I’m reading a new client’s intake questionnaire when my internal alarm goes off. Intake forms are often windows into a person’s life with their dog — what’s working, what’s not, and what kind of relationship they dream of having. This one, though, stood out. The client wrote that having an obedient dog was their top…
The phone rings. I pick it up out of habit and am met with a rush — one of those high-speed, rehearsed sales voices that barrel through every polite interruption. I tell the caller, as calmly as I can, that I’m not interested and ask not to be called again. The voice doesn’t slow. It…
If you’ve been looking for a convenient and effective way to train your dog, our upcoming Basic Obedience Live Zoom Course is the perfect fit. Designed for busy pet parents, this 5-week program lets you and your dog build essential skills without leaving the comfort of home. Why Choose Online Training? Training in your own…
Breakfast at my house is never just breakfast, it is a full production. This morning Deuce and Rio had their meals in their bowls as usual. Deuce finished first and wandered into the kitchen while Rio raced over to his dish with high hopes that he had left behind a treasure. He had not. After…
If you’ve ever been growled at by your dog, you know it’s a feeling somewhere between confusion, guilt, and “Did I just offend a small, four-legged tyrant?” Recently, I had the chance to work with a couple whose Basset Hound had decided to make growling a regular part of his vocabulary. What started as a…
As September rolls in, CHACO Dog Training is excited to bring two unique opportunities for you and your pup to connect, move, and grow together. Whether you’re looking to get active, strengthen obedience, or try something totally new—this September is packed with tail-wagging adventures! Event 1: Fit Pups Hybrid Walks Fridays, September 5, 12 &…
If you dream of staying vibrant, energetic, and young for years to come, I have a little secret to share: surround yourself with a playful dog. From my own experience, one of the greatest gifts my dogs bring to my life—and to my own sense of movement and joy—is their boundless spontaneity. Dogs have this…
Only If You’re Truly Bringing Them. When vacations are on the horizon, many dog owners ask themselves: should I bring my dog or leave them at home? Sometimes the destination makes the decision for us. But when we have the choice, it’s important to ask a better question: can I meet my dog’s needs while…
In our daily lives, we constantly make decisions that balance the needs of others—children, friends, parents, and yes, our pets. But when one of the individuals affected by our decisions can’t speak up, their needs may be overlooked. That silent participant is often the family dog. When we change routines or lifestyles, we may unintentionally…
I recently discussed a challenging case with a colleague, exploring why training or behavior modification might not deliver the desired results. We identified four common reasons: Here’s a closer look: 1. Technique Misapplication A frequent mistake is using corrections like leash pops or yelling as the primary response to unwanted behavior—say, a dog lunging or…