I was tired of throwing money away, so I’m sharing the game-changing item adventurous pups need: durable dog collars.

Why Cheap Collars Just Don’t Cut It
That summer, I spent over $150 on collars that couldn’t handle Annie’s active lifestyle. Two days at the beach would leave my once-beautiful fabric collars looking dull and lifeless. So I switched to another more durable option, but the rusty hardware persisted.

I knew there had to be a better way, and that’s when the idea for Gunnel Pups was born. Instead of replacing cheap collars over and over, I wanted to create something that would keep up with adventurous pups like Annie (and now Bowen).

What Makes Gunnel Pups Collars Different?
Gunnel Pups dog collars aren’t just another accessory—they’re designed for the elements and stylish enough to stand out.

Our collars feature:

1) Durability that lasts: Say goodbye to faded fabrics and rusty hardware.

2) Adventure-ready style: Classic designs meet practical water-friendly materials.

3) Easy maintenance: Machine-washable, quick-drying collars to avoid unpleasant odors.

Why Investing in Quality Makes Sense
Here’s the math: At $68, a Gunnel Pups Collar costs less than 19 cents a day if it lasts only a year (it will last longer). Compare that to replacing multiple cheaper collars throughout the year, and the value speaks for itself.

No more wasting money on collars that fade, rust, or develop that unpleasant odor. With a Gunnel Pups Collar, you get reliability, style, and confidence knowing it’s built for every adventure.

Real Feedback from Happy Pups and Their Humans
Still not convinced? Here’s what our pack has to say:

“After six months of daily ocean swims, our collar still looks like new!”
– Sam’s owner

“No more rusty buckles! We’ve finally found a collar that lasts.”
– Penny’s owner

“It’s the only collar we trust for our water-loving Lab.”
– Jack’s owner

Ready to Up Your Collar Game?
If you’re tired of collars that don’t last, it’s time for an upgrade.

Shop the collection today and invest in a collar that’s as bold and dependable as your best friend. The best part? Sign up for exclusive offers and more and save 15% plus FREE shipping on your first order.

The post Durable Dog Collars: A Must-Have for Adventurous Pups to Up Your Collar Game appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

Since February is about love, we’re sharing heartwarming dog stories from our Gunnel Pups community. Here are the questions we asked:

1) What’s your favorite memory or adventure with your pup?
2) What’s your favorite quirky trait about your dog?
3) What do you like most about your pup?

First up, Charlotte shares about her pup Sam, aka Superhero & Coconut Lover.

Favorite Memory or Adventure: Halloween Batman Adventures
“One of my favorite memories with Sam is dressing him up as Batman for Halloween. The first time we did it, he looked so adorable and proud in his costume that it quickly became a cherished annual tradition. Now, every October, as soon as we pull his Batman costume out of storage, his excitement is contagious—he practically bounces with joy! He parades around the neighborhood with his signature confidence during our community’s Halloween celebration, making everyone smile. The neighborhood kids especially look forward to seeing him all decked out, cheering him on like he’s a real superhero. For Sam, it’s not just about wearing a costume; it’s a moment to shine and bring happiness to everyone around him.”

Favorite Quirk: Tongue Out When Upset
“Sam is a wonderfully expressive dog, and we’re convinced it’s thanks to his husky heritage! He’s always talking to us, whether he’s sharing his opinions with a series of comical howls or offering his unmistakable ‘doggie commentary’ on what’s happening around him.

One of his most endearing quirks is the way he sticks his tongue out when he’s upset or when we tell him ‘no.’ It’s his little way of showing attitude, and it never fails to make us laugh. His sassiness is part of what makes him so special—it’s like living with a furry comedian who always keeps us entertained.”

What Charlotte Loves Most About Sam: Morning Beach Walks
“Spending time with Sam is one of my greatest joys, and our long walks on the beach are the highlight of my day. The beach is his happy place, and every morning before work, we head there to soak in the salty breeze and enjoy the waves. Sam loves to swim, leaping into the water with boundless enthusiasm, and he’s developed a unique obsession with coconuts—chasing them, chewing on them, and even carrying them around like prized possessions. Sometimes, he even sneaks them into the house, much to Mom’s dismay! Watching him revel in the sand and surf fills my heart with so much happiness. Those quiet, sunlit mornings by the ocean with Sam remind me of the simple pleasures in life and the special bond we share.”

Next, Julie shares her heartwarming dog story about her adventurous pup Suzie, aka the Champion Hug-Giver & Ultimate Adventure Buddy.

Favorite Memory or Adventure: Air Competition
“Going to Ultimate Air Games this past September is one of my favorite memories. It was outside Nashville, TN when the remnants of Hurricane Helene passed over that area. The competition was awesome and Suzie won the Master Elite Distance division and came in second for Master Fetch-It with personal bests in both disciplines but my favorite time during the trip was actually when we weren’t competing – we were on a rain/weather delay so Suzie and I hung out in my camper, snuggling eating popcorn and watching TV. We are always on the go with dog sports so having forced relaxation with just me and her was wonderful.”

Favorite Quirk: Refuses to go Places Without Julie
“[Suzie] doesn’t want to be alone so when she’s ready to go to bed, she will head to the bedroom, notice I’m not following and come back to get me. Same thing when she goes outside, she won’t leave the deck if I’m not there with her. Not the most interesting quirk, but she is pretty cute.”

What Julie Loves Most About Suzie: Her Hugs
“Suzie gives the best hugs, especially when I get home from work. She crawls up on me and puts her head on my shoulder to snuggle. She stays there until she has had enough hugs and kisses before running off to find the toy du jour. She is such a sweetheart!”

Last, but certainly not least is Caroline, reflecting on her pup Lilou, aka World Traveler & Fine-Dining Enthusiast.

Favorite Memory or Adventure: Paddleboarding
“One of our favorite activities together is paddleboarding. Whether navigating serene turquoise lakes or gliding through coastal waters, Lilou’s enthusiasm (and skills!) on the paddleboard make each outing a delightful experience. Last year, I crossed a marathon finish line with Lilou by my side (he waited for me before the finish line!) — a perfect end to a long journey! A few months later, Lilou showed his own brilliance in a senior dog sprint competition, giving it his all and performing spectacularly. Watching him thrive and sharing these moments of achievement makes me so proud, especially given his age (13.5 years old). He’s more than a companion—he’s an inspiration!”

Favorite Quirk: Eating Off a Human Plate
“Lilou will only eat his kibble if it is served on a human plate! And bonus point if it’s gratinated with cheese! Lilou hates being brushed, except when he’s in the car, where he’ll happily let me brush him for hours!”

What Caroline Loves Most About Lilou: His Sense of Adventure
“Lilou is an avid traveler who has explored 8 different countries so far (and plans to visit many more this summer!). He possesses an innate sense of adventure and curiosity that makes every trip with him memorable. Lilou’s exceptional travel skills ensure smooth and enjoyable experiences, no matter the destination!”

Dogs like Sam, Suzie, and Lilou remind us that puppy love comes in so many forms—from daily rituals to big adventures to the little quirks that make us laugh.

Now, we want to hear your heartwarming dog stories. To submit, send us:

• A photo of you & your pup (bonus points if they’re rocking a Gunnel Pups collar!)
• Your dog’s name
• Your name & social handle
• Your favorite adventure or memory
• Your pup’s funniest quirk
• What you love most about your dog

DM or email us at info@gunnelpups.com.

Let’s fill February with all the heartwarming dog stories we can. And if you want to celebrate your pup with a collar built for adventure, check out the latest styles at www.gunnelpups.com/shop.

Because puppy love is forever.

The post Heartwarming Dog Stories: Celebrating Puppy Love You’ll Adore appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

While winter with dogs is a great time, it’s important to know how to keep dogs safe in winter. Protecting their paws, preventing frostbite, and ensuring they’re hydrated and warm, even in freezing temps. If you’re planning winter activities with your pup, these tips will help you both make the most of it while staying safe and comfortable.

1. Protect Their Paws

Winter can be tough on paws. Ice, salt, and freezing temperatures can cause dryness, cracks, and frostbite. While dog booties aren’t my favorite, they may be necessary. I know I’d consider them if Bowen struggled on our winter walks.

So if booties aren’t your thing, make it a habit to check and remove any salt, snow, or ice from your pup’s paws. So far, Bowen has allowed me to use a towel to help get clumped snow out of his paws. But if that’s not working, I’ve read many owners say using a kitchen whisk works wonders to help break the snow apart, followed by a towel dry. If you try it, please report back on your experience.

2. Pack Freeze-Proof Water

Hydration is an often-overlooked aspect of how to keep dogs safe in winter, but it plays a key role in preventing fatigue and maintaining their overall health during outdoor activities.

I know what you’re thinking – did I just get reminded to pack water? Yes, you did, but it’s so important! Just the other day, I went walking in the snow-covered woods with Bowen and forgot to pack water, which made me feel bad after he drank his entire water bowl when we got home.

So, for longer walks or day trips, a collapsible bowl and a freeze-proof, insulated water container are musts. Remember to encourage water breaks, even if your dog thinks eating the snow is a fine substitute for water.

3. Keep Them Warm and Visible

Not all dogs are built for winter weather like Bowen, my double-coated golden retriever. If your dog shivers or lifts their paws a lot during walks, consider investing in a coat or booties. A quick Google search reveals a ton of cute and cozy options.

Speaking of visibility, shorter days mean it’s darker out, which is my least favorite part of winter. Reflective or lighted collars and harnesses are great for early morning or evening walks. My husband’s favorite is a headlamp—and while I feel silly wearing one, I can’t deny how useful the hands-free lighting is. Remember: a little light goes a long way in keeping your dog safe in the winter.

4. Monitor for Cold-Weather Risks

Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to frostbite or hypothermia—especially for smaller or short-haired dogs. I find short walks often work best for both me and my dog during the coldest days.

While Bowen loves the snow, I keep an eye on his ears and belly to ensure they aren’t too cold—other times, he makes it easy by running to the door to let me know it’s time to go inside.

Watch for signs like excessive shivering, hunched posture, whining or barking, or lethargy – all are signs the indoors is best.

Winter Adventures Await

Knowing how to keep dogs safe in winter makes all the difference in ensuring your time outside is fun and worry-free. With a little preparation, you and your pup can embrace the dog days of winter and enjoy the snow.

Have a pup who loves the snow as much as Bowen? Share your favorite winter adventures with us! And if you’re looking for gear to withstand the elements, check out Gunnel Pups for durable, all-weather collars that can handle it all.

The post How to Keep Dogs Safe in Winter: 4 Essential Tips for Chilly Days Ahead appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

With that, here are a few of my favorite things:

1. Gunnel Pups Collar

First on my list is the long-lasting Gunnel Pups dog collar. Yes, I’m biased, but I truly love Bowen’s collar. He looks so handsome in his timeless Red Right Return collar, and it lasts through our adventures – be it in snow, saltwater, a pool, or a muddy puddle. With a pup who loves adventure (and anything messy), I also love how easy they are to clean. I throw Bowen’s in the washing machine at least once a week, and quickly let it air dry.

At Gunnel Pups, we’re so proud to deliver a classic, long-lasting style that looks amazing on any adventurous pup.

2. Yeti Dog Bowl

A Yeti dog bowl is another top pick. It’s a fantastic gift for dogs who are always on the go (and their humans who want to keep them hydrated). Yeti bowls keep water cool and can handle adventures. I still remember how much Annie preferred her Yeti dog bowl vs. her regular one because it kept her water cool. This bowl is durable, and you can trust it to survive many boating adventures, beach days, hikes, and more.

3. Antler Chew Toy

For the pup that loves a good chew session, an antler chew is a must. Bowen is obsessed with his, and I love it because it lasts a long time. Unlike regular bones that break or get messy, antlers are fairly durable (don’t forget to supervise!) and won’t stain the carpet. They’re great for keeping dogs occupied and are ideal for pups who love to chew.

4. The Infamous Pig Toy that Oinks

Now, this one might be a love-hate gift depending on your tolerance for quirky noises, but Bowen’s favorite toy is this pig that oinks. There’s something about that oinking sound that he finds irresistible, and while I find myself laughing or cringing, it brings him endless entertainment, which is enough to keep it around. If you’re looking for a silly, fun gift, this toy is perfect for quirky pups.

5. West and Willow Pet Portrait

For a meaningful gift, a custom pet portrait from West and Willow is hard to beat. I have one of Annie hanging in my office, which is a lovely reminder of our time together and how much she will always mean to me. Having a custom piece to capture your dog’s personality is one of my favorites and a thoughtful gift for the dog lover in your life.

6. Treats, like Greenies Pill Pockets

Next up are Greenie’s Pill Pockets because no pet gift guide is complete without a treat recommendation. These were a fan favorite for Annie and now for Bowen because not only are they are delicious, but soft and easy to use when you need to sneak in a pill. It’s a practical gift that’s sure to be a hit with your dogs.

Treat Yourself and Your Pup This Season

As the holidays approach, don’t forget to treat yourself and your pup to some thoughtful, adventure-ready, dog lover gifts. Whether it’s a new collar, a quirky toy, or a special pet portrait, these gifts are all about celebrating the bond you share with your pup.

When you’re ready shop, check out our Gunnel Pups collars, or click the links above to shop some of Bowen’s favorite things.

Wishing you and your loved ones a holiday filled with wagging tails and happy hearts.

The post The Ultimate Gift Guide: Must-Have Dog Lover Gifts for Adventurous Pups and Their Humans appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

Annie has been on my mind more than ever lately, especially as my love for my puppy Bowen grows. I often find myself comparing their behaviors at this age—maybe a bit unfair to Bowen, but it’s something I can’t help doing. I still miss her and that’s never going to change.

During this season of gratitude and giving back, I find myself reflecting on the connection with my family, friends, and Annie and Bowen. What follows is a tribute to Annie’s legacy, the lessons she taught me, and the joy I’ve found in sharing life’s adventures with Bowen, my newest love and adorable (and huge!) puppy.

The Inspiration Behind Gunnel Pups: Annie’s Legacy

I never knew what a “heart” dog was before I met Annie. But no word could describe her more accurately. She lives in my heart every day. Even though her time was unfairly short, it was incredibly meaningful.

From the moment she came into our lives, she brought our family an unquantifiable amount of joy, loyalty, and quiet strength despite her health struggles.
Annie’s sassy spirit and lovable nature reminded me of the importance of living in the moment, even on challenging days. Her love for adventure, especially by the water with her sister Bridie, calmed me and brought me much happiness. Watching them play, swim, and embrace life despite their medical challenges was a bittersweet reminder of how fleeting time is.

Annie inspired me to create something that would honor her legacy—a dog collar crafted to solve a unique challenge: delivering long-lasting dog collars designed for water adventures.

The Importance of Gratitude in the Face of Loss

Anyone who has lost a pet knows the depth of that heartbreak. It’s gutting and you can’t function at times. It’s not “just losing a dog” it’s losing a part of your heart, a source of endless love and comfort. Yet, even in the sadness, there was gratitude. Annie’s legacy has taught me to appreciate life’s beautiful moments, even as I hold space for its sorrows.

Finding Joy and Gratitude Again: Welcoming Bowen

After we lost Annie, I initially thought I could never love another dog again. But life was so incredibly painful and empty without her. I remember trying to convince my husband it was time for a puppy about two months after she passed. I know that sounds terrible to some, but it hurt so much without her. The house was too quiet. There was no snuggling, no barking, no pouncing on toys. I had nothing to focus on but myself and that was unsettling.

That spring, we welcomed Bowen into our family—a new chapter, a completely different puppy, and with it a new kind of love. I felt a mixture of emotions —happiness, guilt, and gratitude—all rolled into one unsettling feeling. But Bowen barreled into our lives, almost willing me out of sadness, reminding me it was okay to love another pup again.

Bowen has taught me that the bond with your dog can take on new dimensions, reminding me of the freedom of living and loving in the moment without constant worry. Annie taught me to embrace the good with the bad even when it was difficult. For both of them, I am grateful.

Lessons in Gratitude and Life

I wish I could tell you that Annie and Bowen imparted some profound life wisdom, but that’s not the case. What I’ve realized is that our pets have this way of teaching us life’s biggest lessons in the simplest way – just by living fully and trying to cherish what we have and who we get to share our lives with. Pets don’t worry about tomorrow or dwell on yesterday—they simply enjoy the now.

As I think back on the journey that led me here, I’m deeply grateful. Annie’s life may have been short, but her impact on me was immeasurable. She inspired Gunnel Pups, and with Bowen, I’m continuing the adventure, carrying forward Annie’s legacy of love, joy, and resilience.

So, this Thanksgiving, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for and to celebrate the love you have for your family, friends, and loyal four-legged companions. For life is short and you must live it as fully as you can.

The post The Special Bond with Your Dog: A Thanksgiving Reflection on Love and Gratitude appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

Before you enjoy nights by the fire and roll up the car windows, it’s important to thoroughly clean to get a fresh start for the fall and winter months. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some actionable tips to deep clean and refresh your dog’s essentials, from collars to car seats, and more.

1. Deep Clean Your Dog’s Collar

From salty ocean dips to swimming in the lake or a pool, your dog’s collar has been through some adventure.

To clean your dog’s collar, start by machine-washing it in cold water on a delicate cycle or giving it a scrub with a toothbrush and your favorite dish soap. For stubborn summer stains, soak the collar in a color-safe powdered cleaning product like OxiClean before washing to restore it. Hang it to dry and let your pup show off their gear.

2. Clean and Deodorize Your Dog’s Leash

Leashes are the unsung heroes of summer—they’ve been dragged through sand, the ocean, muddy puddles, and more.

To eliminate stains and odors, hand wash it with dish soap or throw it in the machine on a delicate cycle. Follow with an air dry. A clean leash not only looks better but may be more comfortable for you and your dog.

3. Refresh Your Dog’s Bed and Blankets
Your dog’s bed and blankets are probably where they’ve been dreaming about all those summer adventures. However, like any well-used item, they can accumulate dirt, odors, and allergens over time.

Wash the bed and blankets with a pet-safe detergent and add a bit of baking soda to the wash to help neutralize any odors. For tougher spots, I recommend using the Bissell Pet Stain Eraser, which has helped me out on more than one occasion. This handy tool is perfect for targeting and eliminating stubborn stains and it’s great when your dog’s favorite spot on the bed needs extra attention.

For an all-around clean, follow up with Nature’s Miracle Advanced Dog Stain and Odor Eliminator Spray to ensure your dog’s space smells fresh and clean.

4. Inspect and Clean Your Dog’s Toys

After a summer of play, your dog’s toys might need a little TLC too. Soft toys can go in the washing machine (just like your dog’s bed), while hard toys can be scrubbed with dish soap and warm water.

Also, throw out any antlers or bones that are on the smaller side to prevent injuries. As you’re cleaning, consider adding some new ones to your pet’s Christmas wish list!

5. Freshen Up Your Dog’s Travel Gear

Wash and dry your dog’s bed, travel bag, and portable bowls before packing it away. If you’ve got another trip planned before winter sets in, this will ensure everything is clean without that musty smell.

6. Deodorize Your Car

Speaking of cars, have you noticed any lingering wet dog odors from your summer adventures? If so, it’s time to freshen up your ride before the cold weather sets in

Start by vacuuming the seats and floors. After that, use a pet-safe deodorizer to eliminate any remaining smells. Again I’m a huge fan of Nature’s Miracle Advanced Dog Stain and Odor Eliminator Spray for this task—it works wonders on stubborn odors.

And if you’re dealing with pet hair clinging to your car seats or sofa, grab a Scrub Daddy.One of my favorite dog influencers highlighted how this tool is amazing at picking up pet hair.

As fall sneaks up on us, now is the perfect time to spruce things up. A little effort now means more time later to enjoy cozy days indoors and snuggling with your best friend.

And if your dog’s collar is a little too well-loved, why not treat them to a new one? Explore our collection of durable, easy-to-clean collars at Gunnel Pups and get your pup ready for their fall adventures in style!

The post 6 Post-Summer Dog Gear Freshening Tips to Prepare for Fall appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

And then there was the puppy I’d longed for, the one I would love and care for, my Annie girl. She was far from perfect, but she was the perfect girl for me.

What’s the worst thing she did besides fail to behave at the beach? Was it when she barked at other dogs, children, or people on bikes? Or when she barked directly into my face to demand 100% of my attention?

No, it wasn’t her disposition: it was her health. Annie was born with renal dysplasia, a disease where her kidneys never fully formed. It was discovered early on, after a UTI that wouldn’t go away, coupled with excessive water drinking. And so, starting at five months of age, her life was anything but easy. She endured more vet visits and tests than most 12-year-old dogs (she passed in September 2023 at just over three years old). Annie was also on enough medications that I had to buy a pill organizer, and the challenges we had with her diet and appetite cannot be overemphasized.

It was depressing at times, and I was often overwhelmed, mad, frustrated, and then sad again. Many times, I held my breath wondering how much time we had left together.

In retrospect, it was bittersweet, which, is by definition, “producing or expressing a mixture of pain and pleasure.” All our days together were filled with joy, but also tinged with sadness. But we shared three beautiful years together, and for that I’ll always be grateful, even when the pain of living without her is overwhelming.

One of my closest friends once shared an amazing quote written by L.K. Knost that really resonates with me and reminds me to take in what life throws at us. It is, “Breathe in the amazing, hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary. That’s just living heartbreaking, soul-healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it’s breathtakingly beautiful.”

I took great joy knowing Annie lived her life the way so many of us strive to do every day; in the moment, like every lick of peanut butter, fresh smell of grass, or sunny beach day is the best one ever. I’ll hold on and keep our amazing memories close to my heart.

The post The Bittersweet and Heartbreaking Joy of Loving Annie appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

Annie and Amy, July 2020.

What

The Collar

After two summers spent on the beach and in the ocean, I had bought more collars for Annie and her sister Bridie than I care to remember. But I wanted them to look their best and wear collars that reflected their beauty! Unfortunately, nothing would last: the fabric faded quickly, and the hardware always rusted staining both dogs’ necks.

So, I challenged myself to make something better: something classic, beautiful, and durable.

Faded, rusted collars. The one on the left was recommended for use in the ocean!

Where

California and Massachusetts

The idea to sit down and research if I could design something that would work in saltwater came when I was on vacation in California visiting family. I had so many questions about how to begin, and honestly wondered if I could solve the problem. Could I really come up with something that hadn’t been done before? I am certainly no creative genius. But I stayed curious and kept researching, and before I knew it, Gunnel Pups HQ was born.

Gunnel Pups HQ is in Massachusetts and it’s anything but glamourous. But it’s where I spend a lot of time on nights and weekends. My space is transformed into a place to brainstorm, learn, take notes, dream, and sometimes wonder if I’m crazy to have started this journey. When I need inspiration, I look to my officemate who is usually snoring softly or loudly barking reminding me it’s time to go outside.

Annie, the sleepy but inspiring officemate.

When

Summer 2023

Chances are you’re wondering: how in the h***l could it possibly take nearly 1.5 years to create a dog collar? Honestly, I sometimes wonder this myself. For those interested, here’s a recap of how I’ve spent my time creating Gunnel Pups:

August 2021 – October 2021: So. much. online. research.

November 2021 – September 2022: Take a course to learn how the retail industry works. Spend countless hours researching materials, interviewing tech designers, graphic and web designers, and factories who would make my dream collar.

In early 2022, I selected my first factory and a few months later received my first prototype. I was on my way and so excited! That summer, the collar performed exactly how I expected and it was classic, pretty, and long-lasting! Yay!

But other challenges presented themselves: primarily, my factory and I just weren’t a good fit. In hindsight, there were red flags, but being a newbie, I continued the partnership longer than I should have.

Several months and a lot of money later, I made the decision to find a new factory and I am so glad I did.

October 2022 to present day: I found a terrific factory in Maine, willing to answer my many questions with patience and professionalism, and most importantly, deliver several iterations of my first collar to meet my standards of high quality and superior craftsmanship.

With pre-production activities nearing an end, I’m incredibly hopeful that Gunnel Pups will offer its first set of classic, beautiful, durable dog collars for sale by the beginning of the summer.

But I’ve been wrong before, so please stay patient as I work hard to deliver a collar I truly believe in and have put my heart and soul into creating.

Have you ever had a long-term project or goal that came to fruition? If so, please tell me about your journey below.

The post Inside Gunnel Pups HQ: Who, What, Where, When appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.

At home, Annie doesn’t seem to favor either me or my husband, although it’s evident that I’m disciplinarian and my husband is the “fun” one. But this summer at the marina something bizarre transpired: an unequivocal preference for my husband.

No big deal other than a bruised ego, right? That’s what I thought. Until it turned into Annie incessantly whining, barking, and pouting if she couldn’t have 100% unrestricted access to my husband.

Let me explain: if my husband walks to the bow (front) of our boat, Annie will chase him up the gunnel. If he gets into our dinghy (a small boat used to get to shore) without her, she’ll jump into the dinghy (even if it means falling into the water!). If he walks down the dock without her? A near total meltdown (even if I’m on the boat with her!).

Desperate to find some answers, I searched the internet for help but came up empty-handed. Sure, there are a bunch of articles on dog separation anxiety, and owner preference (Fun fact: it can switch throughout life!).

So, I turned to Annie’s dog trainer Lee Desmaris of Zippity Do Dog Training for help. Lee specializes in working with dogs who struggle with anxiety and fear-based aggression. She is a fear-free, force-free trainer who uses only scientifically proven training methods that do not involve the use of aversive training tools or techniques.

Lee reminded me of a skill (i.e. stationing on a mat to relax) I had long since abandoned practicing with Annie because I didn’t see its value at the time. Turns out that was a bad idea.

Here’s what she recommended:

For problems like Annie’s, I love using Leslie McDevitt’s Control Unleashed (CU) program and would make my first step a re-acclimation to stationing on the mat, which is CU Foundation skill. For Annie, this skill should have a strong reinforcement history because it was previously taught in puppy training.

However, we didn’t practice this skill on the boat, so we would want to build a strong Conditioned Emotional Response (CER) to being on the mat, while on the boat, first. From there the focus would be on shaping Annie to a down position while on the mat, then down to her hip position being rolled out, rather than having her rear legs directly underneath her because this is when dogs are most likely to pop up and out of position. With her hip rolled out, her body would be in a more relaxed position.

Once Annie has mastered a relaxed body position on the mat, we would focus on teaching her a start button targeting behavior, ideally a chin rest, that would be shaped to a target. Start button behaviors are any behaviors the dog has learned to use as a “cue” for the human to do something, or for the human to ask the dog to do something or to offer consent. In this case, Annie would learn to ask for “Dad” to leave by using her start button behavior of a chin rest. (Note: now Annie will understand what she is supposed to do while stationing on the mat). From the mat, the next skill would be Leslie’s Requested Approach Training or (RAT), except, in this case, it would be used in reverse. The RAT game empowers the learner to direct how close they will get to something, or how close something will get to them. In Annie’s case, we would do RAT in reverse letting her control when Dad leaves the boat.

It would look something like this: station on the mat in a relaxed position, offer start button behavior, Dad starts to leave, Annie gets fed, and the food continues until Dad returns, then the food stops.

The entire CU program is about having a silent conversation with your dog and allowing your dog to have the latitude they need to overcome whatever their issue(s) might be. This ultimately leads to empowering the dog that is worried about a specific thing and provides them with a safety net as they work their way through it. So, you may be wondering, does it work? I don’t know…yet. It’s fall now, and summer seems so far away. But I know what I’ll be doing in the meantime: working on Annie’s mat stationing!

Have you and your pup experienced situational separation anxiety? If so, what did it look like and how did you and your pup deal?

Live in Massachusetts and interested in training with Lee? Check out her website here: [https://www.zippitydodog.net]. I can’t recommend her enough (and that’s my honest, unsolicited opinion).

The post Dogs on Boats: Situational Separation Anxiety? appeared first on Gunnel Pups Dog Collars.