Today, as I waited at home for a delivery, I found myself navigating a common challenge: managing my dogs’ excitement while ensuring a calm environment. Before the delivery arrived, both Rio and Deuce were crated in my office, as per our usual routine. When the knock on the door came, Rio immediately began barking, likely…
Blog
Frisbee Fun: Building Bonds and Skills with My Dogs This Holiday Season
The holiday season is a fantastic time to recharge. Beyond catching up on sleep and connecting with friends, I like to maintain a sense of routine for my dogs. While we might explore a new spot or enjoy some extra downtime together, this Thanksgiving weekend, I’m focusing on something a little different: leveling up my…
Join C.H.A.C.O.’s Canine Fitness Corner: Fit Pups Edition! 🐾
Registration is now open for our upcoming bi-monthly hybrid walks, where fitness meets fun and learning for both you and your dog! Don’t wait—registration closes Monday, December 2nd, 2024. What to Expect Our on-leash walks are designed to: Promote fitness for you and your pup 🐕🦺 Explore key elements of canine fitness Strengthen obedience skills…
Decoding the Bark
After a productive sheepherding session with Deuce, we returned home, and I got back to work in my office. Before long, I heard an unusual bark from him. Assuming he might be with John, whose office is on the opposite side of the house, I called out to check. John said Deuce wasn’t with him,…
How Halloween Can Be Fun and Enriching for Dogs
We all know Halloween holds a special place in the hearts of many children and adults alike. The allure of mystery, a little sugar indulgence, and crisp evening walks to haunted houses make it an event worth celebrating. But have you ever wondered how our furry friends feel about Halloween? Dogs may not understand Halloween…
Understanding “Raised Hackles” in Dogs: What Piloerection Really Means
Have you ever noticed a dog with raised hackles, the hair along its spine standing on end? This phenomenon, known as piloerection, is a natural response that often gets misunderstood. Many assume it’s a sign of aggression, but in reality, piloerection is a sign of arousal, a reaction driven by the dog’s nervous system that…
Transform Your Dog’s Behavior: The Power of Asking the Right Questions
Understanding “why” questions may seem essential to managing our dog’s behavior, and while they sometimes help, they’re often a subtle way of wishing our dog would simply stop an undesirable action. We might believe that by uncovering the “why,” our dog will change. However, in animal behavior and training, “why” questions aren’t as beneficial as…
🐾 Bi-Monthly Hybrid Fitness Walk: Fitness, Fun & Learning! 🐾
Join us for a unique fitness walk where you and your dog can enjoy exercise, canine fitness tips, and obedience training like loose-leash walking! 🏃♀️🐶 🗓️ Date/Time: November 2nd, 9 AM – 10 AM📍 Location: Santa Fe (pre-determined spot)🔗 Registration closes: October 30th Open to dogs 5 months and up who are comfortable around others….
🐾 Free Webinar: Supporting Your Emotional Dog
Caring for an emotional dog can be challenging, but with the right tools, you can make a world of difference! Join me as I share insights on: 1️⃣ Understanding their unique needs2️⃣ Managing their environment3️⃣ Behavior modification through neuroscience4️⃣ Finding the right support 🗓️ Date/Time: Wednesday, October 30th, 12:00-1:00 PM MST. 👉 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwpf-usqj8tGd2gxBa_RRYBaas6wIGTCHIn#/registration…
Living with an Emotional Dog: Navigating the Journey Together
Caring for an emotional dog—one that is constantly stressed, fearful, anxious, or aggressive—is a profoundly complex and often overwhelming experience. Many pet parents find themselves facing these challenges alone, unsure of how to help their beloved companion. In my 18 years as a professional dog trainer, I’ve seen firsthand the emotional toll this takes on…