With the live-action “101 Dalmatians” video out today, it was pawsitively the perfect time for an on-the-spot chat with the pups’ trainer Gary Gero:
What was the hardest trick to teach?
The behaviors that were trained on the adult dogs. Like the shot in the church, where both dogs bowed their heads simultaneously. That was a trick.”
Did you develop a particular soft spot for any of the puppies?
“Yes, for some the Whizzer puppies. You just got to know some of them better.”
What happened to the pups after the movie?
“They went to their new homes.” (They had been hired from breeders and families that were waiting for pups.)
What’s the easiest trick for kids to teach their own dogs?
“Teaching the dog to sit is a good place to start. You do that by when they sit you give them a treat.”
Does yelling at a dog work?
“Yelling isn’t good. Yanking or hitting dogs is a really bad idea. You train things by getting them to understand what you’re asking and giving them a treat and praise.”
Can cats learn tricks?
“Sure. Cats respond well to treats. They’re very smart.”
Can you teach an old dog new tricks?
“Any pet can learn. Nothing is too old.”
