The Old Trainer: Dogs are quick to learn new name
DEAR OLD TRAINER: I already got my Christmas present from my mom and dad. He is a golden retriever mixed with something else. I forgot what. I’ve only have had him a week. His name was Dudley at the shelter and that is what I don’t like. He is such a good dog he needs a better name but I don’t want to mess up. Can you change a dog’s name when he is already a year old? Let me know as soon as you can because I don’t want to wait too long. I am 12 and he is 1.
Nicolas, Greeley, Colo.
DEAR NICOLAS: Of course you can change Dudley’s name. You can change it anytime you want. As long as you are the one who gives him a new name he will like it because you are his favorite person in the world.
The important thing about a name is that it fits the dog, so take your time. If you think of a name you like, say it to him and see how he responds. Sometimes a dog knows what sounds good and loves a name the first time he hears you say it.
You might have to change it two or three times until you get one you both agree on, but he won’t mind. A golden retriever is so smart he will learn his new name in 10 minutes.
Let him help you. Tell him you want to give him a better name and you need his help. He will do his best and the two of you are sure to come up with the perfect name. When you do, let me know and I will put it in the column.
DEAR OLD TRAINER: I enjoy your training tips and post your columns in my veterinarian office. I hope you will remind your readers of the problems that occur at Christmas time when people feed rich food to their dogs. We see more sick dogs during the holiday season than any other time.
Greg, El Paso, Texas
DEAR GREG: Thanks for reminding me. There are two problems that arise every Christmas and all it takes is common sense to ensure that neither occurs.
1. Never, and I mean never, give a dog (or any other pet) as a Christmas present unless the person receiving the gift has specifically asked for a dog and accompanies you to pick out the specific dog they want. Thousands of dogs wind up in the shelter because they are given to people who don’t want a dog.
2. Any sudden change in diet can make a dog sick, and adding rich Christmas food is sure to do it. If you want to give your dog a Christmas present, give him a chew toy. If you want to add a taste of turkey – no more than an ounce – to his food, fine. Otherwise keep your dogs away from holiday leftovers.
No chocolate or other desserts, no nuts of any kind, no turkey bones. These items cause problems ranging from mild stomach problems to death.
A dog doesn’t need rich food to enjoy the holidays. All he needs is love and attention from you.
Jack Haskins writes as The Old Trainer. A trainer for more than 30 years, he has rescued, trained, and placed more than 2,500 dogs. Send questions to theoldtrainer@gmail.com.
This story was originally published December 19, 2014 at 3:44 PM with the headline "The Old Trainer: Dogs are quick to learn new name."