By Norma Jeanne Laurette

​Bringing a new puppy, dog or baby home is an event that fills families with excitement and anticipation however, it can also lead to a unique set of challenges. Puppies are playful, energetic and curious, while babies are tiny and vulnerable. With careful preparation these new family members can form safe, loving and lasting bonds but without it, it can end in heartbreak. By approaching each step with patience and consistency, you can create a harmonious home where dogs and children thrive together. Your goal is to make this transition as happy and stress-free as possible for everyone involved!

​Preparing your dog for the arrival of a new baby and preparing children before bringing home a new puppy or dog, is essential for preventing behaviour issues, minimizing safety risks and avoiding failed transitions that the dog always ends up paying for.

Without proper preparation, dogs can experience feelings of abandonment, frustration, fear, stress or anxiety, which can lead to behavioural challenges such as demanding behaviour, regression in training, increased sensitivity, reactivity, excitability and resource guarding (R12).

Children who are not properly prepared can overwhelm a new dog through rough handling, yelling, squealing, chasing or not respecting its space. These interactions increase the risk of dog bites along with long-term fear, stress and anxiety for the dog (R13) (R14). Preparing children in advance, along with careful introductions and consistent supervision helps nurture positive associations as well as trust, respect and harmony between dogs and children.

​For families with dogs expecting a baby, the Dogs & Storks® online class from Family Paws Parent Education is an invaluable resource. Led by founder Jennifer Shryock, this 1.5-hour self-paced program helps parents prepare their dogs for the transition to life with a new baby.

The course covers key topics such as (R12):

• Does your dog know you are expecting?
• Your dog’s sensitivities
• Must-know information for expecting families with dogs
• Dog body language
• Success stations for inclusion and safe management
• Preparing for homecoming
• Inclusion for success
• 
  

The Dogs & Storks program emphasizes positive, practical solutions that include the dog rather than exclude it, helping reduce stress for both the dog and the family while supporting healthy bonding.

Bonuses include handouts, the Dogs & Storks webinar, guidance on the 5 Types of Supervision to prevent accidents and promote safety, an online community for parents and other resources (R12). By addressing common questions and offering insight into dog behavior, this course helps prevent conflicts and supports a smoother, lasting transition (R15).

​Preparing a dog for the arrival of a new baby involves proactive training and routine adjustments that can significantly ease the transition for both the dog and family by reducing stress and helping prevent numerous issues. We start this process by reinforcing basic training cues such as ‘sit,’ ‘down,’ ‘stay,’ ‘leave it’ and ‘go to your bed’. This will ensure that the dog responds reliably to instructions and can control itself around the baby (R22).

During pregnancy, gradually introduce any changes that will occur to the dog’s daily routine such as walking times and feeding schedule, to mimic disruptions that are unavoidable with a new baby. This will help the dog adapt before the baby comes home, as well as preventing unpleasant associations and the resulting behaviour problems (R23).

It’s important to desensitize the dog to baby-related sounds by playing recordings of cries, coos, and any other new sounds at a low volume. Gradually increase the volume to realistic levels, rewarding calm behavior with treats and praise to create pleasant associations (R24). You can easily download baby sounds online and follow the desensitization steps.

Another effective strategy is to introduce the dog to the baby’s scent before it arrives. Bring home a blanket, piece of clothing or towel the baby has used, and let the dog sniff it while offering praise, treats or playtime to build a positive association (R25). It can also be helpful to introduce the dog or puppy to other people’s calm and respectful children, and the children to suitable dogs or puppies before the big day.

Use a doll to practice routines such as feeding, diapering and rocking, while teaching the dog to stay calm, keep its paws on the ground or settle on its bed with an appropriate chew (R26). This is also a good opportunity to teach the dog to walk politely beside the empty stroller during daily walks. Allow your dog to explore new baby items under supervision, both before and after the baby arrives, to satisfy curiosity and ease the transition (R28).
Months before the baby comes home, it’s crucial to address any existing behavior issues that could be disruptive or dangerous for the baby, such as barking, jumping up or resource guarding. If necessary, contact an educated, qualified, experienced and positive dog behavior expert to guide you through the process (R31).

To encourage quiet behaviour while the baby is sleeping, start by teaching your dog to engage in calm, independent activities for extended periods of time. Provide appropriate aromatic chew items and enrichment options that will keep the dog occupied. Teaching cues such as ‘settle’ and ‘shush’ and consistently rewarding calm, quiet behaviour can help prevent disturbances when the baby comes home (R27).

Setting up baby gates or exercise pens several days in advance helps establish clear boundaries, such as limiting access to the nursery or keeping the dog out of the way while the baby is on the floor. Create a designated area where your dog can safely chew or enjoy enrichment activities, to provide both safety and peace of mind. Introduce this space weeks ahead so the dog forms a positive association, rather than linking it with isolation or the baby’s arrival. For a list of 50 enrichment ideas, see my article Canine Enrichment.
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To prevent the dog from feeling neglected after the baby comes home, provide plenty of attention through dedicated playtime, walks and cuddle sessions. Enlist help from family members or qualified, positive dog walkers or daycares if needed to ensure that the dog’s needs are met and reinforcing that the baby is an addition to the family, not a replacement (R29). Involve the dog in baby-related activities when appropriate, such as calm stroller walks, supervised greetings or lying nearby while you feed or spend time with the baby. Always supervise interactions and reward good behavior to help the dog feel included and prevent jealousy (R30).

​The first introduction between a new dog or puppy and children is a key step in shaping their lifelong relationships. Focus on calm, controlled and positive experiences to help prevent overwhelming the dog or encouraging behaviors that could lead to nipping or fear (R38). Arrange the initial greeting in a neutral, open space such as a yard, quiet park or spacious indoor area so the dog doesn’t feel cornered and everyone can move comfortably. Keep the dog on a loose leash to allow for gentle redirection if necessary and have the children sit quietly on the ground or a low surface so they appear smaller and less intimidating. Standing, running or loud squealing can frighten or over-stimulate a dog and trigger jumping or mouthing behaviours (R39). Just before the introduction, remind the children of the key rules and demonstrate them clearly; speak softly, avoid sudden movements and allow the dog to approach at its own pace rather than forcing interactions.

As the dog shows interest by sniffing feet, hands or legs, guide the children to offer an open, flat palm with a treat or let the dog sniff a closed fist. This encourages gentle, safe contact and reduces the risk of fingers being nipped. Once the dog is comfortable, allow gentle stroking on the chest, under the chin or along the sides. Avoid hugging or touching the head, face, ears, tail and paws, which can be intrusive or frightening for the dog (R40). Use calm verbal praise and small, healthy treats to reward the dog for relaxed behavior and praise the children for following the rules, to create pleasant associations for everyone.

Keep the first session brief, about 5 to 10 minutes to prevent fatigue or overstimulation. Then guide the dog to a quiet rest area for a nap or chew break while the family decompresses and discusses their first interaction. If at any time the dog shows signs of hesitation or fear such as avoidance, stiff body, lowered posture, tucked tail, avoiding eye contact, lip licking or yawning, or if it displays overly excited behaviour or hard mouthing, calmly end the greeting and start again after a break.

Ongoing supervision is essential! Never leave any young child unsupervised with a dog as playful nips or rough handling can quickly escalate to serious problems. Build their time together gradually with short, frequent, supervised sessions. Always monitor the dog’s body language for signs of stress and immediately intervene by redirecting the dog or providing a brief separation when necessary. Over time, when you learn to trust both the dog and children and depending on the age of the children, you can begin to gradually relax the 100% supervision rule.

​By planning ahead and preparing your home, dogs and children for the changes to come, you can minimize stress, ensure safety and nurture strong relationships from the start. With patience and consistency, these steps can set you up for success and a lifetime of happy memories for the entire family.

By Norma Jeanne Laurette ​

​Canine Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), also referred to as Canine Compulsive Disorder (CCD) is a behavioral condition identified by repetitive, exaggerated and often purposeless behaviors that interfere with a dog’s health and/or normal daily life. These habits typically begin as coping mechanisms for underlying stress, anxiety, genetic predispositions or environmental triggers and if unaddressed, can escalate over time. Unlike normal playful activities, compulsive behaviors become intense, difficult to interrupt and disruptive to a dog eating, resting, socializing and/or its health.

Many dogs display mild, repetitive behaviors such as briefly chasing their tail, obsessively licking themselves or objects, pacing for short periods of time, staring at or chasing shadows. Although they may resemble compulsive habits, if they don’t interfere with daily life or harm the dog’s wellbeing they are not considered a clinical disorder (R47 – R50). Research has shown that approximately 16 to 30% of dogs engage in some sort of repetitive behaviors. They vary in severity and can be influenced by factors such as amount of exercise and environment, as well as guardian experience and behavior (R44) (R45).

​Clinical OCD, where the behavior is extreme, persistent, disruptive and harmful is much less common. According to veterinarians, only 1 to 2% of dogs suffer from clinical OCD, which indicates that most repetitive behaviors observed in our dogs are not a cause for concern (R46) (R51).

​Chasing Lights – Most common with Belgian Malinois, Border Collies, Schnauzers and Shetland Sheepdogs.

Chasing Shadows – Most common with Belgian Malinois, Border Collies, Schnauzers and Shetland Sheepdogs.

Chasing Tail – Most common with Australian Cattle Dogs, Belgian Malinois, Bull Terriers, German Shepherds and other herding breeds.

Chewing On Self (legs, paws, tail, nails) – Most common with Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers and Weimaraners.

Excessive Chewing Or Sucking On Objects – Most common with Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and Weimaraners.

Excessive Licking (paws, legs, body, objects) – Most common with Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and other large breeds.

Fence Or Wall Running – Most common with German Shorthaired Pointers, Great Danes, Weimaraners and high-energy working breeds.

Fixation On Movement (cars, bikes, people running) – Most common with Australian Cattle Dogs, Belgian Malinois, Border Collies, German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs and other working and herding breeds.

Flank Sucking – Most common with Doberman Pinschers.

Fly Snapping (biting at the air) – Most common with Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Miniature Schnauzers.

Licking Objects Excessively – Most common with Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and Schnauzers.

Licking Self Excessively (paws, legs) – Most common with Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers and other large breeds.

Pacing – Common with any breed dealing with stress or anxiety, especially high-drive or working breeds.

Repetitive Walking Patterns – Common with any breed dealing with stress or anxiety, especially high-drive or working breeds.

Repetitive Digging With No Purpose – Most common with Australian Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Border Collies, German Shepherds, Huskies, Malamutes and Terriers.

Self-Mutilation (biting, chewing or injuring self) – Most common with Australian Cattle Dogs, Border Collies, Bull Terriers, Dachshunds, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Jack Russell Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.

Spinning In Circles – Most common with Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and herding breeds.

Sticking Head Under An Object Then Freezing – Most common with English Bull Terriers.

Tail Chasing Or Spinning – Most common with Australian Cattle Dogs, Belgian Malinois, Bull Terriers, German Shepherds and other herding breeds.

Repetitive Barking or Whining With No Identifiable Trigger – These behaviors are seen in many breeds, but are more common in dogs prone to anxiety, such as herding breeds and terriers. Remember that dogs hear and smell far better than we do, so just because we can’t identify a trigger doesn’t mean that one doesn’t exist.
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Repetitive vocalizing can also increase if it’s rewarded with attention, even if that attention is negative and meant to stop the behavior. In some cases, boredom, excess energy or unmet enrichment needs can also contribute to these behaviors, so it’s important to look at the dog’s overall mental and physical needs before labelling these behaviors as OCD. (R47-R56)

​Chasing Lights – Can cause eye strain, mental fatigue, hypervigilance, increased anxiety, sleep disruption, reduced ability to relax and decreased engagement in normal social or enrichment activities (R3) (R6).

Chasing Shadows – Can lead to chronic stress, hyperarousal, mental exhaustion, disrupted sleep cycles, reduced appetite, increased anxiety and decreased ability to focus or interact normally (R3) (R6).

Chasing Tail – Can result in tail injuries, skin damage, hair loss, paw pad wear, joint strain, muscle fatigue, spinal stress and increased anxiety or frustration (R3) (R5).

Chewing On Self (legs, paws, tail, nails) – Can cause open wounds, hair loss, skin inflammation, infections, acral lick dermatitis, chronic pain, nerve damage and long-term tissue damage (R3) (R4).

Excessive Chewing Or Sucking On Objects – Can lead to dental wear or fractures, oral injuries, ingestion of foreign objects, choking hazards, gastrointestinal blockages and increased anxiety or dependency behaviors (R3) (R7).

Excessive Licking (paws, legs, body, objects) – Can cause hair loss, skin thickening, infections, chronic wounds, inflammation, delayed healing and increased stress that reinforces compulsive behavior cycles (R3) (R4).

Fence Or Wall Running – Can result in joint damage, muscle strain, paw injuries, nail damage, exhaustion, dehydration and collisions causing bruising or orthopedic injuries (R3) (R5).

Fixation On Movement (cars, bikes, people running) – Can increase risk of escape attempts, traffic accidents, collision injuries, chronic stress, frustration and heightened reactivity or anxiety (R3) (R5).

Flank Sucking – Can cause skin irritation, hair loss, sores, chronic self-soothing dependency, increased anxiety and difficulty developing healthy coping behaviors (R3) (R4).

Fly Snapping (biting at the air) – Can lead to tooth damage, jaw strain, oral injuries, increased anxiety, neurological stress, frustration and interference with normal feeding or social behaviors (R3) (R6).

Licking Objects Excessively – Can result in ingestion of harmful substances, dental damage, oral irritation, gastrointestinal upset and reinforcement of compulsive coping patterns (R3) (R7).

Licking Self Excessively (paws, legs) – Can cause chronic skin infections, open sores, hair loss, pain, reduced mobility due to tissue damage and prolonged healing complications (R3) (R4).

Pacing – Can contribute to joint strain, muscle fatigue, weight loss, chronic stress hormone elevation, sleep disruption and reduced ability to rest or settle (R3) (R7).

Repetitive Walking Patterns – Can lead to physical exhaustion, joint stress, paw pad wear, increased anxiety, mental fatigue and decreased engagement with environmental enrichment (R3) (R7).

Repetitive Digging With No Purpose – Can cause paw injuries, nail damage, joint strain, muscle fatigue, increased frustration or anxiety and escape attempts (R3) (R7).

Self-Mutilation (biting, chewing or injuring self) – Can result in severe tissue damage, infections, nerve injury, chronic pain, permanent scarring, mobility impairment and significant psychological distress (R3) (R4).

Spinning In Circles – Can cause dizziness, disorientation, joint and spinal strain, muscle fatigue, paw injuries, exhaustion and increased neurological or anxiety-related stress (R3) (R5).

Sticking Head Under An Object Then Freezing – Can increase risk of injury from environmental hazards, reduced awareness of surroundings, heightened anxiety and interference with normal social interaction and daily functioning (R3) (R5).

Tail Chasing Or Spinning – Can result in tail trauma, skin wounds, hair loss, spinal stress, joint strain, exhaustion, and reinforcement of compulsive neurological behavior patterns (R3) (R5).

Repetitive Barking Or Whining With No Identifiable Trigger – Can result in chronic stress, vocal strain, social isolation, increased arousal levels and difficulty emotional regulating emotions (R3) (R7).

Behavior modification is the foundation of rehabilitation, often achieving better results in the long-term than drugs (R19).

Desensitization

Desensitization gradually exposes the dog to the triggers that cause the OCD behavior while rewarding calm responses.

Counter Conditioning

Counter conditioning changes the dog’s emotional response to the trigger, and teaches incompatible behaviors such as a sit or down – used to interrupt and re-direct compulsive behaviors (R20).

Positive Training

Positive training rewards desired behaviors and correct choices with praise, treats or play. It teaches the dog skills such as recall, ‘watch me’ and ‘go to your bed’, as well as how to redirect its focus and energy to puzzles, other toys or activities (R21). For more information about positive training see my article Positive Dog Training – Science | Ethics | Results.

Canine Enrichment

Canine enrichment provides exercise, energy release and mental stimulation through walks, toys, puzzles, chew options, activities and sports. For more information about canine enrichment along with a list of 50 enrichment options see my article Canine Enrichment For Dogs.

Consistent Routines

Consistent routines minimize anxiety by providing predictability.

Environmental Management

Environmental management works by removing triggers, such as covering windows to eliminate visual stimuli or playing music to cover audio triggers.

Exercise

Exercise is an important part of managing OCD because it helps reduce the anxiety, boredom and pent-up energy that can lead to repetitive behaviors. Activities such as long walks, playtime and breed-appropriate activities help lower stress, improve mood and tire dogs both mentally and physically, leaving less drive for compulsive behaviors. While exercise alone isn’t a cure, it’s a key aspect of any behavior modification program and works best along with a healthy diet, behavior modification, positive training, canine enrichment and environmental management and to improve a dog’s overall physical and emotional wellbeing.

​Canine OCD results in disruptive behaviors that can harm the dogs we love. While some medications may be able to help, their toxic side effects may not be work the risk. Thankfully we have the option of rehabilitating canine OCD naturally by meeting all the dog’s basic needs. This path offers the safest and often most effective solution to calm our dogs and ensure good health, emotional balance and quality of life.

​(R1) Dodman NH, et al. A canine chromosome 7 locus confers compulsive disorder susceptibility. Mol Psychiatry. 2010. (Referenced in Merck Veterinary Manual and AKC CHF sources).
(R2) Oregon Humane Society. Obsessive Compulsive Behavior in Dogs. https://www.oregonhumane.org/portland-training/obsessive-compulsive-behavior-in-dogs
(R3) VCA Animal Hospitals. Compulsive Disorders in Dogs. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/compulsive-disorders-in-dogs
(R4) Whole Dog Journal and similar sources on acral lick and licking behaviors.(R5) Various breed-specific mentions in veterinary literature.
(R6) Fly snapping and shadow chasing in VCA and Oregon Humane Society.
(R7) Environmental triggers in Merck Veterinary Manual.
(R8) Whole Dog Journal. Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs. https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/laser-pointer-syndrome-on-dogs
(R9) American Kennel Club. Laser Pointers: More Frustration Than Fun. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/laser-pointers-more-frustration-than-fun
(R10) Kinship and Butte Humane Society on LPS risks.
(R11) Veterinary sources on breed predisposition and LPS.
(R12) PetMD and AKC on fluoxetine uses.(R13) ToeGrips on fluoxetine for OCD.(R14) VCA Animal Hospitals. Clomipramine. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/clomipramine
(R15) Veterinary Partner on clomipramine.(R16) PetMD on antidepressant toxicities.(R17) Today’s Veterinary Practice on serotonin syndrome risks.
(R18) Clomipramine side effects from VCA and others.
(R19) Merck Veterinary Manual on behavior modification priority.
(R20) Desensitization in veterinary behavior sources.
(R21) Positive reinforcement in Oregon Humane Society.
(R22) Enrichment recommendations across sources.
(R23) Pheromone use in management.(R24) Whole Dog Journal. Treating Canine Compulsive Disorders With Acupressure. https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/behavior/treating-canine-compulsive-disorders-with-acupressure-techniques
(R25) Aldaron Essences on Bach Flowers.(R26) Melatonin in various holistic approaches.
(R27) ScienceDirect case on cannabis/melatonin.
(R28) Nutraceuticals in Frontiers and PMC articles.
(R29) Hydrotherapy mentions.
(R30) Integrated approaches in Frontiers case report and BBC Future.
(R31) Porges, S. W. (2011). The polyvagal theory: Neurophysiological foundations of emotions, attachment, communication, and self-regulation. W. W. Norton & Company. (R32) Dodman, N. H. (2010). Dogs with aggression: Understanding and treating rage syndrome and idiopathic aggression. Animal Behavior Clinic Publications.
(R33) Breit, S., Kupferberg, A., Rogler, G., & Hasler, G. (2018). Vagus nerve as modulator of the brain–gut axis in psychiatric and inflammatory disorders. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 9, 44.
(R34) Thayer, J. F., & Sternberg, E. (2006). Beyond heart rate variability: Vagal regulation of allostatic systems. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1088(1), 361–372.
(R35) Levine, G. N., et al. (2017). Lifestyle management of the vagus nerve and stress: Implications for mental and physical health. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 69(20), 2477–2486.
(R36) Case, L. P., et al. (2016). Canine and feline behavior for veterinary technicians and nurses (2nd ed.). Wiley-Blackwell. (R37) Horowitz, A. (2009). Inside of a dog: What dogs see, smell, and know. Scribner. (R38) McGreevy, P., & Nicol, C. (2010). The playful dog: Exercise, enrichment, and training for behavior management. Trafalgar Square Publishing.
(R39) Rooney, N. J., & Cowan, S. (2011). Training methods and owner–dog interactions: Links to behavior and welfare. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 6(5), 213–220.
(R40) Rehman, A., et al. (2016). The gut–brain axis: Interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems. Annals of Gastroenterology, 29(2), 132–139.
(R41) Bravo, J. A., et al. (2011). Ingestion of Lactobacillus strain regulates emotional behavior and central GABA receptor expression in a mouse via the vagus nerve. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 108(38), 16050–16055.
(R42) Wells, D. L. (2009). The effects of natural environments on the behavior and welfare of animals. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 29(4), 429–438. (R43) D’Aniello, B., Semin, G. R., Alterisio, A., Aria, M., & Scandurra, A. (2018). Interspecies transmission of emotional information via chemosignals: From humans to dogs (Canis lupus familiaris). Animal Cognition, 21(1), 67–78. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-017-1139-x — w
(R44) Hannes Lohi et al. (2022). Aggressiveness, ADHD like behavior, and environment influence repetitive behavior in dogs. Scientific Reports.
(R45) Repetitive behaviors in domestic dogs survey. Phys.org summary of research from Scientific Reports.
(R46) Purdue University News. (2002). Purdue veterinarian studies compulsive behavior in dogs.
(R47) PetMD Editorial. (2009). Anxiety and Compulsive Disorders in Dogs. PetMD.
(R48) PetsCare.com. (2025). Understanding OCD in Dogs: Symptoms & Treatments.
.(R49) Ask A Vet. (2025). Understanding Compulsive and Repetitive Behavior in Dogs: Vet Insights.
(R50) Ask A Vet. (2025). Compulsive Disorders in Dogs: Vet Approved Guide.(R51) American Kennel Club. (2025). OCD in Dogs: Can it Happen?.
(R52) Whole Dog Journal. (2018). Obsessive Compulsive Behavior in Dogs
(R53) Zoe Willingham Dog Behaviorist.(2025). Recognising OCD in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, and How to Help.
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Photo by Gif Animator Creator

By Norma Jeanne Laurette ​

​​Where Rules Meet CompassionAs dog guardians, we spend a lot of time teaching our dogs rules and boundaries, such as lying down while we’re eating or preparing food and sit for greetings. Rules aren’t arbitrary, they help keep our dogs safe, build desirable habits and make life together more enjoyable (R1). But what happens when our dog is confused, stressed, anxious, afraid, sick, fatigued, injured, in pain, aging or simply needing a little extra TLC? Suddenly, the rules that once seemed so important shift because there are times when compassion must take priority over policies.

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It’s important to distinguish between safety rules and convenience rules. Safety rules such as staying on leash near traffic or preventing access to unsafe environments must always be upheld, while rules involving unnecessary instructions, where a dog sleeps, when it goes out or when it gets treats can be relaxed when a dog needs comfort and compassion (R3). What does compassion look like in a well-structured household? Here are a few practical examples.

​​Giving an unearned treat to a sick or elderly dog isn’t spoiling it, it’s offering a little comfort, and can be the only way to entice a sick dog with no appetite to eat. Dogs understand more than we give them credit for, and unless the treats are exacerbating existing problems or creating new ones, small, kind gestures can provide emotional support and improve a dog’s quality of life (R4).

​Asking a dog to sit before going outside may be part of your daily routine however, if a dog has mobility or joint issues, insisting on that sit can cause unnecessary stress and pain. Letting the dog go out without sitting first, demonstrates compassion and understanding.

​Senior or unwell dogs may need more attention, frequent trips outside, softer bedding, help getting in and out of the car and changes to their routine. Extra attention and flexibility acknowledges their needs, reduces anxiety and makes their lives easier and more enjoyable (R5).

​​Even during compassionate care, it’s important to know when to reintroduce structure, boundaries and rules, because allowing a dog to dictate the rules can lead to an unruly, needy and demanding dog. If the dog recovers and adjusts to its challenges, things can begin to go back to normal. The key is observation because each dog is unique and timing should be guided by their comfort, ability and behaviour. Gentle reintroduction of expectations allows the dog to regain its skills without stress or pressure. If the issues are not resolvable, compassion needs to continue to override the rules as you guide your dog through the rest of its journey.

​I’ve guided more than a few dogs through illness, old age and leaving this world, while others have died prematurely or unexpectedly. I’ve learned so much from each dog and their unique journey, and no matter how painful it is to say goodbye, they are all so worth it! These are just a few of my experiences balancing rules with compassion.

Blue, my Golden Retriever/Doberman cross lived to be 14.5 years old, she was diagnosed with a severe heart murmur at 14 years. Dobermans are one of the highest risk breeds for heart problems and Golden Retrievers can develop heart issues as they age. I knew our time was limited so I spent as much time as I could with her, just hanging out, cuddling and slow, short walks. She got extra treats, mostly cut up meat and marrow bones to chew on. Although I knew our time together was short, her death was still sudden and unexpected. For the record, we no longer give our dogs marrow bones due to the risk of chipped teeth, instead we give frozen, hollow nylabones stuffed with delicious and healthy ingredients.

My German Shorthaired Pointer Kimo lived to be 17. Although still healthy, she had developed dementia that had become quite severe. She required a lot of supervision as she could get stuck in corners, appear lost, had restless nights and urinary incontinence. We spent most of our time together cuddling on the couch. One morning when she struggled to stay on her feet I asked her if she’d had enough. The way she looked at me made my decision. I called my vet then cooked two turkey breasts and sliced them up. She passed away in my arms, eating all the turkey she wanted, she was peaceful and happy when she passed.

My rescued Malamute cross, Wile E. Coyote lived for 15.5 years. I allowed Wile E. to choose when she wanted to hike with us and when she’d rather stay home, as it was becoming more difficult for her to keep up due to arthritis. Every morning I’d ask her if she wanted to come and she’d either come to the door or go to her bed and lie down. When she joined us I’d slow down to make it easy for her to keep up, I’d keep the hike very short and stay close to my truck. I’d let her set the pace and spend as much time as she wanted sniffing and exploring, rather than keeping a brisk pace, which made her happy. I’d lift her in and out of my truck to prevent her from having to jump in and out.

I’ve raised and lost many dogs over the years and it never gets easier, especially when the dog is still young or the death is unexpected. In every case, when I knew the end was near I would throw the rules out the window with the exception of safety, and shower them with extra time, love, attention, food and treats. I would do everything in my power to help them enjoy their last days to the fullest. When you know it’s their very last day it’s my opinion that it’s okay to drop all the rules about food and allow them to eat anything you feel they would enjoy to give them as much pleasure as possible while leaving this world.

​One thing that’s changed for us is that we now have our dogs euthanized in their own beds in their own home to prevent the stress of dying at a vet clinic. When moving to the country in eastern Ontario in 2015, Greg and I had 5 dogs between us. Only a few months later Wile E. was showing signs that she was no longer enjoying quality of life as was Greg’s dog Sahara, followed by Greg’s Leia a couple years later. We had the vet come to our home and Wile E. and Sahara passed together. Leia also died at home in her own bed. Although it was painful for us, it was calm and peaceful for our dogs. This is our plan for all our dogs moving forward because it’s much better for all of us.

​Loving a dog is about a lot more than just training and behaviour, it’s about empathy, understanding and companionship. Although training, boundaries and structure are important, they must also adjust to the realities of illness, aging and special circumstances. Dogs remind us that love is rooted in patience, flexibility and compassion, and by understanding when to maintain our rules and when to relax them, we can create a home that’s safe, nurturing and full of love for both us and our dogs.