Ask the shelter: Is it normal when my dog shivers?
Q: I just recently adopted a chihuahua, and I noticed he shivers a lot. Is this normal?
A: Ahhh, life with a chihuahua. You’re in for a real treat. Chihuahuas are some of the dearest little opinionated squirts around. Chihuahuas do tend to shiver as a breed (they have a lot of nervous energy), but I’ve heard a theory that if you’re chilled, your chihuahua’s chilled. In other words, if you feel a chill in the air with winter coming, you might want to consider getting him a sweater, because chihuahuas are so tiny they don’t regulate a whole lot of body heat. Blankets lying around for him would work, too. As a rule with your boy, if you’re concerned about something, talk with your vet about it. That will help you feel better and help your pup be healthy and happy.
MORE:Ask the Shelter: Should I crate my dog?
MORE:Ask the shelter: Can I feed my cat human food?
Q: How can I keep my dog from putting just about everything in his mouth? He’s still young, and he doesn’t really eat what he picks up, but on our walks some of the stuff just shouldn’t be in his mouth and it’s tough to get him to let go. Help!
A: We had a golden retriever at the shelter years ago who had a favorite stuffed toy that he carried around with him everywhere he went. It was so adorable! Certainly, if your pup is picking up objects which could cause harm, though, this becomes a bit less cute. Some dogs will use their mouths the way toddlers use their fingers. Puppies sniff out and discover their world by learning the feel, taste and textures of objects they put in their mouths. Certain breeds - like retrievers - are bred to carry objects in their mouth during the hunt (hence the name, retriever), so they feel comfortable with something soft between their jaws. With toys and innocuous household objects, it’s not really much of a problem. It becomes a bit more worrisome if the items could be harmful - especially if swallowed. Puppy-proofing your house is a good idea. Keep anything you don’t want him to put in his mouth up where he can’t get it (especially any stuffed objects you don't want messed up with dog drool. I know a lot of Boyd's Bears collectors who lost pieces this way). One of the best commands you can teach a dog is “drop it” or “leave it.” Basically, you want to use a firm tone and the same two words to maintain consistency. Choose what words you’d like to use for the command and stick with them. Also if your pup has something in his mouth you don't want him to have, give him something he's allowed to chew on. I know when I walk dogs that I know can’t keep stuff out of their mouths, I try to keep a keen eye on the sidewalk to watch for objects that they might grab and keep them away from it. I know a lot of times that’s easier said than done with some of these devils. With training a new pet, I can’t stress praising enough. When your boy does what you ask, praise him to high heaven. Eventually (although it may take a while), he’ll learn what you want. Good luck to you!
Ask the Shelter is a weekly feature aimed at pet education. If you have a question, contact Jennifer Vanderau, director of communications for the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, at cvascomm@cvas-pets.org or 717-263-5791.