A muzzle can be a fantastic tool to use in a variety of situations but it is (very, very!) important that the dog has a positive association with the muzzle. We do NOT want to slap a muzzle on a dog and put him in a situation in which he is uncomfortable. We actually want […]
Read MoreCategory Archive for: ‘Training’
How to use a clicker or marker 0
First, pick a marker. The marker may be a clicker, a word “yes” or even a pen light that you flash to signal for a deaf dog. The click or verbal “yes” sound is the a marker. These are mix and match! You can use a clicker and/or a verbal marker interchangeably with a dog (as […]
Read MoreStranger Danger! 0
To put it mildly, some dogs are not particularly fond of humans they do not know. They may not like them approaching or even being around them, and can thus, behave in ways we are not happy with when they are confronted with said stranger. If your dog is growling, barking, snarling or snapping at a […]
Read MoreWhat’s That? 0
Here is a fun game to help teach your dog that it is acceptable (even desirable) to look at another dog. It is important to play this game when your dog is sub threshold and relaxed. It is not time to play this game if your dog is having a reaction. Start by teaching this game […]
Read MoreTraining Techniques For Reactive Dogs 2
I have worked with a LOT of reactive dogs for a LONG time now. As my city has become more populated and people are living in closer proximity to each other, I have seen the number of reactive dogs grow exponentially. When working with reactive dogs and their humans, I like to toss out a […]
Read MoreStationary Cues – teaching Sit, Down, Stay & Wait 0
“Stationary Cues” are cues in which you are controlling the placing and specific body position of your dog. These consist of SIT, DOWN, STAY and WAIT. Granted, these are not very sexy or exciting cues but if your dog really knew just these four cues, you would actually have a “well trained” dog. Definitely, do some fun […]
Read MoreTeaching your dog to go to a mat 0
Teaching your dog to go to a mat is a great way to get him to a certain spot and have him settle. This is one of the very first things I teach a dog. If a dog can settle on a mat you can take that mat anywhere and in turn, have your dog […]
Read MoreHow to Introduce Dogs 0
Whether you are looking to bring a new dog into your home or you just want your dog to hang out with your friends or family members’ dog, being able to read the dogs’ body language is imperative for success when introducing dogs. Be sure to give yourself an education on canine body language before proceeding […]
Read MoreWhen Day Care is Bad for Your Dog 0
If your dog currently attends dog day care or you are thinking about starting, here is some food for thought… I have owned and operated a dog day care and training facility for over 18 years now. I have a lot of experience in this arena, have learned a ton (thank goodness) in the past […]
Read MoreTeaching your dog to “GO SAY HI” 0
I am not a fan of dogs greeting on leash for several reasons but I do like to teach dogs a “GO SAY HI” cue for the following circumstances: Times when it may be OK for the dogs to meet on leash. For emergencies when another dog or human is approaching without consent. Therapy work. GO SAY […]
Read More