Crate Acclimation

Learning how to be comfortable in a crate can be useful in a variety of situations - boarding, traveling, etc..
But contrary to popular belief, dogs are not "den animals." Although some dogs learn to like a crate right away, others might need some acclimation.

Dog Harness Reviews - Premium TuffLock

In our last post on harnesses, I mentioned that I like figure H harnesses but I don't like lifting my dog's leg to put it on.  There are now several H style harnesses that have a double clasp in the back. Which means that we don't have to manipulate the dog at all.

Loose Leash Walking. Part 5. Leash? What Leash?

We have already talked about teaching a dog how to stay with us without any equipment. Once we start using equipment, our loose leash walking training can go much more smoothly if we try to make the leash as inconsequential as possible.  Once we start pulling on the leash, our dogs will to.   So try to think of the leash as just being there for backup.

Loose Leash Walking. Part 2. Equipment

Since we are teaching our dogs how to pay attention to us and walk along with us, we do not need to use any type of equipment that will cause or pain, discomfort, or injury - so no choke chains nor prong collars are necessary.

Nail Trims. Part 15. Don't Be Stingy

Not only do I give treats after each toenail grind,  but I also sometimes give a treat after each pass on a single toenail - i.e. grind/treat, grind/treat. Which means one toe might yield 3 treats. Which means by the time we are done, my dogs have eaten anywhere from 18 to 50 treats.

Don't bark with your mouth full

There are plenty of ways to curb barking.  Pet parents should first ascertain their why dogs are barking, then help the dogs feel better about whatever is bothering them.

Hiring a Trainer - Where to start your search

So we've discussed in detail things to look for when hiring a trainer (and we are not done yet). But how do you even find a trainer to interview and scrutinize?