Calypso English Cocker Spaniels. May Inside this issue: Latest News. Canine Good Citizen. Our Blog. Shopping for Dog Supplies

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1 - I 05/06/2008 Calypso English Cocker Spaniels May 2008 Latest News Grooming Our biggest news is that we have added two new members to our household. In February two new dogs flew in to join our pack. The first was Mocha, a liver roan girl who flew here from New York. She is lovely, outgoing, intelligent and very food motivated. She is our first roan and we love her! The second to arrive was Lexi, who arrived a week after Mocha. She flew here from Kennel Flyers in Finland. She is a solid red and a funny puppy with a very sound temperament. Mocha was 14 weeks when she arrived and Lexi was a little over 6 months. They have become very good friends and play as though they were littermates. Lexi's registered name is Flyers Queens, she was named before she arrived. Mocha will be registered as Terigan Larkspur Chocolatte. We also now co-own a black daughter, Ivy, from Sophie's January litter with Bonnie Kost. Ivy lives with Bonnie and her family in Portland, Oregon and will be shown by Bonnie and will also visit here for some shows. Ivy will be registered as Calypso Inspiration Strikes. Inside this issue: Latest News Canine Good Citizen Our Blog Shopping for Dog Supplies Contact Information Recent Show Wins Questions To Ask Your New Groomer I have been asked a lot recently about grooming adult dogs. I do grooming for adult dogs in a "show" style hair cut or a modified show style trim for $ I will do grooming for all English Cockers, whether they are bred by me or not. I can do shave downs, but I obviously do not do them often and my "specialty" is stripping and a combination of clippering and scissoring. Ifyou are bringing a dog to me for grooming, I recommend that helshe be left for the day so that we can have a leisurely bathlblow-dry/grooming session which is less stressful on the dog, but I can "groom while you wait" in generally 2 hours. Everyone who has purchased a puppy from me, please remember that I do a first groom on any puppy bred by me free of charge as long as the puppy is brought to me before six months of age. For the first puppy groom, I prefer the owner stay so that we can discuss the grooming and you can watch what I do and ask any questions you may have about grooming, maintenance, training, etc. Ifyou al e interested in doing any grooming or maintenance at home, this first groom can be a grooming lesson and a great way to get started and see what equipment to purchase, etc. For the first groom, bring your puppy clean and dryas it will take hours for the first groom without bathing first. Puppies are hairy, wiggly and new to the whole grooming p rocess( -;

2 po Is your English Cocker a "Canine Good Citizen?" Some obedience classes are focused on getting your dog ready for a CGC or Canine Good Citizen test. These can be great classes as a dog who can pass a CGC test is a nice dog to live with! Here are the requirements of a CGC Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The evaluator walks up to the dog and handler and greets the handler in a friendly manner, ignoring the dog. The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go to the evaluator. Test 2: Sitting politely for petting This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler. W ith the dog sitting at the handlers side, to begin the exercise, the evaluator pets the dog on the head and body. The handler may talk to his or her dog throughout the exercise. The dog may stand in place as it is petted. The dog must not show shyness or resentment. Test 3: Appearance and grooming This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner, to do so. It also demonstrates the owner's care, concem and sense of responsibility. The evaluator inspects the dog to determine if it is clean and groomed. The dog must appear to be in healthy condition (i.e., proper weight, clean, healthy and alert). The handler should supply the comb or bru sh commonly used on the dog. The evaluator then softly combs or brushes the dog, and in a natural manner, lightly examines the ears and gently picks up each front foot. It is not necessary for the dog to hold a specific position during the examination, and the handler may talk to the dog, praise it and give encouragement throughout. Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead) This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler. The dog's position should leave no doubt that the dog is attentive to the handler and is responding to the handlers movements and changes of direction. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit when the handler stops. The evaluator may use a pre-plotted course or may direct the handler/dog team by issuing instructions or commands. In either case, there should be a right turn, left turn, and an about turn with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The handler may talk to the dog along the way, praise the dog, or give commands in a normal tone of voice. The handler may sit the dog at the halts if desired. Test 5: Walking through a crowd This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the strangers but should continue to walk with the handler, without evidence of overexuberance, shyness or resentment. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise the dog throughout the test. The dog should not jump on people in the crowd or strain on the leash. Test 6: Sit and down on command and Staying In place This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The dog must do sit AND down on command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. Prior to this test, the dog's leash is replaced with a line 20 feet long. The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to get the dog to sit and then down. T he evaluator must determine if the dog has responded to the handler's commands. The handler may not force the dog into position but may touch the dog to offer gentle guidance. When instructed by the evaluator, the handler tells the dog to stay and walks forward the length of the line, turn s and returns to the dog at a natural pace. The dog must remain in the place in which it was left (it may change position) until the evaluator instructs the handler to release the dog. T he dog may be released from the front or the side. Test 7: Coming when called This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 feet from the dog, tum to face the dog, and call the dog. The handler may use encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell dogs to "stay" or "wait" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog. Test 8: Reaction to another dog This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, Shake hands and exchange pleas antries, and continue on for about 10 feet. The dogs should show no more than cas ual interest in each other. Neither dog should go to the other dog or its handler. Test 9: Reaction to distraction This test demonstrates that the dog is confi dent at all times when faced with common distracting situations. The evaluator will select and present two dis tractions. Examples of distractions in cl ude dropping a chair, rolling a crate dolly past the dog, having a jogger run in front of the dog, or dropping a crutch or cane. The dog may express natural inter est and curiosity andlor may appear slightly startled but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness, or bark. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise it throughout the exercise. Test 10: Supervised separation This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good man ners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, 'Would you like me to watch your dog?" and then take hold of the dog's leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unneces sa ri ly, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the dog but should not en gage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts (e. g, "there, there, it's alright"). I Page 2 Calypso English Cocker Spaniels

3 Check out our BLog We have a blog where we post information such as grooming and training tips and also stories about our dogs and their activities. Our blog is located at We also often post news and photos on our website Do you have specific questions regarding your English Cocker? Feel free to me at Calypsoecs@yahoo.com. I am happy to help answer any questions Lexi at 6 Months Lexi helping with the laundry! Shopping For Dog Supplies Ifyou are interested in shopping for supplies for your dog... toys, grooming products, health supplements, etc, there are better places to shop than Petsmart or Petco. You can try shopping at: 1.) Smaller specialty pet supply stores such as Mud Bay Granary here in the Pacific Northwest. Please DO NOT shop at any stores that sell puppies. 2.) Visit a dog show. Dog shows have tons of vendors and are a great place to buy grooming supplies and equipment. 3.) Shop online for the best prices. We recommend or One ofour pet puppies with his English Setter brother. They are so cute together! Need Something - Contact Us Neil and Kelly Monroe th Ave E Spanaway, WA Phone Numbers: Kelly Neil calypsoecs@yahoo.com Website - Please contact us if at *any* time you need a home for your dog, either permanent or temporary. Here is our current contact information: Remember- The #1 Reason for a dog to end up in a shelter is a behavioral issue. Please invest the time, effort, and money in a training class with your English Cocker. You will be glad you did! Page 3

4 F" We are so proud to announce our recent show wins. Marcus, Calypso's Element Of Surprise, has finished both his American and Canadian Championships with some very nice wins. Our Sophie, Am/Can Ch Calypso Audacity Strikes CD RN WD, has finished her Canadian RN title and earned her first Canadian CD leg with a score of 196 out of 200 and High In Trial. That is an ex tremely nice score and we were so proud of her. We have also had other nice wins with our dogs, including reserves to majors with our youngsters, Jasmine and Gina. Jack, Calypso's Fortunate Series Of Events, won a 3 point major handled by his owner, Bonnie Kost, at the January Portland, Oregon shows. Wincent, Lagromi Play It Again, won his second major in February and we hope he will soon complete his championship. Good luck to those of you showing Calypso dogs in the show ring and in the obedience and agility rings. We hope you have a lot of success! Questions To Ask Your Pet Groomer Grooming should be a regular part of your English Cocker's life, even if hisl her coat is kept very short. Regular face and ear trims are necessary to prevent lip fold infections and ear infections. When a large amount of hair grows around the lip fold area, the area will remain damp 24 hours a day and becomes a perfect spot for yeast to grow. Ears will also quickly develop yeast infections if the hair around the ear grows long enough to prevent good air circulation. Even if your English Cocker is kept clipped down, you should have the face, feet, and ears trimmed every 4-6 weeks. Bathing should occur every 4-6 weeks at a minimum. We bathe our own dogs every two weeks at a minimum. You can learn to do all of this at home or you can set up a regular grooming appointment with your groomer. Your English Cocker will be healthier and more comfortable if groomed and bathed regularly. Nails should be trimmed at least every 2 weeks. Questions To Ask Your Groomer 1.) Do you cage dry or hand dry? Hand drying a dog with a high velocity dryer is much safer and gives the dog a nicer finished look than cage drying. Cage dryers are associated with over-heating at the groomer and can be dangerous if not monitored properly. 2.) Do you use conditioner? A surprising number of groomers do not use a conditioner or charge extra for that service. English Cockers need a light conditioner for regular maintenance and may need a heavy conditioner if they develop dry skin or coat. Conditioner is necessary as shampoo strips the coat of some of it's natural oils and conditioner helps to replace those oils. Conditioner also helps to prevent future matting. Ifyou have your English Cocker with any length of coat and do not use a conditioner, you are very likely to see matting occur. 3.) Did you attend grooming school or apprentice under another groomer? Groomers have different levels of skill and education. Look for a groomer who is friendly and patient with your questions. Look for a clean and well lit facility. Look for a calm atmosphere and a comfortable temperature. Most ovel'heating occurs in a warm and humid environment. If the groomer appears impatient with your dog when you are there, that is a sign that helshe will be even more impatient with your dog once you leave. If the grooming shop has multiple groomers onsite, be sure to go over your instructions for how you would like your dog groomed each time you drop your dog off at the groomers

5 10 TIPS FOR DEALING.WITH PROBLEM BEHAVIOR by Suzanne Clothier At one time or another, every owner has to deal with problem behavior. Understanding why your dog does what he does, and how to handle the situation correctly can help resolve problems quickly. Here are some basic guidelines that apply to nearly all problem situations: Control the dog and you control the situation. By putting on a training collar and lead, you can control the dog. For many dogs, their training equipment means business, not playtime, and this can help in a problem situation. A dog who is on lead cannot run away or chase people or other animals, and his owner has a chance to help him understand what he should do by guiding him with the leash and collar. Be positive. Instead of saying "NO", try giving your dog something positive that he can do for you, such as "Sit", or "Heel". This positive approach means you can praise generously for his good actions, instead of simply yelling at him. For example, a dog who jumps up can be told to sit, and helped if necessary, then praised for sitting. Allow a dog to be a dog. Often, what owners consider problem behavior is simply normal dog behavior that they find unpleasant or annoying. For example, digging is a natural canine activity but distressing to a garden proud owner. Instead of scolding for what comes naturally, it might be kinder to set up an area in which you have buried small treats to make it more attractive than the rest of the yard, and praising your dog for digging in "his" garden. Whenever natural behaviors conflict with what you might like, be creative and see if you can find an outlet for those interests and activities that is suitable for you both. Be consistent. It is unfair to the dog to change your rules depending on what you're wearing, who's visiting or the kind of day you've had. If your dog is allowed on the furniture, he will be confused when you yell at him because Aunt Bess is visiting and she doesn't think dogs should sit in chairs! If he's allowed to jump up when you're wearing jeans and a sweatshirt, don't be surprised if he can't tell the difference between that and your best evening gown. Whatever your rules are, keep them consistent. Have your dog earn what he wants. While everyone needs a few freebies now and then, your dog will not think you are a wonderful owner if you play with him, walk him, feed him and pet him whenever he demands it. In fact( this often creates problems since from the dog's point of view an owner who can be "trained" this well is not one who deserves much respect. Teach your dog to say "please" by sitting, laying down or following some other command before he gets what he wants. Be clear. Owners often confuse dogs by changing the words or commands, repeating them over and over again without showing the dog what is meant, and worst of all, assuming that the dog understands.

6 When in doubt; gently show your dog physically exactly what you mean, giving the command at the same time so that he can associate the two. Use clear, matter of fact commands when addressing your dog, and be sure that your praising tone is excited, enthusiastic and upbeat. Remember that while we use words to communicate, dogs are masters of reading body language. If your body language tells the dog one thing, but your voice tells the dog something else, chances are he will believe your body language. This is why people who bend towards their dog and shake a finger at them while scolding "No, no, no" often receive a playful bark - their body posture is much more like a dog inviting play than a dog who is annoyed or angry. Exercise, exercise, exercise! The most common cause of problem behavior is boredom and a lack of sufficient exercise. While you work or go out, your dog has little or nothing to do, and his need to exercise will not go away. A familiar yard or house is boring, and few dogs exercise on their own without interaction with their owners. Take the time to play with your dog; jog with him; walk in the woods; swim or take long brisk walks each day. A tired dog is always a well behaved dog! Provide mental sfimulatlon. Dr. -Roger Abrante's suggestions regarding using 1/3 of your dog's diet for treats to be earned during training, 1/3 to be given as usual in a food bowl, and 1/3 to be "hunted" (try a Buster Cube, an ingenious toy which the dog must persistently work with to receive a few kibble at a time. Even a border collie will be amused by this for hours! Buster Cubes are available from your local pet store or from DogWise.com.) This "home alone" 1/3-1/3-1/3 program helps your dog expend some energy and provides much needed stimulation. Understand your dog's genetic heritage. Whether you own a Doberman or a Beagle, a Samoyed or a Westie, it is important to understand what your dog was bred to do. Owners often forget that the behavior that prompts a dog to run or stay close, hunt or guard, chase and kill or herd, work with people or work independently are all the result of generations of careful1y se1ected traits. Research your breed's history, and ta1k to people who understand your breed's c;haracteristics. You may fine! that Rover's tendencies, while annoying or amusing, are precisely what makes him what he is. You can then decide how best to work with your dog's instincts and where you need to concentrate training efforts. Train your dog. Every dog should have basic manners; but dogs are not born knowing how to behave. Take the time to train your dog on a consistent basis using kind, positive methods. Find a class near you whose methods and philosophies you like. If faced with a behavior problem you can't solve, ask people you trust for a recommendation of an experienced trainer ana get professional nelp fast. Tne sooner you oegin workhig on a problem the soon-er you will have 1t solved.