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4-H Virtual Recess: All About Dogs

Esther Boe

Dogs are valuable members of our human family. They offer love, protection, and company. As a dog owner, you are responsible for your dog’s behavior and their health. Enjoy learning more about living with your dog and ensuring that they have a happy and healthy life.

Needs of Dogs

Just like people, dogs need healthy food, water, safety, and health care. They need protection from dangerous weather and harmful situations. Veterinarians, doggie doctors, can help us make sure that our dogs stay healthy.

How Dogs Communicate

Dogs communicate with their bodies.They can tell us if they are anxious, happy, angry, fearful, or just curious. Ears, legs, and tilt of the head will change as a dog has different emotions. Check out the graphic below from The Animal Foundation.

How to Teach Your Dog to Speak

Teaching your dog to bark on command takes practice, but it’s fun for you and your dog.Start by getting your dog very excited by tossing a ball or talking in a high-pitched tone of voice.Wave a treat by your dog’s nose and say “Speak.” Don’t give the dog the treat until they bark. Continue to keep them in an excited state and reward them with treats and praise every time they bark.Be consistent with your commands. Also, practice every day. They will get the hang of this new trick in no time!

Homemade Doggie Treats

Treat your dog to something healthy by baking these dog treats for them. Give them the treats in moderation, because just like people, too many treats aren’t great for their health. Be sure to follow the instructions in order to prevent your dog treats from being tough.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup water

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 F.
  2. Mix together flour, peanut butter, and eggs in a large bowl until slightly combined.
  3. Add a little bit of water (approximately one tablespoon at a time) until the mixture becomes wet enough to roll out as a dough.
  4. Roll out your dough and cut your favorite shapes with some cookie cutters.Or shape the treats into small flat discs.
  5. Place your treats onto your baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.For a little bit of crunch, let the treats remain in the oven longer.
  6. Store the treats in an airtight container.

References:

  • Images-Pixabay.com
  • The Animal Foundation; How to Read a Dog’s Body Language, 2018
  • Puppyleaks:Quick and Easy Peanut Butter Dog Treats, 2019
  • AKC: Easy Tricks to Teach Your Dog

Compiled by Esther Coco Boe, Central Region 4-H Coordinator, Louisiana 4-H

The "All About Dogs" PDF

contains a doggie crossword puzzle, doggie language from
The Animal Foundation, and it's printable.

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3/18/2020 3:49:32 PM
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