How to Get the Most Out of Your Dog Training Classes

To start, finding the right trainer can make a huge difference. Hiring a reputable and well-educated dog trainer can be a challenge. If a dog trainer says they’re certified by a particular organization, remember that you don’t have to take their word for it. You can...

Teach your Dog to Love the Veterinarian

In a typical exam, a veterinarian will look in your puppy’s eyes, ears, and mouth; listen to her heart and lungs; touch and probe her belly; manipulate her joints; and – nobody’s favorite – take her temperature. Puppies that are regularly handled and...

Ding, Service Please!

Housebreaking a dog can be a huge challenge.  Frequently dogs won’t let you know that they have to go. It was always kind of eerie, but I knew when my girl Shadow had to go potty. It always became super quiet, then I would find her just standing at the front door.  I...

What’s In a Wag?

What’s In a Wag? The biggest myth is, a wagging tail means “happy dog.” Yes, dogs wag their tails when they are happy, but they also use them to communicate feelings. While barking can be used to broadcast feelings, dogs mostly rely on their body language to...

My New Fur Baby

My New Fur Baby People say the only time that a good dog will hurt you is when they die. My heart has been broken for a long time.  It has been almost three years since I lost my beautiful Black Lab, Shadow.  A couple of months ago I took down the makeshift memorial...

The Two-Treat Method

 The Two-Treat Method This is a great way to work through distractions plus have your dog pay more attention to you. Have two treats in your hand. Praise your dog, now give one treat from your hand while you back up so that you are farther away from the distraction....