I’m at my client’s house on a crisp, pre-Thanksgiving afternoon—the kind of day when the air smells like cinnamon, fireplace smoke, and a hint of impending holiday chaos. As we chat, her small mixed-breed pup is happily gnawing away on a dog-safe deer antler like it’s the world’s smallest turkey leg. “Fantastic!” I tell her….
Hello friends — Almudena here, coming to you from the high desert of New Mexico, where the leaves have turned gold and the chill of Thanksgiving is in the air. At C.H.A.C.O., we’re gearing up for our favorite season of gratitude, turkey smells drifting, family voices rising, and of course — our four‑legged companions at the…
When it comes to dog training, we often talk about two approaches: adding and subtracting. By “adding,” I mean presenting a reinforcer as a consequence of a behavior. By “subtracting,” I mean removing something the dog wants in response to a behavior. Both have their place, but today, I want to focus on the power…
Every dog is unique, but one thing all dogs have in common is the need for guidance, structure, and clear communication. Basic obedience isn’t just about teaching your dog to sit or stay — it’s about building a strong foundation for a lifelong relationship based on trust, respect, and understanding. 1. Safety FirstBasic obedience can…
I often say that some dogs aren’t gaining weight because they’re lazy couch potatoes — they’re gaining weight because they’re very well trained. Yes, you read that right! Many dogs are simply getting too many treats during training sessions — and often high-calorie ones on top of their daily meals. A few extra pounds might…
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 spent time with a litter of puppies, you’ve probably noticed how much they love to play — and that play almost always involves teeth. Tiny, needle-sharp puppy teeth. And while this is natural, it’s also one of the most important behaviors you’ll need to shape in your pup’s early months: bite inhibition….