Home Safety

Fonz

Sometimes it may feel like your dog is a child. Keeping him safe does require some childproofing techniques. One way to keep him safe is to crawl on the floor. Sounds silly but it will help you identify nifty things he might be attracted to at his eye level. Look for loose cords he might …Read More

Fit with Fido

Fit with Fido

Have a little fun on your walks by incorporating some cardio and strength training but make sure your pooch is enjoying it! Running is such a great activity to burn off excess doggie energy, negate last night’s pizza and get in a little bonding time. Here are a few rules to follow to ensure Fido’s …Read More

Aggressive Dogs Are Not Bad

notbad

There are many dogs out there who like dogs but their friends need to be chosen wisely or new dogs in homes who are still aroused in unfamiliar environments and may be barking as a way to cope. The random street greeting should not be an assumed and many folks who say “my dog is …Read More

Car Safety

Car safety

When climbing into the car to hit the dog park, the dog beach, or for a trip to the vet, we need to remember to ask ourselves: is my dog safe? Nothing makes me more nervous than seeing someone driving down the road with their best friend on their lap, head hanging out the window. …Read More

Response Without Treats

Without treats

You will set the stage for compliance by always following through after you have given a command. We strive to teach the dog that behavior, when requested, is not optional. If it is new information you will use the rule of three, 3 lured trials, add the verbal cue. Next, pair with 3 more lures …Read More

Introducing a Second Dog

New Dog

Even if your dog loves other dogs, spend a little time teaching them to interact appropriately with each other. Remember, your dog may like playing with a second dog, but is still losing some of your attention. Start with both in a “sit” and then touch the other. Praise whoever is not being touched. Touch …Read More

Teaching Kids to Say Hi to an Unknown Dog

Saying Hi

Many dog lovers’ initial response when seeing a dog walking towards them is to say hello while bending over and petting their new friend. This innate human behavior can send many dogs running for cover or even put them on the defense. Children tend to move more quickly, make higher pitched noises and touch dogs …Read More

Teaching “Drop”

Teaching Drop

Having a new puppy or dog in the home is the quickest way to teach humans to be very tidy. If your dog rummages through garbage/laundry or spends their days counter surfing, “leave it” and “drop” are two very important cues to teach them. Both must be practiced with real-life items or the moment they …Read More

Chew Toys

chewtoy

Prevent ankle nipping and kitchen table destruction by giving your dog appropriate toys to chew. Every dog is different, but Kongs filled with dog food and topped with cheese or peanut butter are often favorites. Kongs are among the few toys you can safely leave alone with your dog. Until you know your dog better, …Read More

Brain Bending Games

CIMG0461

Some dogs need more stimulation than the weather or our bodies are able to provide. Here are some fun games to wear out your dynamic dog. Play Hide and Seek.  Put your dog into a sit or down and tell her to wait.  If you have never played this game, walk a couple steps away …Read More