New Years Resolution for a Foster Dog

I decided that if I had to make a new years resolution, so does Sheba. We all need goals, even dogs. I may not have taken into account that these goals will have to be maintained by me, but I'm sure Sheba will remind me of that. Off we go!

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Easy game to play with your dog on cold days

It's hard to stay outside for long on cold winter days. So pet owners need to entertain the dogs inside. A dog that gets bored will find trouble. Here is a fast and easy game to put together for your dog and you to play.

Get an old pillowcase (that you will never use on a pillow again) and the dog's favorite toy.

Take the dog to the area where you want to play.

Get the dog's attention by showing it the toy and squeaking (any small toy will work, but squeakers keep them interested).

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Ways to Keep Your Dog Active in the Cold Days of Winter

It's hard to exercise too much outside when the temperature drops below freezing. Even the furriest dog's feet get cold quickly. Small dogs can't stand more than a few minutes out in the cold weather. Just because the temps drop does not mean the level of activity your dog needs drops. It's easier for small breed dogs to exert energy inside, not so much for large breeds.

Here are a few games and tips that Sheba and I are doing to get threw the cold winter days stuck inside.

Play inside when it's cold outside

Yep, just that simple. Choose a room with little or no furniture (or just cut a large path through the house with no obstructions) and go to town. Get on the floor with your dog and do some light rough-housing if you are able. This is really bonding for the dog, your pet will love it. The more excited they get, the 'hot laps' will start.
*make sure there are no obstacles in the way when the real running starts, tripping will cause a real injury.

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Sheba the snow dog!

Well in the middle of an Iowa blizzard, Sheba the GSD is happy as a clam! Romping through the fresh snow is awesome! Who knew she had 4-wheel drive!


(but at the end of the day... it's still all business)

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Sheba (GSD) in her first movie!

This is Sheba the German Shepherd, playing ball (and having a ball!)




Visit mvgsdr.org for more information on Sheba and many other German Shepherd Dogs that need your help.

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Sometimes a Dog Just Has to Run

Sheba got to run her heart out this week when we went to a giant field. I love it when a dog gets that hard run going. Ears back, tongue hanging out, dodging invisible obstacles. We took some toys and I through as far as I could (which is not near far enough). Sheba the wonder GSD would charge off after at full speed grabbing the toy and running a little further for emphasis. What a good dog! She came back every time on the first call.

I took a clicker with us. I've never used a clicker to train a dog, but I've never had a dog that pays this much attention to commands. As we walked to the field, I clicked when Sheba walked nicely on leash (which is always, unless a squirrel threatens us!). Sheba's ears would perk with each click. When I said, "Good dog", I gave a click. When Sheba came back to me, I gave a click. She seemed to understand and when she ran without listening... she heard the click and came! Impressive for out first try at GSD clicker training.

Rain for the rest of the week.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

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Sheba the Wonder Dog to the Rescue

Here she is, Sheba the German Shepherd wonder dog! She is about 3 years old and very active. Loves her squeak toys, but they have to be tough to stand up to her play.

Sheba has some small animal and dog aggression that we need to work on. She has shown marked improvement while on leash, but cannot control herself yet on her own.

Sheba is very active, as are all German Shepherds. We take at least 3 medium walks (25-30 minutes) per day, walking at a brisk pace. She could go longer, but my legs aren't there yet. She lays quietly while I work, only coming to me if called. There have been no incidence of chewing yet, but she has tons of toys and is passed the puppy chewing stage.

Sheba knows the follow commands: sit, stay, down (lay down), sit up (sit on hind legs), crawl, heel. She walks very nicely on the leash, with or without a pinch collar.

I'll continue to update all of Sheba the wonder GSD progress here!

Find out more about adopting a German Shepherd at Missouri Valley German Shepherd Dog Rescue.

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