Waterlog 2021 August

August 2021

theWaterlog

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PORTUGUESE WATER DOG CLUB OF CANADA Water Trial results from Alberta

Upcoming Events 2022 Membership Renewal President’s Message 2020 CKC Top Dogs PWDCC Water Trial hosted by APWDC Board Meetings Minutes Non-Heritary DCM Debunking Food Myths Dog Sociability Pupography Shopping

Cover: The PWDCC Water Trial, hosted by the Alberta Portuguese Water Dog Club (APWDC) was held August 27-29 with Judge Amanda Ford. Michelle Hammerschmidt pictured with Chulsas Final Descent, 1st leg of Courier.

2022 PWDCC membership renewal log onto the pwdcc.org home page and click the membership button. If your information hasn’t changed you can use the online form or the pdf form, just sign your name and enclose payment with your charge card or use the PayPal option.

Breeders The Available Puppies Listing on the club website is open to our breeder members, cost/litter $20.00.

UPCOMING

Events

October 23 PWDCC CAER Eye Clinic with Dr. Nick Whelan Location Dog Groomers 437 Albert Street, Unit 3, Waterloo ON

This program supports PWDCC Rescue and gives you the opportunity to promote your ethical breeding practices! The

Deadline

forms are on www.pwdcc.org from the home page click the

Sign up by October 9.

membership button. To be eligible to post a litter, a breeder

No shows and cancellations are non-refundable. Come 40

must be a member in good standing of the PWDCC for at least

minutes before scheduled appointment time for drops and

one year. When a bitch is owned by two or more breeders, all

paperwork. Covid protocols in effect (masks, sanitizing and

breeders have to be members of the PWDCC in good standing.

waiver upon arrival). No washroom facilities

The exception to this rule is if the co-breeder is a resident of

(Tim Hortons half a block away)

the United States or other international location and no party

$50.00 per dog

has been sanctioned by any governing body.

Contact Sharon Lapstra for more

The PWDCC Puppy Program is open to all

information sharon.lapstra@rogers.com Check for event status on www.pwdcc.org

PWDCC breeders, not only those who participate in the PWDCC Available Puppies Listing. It gives puppy people an introduction to the club. Puppy membership benefits include the Waterlog, club events, access to archived Waterlogs and

NOTICE FOR BREEDERS

the searchable membership directory. This gives them opportu-

Recommended tests for breeding:

nities to meet other puppy and experienced owners to network about resources in their neighbourhood and more. For just $1.00 per puppy, the breeder can choose to purchase the membership on behalf of their owners or make this part of their purchase package. A win-win for all!

Annual CAER certification.

Note: CAER is deferred for 2021 due to Covid 19 shutdown.

Test must have been done in 2019 or 2020 previous to shutdown. Ophthalmologists are not available to provide the test.

PWDCC Board of Directors and Officers effective January 1, 2021

President Mindy Selby Calgary, Alberta

Treasurer, Director Diane Dirsus Keswick, Ontario

Vice President Catherine Gadd Moncton, New Brunswick

Directors

Secretary, Director Frank Davidson London, Ontario

Jennifer Byers Montreal, P.Q. Roslyn Eskind Toronto, Ontario Shelly Johnston Middle Sackville, Nova Scotia

AUGUST 2021

Rescue Coordinators Program Coordinator and Central Region Frank Davidson London, Ontario 519-719-3394 Western Region Ian Koturbash Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 306-230-4265

Eastern Region Jennifer Byers Montreal, Quebec 514-773-9376 Website Production and Waterlog Editor Roslyn Eskind Toronto, Ontario Breeder Contact Deirdre Hall Stouffville, Ontario

www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

ThePresident’sLetter Hello all, With the fall season quickly taking hold, at least in some parts of the country, the dog show schedule has ramped up, we have the first water trial in 2 years to report on and some news to report.

The PWDCA National Specialty just wrapped up a few days ago in Virginia Beach. This will be reported on in full in the next Waterlog but quite a few of our Canadian dogs took home ribbons from puppies to veterans. Many of us who would normally have attended stayed home, in many cases due to the difficulty in travelling with the rampant rise in Delta Covid cases.

We are planning a PWDCC specialty for next August,2022, most likely just before or after the PWDCA Specialty in Frankenmuth to be held August 19-26. We hope to have a big contingent from Canada and will be able to welcome our American friends as well.

Many thanks for the intrepid members of the Albert PWD Club for holding the only PWDCC water trial this year. Fortunately, the border restrictions were relaxed just in time to allow Amanda Ford to come up from Washington to judge. Congratulations to all the qualifiers!

The Ontario club is holding a CAER clinic later this month – a big benefit for those who have eye exams pending and haven’t been able to get appointments in the past 18 months.

The PWDCC has continued to relax the CAER requirement for breeding dogs into 2022, but we encourage breeders to get the tests wherever possible.

We will be sending a link to a basic grooming video in the next month or two, to demonstrate the basics those aspiring to groom their own dogs.

We are looking for members in all areas of the country to host or organize meet ups with other club members. More details to follow. Please let one of the Board members know if you are interested.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy season. Stay safe.

Mindy

Mindy Selby President, PWDCC

PWDCC Waterlog www.pwdcc.org

AUGUST 2021

1

2020 Top PWDs Source: CKC TOP DOGS, now finally official.

Qualifying Scores

Agility

Average Score

Points

100.0

25

2020 was a challenging year for all dog events. The Covid pandemic caused

1. Ch AgMCh RCh Eauchien’s Quinta NP JTX

5

most events and training programs to

RMX RAE2 CDX TD AgMX3 AgMXJ3 AgMXS

be cancelled. However, where possible,

No. 1 Working Group

PWDs participated with their usual verve. Agility and Rally results were

1. Ch Baywood Echo Waves Reflected AgI

7

99.6

25

AgIJ NP RA CD

great, with PWDs ranking in the Working Group. Congratulations to

No. 2 Working Group

Quinta and her handler Tammy

3. GCh AgMCh AgMChv Baywood Sask River

3

100.0

15

Mission CGN JTv IP CDX RE AgMX3 AgMXJ3

Hibberson for their No.1 placement in the Working Group, and the breeders, owners and handlers of the other top

AgMXv5 AgMXJV6 ATD 9

ranking PWDs.

No. 5 Working Group

There were no results for PWDs in CKC

4. Ch Armada’s Lets Parti AgXJ AgX XP JT

2

100.0

10

Obedience.

RI TDCh Hopefully, 2021 will allow for more

No. 8 Working Group

shows and trials as we all navigate

5. Charbr’s Redstone Mist SDO AgNS JTS

2

97.5

6

these changing times.

NS AgNJS CGN ITD

Conformation

GR1 GR 2

GR3 GR4 BIS RBIS

Pts

1. GCh Seaburys Master Of The Hunt

0

1

1

1

0

0

170

2. GCh Marinella’s The Thunder Rolls

2

0

1

1

0

0

167

3. Ch High Winds Drain The Swamp

0

0

0

1

0

0

51

4. GCh Aviators Nobreza @ Macduff

0

0

0

1

0

0

48

5. GCh Marinella’s you Give Me... Fever

0

0

1

0

0

0

47

No.1 Working Group and PWD in CKC Agility for 2020, Ch AgMCh RCh Eauchien’s Quinta NP JTX RMX RAE2 CDX TD AgMX3 AgMXJ3 AgMXS handled and owned by Tammy Hibberson and co-owned

by Lesley MacCraken.

fc6 2 AUGUST 2021

www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

Rally

Qualifying Scores

Average Score

Points

3

99.7

23

The Top Agility Dogs point system awards points to all Qualifying Scores

1. GCh Ridgehaven Unexpected Journey CDI

earned in both Standard and Jumpers

RE CGN

with Weaves classes at CKC agility trials

No. 6 Working Group

based on the following point system:

2. Bigbay Songs Of Brigadoon RE PCD

4

89.8

19

No. 9 Working Group 3. Goldwaters Ranger RA

Novice, 2 points; Intermediate, 3 points; Excellent, 4 points; and Master Excellent, 5 points. (PAD and

2

96.5

12

No. 10 Working Group

Steeplechase events are not included.)

The Top Rally Dogs system awards points based on a dog’s score each time

4. OTCh RCh Ch Pattedeau Spring Surprise

2

95.3

CGN RMX

11

it qualifies in Advanced, Excellent and Master: score of 100, 8 points; 9899.5, 7 points; 95-97.5, 6 points; 90-

5. Ch Tanaki’s A Moment in Time RI ITD

2

86.5

94.5, 5 points; 85-89.5, 4 points; 8084, 3 points; 75- 79, 2 points; and 7074, 1 point. (Novice and Intermediate scores are not included.)

GCH / Am CH Seabury’s Master of the Hunt with his current handler William Alexander and Judge Sandra Lex, No. 1 PWD 2020.

GCH Ridgehaven Unexpected Journey, CGN CDI RE CRN TKA PKD-N AKC RI ACT1 CWDX with owner/handler Lorie Crouch, 2020 No. 6 Working Group, No. 1 PWD in Rally.

PWDCC Waterlog www.pwdcc.org

3 AUGUST 2021 fc7

PWDCC Water Trial in Alberta hosted by APWDC Judge Amanda Ford Qualifying Teams August 27, 2021

Apprentice GCH Armada's Mischief Maker, RN Breeder Tracy Brown, Lana Stewart, Audrey Hawthorne

Working Excellent W1

Leg 3

CH Acostar Aquadea At Birch Bay

Owner/ Tracy Brown

Owner/ Shari Cooper

Baywood's Got It All

handler

Breeder Brenda Brown/Sharon Walker Owner Leg 1

J6 Baywood Bow River Sushi Breeder Brenda Brown handler

A13

W2

Junior

Owner/ Nicole Lewis

handler

Breeder Leslie Miller

Working

August 29, 2021

A3

Karen Massner/Kathy Butkovic

Handler Karen Massner

Working W5

Leg1

GCH Armada's Mischief Maker, RN Breeder Tracy Brown, Lana Stewart, Audrey Hawthorne

CH Baywood Gota Dare To Be Difrent

A14

Owner/ Tracy Brown

Breeder Brenda Brown/Sharon Walker

In Drives Sloop Doggy Dog

handler

Owner

Breeder Rachel Cullen

Karen Massner

Handler Perry Massner

Owner/ Michelle Hammerschmidt

August 28, 2021

handler Courier

Junior

C2

J2 Freestyle Elluva Good Time Breeder Jane Freeman Owner

Jane Freeman/Brenda Brown

Handler Brenda Brown

Leg 1

Chulsas Final Descent

Our Spirit Award Winners were:

Breeder Sue Hopkin

Christine McKinnon and Charlie

Owner/ Michelle Hammerschmidt

Shari Cooper and Stella (pictured below

handler

with Judge Amanda Ford.

Shirley Milnes and Dali

J4 Baywood's Got It All Breeder Brenda Brown/Sharon Walker Owner

Karen Massner/Kathy Butkovic

Handler Karen Massner J7 InDrives Sloop Doggy Dog Breeder Rachel Cullen Owner/ Michelle Hammerschmidt handler

4

AUGUST 2021

www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

Judge Amanda Ford, left and provisional Judge Lorie Crouch.

The Water Trial site.

Brenda Brown, with Freestyle Elluva Good Time, new JWD and Judge Amanda Ford.

Kanga and Gia with their ribbons!

Perry Massner with CH Baywood Gota Dare To Be Difrent, Kanga, new WWD.

Karen Massner with Baywood’s Got It all, Gia, new JWD and AWD.

PWDCC Waterlog www.pwdcc.org

AUGUST 2021

5

Morning briefing with the Judge.

Michelle Hammerschmidt with In Drives Sloop Doggy Dog, Noxx, new JWD and AWD.

Michelle Hammerschmidt and Noxx, warming up.

Michelle Hammerschmidt with Chulsas Final Descent, 1st leg of Courier.

Shari Cooper with CH Acostar Aquadea At Birch Bay, Dea, WWDX.

6

AUGUST 2021

Shari Cooper and Dea, CH Acostar Aquadea At Birch Bay, WWDX. www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

Tracy Brown with GCH Armada's Mischief Maker, RN, Miley, new AWD and WWD.

Audrey Hawthorne and Raia, Courier Pouch Exchange. right: Kanga, waiting to do the bumper from Steward’s boat retrieve.

PWDCC Waterlog www.pwdcc.org

AUGUST 2021

7

In person meet up possibilities – post Covid ideas Facebook group Create a committee Roslyn agreed to be part of committee.

Frank to send an email to ask for social media expertise volunteers as well as a reminder about membership.

PWDCC Board Meeting Minutes May 11, 2021 Roll Call

Content for members Specificly for pet owners

Present Mindy Selby, Catherine Gadd, Diane Dirsus, Frank Davidson, Roslyn Eskind, Shelly Johnston, Jennifer Byers

Grooming videos on YouTube Mindy to select a couple of videos to share with the board to determine if applicable/suitable. To be completed within the week.

Approval of PWDCC April 13, 2021 Board meeting minutes Roslyn made a motion to approve the March 2021 board meeting minutes, Frank seconded. Approved

Training on line options (i.e. Sue Garrett & Denise Fenzi) Shelly said she could put together a tricks video.

Health Hemopet subscriptions we could forward or post.

PWDCC Treasurers Report Apr 30, 2021

Other ideas Mindy suggested that we target those puppy members that just left with health, training and grooming videos. Send the Waterlog to expired puppy members.

CASH FLOW Bank balance

$21,011.59

PayPal balance:

$175.56

Total

Next Meeting June 8, 2021

$21,187.15

Motion to Adjourn Jennifer, seconded Diane, Approved

PAYMENTS (from Apr 01, 2021) PayPal Service Fees

June 15, 2021

$55.24

Roll Call

Diane Dirsus Easy Hosting Fees (Reimbursed May 01)

Present Mindy Selby, Catherine Gadd, Diane Dirsus, Frank Davidson, Roslyn Eskind, Jennifer Byers

$0.00

Karen Matthews Postage (Achievement Program)

Absent Shelly Johnston

$10.20

Bank Service Fees

Approval of PWDCC May 11, 2021 Board meeting minutes Frank made a motion to approve the May 2021 board meeting minutes, Roslyn seconded. Approved

8.00

Total

$73.44

Payment due April 28th Easy Hosting $59.88 (Reimbursed May 01) & May 28th Easy Hosting $59.88

PWDCC Treasurer's Report, May 31, 2021 CASH FLOW

MEMBERSHIP Membership level

Dec 31 2020

30-Apr-21

Change

Single membership

84

85

1

Family membership

28

20

-8

New single membership

34

19

-15

8

5

-3

Puppy Program

110

25

-85

Total active members

264

154

-110

Expired members

234

399

165

0

0

Pending members

$19,690.57

PayPal balance:

Renewals

New Family membership

Bank balance

Committee Reports Breeder Roslyn - CAER Eye Clinic for south Ontario. Dr. Whalen (Guelph area) was approached to do this clinic but not until November due to clinic renovations and Covid. Currently the only veterinary opthalmologist doing eye clinics in south west Ontario. Short In Camera session. Roslyn will reach out to the opthalmologist she usually deals with to see her level of interest in running an eye clinic.

Rescue – N/R Complaints – N/R Water Trial – N/R

$64.86

Total

$19,755.43

PAYMENTS (from May 01, 2021) PayPal Service Fees

$46.15

Diane Dirsus Easy Hosting Fees (Reimbursed May 31)

$59.88

Diane Dirsus Easy Hosting Fees (Reimbursed May 01)

$59.88

Gee Bee Sports Wear (Achievement Badges)

$906.26

BFL Insurance (Liability)

$490.50

Bank Service Fees

$4.50

Total

$1,567.17

Payment due June 28th Easy Hosting $59.88 MEMBERSHIP Membership level

Dec 31 2020

31-May-21

Change

Renewals Single membership

84

87

3

Unfinished Business

Family membership

28

20

-8

Website Translation Roslyn to explain required upgrade to our Easy Hosting website prior to translation upload (PHP Scripting update). Daniel must create a backup of our current site then move it up to a compatible version after the PHP Scripting is complete (anticipated in June 29th). At this point level of complicity is unknown until Daniel gets working on it. Once completed then the plugin would be added for the translation upload. Frank to look back through previous minutes to determine if Caroline Chaput was ever paid. Results – no invoice was ever sent to us.

New single membership

34

21

-13

Membership Retention and New Membership Appeal Renewal process – should we go to two-year renewals (all in favour of this) Possibilities of simplifying renewals (i.e. keeping credit card data on file). Due to liability issues this will not happen.

New Member package options:

8

AUGUST 2021

New Family membership

8

5

-3

Puppy Program

110

25

-85

Total active members

264

158

-106

Expired members

234

397

163

0

0

Pending members Committee Reports Breeder – N/R Rescue – N/R Complaints – N/R

Water Trial – Only water trial will be in Alberta (assuming Amanda Ford can

www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

5

make it across the border & appropriate Covid guidelines are followed per trial site).

Unfinished Business Website Translation - Roslyn advises that the plug-in has been acquired and ready to load in the backend or our website…beginning to set it up. Daniel to advise if this needs to be done by himself or if Roslyn can make this happen.

Roslyn to invoice the club for the cost of the plug-in ($79.00).

New member applications August 1, 2021- September 15, 2021 If no objections are received by Frank Davidson, our Secretary (frank@pwdcc.org), within 30 days after

Membership retention and new membership appeal:

publication date, membership will

Renewal process – should we go to two year renewals. Would need to update form/Quick Books/Website membership term). Will mean extra work and without an incentive why do it? Mindy suggested pay 2 years now and save the upcoming membership increase (would need to put it to a vote). Potential membership increase for 2022 (has been $35.00 forever).

become effective. If an objection is on by the Board within 30 days of

In person meet up possibilities – post Covid (meet & greet or group walk, etc.)

We should pick various members across the country to initialize/coordinate this.

The applicant is notified of the result.

New Member package options – similar to PWDC of Great Britain (welcome letter, rules and regulations facts and a club badge) – We could offer similar (maybe the vinyl car/fridge magnet – cost considerations would include time, the actual magnet and post). We currently e-mail the welcome package to new members (with docs of our website). Frank suggested to get the breeders involved with club promotion (have them issue the welcome packages and magnet to save on postal fees and time); why not incentivize the club breeders to do this by removing the $1.00 puppy member cost posting a litter cost? Roslyn to send docs that we send to new members. Diane to search the cost of the magnets and potential cost of post.

Content for members – pet owners Grooming – live webinar – who should do it- a groomer or perhaps breeder (Mindy to search for a few) Training – tricks, obedience, rally, agility etc. Videos would be nice.

received, the application must be voted receipt of objection by the Secretary.

No new members to report.

WATERLOG EDITOR: Roslyn Eskind can be reached at roslyn@pwdcc.org or 416-580-4395

Health – Hemopet updates to members. Better to post on a group site.

Facebook group – We need an Admin – Roslyn volunteered

Your dog, young or old, could be

Other ideas – Dangers of pesticides/fungicides/various weed killers etc.

featured on our cover masthead or the

New Business – Support to the PWDCA National – $$ will be determined and a vote by email, Roslyn to send to the American club.

pupography page, just send a photo

Next meeting, September 14, 2021 (unless any urgent business needs taken care of) Frank motion to adjourn, Jennifer seconded. Approved

and short story for possible selection.

We also love any other general interest stories about your wonderful PWDs for publication in our next issues. Send us your photos as electronic files (jpegs, tiffs, eps saved at minimum 4”x 6” 260dpi).

All emails should be titled ‘Waterlog’.

Text can be emailed or sent as a Word attachment along with photos to Roslyn Eskind, roslyn@pwdcc.org or call 416-580-4395 for additional information.

PWDCC Waterlog www.pwdcc.org

AUGUST 2021

9

Leona Ives Aliana Pwds

Leona’s first PWD, Bubbles, Ch Regala Sailor Girl of Aliana.

Earlier this year our PWD community lost Leona Ives,

Although long retired from active breeding, many in our com-

a pioneer in our breed here in Canada. Leona bred under

munity knew of Leona and many of our breeders today benefit-

the Aliana Kennel name.

ed either directly or indirectly and owe their lines to Leona

Leona bred Standard Poodles for many years and used her background as a neonatal nurse in her whelping and raising of her pups. After seeing the Portuguese Water Dogs during the telecast of the Westminster Kennel Club show she immediately decided she wanted to get involved in PWDs. Leona acquired

and Aliana Kennels. Leona kept abreast of developments in the breed. She was very generous with her time and knowledge, and actively mentored many beginning breeders in the early days of PWDs in Canada. And many of us will always be grateful for her kindness.

her first PWD, from the late Eleanor Pierce in the U.S., Ch

We thank you Leona for your efforts with the breed and for the

Regala Sailor Girl of Aliana in 1990 and had her first litter in

legacy you have left behind. May you rest in peace with your

1992. This litter of 5 pups was the first Canadian bred litter

beloved dogs around you.

to be registered in Canada.

In December 10, 1999, Leona was very proud to be honoured by the Canadian Kennel Club with the Portuguese Water Dog Top Breeder Award.

10

AUGUST 2021

www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

Non-Hereditary DCM Dr. Dodds, Hemopet reporting What breeds are affected

by DCM?

affected by the interplay of multiple fac-

into non-hereditary dilated cardiomyopa-

Research thus far suggests a genetic

that may interact with genetics and

thy (DCM) in dogs. At the end of July

(hereditary) component in several medi-

underlying medical conditions may

2021, the FDA updated its question and

um and large-size breeds such as

include nutritional makeup of the ingre-

answer webpage regarding DCM. We will

Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Great

dients and how dogs digest them, ingre-

be addressing this and provide a

Danes, Newfoundlands, Irish

dient sourcing, processing, formulation,

response to the FDA’s preliminary con-

Wolfhounds, English Cocker Spaniels,

and/or feeding practices.

clusions, but we are providing some

and Portuguese Water Dogs. Golden

background first.

Retrievers and American Cocker

For the past three years, Hemopet has been reporting on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation

Spaniels appear to have breed predispo-

What is DCM? DCM occurs when the heart muscles become weakened and thin, which leads to an enlargement of the heart. With this enlargement of the left ventricular side, valves become leaky and blood pressure

sitions to taurine deficiency.

Taurine Deficiency and Other Dietary Contributions to DCM

tors such as genetics, underlying medical conditions, and diet. Aspects of diet

The FDA’s Preliminary Conclusions To quote the FDA: Most of the diets associated with the reports of non-hereditary DCM have legume seed ingredients, also called “pulses” (e.g., peas, lentils, etc.), high

In dogs, taurine is an amino acid that is

in their ingredient lists (although soy is

synthesized by two other amino acids –

a legume, we did not see a signal asso-

What are the signs of DCM?

methionine and cysteine – primarily in

ciated with this ingredient). These

the liver. Our previous posts about DCM

include both “grain-free” and grain-con-

primarily focused on taurine deficiency,

• collapse or fainting

taining formulations. Legumes, including

which has a strong link to contributing

pulse ingredients, have been used in pet

• coughing or gagging

to DCM development in several breeds

foods for many years, with no evidence

• decreased appetite

of dogs and has been researched heavi-

to indicate they are inherently danger-

• depressed attitude or quiet and not

ly. For instance, larger dogs are possibly

ous, but analysis of data reported to

less likely to synthesize taurine as well

CVM indicates that pulse ingredients are

• distended belly

as smaller breeds.

used in many “grain-free” diets in

• increased effort associated with

Of course, other factors such as carni-

greater proportion than in most grain-

tine, oligosaccharides, and the amount

containing formulas. FDA has asked pet

of dietary fiber might come into play.

food manufacturers to provide diet for-

increases. DCM can result in death.

interactive

breathing • rapid breathing when resting or sleeping

mulations so we can further understand

• restless sleeping

What is the FDA investigating?

• weakness

To quote the FDA:

• reduced ability to exercise

• weight loss

the proportions of ingredients in commercially-available diets and possible relationships with non-hereditary DCM. FDA has received reports of non-heredi-

Historically, DCM has been primarily

tary DCM associated with both grain-free

linked to a genetic predisposition in cer-

and grain-containing diets. Most of the

tain breeds, but emerging science DCM is considered a complex condition

diets associated with reports of non-

appears to indicate that non-hereditary

that can be multifactorial, which

hereditary DCM have non-soy legumes

forms of DCM occur in dogs as a com-

includes genetics, diet, and comorbidi-

and pulses (e.g., peas, lentils, etc.) high

plex medical condition that may be

in their ingredient lists. CVM’s data

What causes DCM?

ties (underlying medical conditions).

20 PWDCC Waterlog www.pwdcc.org

AUGUST 2021 11

show that pulse ingredients are likely

A third limitation – particularly when it

Furthermore, why include Doberman

used in many “grain-free” diets in

comes to veterinary care – is that it is

Pinschers, American Cocker Spaniels, or

greater proportion than in most grain-

expensive and many companion pet par-

any breed for that matter that may have

containing formulas.

ents do not have veterinary care insur-

hereditary DCM?

Discussion

ance. The FDA wanted dogs that had at least two echocardiograms to determine

Lastly, mixed breeds were also abundantly represented. What were the

The FDA receives incident reports con-

recovery status.

cerning product safety concerns regard-

It is important to remember that the

Goldendoodle) are very popular these

ing marketed human drug and biologics,

FDA is simply following the clinical out-

days. Were any of these dogs a Golden

human or animal reportable foods, ani-

comes and interventions of the incident

mix or another mix with a breed known

mal drugs, animal foods, tobacco prod-

reports. It does not provide medical

for having hereditary DCM?

ucts and dietary supplements. The U.S.

guidance at this stage.

#3. Page 9: If the inclusion crite-

What did the FDA’s presentation report?

rion to be included in either Group One

We encourage our readers to read it and

or Group Two was two echocardiograms,

The FDA collected over 1,100 incident

follow along with the questions and

why not a blood taurine test as well?

reports of DCM in dogs. (Ryan Yamka,

points we have.

mixes? Golden Retriever mixes (i.e.

Department of Agriculture receives incident reports about animal vaccines.

In Group One Fully Recovered, 16 out of

PhD, points out that at first the agency only put out a call for dogs eating grain-

For some background, the FDA split the

23 dogs were tested for taurine status.

free foods.)

reports into two groups based on when

10 of those dogs had low taurine. Out of

they were received. Group One reports

the four comorbidities – congestive heart

The agency then narrowed it down to a

included 121 dogs diagnosed with DCM

failure, arrhythmia, valvular changes,

subset of 150 clinical cases that it

between January 2018 and April 2019.

and low taurine status – the last was the

tracked and continues to track. This nar-

Group Two’s were between November

most commonly reported.

rowing process is completely normal,

2019 and July 2020. We will primarily

tedious, necessary and time-consuming.

focus our questions on Group One Fully

The biggest limitation with this sort of

Recovered since the FDA acknowledged

tracking is losing subjects to follow-up.

that Group Two’s data was preliminary at

For instance, companion dog parents

the time of the presentation.

may not respond to emails or voice messages.

#1. Page 6:

The FDA reported

that 23 dogs were fully recovered, 84 After reviewing a presentation the FDA

had partially recovered, and 11 dogs

gave at Kansas State University’s

had no recovery. Sadly, 7 dogs died.

What breeds had low taurine?

Finally, why was obesity or malnourished (underweight) not included as a comorbidity? Were any dogs considered obese or malnourished?

Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs on

Did the dogs pass away from DCM or

September 29, 2020, it appears the

another disease? Were they euthanized?

#4. Page 11 regarding Group One Fully Recovered states: “All dogs

FDA was only given incomplete case his-

Were necropsies performed?

that fully recovered received a diet

tory – either prior to diagnose and after

#2. Page 8:

case resolution – in only about eight

Group One’s partially and fully recovered

cases regarding diet.

half of the dogs also received an ACE

dogs by breed. Goldens were abundantly

inhibitor, whereas additional treatments

Honestly, that is impressive.

represented in both segments.

and supplements varied.” The other

Another big limitation to clinical track-

Why include a breed that may have a

treatments included furosemide (Lasix,

ing is having a preponderous of evidence

genetic predisposition for taurine defi-

water pill), L-carnitine, unspecified

weighted heavily to one side, but that

ciency as part of a group of dogs who

antimicrobials, doxycycline (antibiotic),

methodology lacks a control group for

are being defined as having non-heredi-

and omega-3 fatty acids.

comparison.

tary DCM? The FDA even acknowledged

Scientific Forum Exploring Causes of

change. Nearly all dogs were also treatThe FDA provided

ed with taurine and pimobendan. Over

this possible link in its June 27, 2019 update titled, “FDA Investigation into Potential Link between Certain Diets and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy.”

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www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

What were the medical effects of the additional treatment options?

Those statistics are impressive and

Additional Research

would cause anyone to decide to switch their dog’s diet.

Since the heightened awareness of DCM in dogs around June 2018, small

DCM is a very serious disease. And yes;

#5. Reverting back to page 10 which states regarding Group One Fully Recovered: “Allergy or atopy

and large pet food manufacturers have

we want the best course of action for

sponsored research into the causes of

recovery.

DCM. It is unfortunate that veterinary

We find it concerning, though, that all of

research has to be funded by interested

the dogs were given the same protocol

parties, but that is the way of the pet

followed by gastrointestinal

of being placed on grain diets with or

world.

disease (i.e., sensitive stomach/irritable

without additional medical interventions.

We will say that much of the research

bowel disease) was the most frequently

Additionally, we find it concerning that

is unbiased, excellent and break-

reported historical comorbidity. The

93% of the dogs selected were on grain-

through. We are particularly impressed

diets reported to us for these dogs con-

free diets prior to change. That’s seems

with the amino acid oxidation research

tain novel and/or limited ingredients and

biased.

that is determining if dogs of different

are likely fed to the dogs to help nutri-

At the end of the day, we still do not

breeds and different sizes have differ-

tionally manage allergies, atopy, and

know what medical and dietary interven-

ent amino acid requirements.

gastrointestinal diseases. There were

tion combination worked best.

Unfortunately, this new research and

Additionally, we believe the FDA should

prior excellent research has largely

let us know where these cases came

been ignored.

Did any of the dogs that had dietary

from. The FDA fully admits that it is

changes have a resurgence of atopy,

working closely with three veterinary

Conclusion

allergy or gastrointestinal issues?

researchers and a veterinary cardiology

If you are worried about your compan-

#6. Page 14: The FDA noted

clinic.

ion dog, we suggest you discuss it with

that blood taurine values did not corre-

Two of the researchers are humble, quiet

late to how large the left ventricle was at

and sticking to the research they contin-

diagnosis. However, the agency also

ue to conduct.

only two dogs in each of the other categories.”

noted that dogs with severely low taurine values had left ventricles that shrank more than dogs with taurine values near, within, or above the reference range.

#7. Skipping ahead to pages 23-26: The FDA points out that 93% of the Group One Partially and Fully Recovered cases ate grain-free foods before recovery, 0% of cases were exposed to meat or poultry byproducts prior to recovery, and that 94% of reported products contained peas and/or lentils in their top ingredients. The FDA report does not mention organ meats that may be used in grain-free diets.

Unfortunately, another has sensationalized the situation, received research funding from four major pet food manu-

sary tests run and make the best determination as to how to move forward with your companion dog’s nutritional needs.

Ryan Yamka, PhD.

facturers, has a keen way of making snappy cliché sound bytes that are picked up by the media, and has blasted grain-free and novel protein pet food.

We see confirmation bias.

We completely understand that the FDA is trying to receive the most complete information possible. We also have read over some of the submitted incident reports. While many of the reports are heart-wrenching, many of them do not give the FDA enough information.

Indeed, these incident reports may be

For Group One Fully Recovered, 96% of

too emotional and not as clinically need-

the reported recovery diets were grain-

ed to make an unbiased determination.

containing.

your veterinarian, have all of the neces-

Inevitably, the sensationalism and the select few skewed the evidence.

14

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AUGUST 2021 13

Debunking Pet Food Myths and Misconceptions Ryan Yamka, PhD,

is founder and an independent consultant with Luna Science and Nutrition, and founder of the Guardian Pet Food Co. He is board certified in companion animal nutrition by the American College of Animal Sciences and a fellow with the American College of Nutrition.

Yamka calls on his extensive background in pet nutrition, and multiple years developing, formulating and launching dog and cat foods as a senior executive with leading pet food companies, to address common myths and misconceptions about pet food.

This may be a shocker to some, but the truth is, there is not a direct cause-andeffect link between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and grain-free pet foods. In fact, there has never been a single research study to demonstrate the relationship; rather, the fact is: The association between DCM and grain-free foods has been weak at best.

DCM and grain-free pet food facts It appears that some veterinarians, especially in academia, and even some of my colleagues in the pet food industry conveniently ignore that even the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged that DCM is a scientifically complex, multi-faceted issue. This is sad, considering that practicing veterinarians often do not have time to research the topic themselves and actually look to these experts for legitimate and truthful information.

Additionally, FDA acknowledged that out of the more than 2,000 cases investigated, only 1,100 could be confirmed as DCM (note: NOT nutritional DCM, as there are many types). Meaning, veterinarians were inaccurate in their diagnosis for 45% of the cases submitted to FDA versus other potential cardiac issues, such as heart murmurs. Lastly, FDA even noted that pulse ingredients

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AUGUST 2021

have been used in pet food for a long time, and again, there is no evidence to indicate that they are inherently dangerous to dogs.

I make this point because other countries have been laughing at the U.S. about this debacle and how long it has lasted.

Also, many veterinarians conveniently ignore that DCM is the second most common heart disease affecting dogs, with prevalence greater than 50% in some breeds. In 2006, Sanderson estimated that the prevalence of DCM ranged from 0.5% to 1.1% in the overall population of dogs. Said differently, that means there would be 450,000 to 990,000 DCM cases in the current 90 million dogs living in the U.S. Assuming Sanderson’s estimate was indeed accurate, far more cases should have been reported to FDA based on the expected prevalence in the population of dogs in the U.S. today. Yet, most veterinarians I talk to have never seen a single case. Go figure!

Strike 3: Still no evidence to make a connection.

I guess it’s just a U.S. problem!

At what point do the leaders of this saga realize that many of the “problematic” foods are shipped all over the world?

Unless other countries have a DCM vaccine, or the dogs there are immune to DCM, why doesn’t the problem exist outside of the U.S.?

For example, the recent Salmonella recall by Midwestern Pet Foods shed light on where their products are sold from the Monmouth, Illinois, manufacturing facility. This one plant resulted in contaminated products across eight Midwestern Pet Food brands, which were also shipped to 19 other countries.

Specifically, one of Midwestern’s most popular brands, Earthborn Holistic, is sold in the U.S. and 34 other countries.

Ironically, Earthborn was tied for the fourth spot for dog food brands most frequently fed in reported DCM cases by FDA. Since this brand is clearly also shipped worldwide, where are the DCM grain-free cases in the rest of the world?

Recently, a Tufts study funded by Nestlé Purina PetCare, “Investigation of diets associated with dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs using foodomics analysis,” is being touted in the popular press as identifying a “link” between certain dry pet foods and DCM. Although it makes good headlines, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. I studied and developed foods for Hill’s Pet Nutrition with traditional nutrient and chemistry screen analysis, genomics, proteomics and metabolomics over a decade ago before it was “sexy,” and I didn’t make up silly terms like “foodomics”, so a study like this is frustrating and sad to see. If anything, it just adds to the confusion and contributes nothing to the science of nutrition.

Although the terminology is being used today, in the Tufts study it is being misused. Simply performing metabolomics on a food is not “foodomics.” To understand why this important, you should know that metabolomics is the scientific study of the set of metabolites (chemical compounds) present within an organism, cell or tissue. It is not equivalent to food analysis or food forensic chemistry.

“Foodomics” requires the combination of food chemistry, biological sciences and data analysis. Considering this, note that the Tufts study only looked at food chemistry via one analysis (metabolomics) and therefore does not fulfill the remainder of the definition of foodomics.

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No validation of data in the Tufts DCM study When looking at metabolomic data, people often forget that “fold changes” do not always equate to biological relevance. For some metabolites, a difference of 1X could be a big deal, while for others, a 5X may not be relevant. So, what do I mean? If the authors wanted to validate some of their conclusions for B vitamins, there are known Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC)approved B-vitamin analyses that could and should have been conducted to make this an actual “foodomics” study.

If the authors had analyzed the B vitamins via traditional methods, they could have validated their theories of the fold changes observed via metabolomics.

They could have done the same with taurine, carnitine and other nutrients, which showed no differences in the foods via metabolomics. Again, they did not nor did they with other known nutrients that are easily measurable.

Unfortunate, since this is supposed to be a “nutrition” paper written by “nutritionists.” It’s also unfortunate that this particular professor is likely damaging the reputation of her students before they even start their career due to her actions. Funnier still is the fact that the company that funded the study owns NP Analytical Laboratories, which specializes in vitamin and taurine analysis. So, it wasn’t due to a lack of funding.

In my opinion, the authors’ not connecting metabolomics and “foodomics” clearly demonstrates a lack of understanding and improper usage of metabolomic technology and use of the “foodomics” nomenclature. There is no excuse for not sending out for analyses of B vitamins, taurine, carnitine and other known nutrients. Especially when traditional nutrient analysis is inexpensive, and you already have the foods to be sent out for such analysis. Better yet, have the company that is funding you analyze the foods for you in their lab!

Lastly, metabolomics does not look for all compounds. That is why “foodomics” is a combination of various analyses in both foods and body versus just one single analysis. For example, would this method have identified melamine in the 2007 pet food recalls? No, because 16 PWDCC AUGUSTWaterlog 2021 www.pwdcc.org

melamine is not a metabolite. Which goes back to my prior misuse of metabolomics statement. Would it have identified L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (a heat-stable form of vitamin C known as Stay-C), which is the most used heatstable source of Vitamin C in dry foods?

No, because it shows up in the plasma as vitamin C. What about aflatoxins in their natural form? Also no.

Would many of the other compounds measured in the Tufts study be digested and absorbed as they are measured in the food? Also no, since metabolites present in food may go through chemical changes in the body during normal metabolism. I could go on, but you get the point: another huge miss for a “nutrition” paper written by “nutritionists.”

Limitations of the Tufts DCM study When a paper has a “limitations of study” section longer than the abstract, that speaks volumes. It brings into question all of their data collection, analysis, results, conclusions and more. Some limitations of the study included: The selection of diets was based on ones associated with DCM and NOT diets directly linked to DCM. Thus, there is still no true connection, as the authors allude to in their abstract and their interviews with the popular press.

When you choose pea-based foods versus not-pea-based foods, of course you will see a difference in the two groups.

The study was literally designed to do this from the beginning. Duh! If the researchers would have used foods containing peas that were not associated with DCM in the FDA investigation, that could have been a third group that served as a control, along with the graininclusive pet foods. This is the classic garbage-in and garbage-out situation, where poor study design leads to improper conclusions and you know the outcome before you analyze the foods.

It’s unfortunate that in many cases surrounding this DCM debacle, peer review has not served the purpose it was supposed to. Nor has common sense.

Even the authors acknowledge, “Although informative, the individual selections and even the diet categories may not be the optimal categorization, and additional research will continue to

add to the knowledge base to refine the design of future studies and clinical recommendations.” I don’t believe one of the authors was quoted saying that in the press, though I could be wrong.

They further acknowledge, “Some of the diet samples were obtained directly from owners of dogs with DCM; most of these diets had been opened and stored for variable periods of time, first by the owner and then by the investigators, so this could introduce variability and could bias the 3P/FDA (3P = pulses, potatoes or sweet potatoes) diets in having lower levels of certain nutrients that could degrade as a result of variable storage conditions.” Do you think? Did I mention garbage in and garbage out?

Simply put, the metabolite profile of these foods could vary drastically once the outer packaging is open and oxidation/degradation has set in.

Vendetta against peas?

This study does not show anything nor eliminate anything. Especially when there is a lack of control foods, processing temps, known inclusion rates, improper use of technology, lack of validation of technology, lack of control in how products are sampled… I would keep going but my head hurts with all the flaws in the study.

Just imagine if certain “researchers” took their valuable time and money and chose to spend it more wisely on real research as they were taught to do in graduate school and as interns. The money would be better spent diagnosing the disease earlier, looking at genetics, titrating out ingredients for relationships and other things that make it real research. Clearly, certain groups have a lack of knowledge in formulation, and one would say nutrition as well, since they focus solely on ingredients and not on the underlying nutrition of the food.

Me personally, I do not eat peas. I also do not have a vendetta against them, either.

Finally, at what point does the industry simply stop paying attention to this nonsense? First it was BEG (boutique, exotic, grain free), second it was traditional versus non-traditional diets and now 3P/FDA foods. As a fan of baseball, I think that makes 3 strikes!

AUGUST 2021 15

PUPOGRAPHY BATHING

AND

G ROOMING T OLERANCE : If I have too,

I guess? Water is the best!

FAVOURITE D ESTINATION : Fernie BC and the Lake, with the dog dad and pack.

T OYS

OF

C HOICE : Any toy with ears, arms and legs I

can chew off…

M OST A SHAMED

OF : Being the smallest of the portie

pack (not really).

M OST P ROUD

OF : Running circles around the other porties.

W HAT I WOULD L IKE

TO BE

W HEN I G ROW U P :

Be the BEST portie I can be!

Tige lives with Cindy and Brian McCue, a retired couple with a love of Portuguese Water Dogs. Our first PWD, Dory (12.5 yo), instilled a love of the breed with us, all dogs go to heav-

NAME : Baywood Penny For Your Thoughts “Tige”.

en. Skiff (11yo) our second Portie is the Big Boy of the pack, our son’s Portie Lola (5yo) spends time with us when

N ICKNAMES : Tiger.

Mom and Dad are at work or traveling, the fourth Portie is Malibu (6yo) a rehome from the Vancouver Area with many

DATE

OF

B IRTH : March 10, 2021.

West Coast idiosyncrasies, all from Chulsa Kennels in Chilliwack. Our latest addition is Tige (5 mths), from

L EADER

OF MY

PACK : The Dog Mom, Cindy.

Baywood Kennels in Wetaskawin, a lovely little puppy we co-own with his breeders, Brenda Brown and Kathy Butkovic.

E DUCATION : Puppy Kindergarten.

L EISURE T IME ACTIVITIES : Lake Time, Pool time with the pack, going for walks.

P ET P EEVE : I’m not tall enough to counter surf, yet!!!

FAVOURITE N ON - CONSUMABLE : Empty water bottles, chew chew chew – crunch crunch crunch.

S PECIAL S KILLS : Annoying my older pack mates, I’m just a puppy.

B IGGEST C ATASTROPHE : Still to happen???

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AUGUST 2021

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AUGUST 2021 17

Dog-to-Dog Greetings:

dog-friendly events – is a chance to play and engage with us

Your Dog Doesn’t Need To Say Hi

and not other dogs. By avoiding setups where our dogs rou-

By Sassafras Lowrey, CTDI

Even if your dog is very friendly, if you see a dog in public, it’s

tinely greet strange dogs, we can teach them that paying attention to us is more fun and rewarding.

Creating Space a good idea to create as much space as possible between the

Do you run up to and hug or jump on every person you see on

two of them. This will generally make the dogs calmer and less

the street? Of course not. Similarly, it’s important to teach our

focused on each other. If you see a dog approaching, it’s a

dogs not to try to engage with all the other dogs they pass dur-

good idea (if possible) to cross to the other side of the street

ing a walk.

or give space to another dog and their owner. If you’re in a

As the world reopens after the pandemic, people are bringing their dogs more places and are often putting a lot of pressure on their pups to be social with other dogs. In reality, it’s far better for dogs to have space and not be pushed to interact.

Most adult dogs are dog selective or dog tolerant, meaning they don’t want to be greeted by strange dogs.

crowded area where moving across the street isn’t practical, you can cross your dog to the other side of you to put your body between your dog and an approaching dog. This helps create space in case the other dog lunges. When you’re first teaching your dog to ignore other dogs, that space can also make it easier for your dog to stay calm and focused on you.

Dangerous Interactions

To start training your dog to create space on cue, you can

Socialization is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but it

teach them to cross from walking on one side to the other. It’s

actually refers to a very specific period of puppy development.

your preference if you want your dog to cross in front or

That said, you can teach adult dogs new skills and they don’t

behind you. For dogs who tend to lag, crossing behind is usu-

need to greet or engage with other dogs to be happy or ful-

ally easier, while dogs who forge ahead on their walks might

filled. In fact, allowing your dog to greet every dog you see can

find it easier to cross in front.

lead to longer-term behavioral issues.

Step 1: While walking your dog, use a toy or treat to lure

If you allow your dog to approach a strange dog, it puts your

them from one side to the other, then praise and reward. Be

pet at risk for injury or illness. One of the big concerns is that

sure to practice going both directions.

those unknown dogs might be unvaccinated or ill with a contagious condition. It’s also impossible to tell if they will be a good match for your dog’s temperament. They might have had negative interactions in the past with other dogs or may be in training. The other dog may not appreciate being greeted,

Step 2: After several repetitions of luring your dog to cross to the other side, you can begin to incorporate a verbal cue of your choice such as “cross,” or “left” or “right” to indicate what side the dog should be on.

which could lead to your dog getting lunged at or being caught

Step 3: As your dog becomes more confident with this cue

up in a dog fight. Not only could this result in your dog getting

after several practice sessions, you can start to reduce and

injured, but it could also lead to long-term nervousness or

then fade out your treat/toy lure entirely and just reward them

even reactivity to other dogs.

once they have crossed to your other side on cue.

Encouraging Neutrality

Practice teaching your dog to intentionally cross sides in a

Rather than encouraging your dog to engage with other dogs,

low-distraction environment and then build up the skill to

it’s far safer to teach them neutrality by asking your dog to

more distracting areas like parks or crowded streets.

turn attention toward you instead. This skill is easiest to teach with young puppies when you first introduce them to walking by rewarding them for any attention they give you on a walk.

But while it’s great to start building these skills when your dog is you, you can absolutely teach it and reinforce it with older dogs.

Teaching ‘Watch’ ‘Watch’ is one of the most useful skills you can teach your dog that will help them ignore distractions when out on a walk. For this skill, your dog will make eye contact with you, which is a great way to stop them from getting over-aroused or excited by the presence of the other dog.

To create neutrality toward other dogs when you’re out in public, your goal is to make yourself more interesting and “valuable” to your dog. We want our dogs to understand that going out with us anywhere – from a neighborhood walk to

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AUGUST 2021

Step 1: To teach your dog to watch you, have a treat in front of them and slowly bring the treat up to your nose between your eyes.

www.pwdcc.org PWDCC Waterlog

13

Step 2: Your dog will watch the treat and make eye contact

are being bombarded by young, boisterous dogs whose owners

with you. Praise and treat your dog as they look at your eyes.

have let off-leash but have no off-leash recall. Unfortunately,

Step 3: After a few repetitions of luring your dog to look at

these negative interactions can lead to dogs developing behav-

your face with a treat, you will want to do the same physical lure but with an empty hand.

ioral challenges like reactivity. If your dog does enjoy meeting and playing with dogs, be sure to seek consent before allowing them to approach another dog. Or, better yet, connect with

Step 4: When your dog follows your empty hand and looks at

other dog owners to set up planned playdates with dogs you

your face, praise and treat.

know are vaccinated, healthy, social, and have a compatible

Step 5: After several training sessions when your dog is con-

play style with your dog.

sistently following your hand signal to watch your face, you

NOT EVERY PWD IS AN EXTROVERT!

can start to introduce a verbal cue of your choice such as “watch” or “eyes.”

In fact, classically, PWDs were and are quite standoffish, some are more tolerant of interaction with new people and dogs,

Again, start by practicing this skill inside your house so your

others seek it out or shun it entirely. Whatever your dog’s style

dog won’t be distracted and then move gradually to other envi-

of social interaction it’s up to you to honour and monitor it’s

ronments that are more distracting.

environment. Don’t let strangers approach your dog with the

Advocate For Your Dog

typical closed fist in the face and “I know dogs, they love me” if your dog won’t appreciate meeting a stranger.

You’ll likely come across a situation where a dog approaches uninvited to greet your dog. In these situations, it’s always

Often if you ask for people to just stand still, arms by their

okay to interrupt the interaction and prevent the dog from

side, and not look at the dog, your dog will advance and

approaching your dog. Our dogs look to us to keep them safe

politely sniff the stranger’s pant leg, it then might indicate an

and comfortable when out in the world. Part of continuing

interest in being touched, by a softened expression and happy

their neutrality toward other dogs is ensuring they have posi-

wagging tail. Instruct the stranger not to lean over your dog

tive interactions and understand that we won’t permit them to

and to start petting on the side of the cheek or chest, not over

be ambushed or approached.

the top of the head.

Don’t worry about being rude to a stranger – the most impor-

And on the opposite end of the spectrum if you have an

tant thing is to stand up for your dog’s comfort. It’s okay to

exhuberant PWD who wants to greet people and dogs by

interrupt people who are approaching your dog or allowing

pulling on the leash, jumping up, you have another problem.

their dog to approach and say “no.” You could also say some-

You need to teach your pup self-control and only when under

thing like “my dog is training,” or “my dog is sick,” or “my

control should you advance to meet people and other dogs.

dog is recovering” or just simply “my dog doesn’t want to say

Dogs with this exhuberant greeting style can become frustrat-

hi.” If a verbal rejection doesn’t encourage someone to move

ed and lunge and bark excessively, looking like they are actu-

their dog out of your dog’s space, try to create physical dis-

ally aggressive when they’re only over threshold with excite-

tance. If necessary, put yourself physically between your dog

ment. So working on self control is key to stopping this kind of

and an oncoming dog to prevent them from approaching.

behaviour.

But My Dog Is Friendly!

Just like humans, dogs exist on a continuum of sociability as

While many dogs enjoy the opportunity to play with dogs they

well as desire to interact with others. Demanding that all dogs

know, most adult dogs don’t enjoy social interactions with

be “dog social” and then treating being dog selective as a

every single dog they see. Unfortunately, social media and dog

“problem’ is both wrong-headed and often harmful to the dog.

park culture stereotypes suggest that all dogs should be

Pushing dogs to interact at a level that is beyond their skill set

friends with one another. This leads to owners allowing – or

and comfort zone can become a form of flooding and often

even pushing – their dogs to interact (often rudely) with other

makes them less rather than more social. Share and save this

dogs they meet in public. Although most puppies are very dog

graphic because this is information that those who live with

social, in adulthood most dogs become dog selective or dog

dogs need to understand.

tolerant, with very few remaining truly dog social. Some may even become dog reactive.

Hearing someone proclaim “but my dog is friendly” can be frustrating for many dog owners, especially when their dogs

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AUGUST 2021 19

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