The title might seem like a trick question, but there’s a valid concern behind it. Some dogs do gain excessive weight due to overfeeding—especially when high-calorie treats are given in addition to their regular meals. Even a few extra pounds can push a dog into the overweight or obese category, which is why it’s crucial…
I recently noticed that my dogs showed little interest in chasing a poorly thrown Frisbee. This led me to rethink our training sessions using key principles of animal learning—concepts that anyone working with animals, whether professionally or as a pet owner, should understand. One of the most effective ways to modify behavior is by changing…
Here’s a not-so-trivial question for you: Of all the things your young puppy needs to learn right away, which is the most important? If you chose #3, congratulations—you deserve a gold star! If you thought #1 or #2 was the most important, keep reading! One of the biggest areas of confusion for pet parents is…
I’m sitting at a local eatery, waiting for a friend, when a group arrives with a dog. The owner immediately positions the dog beside her, away from foot traffic. Nice! I think to myself. Someone is paying attention. The dog remains quiet, likely lying next to her, calm and composed. But then, suddenly, something shifts—a…
Walking your dog should be an enjoyable experience, but if your pup constantly pulls, it can turn into a frustrating struggle. Loose leash walking is an essential skill for both you and your dog, making walks safer and more enjoyable. While it takes patience and consistency, the good news is that any dog can learn!…
Walking your dog should be a relaxing and enjoyable activity, but for many pet parents, it turns into a constant battle against pulling. Whether your dog is excited, curious, or just eager to explore, leash pulling is a common challenge. The good news? With patience, practice, and the right training techniques, you can teach your…
In this post, I want to review some of the most popular equipment designed to minimize leash pulling. While no gear will automatically teach your dog not to pull, the right tools can make walks more manageable as you train your dog to walk politely on a leash. Key Considerations for Choosing Equipment When selecting…
As I sat at a local restaurant, enjoying the passing scenes, my attention was drawn to an older man walking a young Golden Retriever. The dog, curious and full of energy, occasionally wandered away, only to be pulled back on the leash. The interaction was automatic, devoid of communication or connection. This scene is all…
Walking on a leash can be a challenge when your dog is a dedicated puller. Dogs pull for many reasons, ranging from excitement to curiosity, and learning to walk on a loose leash doesn’t come naturally to them. However, with regular practice and the right training strategies, your dog can master this skill. This course,…
A question I often hear is whether it’s “okay” to let a dog sleep in bed with you. The answer is deeply personal and varies widely. Many people love sharing their bed with their dogs, while others prefer not to—sometimes without knowing how to gently discourage their dogs from taking over the bed. Addressing Common…