Dog Training and Behavior
Dog trainers often instruct clients to “manage” their dogs as the first step in any training routine. I love learning and as a student of kayaking, yoga, cooking or whatever catches my interest; I sometimes scratch my head at another instructor’s lingo. It reminds me how important it is to define shop talk and terms …Read More
Whether you frown or smile when snow falls, you have to remember your beloved dog(s) during winter months. With a few simple tips, you can keep your dog happy, healthy and training momentum strong even when life is thrown off by frigid temperatures. Health and safety are priority. Many Chicago residents live without a yard. …Read More
In the dog world, it’s important to practice new behaviors without distractions and slowly introduce new noises, smells and sights. That all makes perfect senses in theory. But, how do you train your dog to walk on a leash inside when you really need a loose leash outside? It is all about foundation and setting …Read More
Oh, the joys of celebrating and amazing food with your family and friends. Entertaining guests is exciting but can be stressful, even without a bouncy dog to think about. If you plan to include your dog in dinnertime festivities, here are a few tidbits to make the event enjoyable for you and him. 1. Give …Read More
I received a disturbing email from a client about her dog being attacked by another dog. I am always heartbroken when clients share this kind of news. What makes the story even sadder and shocking was that her dog was attacked twice by the same dog. Yes, twice by the same dog. Even worse, …Read More
Take a moment and just think about instinctive dog behavior. Dogs naturally like to sniff, mark, scavenge, hunt, chase, dig and the list goes on. Now, think about the last time your dog did any of these innate activities. Never? Once last year? I recognize life is hectic and I too have to carve out …Read More
Socialization does not mean pushing your dog to do something he is clearly uncomfortable doing. Unfortunately, well intending humans often do just that and the results can be very detrimental. I recently witnessed a common situation in which two on leash dogs walked towards each other and their guardians stopped to allow them to interact. …Read More
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
Many have responsible guardians who do the right thing by veering off to the side to give you space to walk past. Others will redirect their dog to “sit” or make eye contact. Aggression is not something to be afraid of or to label your neighbor’s dog as “bad”. What scares me more than a …Read More
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
