the thought of turning and eating its own faeces. This is not uncommon with dogs that are not thoroughly ‘schooled’ with toilet training behaviour outside when they remain young. The dog may also go on to eat other items on the floor leading to digestive upsets and so on.

I personally do not allow my own dogs outside unless I’m there to supervise, and/or fully trust the dog’s behaviour. Free access can also lead to an over developed sense of perimeter guarding, so be aware of this and reconsider access altogether should you be struggling in any way. I have also seen dogs rush out to see off birds or squirrels, this can create an obsessive cycle of events so again be careful.

If introduced at the correct age on the basis that your dog can be trusted it can be a useful device. Introduce it too early and allow your dog free reign then sit back and watch the problems arise.

As always I am here should you wish to discuss your dog's behaviour.
www.alphadogbehaviour.co.uk

Nick Jones

Agression and small dogs.

2010-02-02T10:03:00.002Z

I seem to be going through a run of helping people that have small dogs with aggression. From a practitioners point of view there is less risk than dealing with a large dog such as a Labrador or German Shepherd say, but the behaviour remains as serious none the less.

Aggression to people invokes the Dangerous Dogs Act, and many people are either blissfully unaware or (often both) have not been reported for their dog's behaviour...yet.

Small dogs 'get away' with such behaviour for far longer as people may even see it as amusing at first until a child is involved, or the risk has become so great the owner is compelled to act.

People are often surprised at my fees for dealing with such behaviour as it can run into the hundreds. What needs to be considered however is the sheer amount of time that we will need to spend together to get to the bottom of the issue/s and to set up new practices to calmly guide the dog away from its previous unwanted behaviour. I also offer life time support via phone, email or face to face if the client chooses to pay for such ongoing support.

It's fair to say that changing aggressive behaviour is a long term commitment that needs management as much as behavioural modification. Management (or a lack of it) can often be the catalyst for such behaviours becoming installed and then practiced by a dog. My dogs are free from behavioural problems, but this is in the main due to my management, rather than many hours spent training them.

Small dogs share many more privileges with the owner than many big dogs simply as a result of their size. Smaller dogs can slip onto your lap no problem. Many are perfectly agile and can take up a small space on the owners bed or pillow. Nothing wrong with dogs on beds per se, but as with all things rules and expectations need to be set for a balanced life together. Some owners allow smaller dogs to get away with behaviour that would not be allowed in a bigger dog. This may be issue like jumping up, not recalling smartly or begging for food to offer a few examples.

These additional privileges can lead to a sense of over protection towards the owner (I saw this only last week and had a bitten shoe from a Dachshund as a result!). This element of over protection is in my view the most common. The owner may fail to understand how important it is to lead every dog regardless of size to allow the dog to relax and be at ease in its own skin. We should parent dogs, and make efforts to let the dog know it is the 'child' and we are the 'parent'. I am keen to point out that this can be done in a subtle, calm manner free from aggressive handling, shouting, eating before the dog (you may be pleased to stop that?) or relating to your dog as if it were a wolf.

There is no profound punch line to this article, other than to consider the way you relate to your own small (or not so small) dog and to think about the way you conduct your relationship.

I'm just leaving the office to see a small aggressive dog that hates visitors to the house. Wish me luck.

Nick Jones MCFBA
Dog behaviourist

Pet Education Training and Behaviour Council

2010-02-01T22:19:00.001Z

The PETbc, in consultation with Britain’s top full-time practitioners of dog behaviour and training have set out the definitions for roles in all the relevant disciplines in canine behaviour, training and puppy development. A total of over 200 years’ combined practical experience has led to the production of this definitive work.

http://petbc.org.uk/roles-list.html

Many professional roles have been defined for all to gain from. The link above describes the following roles:

Dog Trainer

Dog training Instructor

Professional Dog Trainer

Dog Training Behaviour Assessor

Puppy Trainer

Puppy Behaviour Assessor

Puppy Training Instructor

Canine Behaviour Consultant

Canine Behaviour Practitioner

Gundog Trainer

Gundog Training Instructor

Gundog Training Assessor

Police Dog Handler / Trainer

Police Dog Training Instructor

I hope you find this of interest.

Nick Jones MCFBA
(Canine Behaviour Practitioner.)

Take a break and smile...

2010-02-01T15:34:00.003Z

Excerpts from a Dog's Diary......

8:00 am - Dog food! My favourite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favourite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favourite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favourite thing!
12:00 pm - Lunch! My favourite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favourite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favourite thing!
5:00 pm - Milk Bones! My favourite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favourite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favourite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favourite thing!

Excerpts from a Cat's Daily Diary...

Day 983 of my captivity...

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects.

They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets.

Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.

The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a 'good little hunter' I am.
Bastards.

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow--but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released--and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.

The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicating with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now...............

Silent dog training

2010-02-01T13:07:00.001Z

As many of you will know that follow my You Tube channel or Twitter I have a 5 month old puppy Max a wire haired Vizsla.

I want him to start to pay a little more attention to my hand signals and body language as well as my voice, so as of today I am going to work more with him using hand signals alone...WITHOUT Talking to him!

He's a bright boy, and I have just fed him his lunch along with a directing to a front door mat, the stay and wait and then the release to go eat his food. It was all done in silence which meant I had to reset him once, and the release looked a bit tentative, but his hungry tummy meant he kept going to his bowl. :)

I can see this will be a great way to get him watching me even more closely, and that I can control him in silence when needed. Much better and more subtle than using my voice at times don't you think?

Why not try it with your own dog? Do let me know how you get on!

Best wishes,

Nick

Kong Stuffing...you know he'll like it!

2010-01-28T21:13:00.000Z

Here are some Kong Stuffing ideas to keep your dog happy....

BANANA RAMA:

1 fresh banana
2 tbs wheat germ ·
1 tbs plain yogurt (can use your pet's
favorite flavor as well) ·
Any KONG Toy that best fits your pet's
chewing temperament.

In a bowl, mash up banana. Then, add wheat germ and yogurt. Mash all ingredients together and use spoon to add to KONG. Freeze for 4 hours. Makes 1 serving for Medium KONG. Double for every KONG size that is bigger.

Fruit Salad:

Apple and carrot chunks
1/4 of a banana
Appropriate KONG toy

Place apples and carrots in KONG toy. Mush the bananas in large hole to hold fruit in place. You can include other fruits and veggies: orange slices, peach and/or nectarine chunks, celery sticks, broccoli and/or cauliflower, tomato and black olive mixture.

Veggie KONG Omelet:

1egg
Your choice of shredded cheese
Any veggies that your pet may like
Appropriate KONG toy

Scramble egg and fold in veggies. Put into KONG toy. Sprinkle with cheese over the top and microwave for about twenty seconds. Cool thoroughly before giving to pet.

Aunt Jeannie's Archeology KONG (for advanced dogs)

Fill your KONG toy (the larger the better!) in layers and pack as tightly as possible. LAYER ONE (deepest): KONG Stuff ’N Beef and Liver treats. LAYER TWO: KONG Stuff ’N Tail Mix or dry dog kibble, Cheerios, sugar-free, salt-free peanut butter, dried banana chips, apples and apricots. LAYER THREE: carrot sticks, turkey or leftover ravioli or tortellini. The last item inserted should be an apricot or piece of ravioli, presenting a smooth "finish" under the main opening. - by Jean Donaldson

KONG on a Rope:

KONG Stuff’N Tail Mix or dry dog kibble
Appropriate KONG toy
Rope

Pull the rope through the KONG toy and knot it. Hang this upside down from a tree, deck or post. The small hole should be facing the ground. Fill the large hole of the KONG toy with KONG Stuff’N Tail Mix or dry dog kibble. Make the toy hang just high enough that it is out of your dog's reach. Your dog will spend hours trying to retrieve the treats from the KONG toy. At the end of the day, take the remaining treats and give to your pet as a reward. This is advanced work for your dog. - by Ian Dunbar

Trixie's Favorite:

Trixie, a 50 pound Aussie/Springer mix, loves turkey meat and KONG Stuff’N Liver Snacks mixed with slightly moistened dog food nuggets frozen inside her Kong. She is very clean about unstuffing - some dogs are not! - by Joe Markham

Introducing babies to dogs...

2010-01-23T13:07:00.000Z

1. Getting ready for the arrival.
Preparations should begin months before the baby arrives. If your dog does not know how to sit, stay, lie down, or come when called, it should be taught to do so. If your dog already knows these commands but is unreliable, practice these obedience exercises with the dog until it is reliable. Even if you consider your dog "pretty good," that may not be good enough and could lead to your having a false sense of security. Imagine how your dog, if excited, will react when you bring the baby home. Can you depend on it to reliably sit and stay or down and stay and not rush toward the baby?

If you have had some experience training a dog, you might try obedience procedures at home. Otherwise, it would be best to take your dog to a good, humane training class. Your dog should associate the various obedience commands such as sit, stay, and come with pleasant experiences. Although your dog may need to be corrected occasionally, force methods should be avoided. After all, the goal is for the dog to like both the owner and the baby, not simply for it to obey because it is frightened or afraid of being punished.

Once your dog learns the basic sit/stay and down/stay commands, you should continue to work these commands at home. You should start requiring that your dog sit/stay or down/stay as you do things that resemble "baby activities" around it. For example, pick up a doll, cradle it, rock it, and walk back and forth. Periodically, reward the dog with titbits, petting or praise for remaining in a sitting position while this is going on. The doll should also be wrapped in baby blankets and shown to the dog, which must learn to control itself and to refrain from moving. Because dogs respond with interest to strange sounds, it is a good idea to accustom your dog to the recorded sounds of a baby crying, babbling, or making other normal "baby" sounds. Ideally, if the opportunity is available, expose your dog - in a controlled manner to ensure the infants safety - to real babies of friends or neighbours. This procedure should be considered only if the dog is reliably trained and controllable. The dog should gradually be exposed to babies until it can remain relaxed in their presence. This may require several sessions.

If your baby is born in a hospital, your dog will remain at home. You can use this interval to familiarize your dog with the baby's smell by bringing home blankets or clothing the baby has worn. (On the subject of nappies: It would advisable you to keep soiled nappies in a tightly closed container. One of the functions of a mother dog is to lick up the urine and faeces of puppies to keep the sleeping area clean. Quite frequently, female dogs will ingest the faeces of a human baby and may go to great lengths to clean up after the child, including raiding nappy buckets! This is not an abnormal behaviour but a normal aspect of canine maternal behaviour.)

2. Bringing Your Baby Home
When mother and child come home from the hospital, it is best if mother greets the dog without the baby present. Another family member should hold the baby or, better still, put in another room while the mother and dog greet each other. This way, you can avoid reprimanding an excited dog that merely wants to greet the owner and that may jump at the baby in an attempt to get near the mother.
Owners should allow some time for the dog to get used to the smells and sounds of the baby, which to it are the presence of another creature in the house. Later, when the level of excitement in the household has decreased and the dog appears relaxed, the baby and dog can be introduced to each other.

One parent should attend to the baby and the other to the dog. The dog should be in a sit/stay or down/stay and on a lead. If there is any concern that the dog may leap at the baby, a halter or muzzle should be placed on the dog. (The dog should already be used to the muzzle prior to this introduction.) The dog should be allowed to see the baby from 10 to 15 feet away. Then either the dog or baby should be brought closer to the other, slowly, one foot at a time. If the dog remains calm and under control, it might be allowed to sniff the baby, again from a safe distance. If the dog is extremely excited, however, this progression should not be attempted. If the dog has a history of predatory or aggressive behaviours, it may take many introductions before dog and baby are close enough for the dog to investigate the baby closely.

Err on the side of caution when determining when your dog is ready to approach your baby close enough to actually sniff the baby. Over a period of days, however, your dog should be allowed to smell the baby up close. After several introductions, and when it is clear that the dog is not going to nip or lunge at the baby, you can allow your dog off the lead near your infant.
(This does not mean unsupervised visitation or that you should lay the child down for the dog to investigate it.) As a further precaution, the dog can continue to wear a comfortable muzzle when around the baby.

3. The First Several Days and Thereafter
Remember, your dog should not have unsupervised access to your baby - EVER. You will want to be especially careful when the baby is screaming, crying, or waving its arms and legs. These actions can elicit a predatory, investigating, or play-leap reaction by the dog toward the infant. It is wiser to either put the dog in another room or put the dog in a down/stay several feet away from the baby.
Unfortunately, dogs frequently begin to "act up" after a new baby arrives. It is unclear whether these behaviours occur because of "jealousy" or simply because the dog is being deprived of its usual and expected amount of social attention and affection. You will want to start reducing the attention that you give your dog 2 or 3 months prior to the baby's arrival. This will help the dog accept that it is no longer the "focus" of your attention. When the baby comes home, you should ensure that your dog gets sufficient attention.

One tip that can be helpful is that whenever you begin to do something with you baby, you can put the dog in a sit/stay and periodically reward it with a tidbit. This procedure allows the dog to associate pleasant experiences with the baby and gives the dog extra attention when the baby is present. Aim to include the dog in your activities with the baby…not exclude it, which may create resentment or jealousies.

If after the first several days you are still concerned that your dog might harm your baby, a screen door or gate could be fastened at the entrance to the child's room. This precaution allows you to hear the baby but eliminates your dog's access to the room.
Also, keep in mind when you take your infant to visit friends or relatives that the dogs encountered there may not be accustomed to an infant in their homes. Baby-sitters should be cautioned not to bring dogs with them to the home of an infant. Tragic incidents have occurred when adults mistakenly believed a dog was in the garden or securely confined away from a baby.
Dogs may push open doors and actively investigate the strange sounds and odours of an infant.

4. Conclusion
As a new parent, although you should be aware of potential problems, you should not worry excessively about the potential problem of your dog injuring your infant. Most dogs adjust to new babies easily, quietly and without incident. If you are observant of your dog's behaviour, and take precautions to introduce dog and baby to each other gradually while your dog is under control, you should be able to avoid accidents or problem incidents.

5. Monitoring Your Dog's Behaviour
All interactions between your baby and dog should be monitored very carefully. This monitoring should continue until your dog is paying no attention to the infant or is completely friendly toward the baby. Never leave a baby or small child UNATTENDED with a dog for ANY REASON.
Help your dog learn that the baby belongs in your family by exposing the dog to the baby in a very gradual and controlled manner. The exposure should be positive so the dog does not associate unpleasant situations with the baby, and so the dog does not feel anxious or aggressive in the baby's presence.

Nick Jones MCFBA
Alpha Dog Behaviour

Finding balance with a 'difficult dog'

2010-01-23T12:03:00.000Z

A little something for the weekend....

My Positive Leadership Plan is there to offer a sensible, balanced starting point in maintaining respective roles in the home. The key thing to keep as a constant however, is your relationship with the dog and to maintain your role as leaders and essentially ‘controllers’. If you can do this and maintain a sense of balance in your approach (a time for direction and obedience, and then a time for play and affection) then it should feel like a natural and enjoyable experience. Dogs like boundaries and consistency, so your efforts need to be day in and day out without fail to ensure you keep things as you want them. Dogs (unlike us) do not have the ideas of working/not working, or weekdays and weekends; it’s just a continuum.

Nick Jones MCFBA
Dog Behaviourist.

Exercise and your dog

2010-01-18T19:06:00.005Z

What better way to enjoy the great outdoors than to take your dog with you?
Exercising with your dog outside will lead you into some serious quality time together, helping to strengthen your bond with the dog, and leave you both feeling great!

Dogs, like people, are far less likely to exhibit behavioural problems when they are well exercised, leaving a deep sense of relaxation and calm, whilst being free from anxiety and stress as you bathe in those uplifting endorphins. Depending on the environment you have before you, you can do so many things with your dog when outside.

As well as playing fetch with the humble tennis ball, you could stretch your imagination to the Frisbee, cycling together, roller blading or swimming in the sea together -if you live in a suitable climate! The UK is experiencing an interest in CaniX, which is basically running with a dog whilst it wears a harness connected to the handler via a stretchable chord.

So which breeds are suitable for such activities? The short answer is that virtually all dogs can be exercised outside in a way that allows them to have fun and remain fit. Certain types of dogs will prefer different ways to exercise their natural instincts.
Working breeds such as the gun dog group (Pointers, Labradors, Retrievers, Spaniels and so on) or pastoral breeds (Collies, German Shepherds, Old English Sheepdogs) will love virtually all forms of finding and returning an item to you.

Introduce entering into water for the same game and your dog will probably love it. This can be made into a more involved game involving nature’s obstacles to introduce agility and nose work to find a hidden item such as a toy you may have planted earlier.

The terrier group (Jack Russells, Border terriers, Airedales etc.) also love to seek items out in hard cover, and are no less adventurous or brave due to their reduced size. The instinct to thrash a toy they have retrieved may leave it in less than good shape, so ensure it is a tough one to play with.

All of the above breeds will happily run or walk as far as most people can due to the efficient stride and reserves of stamina. A number of the toy breeds can handle good levels of exercise too. This group includes breeds such as the Bichon Frise, Chihuahua, Papillon and Pomeranian. Simply downsize the same activities, and many will be surprised as to what a big heart they have!

Ideally a dog should be approximately eighteen months of age before giving it hard prolonged exercise, and a very gradual build up to that point is advisable. If in doubt consult your vet before commencing a fitness programme with your dog, or indeed your own doctor if you have not been very active for some time. It’s important to build the dog up gradually if your dog happens to be out of shape. Give regular easier rest days to begin with, and keep an eye out for lameness or cut pads for example. Dogs will often exercise with little regard for their own safety, and often show a much higher tolerance of pain than humans do.

So I hope the above has given food for thought, and encourages you to keep active with your dog.

A checklist to consider before each adventure will include the following:

A simple 1st aid kit for both of you. Your vet/doctor can help with this.
Carry a mobile, and the phone number of your vet/doctor.
Be sure to provide ICE information on your phone and papers carried.
Consider a simple GPS unit to mark your starting point if in unfamilar surrounds.
Let someone know where you’re going & expected time of return.
Take adequate food and fluids.
Take adequate clothing for the weather conditions.
Avoid exercise in excessively hot conditions.

Nick Jones Deciphering Dog Behaviour
www.alphadogbehaviour.co.uk

Dog behaviourist - Choosing one?

2010-01-09T11:23:00.000Z

I was sent an email the other day and a few lines really stood out:

"We have spent a lot of money on training classes, (which i have no problem with) also we consulted a person, advertising himself as a "dog whisperer" I think he had watched Cesar Millan and styled himself on him, sadly, he did not have the same energy flow and was rather an expensive brute !"

Prospective clients, please be sure to thoroughly research anybody you are considering coming to your home. Yes, we all started somewhere as behaviour practitioners, we all had our first job(s). Mine was unforgettable-a Bassett called Elvis.

With the advent of programmes such as Cesar and Stillwell and Dog Borstal it has increased exposure and interest greatly. This is no bad thing, but some practitioners take these programmes as their training course!

Seek testimonials and then call these people. Ask awkward questions, such as how long will the visits last, what equipment might be used (or not used). What training has the practitioner had and anything else you can think of.

For the record, I welcome any amount of awkward questions you like to ask, can furnish you with many testimonials, and am willing to pre meet with you if distance is acceptable. Allowing somebody into your home and handle your dog is an intimate experience, and trust in your trainer should be high on your shopping list.

Nick Jones MCFBA

Christmas holiday dog pictures.

2009-12-30T22:26:00.001Z

Just back after a couple of days in Norfolk with family. A few shots that I hope you like. Max is growing at an alarming rate eh?! The two collies are Molly and Baz owned by members of Sara's family. Sand dunes were Winterton On Sea, which is a regular haunt when we visit. It was SO bitter on the beach we gave it a miss and walked in relative shelter. We later went on to enjoy soup, bread and a coffee at a local pub. We were banished to the children's play room, where we found an open fire so dragged a table up to it and felt cosy (after a time).

What do I do in my spare time? Well.....

2009-12-14T20:19:00.002Z

Sunday morning I went to the Midlands Breakfast Club with my Elise (top two) as pictured below...sweet aint she?

A very frosty morning which was not helped by the lack of heater fan currently in the car :(

A careful drive up, but easier on the way home as the sun was out!

As the saying goes: Dogs are not my whole life, but they make my life whole.

For me it's valuable 'me' time, whereby everything melts away whilst I'm caccooned in the noisy cockpit feeling propelled in the most fantastic of ways!

Feel free to contact and join me if you share my interest. Driving out with others is great fun.

Enjoy.

Nick

More shots of puppy Max.

2009-12-08T20:28:00.004Z

Three more from the same night. I took some Christmassy shots today, so hope to get those up also.

www.alphadogbehaviour.co.uk

Max sleeps most of the day...

2009-12-06T22:17:00.002Z

Here's my boy at 12 weeks this weekend. Illuminated by the glow of my laptop post Twittering. He is growing at a phenomenal rate. Too big for the sofa soon!

Boy killed by dog...

2009-11-30T20:57:00.000Z

Boy killed by dog - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/merseyside/8387101.stm Sadly there will be others.

Vaccination the big dilemma

2009-11-22T10:36:00.001Z

Ok, I've decided (nearly) that Max will go without being vaccinated at all. Been reading A LOT. I already don't boost Pip. Please, your thoughts?

Nick

http://www.thepetwhisperer.com/Vaccinations.html

Bloat/ Gastric Torsion

2009-11-18T10:34:00.001Z

The dogs that are most susceptible are those that have a deep ribcage for example, labs, retrievers, shepherds... you get the idea. However, ANY dog can get bloat. Remember the golden rule, never ever exercise after feeding - leave at least a minimum of 2 hours... better still, mimic your dogs natural behaviour and walk first then eat...

BLOAT The Killer

If you experience a combination of the following:

• Your dog retches from the throat but nothing is produced other than small amounts of frothy mucus

• Your dog tries to defaecate unsuccessfully

• Your dog adopts the ‘Sphinx’ position

• Your dog’s tummy goes hard and / or swells up like a balloon and is as taut as drumskin

• Trying to bite, or worry, the abdomen

• Your dog is very unsettled

CONTACT YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.

Bloat is a true emergency - be prepared to drive to the surgery straightaway. The chance of survival decreases alarmingly if you

delay getting the dog to the surgery more than 60-90 minutes after the first signs.

So whether you’re about to catch a plane, serve a meal to your family or go to bed - DON’T. Instead take your dog to the vet.

It could save your dog’s life.

www.alphadogbehaviour.co.uk

Max is growing!

2009-11-15T21:31:00.000Z

He's looking good eh?
Showing signs of being as good as Amber our old Wire was. Polite, attentive and so on.

BBC NEWS | UK | Dog attack toddler critically ill

2009-11-08T00:18:00.000Z

So much of this in the news still and it seems to be so common it goes under the radar!

BBC NEWS | UK | Dog attack toddler critically ill