Blog Feed: Dog Obedience Training Blog

The #1 Biggest Mistake I Have Made as a Professional Dog Trainer

Published on 2012-05-24 10:52:52

Curious, aren’t you? Those of you, who are familiar with my articles, know I tell it as it is and I am not afraid for other people to learn from my numerous mistakes. Just because we are professional dog trainers doesn’t mean we don’t make mistakes.  We usually make them with our own dogs! Ask [...]The #1 Biggest Mistake I Have Made as a Professional Dog Trainer is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

10 Things To Do With Your Dog This Memorial Day Weekend

Published on 2012-05-23 09:41:08

Memorial Day weekend is the official  start to the summer and what better way to  welcome it in than with your dog! So if your looking for things to do over this extra long long holiday weekend here’s a short list that your dog is sure to love! 1. Leash your dog up and take him along [...]10 Things To Do With Your Dog This Memorial Day Weekend is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Memorial Day Tribute to War Dogs

Published on 2012-05-21 15:09:31

Having served in the Marine Corps and being an avid dog lover, I am elated to have the opportunity to write an article on how dogs have been utilized by the military for thousands of years.  And, to pay tribute to the many dogs who have faithfully and honorably given up their own lives as [...]Memorial Day Tribute to War Dogs is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

The Tail Tells the Tale

Published on 2012-05-21 09:28:25

Most dogs that bite are wagging their tails! We have all heard the old adage, a wagging tail on a dog means the dog is happy, right? This is a myth! A wagging tail does not always mean that a dog is approachable, much less friendly. I don’t know how many times I have heard [...]The Tail Tells the Tale is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

What Does Your Dog Say About You

Published on 2012-05-17 10:46:43

I am not talking about talking dogs, although that would make an interesting conversation as well.  I often wonder what my dogs would say about me if they would talk!  Maybe that should be left to a private conversation without children But, what does your choice of dogs small, medium, large HUGE and your choice [...]What Does Your Dog Say About You is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

You May Be More Like Your Dog Than You Think, Or Are You?

Published on 2012-05-17 10:38:49

According to a new study done by Jo Fearon and Dr Lance Workman of Bath Spa University, you may be a lot more like your dog than you think. The British study, which was conducted with 1,000 pure bred dog owners, revealed some interesting variation between breed groups relating to owners’ personality features. Purebred dog owners were asked to [...]You May Be More Like Your Dog Than You Think, Or Are You? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

To Be Extreme or Not? How Extreme Are You When it Comes to Your Dog?

Published on 2012-05-16 13:04:50

To be a dog owner these days is quite different than it was when I was growing up. I don’t even know if calling myself a dog owner is the correct term anymore. Am I a pet parent? A pet guardian? I don’t know. I guess I’m all of them. Regardless, of what I am [...]To Be Extreme or Not? How Extreme Are You When it Comes to Your Dog? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Perimeter Training Your Dog

Published on 2012-05-16 11:45:38

I recently got this question from a subscriber about my thoughts on the best way to keep her dog from wandering off of her property… Hi Chet, My wife and I love your training tools.  We have a one-year-old Golden retriever and an 8-year-old Collie.  We also have an unfenced yard that our association requires. [...]Perimeter Training Your Dog is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

5 Silly Comments I Get When Walking The Dogs

Published on 2012-05-14 13:03:30

I walk my dogs everyday, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year. Except when it’s hot, and when it’s raining. My dogs don’t mind the rain, but I tend to melt in the rain. So I walk my dogs a lot and when I am walking my dogs a lot I get a [...]5 Silly Comments I Get When Walking The Dogs is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

7 Things to do With Your Dog on Mother’s Day

Published on 2012-05-14 13:00:45

Mother’s Day is just a few days away and while it is a day that we traditionally celebrate with our sons and daughters many people now also celebrate it with their 4 legged furry children. I mean why shouldn’t we celebrate it with our pooches? We often refer to them as our fur-babies anyway, and they certainly are [...]7 Things to do With Your Dog on Mother’s Day is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

To Keep Our Children Safe, 5 Simple Rules

Published on 2012-05-14 12:26:51

My heart is heavy as I write this.  It seems that everywhere I turn lately there is a new story about a dog mauling or killing a child; most of which lately have been infants and toddlers. The latest was a Jack Russell Terrier who jumped up and mauled the new infant as he slept [...]To Keep Our Children Safe, 5 Simple Rules is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

What the World Would Be Like If We Treated Our Children Like We Treat Our Dogs

Published on 2012-05-10 11:49:15

> read more

Dog Food Recall Alert!

Published on 2012-05-09 11:37:05

I wanted to share this urgent update with you about a major recall for a LARGE number of different dog foods. I’m also pleased to announce that the company that I recommend you consider getting your dog food from, Healthy Pet Net, was NOT affected by this recall. Watch this video to see if your [...]Dog Food Recall Alert! is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

How To Lose Control Of Your Dog

Published on 2012-05-08 11:32:31

Source: am.coolueye.us via Rosae on Pinterest How To Lose Control Of Your Dog is a post from: Dog Obedience Training BlogHow To Lose Control Of Your Dog is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Claustrophobia and terror, a dog’s tail

Published on 2012-05-07 10:37:37

When I was 18, a requirement of marriage was the delivery of a Rottweiler.  We got a gorgeous 6 month old male Rottie to fulfill my dreams. We brought him home, he loved us, he bonded and then when we left him he broke out 3 windows, ate 4 batteries (among other dangerous items) and [...]Claustrophobia and terror, a dog’s tail is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Would Your Dog Survive an Encounter with Law Enforcement?

Published on 2012-05-03 14:53:09

There have been some pretty horrific stories in the media lately about police officers shooting people’s pet dogs. One was a 12 year old Golden Retriever who had simply wandered away from his home.  When the officer went to look at his ID tags the dog showed his teeth, the officer felt threatened and shot [...]Would Your Dog Survive an Encounter with Law Enforcement? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Some People Call it Gross But Slobber Has it’s Benefits. Let’s Talk About it.

Published on 2012-05-01 15:40:03

When you look up the definition of slobber in the dictionary you will see slobber: To let saliva or liquid spill out from the mouth and then you may see a picture of one of my dogs next to the definition. Many people are completely grossed out by slobber and my question is why? It’s a normal occurrence in dogs, some are just more gifted [...]Some People Call it Gross But Slobber Has it’s Benefits. Let’s Talk About it. is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Welcome to the Land of Misfit Dogs

Published on 2012-04-30 10:06:27

Actually that should read “Welcome, to the Land of Misfit Animals”.  I don’t know why it is, but the misfits of the four legged sort seem to find their way to my house. I guess it takes one to know one, or so the adage goes, so maybe I should find a therapist and figure [...]Welcome to the Land of Misfit Dogs is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Why a Growl can be a Good Thing

Published on 2012-04-26 11:20:56

One of my favorite movies as a kid (and still) is the Wizard of Oz.  It is a classic!  And, I was thinking just the other day how my 1 year old dog is almost the refection of the cowardly lion.  I think he would even hold his tail and wipe his eyes with it [...]Why a Growl can be a Good Thing is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

My Best Friend is a Pit Bull and I’m a Chihuahua. What Breed Would You Be?

Published on 2012-04-24 11:21:50

Growing up as a kid we were often asked what we wanted to be when we grew up. I always wanted to be a football player or a princess. I wanted to be pretty and tough. There’s certainly nothing wrong with that. Now that I am an adult I am neither a football player nor [...]My Best Friend is a Pit Bull and I’m a Chihuahua. What Breed Would You Be? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

The Difference Between Plouts and Platz

Published on 2012-04-23 09:03:54

Although this sounds very similar to your dog; Plouts are a hybrid between a plum and an apricot (quite yummy I might add) and Platz is the German command for “Down” in dog training. I often use German commands because I like something a little different, it keeps my dogs paying attention to me (usually [...]The Difference Between Plouts and Platz is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

I Kissed a Dog and I Liked It.

Published on 2012-04-20 12:35:48

A recent survey of 482 U.S. dog owners states that more than two-thirds (68 percent) of those surveyed hug their four-legged friends more often than certain people in their lives.  30 percent of the dog owners surveyed say they hug their dogs more than their relatives and one quarter (26 percent) say that they hug their [...]I Kissed a Dog and I Liked It. is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Intro To Protection Training Webinar [Replay]

Published on 2012-04-20 12:04:11

For those of you who missed last nights webinar, “Intro To Protection Training Your Dog”, I was able to record it for you to replay. This presentation will help you learn about what is possible with protection training, how to ‘Temperment Test’ your dog to see if he is a good candidate for protection work, [...]Intro To Protection Training Webinar [Replay] is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Stand on Your Head and Make me a Sandwich

Published on 2012-04-20 10:28:03

Stand on your head and make me a sandwich, seriously I am hungry!! As humans, I think we are born multi-taskers but the older we get the more complex the tasks, behaviors and our skills need to become. I am a woman, and I know that as women we are even better at doing a [...]Stand on Your Head and Make me a Sandwich is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Top 5 Most Popular Pets in American Households Today

Published on 2012-04-16 18:18:32

I Might Be Getting A Guinea Pig.. Growing up as a kid we always had a dog in the house.  I loved every dog that we had, but I was a kid and of course, I always wanted more.  I remember begging my parents for a cat. The answer was always no, we have a [...]Top 5 Most Popular Pets in American Households Today is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Training Dogs To Protect Your Family From Home Invasion

Published on 2012-04-16 17:44:56

Due to a recent home invasion on my street, where three armed men tied up 2 toddlers and their nanny (children I saw every day)… as well as the high number of clients who contact me interested in training their dogs to protect their families, I’ve finally decided it was urgent that I share this [...]Training Dogs To Protect Your Family From Home Invasion is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Dog Training the Conspiracy Theory

Published on 2012-04-16 08:45:50

There is a conspiracy theory among dogs that dog trainers are plotting to train them without their knowledge. I think it’s my dog that is starting the rumor… She swears she has not engaged in relentless monotony and boredom of  “Dog Training” or anything of the sort, but she says she feels like she is [...]Dog Training the Conspiracy Theory is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

A Simple Way to Save Your Dog’s Life

Published on 2012-04-12 10:52:47

There are sooo many reasons to spay or neuter your dog I can’t even wrap my mind around them all!  But, let me try to convince anyone who is on the fence that getting your pet “fixed” is the best route for them and for you! Health… Save Your Dog’s Life Female Dogs: As a [...]A Simple Way to Save Your Dog’s Life is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

5 Creative Ways To Recycle Dog Hair….

Published on 2012-04-09 14:37:26

If you own a dog, most likely you have some sort of dog hair floating around your house. You may have it on your floors, on your furniture, or on your clothes. Sometimes you may even have it on your dinner plate. If you own a double coated breed like me, your house can easily [...]5 Creative Ways To Recycle Dog Hair…. is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Dog Sandwich

Published on 2012-04-09 08:23:03

In the mornings, I am the middle to a dog sandwich; one dog on each side, me in the middle and a kitten on top! I think sometimes as dog trainers we are expected to have an allegiance to dogs over cats, but sometimes I think I am the opposite!  I am a cat lover, and [...]Dog Sandwich is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Get Help for Your Dog!

Published on 2012-04-05 13:25:49

I reluctantly write this article, because I AM a dog trainer and my achievements rely on my proficiency as one!  But the truth is sometimes you need a dog trainer, and sometimes you don’t! Sometimes all you need is some online help like our dog training system, some good articles, like you can find in our blog and [...]Get Help for Your Dog! is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

5 Unique Ways to Pick a Name for Your Pet….and How I Named My Dogs

Published on 2012-04-04 10:03:52

Choosing a name for a dog is harder than choosing a name for your child. When I picked out the name of my first child it was easy, he was to be named after his father. There was no thinking involved in it. When I named my second child I put a few days into [...]5 Unique Ways to Pick a Name for Your Pet….and How I Named My Dogs is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

The Grass is Always Greener INSIDE the House!

Published on 2012-04-02 10:01:33

I have bigger dogs, so my ultimate goal when I bring either an adult dog or a puppy home is to have them potty outside.  This is ideal for me.  I also don’t leave them for long periods of time when they are young so I have no need to use potty pads or anything [...]The Grass is Always Greener INSIDE the House! is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

To Shock Or Not To Shock…That is The Question

Published on 2012-03-29 16:07:47

There has been quite a resurgence of compulsion training methods in the dog training world. Almost 20 years ago I got started dog training on a professional level and learning the craft, and unfortunately I learned from a trainer that believed in compulsion. I was 18 and I didn’t know any better, and that is [...]To Shock Or Not To Shock…That is The Question is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

My Dog Likes Being the Center of Attention

Published on 2012-03-26 12:07:26

I admit it, I have the class clown, the flirt, and the diva all living at my house and she is the same dog! She loves being the center of attention and HATES sharing it with anyone or anything for that matter! I recently got a new tattoo.  For years I was a professional artist [...]My Dog Likes Being the Center of Attention is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Why Semi Horns Make Me Blush And I Always Wear A Belt…

Published on 2012-03-26 11:51:40

Dogs are said to change our lives for the better over a lifetime. They are said to bring us comfort and years of happiness. They make us smile, they make us laugh, and they even keep us healthy. Since dogs provide us with a better life we, as pet owners, do our best to keep [...]Why Semi Horns Make Me Blush And I Always Wear A Belt… is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

How A Tennis Ball Could Cost You Hundreds if Not Thousands of Dollars….

Published on 2012-03-22 06:08:16

One of the major roles I play in writing articles for this blog is educating my readers.  We also like to provide fun stories, tips and a peer group of people who are having the same questions or troubles. Recently I was flipping through dog videos on YouTube. What caught my eye over and over [...]How A Tennis Ball Could Cost You Hundreds if Not Thousands of Dollars…. is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

15 ‘Good Life’ Lessons I’ve Taught My Humans

Published on 2012-03-20 17:54:11

Hi, I’m Cyrus, an 8-year-old American Bulldog. I usually just tell people I’m a dog, though. Over the years, I’ve noticed my simplified approach to life makes my humans really happy. They’re always saying stuff like “what a good life you have, Cyrus.” I figure I must be doing something right. So I’ve come up [...]15 ‘Good Life’ Lessons I’ve Taught My Humans is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Teaching Your Dog to be QUIET

Published on 2012-03-19 10:27:38

Recently I wrote and published an article on teaching your dog to bark. I like being able to control my dog’s mouth in numerous ways! I use it to my advantage when I want to intimidate someone (although I am not teaching them to bark AT someone).    I don’t want my dog to become [...]Teaching Your Dog to be QUIET is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Teaching Your Dog “OUT” or “Drop It” especially in Protection Training

Published on 2012-03-15 09:56:11

I was asked a while ago how to use positive reinforcement in protection, police, Schutzhund, or other types of sport dog training and this article will teach you how simple it is to use psychology and good dog training and not to rely on corrections or other nasty methods. I hear about a lot of [...]Teaching Your Dog “OUT” or “Drop It” especially in Protection Training is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Utilizing Hand Signals in Dog Training

Published on 2012-03-12 09:48:21

I always teach my dog’s hand signals and there are several reasons. The first is that dogs learn hand signals faster and easier than verbal commands. Dogs speak to each other with body language and so learning hand signals and reading your body language is like second nature to your dog. Our dogs often learn [...]Utilizing Hand Signals in Dog Training is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Teaching Your Dog or Puppy to Ring a Bell for More Successful Potty Training

Published on 2012-03-08 09:24:21

Potty training is one of the number one questions that I get as it relates to dogs. And I often recommend teaching your dog or puppy to ring a bell to alert you to when it is time that he wants to go outside.  So in this article, I want to bell ringing down in [...]Teaching Your Dog or Puppy to Ring a Bell for More Successful Potty Training is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Teaching Your Dog to Bark on Command

Published on 2012-03-05 09:35:31

In one of my previous articles we spoke about how teaching your dog to bark on command was all that you needed to ward off any wayward humans looking for trouble. I am a firm believer that a good bark is all that you need to make your dog appear scary to onlookers. This is [...]Teaching Your Dog to Bark on Command is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Training a Deaf Dog

Published on 2012-03-01 09:25:34

Deaf dogs are fairly common, but easily misunderstood.  A large portion of them end up in shelters and rescues because people simply don’t know how to train and work with them while taking into account their special needs. Deafness is often congenital in dogs.  But genetics can be difficult for some people to understand. I [...]Training a Deaf Dog is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Noise Proofing Your Dog, and Helping a Skittish Dog Cope with Sound

Published on 2012-02-27 09:03:41

I have the loudest husband on earth.  It’s funny, they say opposites attract and it certainly must be true because I am almost painfully quiet.  I could sit in a chair for hours and read a book or just enjoy a day outside with no other sounds or stimulation.  I like quiet.  But, my husband [...]Noise Proofing Your Dog, and Helping a Skittish Dog Cope with Sound is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Leash Manners: The Final Step

Published on 2012-02-23 10:32:48

Leash manners are imperative to good dog training. Nothing disturbs me more (well almost nothing) than seeing a dog pulling his owner down the street!  Even if it is a small dog, the damage done to the sensitive organ the trachea or windpipe can be irreversible! Once as a vet tech, I sat with a [...]Leash Manners: The Final Step is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Do You Want a Terrifying Dog?

Published on 2012-02-20 09:54:24

Last year I fell off the wagon when it comes to my running regiment.  I was up to 13 miles, but when my 8 year old dog, Snitch, died it broke my heart and I stopped doing a lot of the things that use to bring me joy. Recently I decided it was time to [...]Do You Want a Terrifying Dog? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Stop Your Male Dog from Urine Marking

Published on 2012-02-16 09:44:27

I get a lot of questions about potty training and quite a few come from the owners of intact, older male dogs.  But the problem is that urine marking is not a “potty training” problem! A dog that cocks his leg on the furniture is much different than a dog that squats and pees in [...]Stop Your Male Dog from Urine Marking is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Understanding Desensitization in Dog Training

Published on 2012-02-13 09:16:09

This is another “Back to Basics” understanding article when it comes to some of the terms we use in dog training and how to utilize the training concepts with your dog. A lot of people just simply don’t understand desensitization training and what it involves.  As dog trainers we throw the concept out time and [...]Understanding Desensitization in Dog Training is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Teaching Your Dog to Relax

Published on 2012-02-09 08:18:58

So many dogs are constantly wound up!  It’s like the gas pedal is always pushed full to the floor, their energy never seems to decrease! Sometimes we just want our dogs to relax, nap, and hang out with us. But why can’t they? Because a lot of time, they are left at home for hours [...]Teaching Your Dog to Relax is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Understanding Conditioning in Dog Training

Published on 2012-02-06 09:49:54

Conditioning affects all of us in normal life and as it relates to our dogs.  It is important to understand conditioning and how it works in order to best control it when it comes to our canine companions. First, let’s get the technical “speak” out of the way and then we can talk in more [...]Understanding Conditioning in Dog Training is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

My Favorite Dog Obedience Sport

Published on 2012-02-02 10:01:03

I have recently mentioned my resurgence into the dog obedience and trialing world. The first time I trialed and showed, I was egged on by my client who challenged me and my dog to an “obedience dare” to see who could title their dog first.  I REALLY, REALLY didn’t want to, but I had help [...]My Favorite Dog Obedience Sport is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Got a Crate Squawker?

Published on 2012-01-30 10:29:43

Recently I have had a few questions about those of you that have crate whiners! I HATE whining!  I can almost tolerate full out barking before I can tolerate the sound of whining.  I guess it is the pitch and my tendency toward migraines but whining is one of my biggest pet peeves, so I [...]Got a Crate Squawker? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

The Top 8Things to Consider Before Adding a Puppy to Your Household

Published on 2012-01-26 08:06:01

So you are thinking of getting a puppy? Nothing is more exciting than adding a new life to your family structure, but you want to make sure you get the pup of your dreams and not one that gives you nightmares, right? We can help give you some food for thought when it comes to [...]The Top 8Things to Consider Before Adding a Puppy to Your Household is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

[Video] See Trick Dog ‘Annie’ Perform Her Favorites!

Published on 2012-01-23 11:33:31

One of my students, Wayne Koester, recently sent me this fun video of his trick dog ‘Annie’ performing all her favorite tricks, including:  Running through a box tunnel  Dancing on her hind legs Jumping through a hoop Shaking a paw And, belly crawling across the floor You can watch the video here: It’s impressive, right? [...][Video] See Trick Dog ‘Annie’ Perform Her Favorites! is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Do You Own “No! No! Bad Dog”?

Published on 2012-01-23 10:40:24

I work with a lot of clients and most of them suffer from this syndrome.  Their dog does something wrong and they shout “NO” or “BAD DOG” at the top of their lungs but the dog barely acknowledges his owner’s presence much less his anger. When pressed or called the dog runs around the house [...]Do You Own “No! No! Bad Dog”? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Who’s Training Whom at Your House?

Published on 2012-01-19 10:02:56

The other day I found myself, staring blankly around my kitchen.  I guess I am getting old, because as with numerous other times I had forgotten what I was doing! As I glanced around trying to get my bearings, my pupils caught the pupils of my oldest dog.  He is 12 and my very, very [...]Who’s Training Whom at Your House? is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Think Like a Dog

Published on 2011-07-04 11:03:11

My friends and family say I am part dog.  I take that as a compliment, most days I would rather be like a dog than like some people.  Dogs are simple.  They are forgiving and they love unconditionally.  The things I learn from dogs and other anim > read more

Just Another Reason NOT to use Compulsion in Dog Training!

Published on 2011-06-30 14:45:59

I have 2  Belgian Malinois and a Dutch Shepherd so it should be no surprise to those of you who are familiar with dog breeds and working dogs that I enjoy protection sports.  PLEASE!  Don’t send hate mail, although all viewpoints are welcome, I > read more

What Do You Do For Your Pet That You Would Never Admit to?

Published on 2011-06-27 11:16:53

I read a lot, and a lot of my time is spent reading various articles and blogs online.  I enjoy reading, and its one way I stay up to date on training, veterinary medicine and other issues.  Because of my veterinary technician background I tend to > read more

Keeping Your Dog Young

Published on 2011-06-23 11:48:23

Did you know that dogs can suffer from dementia commonly called canine cognitive dysfunction and other mental signs of aging just like people can?  Knowing is only half of the battle, the other half is doing everything in your power to keep your dog > read more

The Top 5 Things to Remember When Potty Training

Published on 2011-06-20 10:24:03

Potty training a puppy or even an adult or older dog can be daunting and overwhelming this list is to help you get back to the basics and get on the right track! #5  Crate Training is Your Friend Utilize a crate and make your life easier.  People w > read more

Shaping Your Dog’s Behavior

Published on 2011-06-16 10:27:27

Shaping your dog’s behavior is essential in dog training.  The good thing about working with and training dogs is that they are pliable and constantly willing to learn and change their behavior if you learn to employ the right principles! Sh > read more

My Dog Just Had A Seizure

Published on 2011-06-13 05:16:53

� I have insomnia lately.  I am not sure why, but I think it is heat related; pair that with the fact that my husband works at night and is up extremely late on the weekend and my desire to spend time with him, means I have been up till 4 or 5 > read more

A Cry For Help

Published on 2011-06-09 05:29:57

Recently we got an email from a very distraught young person who begged us to help.  Please read on and perhaps my response will help others suffering from the same or similar problems! Hi I really need you to answer my question as fast as possible > read more

A Skill That Could Save Your Dog’s Life; Leave It!

Published on 2011-06-06 14:33:13

In my humble opinion, the “Leave It” command is one of the most important things you can teach your dog!  There are just some commands that may someday be invaluable in saving your dog’s life.  Coming when called and leaving things on command > read more

HELP! For Your Dog’s Carsickness

Published on 2011-06-02 04:00:51

Your driving down the road with your dog, headed to the park or to the vet when you hear the undeniable sound of retching coming from the back seat.  You turn around to watch your dog regurgitate his morning meal and the biscuit you gave him before > read more

Teaching Your Dog to Tolerate and Love Children

Published on 2011-05-30 09:59:10

We live in a world full of children.  It always surprises me when child aggressive dogs at shelters are placed in “child-free” homes.  Even for those of us who don’t have children…we have children in our lives.  Nieces, nephews, friend’s > read more

Top 5 Strategies to Help Alleviate Your Dog’s Shedding

Published on 2011-05-23 08:26:09

Ahh spring has arrived, and so have the little furry bunnies that scurry across my hard wood floors and augment in size as the minutes progress.  I guess that is what I get for having 3 hairy dogs and one hairy cat in my house all of the time! Sprin > read more

Patience the Other Key Element in Dog Training

Published on 2011-05-23 04:00:49

Patience enters into dog training in many facets!  Patience is essential in so many ways when working with animals, children and other people! Whereas patience is the most essential element for owners to have in dog training, this is not what this a > read more

The Tearjerker Story of a Dog Who Crawled His Way Home After the Ala. Tornadoes

Published on 2011-05-20 12:58:37

The Tearjerker Story of a Dog Who Crawled His Way Home After the Ala. Tornadoes is a post from: Dog Obedience Training BlogThe Tearjerker Story of a Dog Who Crawled His Way Home After the Ala. Tornadoes is a post from: Dog Obedience Training Blog > read more

Top 5 Myths about Dog Behavior and how It Relates to Our Children

Published on 2011-05-19 04:00:01

� It is bite prevention week!!  Most dog bites are inflicted on children, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that more than 50% of bites are to children.  Most of these bites are imposed on children between the ages of 5 and 9.  Wh > read more

10 Dogs Training Just Couldn’t Fix

Published on 2011-05-17 11:59:00

Are you walking the dog, or is the dog walking you? Everybody knows the basic commands we all get our dogs to perform: Sit, Fetch, Play Dead, High Five. And most dogs love to do this, for their owner’s love, and to show they understand who’s boss > read more

Temporary Post Used For Theme Detection (ea9c43ed-eb6c-4288-8543-cbabcf7fbb0a – 3bfe001a-32de-4114-a6b4-4005b770f6d7)

Published on 2011-05-17 11:56:19

This is a temporary post that was not deleted. Please delete this manually. (724ce8af-4141-4a8d-8385-0361be7ff5ab – 3bfe001a-32de-4114-a6b4-4005b770f6d7) Temporary Post Used For Theme Detection (ea9c43ed-eb6c-4288-8543-cbabcf7fbb0a – 3bfe > read more

Animal Hoarding; How Many is Too Many?

Published on 2011-05-16 04:00:45

I have to admit watching Confessions: Animal Hoarding is difficult if not impossible for me, but I was also a Psychology Major in College and the interworking of the human mind is intriguing.  I wonder how things can go so far so quickly, and how th > read more

Teaching Children Respect for Animals

Published on 2011-05-12 08:17:12

I hate moving!  It is one of those life experiences that I despise, the packing…the unpacking and starting life all over again in a new place.  It is hard when you are a business owner and you have to reestablish yourself and your reputation! Whe > read more

You Taste Horrible; Aversive Dog/Puppy Training for Mouthing

Published on 2011-05-09 09:39:36

I get lots of complaints about young dogs and puppies that have biting or mouthing problems!  Whereas I have written a few articles on the subject, I thought it best to write another with yet another point of view and one I don’t normally tend tow > read more

Teaching Your Dog His Name

Published on 2011-05-05 08:49:06

  I have a 9 week old puppy!!  Life is certainly exciting at my house right now, especially with two dogs under the age of 1!  So I thought I would write a puppy training article about teaching your new puppy his name and then I realized…how oft > read more

Frustration, the Crucial Element in Dog Training and Behavior Chaining!

Published on 2011-05-02 12:57:26

The irony about this article is that dog training can simply be super frustrating!  Everything about working with animals at some point has its frustrating moments, but all good things in life come with frustration and some sacrifice! However, this > read more

Once, Twice, Three times a Push-over; Repeating Dog Training Commands

Published on 2011-04-28 07:21:16

Walk through just about any Wal-Mart on this planet and you will hear this conversation:  “Timmy, don’t touch that.   I’m serious Timmy, don’t touch that.  Get over here!  Get Down from there!  Don’t make me come over there!”  Some > read more

The Importance of Human/Puppy Socialization in Dog Training

Published on 2011-04-25 07:44:27

Puppies are like babies experiencing the world with each step and sniff, except they are on an extremely accelerated learning program!   It takes our kids 18 years to be ready to experience the world on their own and be considered adults, but puppi > read more

How Dog Agility Can Help You with Dog Obedience

Published on 2011-04-21 07:32:12

I just got back from the AKC National Agility Championships in Virginia!  Wow, what a fun experience it was to watch canine and human work together to achieve such fun goals!  I must admit it gave me a little bit of “agility competition fever” > read more

Wireless Dog Training Collars

Published on 2011-04-18 03:00:42

I have recently noticed an increase in the amount of discussion relating to wireless training collars, or more commonly known as electric collars, shock collars or remote training collars.  I have never been one to shy away from sharing my opinion; > read more

My Cat is Alpha Dog of our Pack!

Published on 2011-04-14 03:00:07

My cat rules the roost, I guess you would call that a “Roost Ruler”, I call her Alpha Dog!  I think, because she is the only cat in my house, she also thinks she is a dog.  She is markedly upset when she watches the dogs go outside, or when we > read more

The 10 Things to Do When Searching for a New Vet

Published on 2011-04-11 03:00:32

I hate moving; actually HATE is not a strong enough word for my loathing of the event!  Not only is packing, cleaning and unpacking despicable but I dread searching for a new veterinarian! I am what is referred to as a “high maintenance client” > read more

Dog Myth, Never Let Your Dog on The Bed, Debunked

Published on 2011-04-06 03:00:02

I am preparing myself for hate mail as I write this…some might say I am contradicting years of dog training theory, but I propose that not all dogs should be treated the same and not all owners need to adhere to the same dog training rules and I kn > read more

Top 5 Things to Ask a Breeder Before Committing to Buy a Puppy

Published on 2011-04-03 03:00:41

I am getting a new puppy!  We are so excited, as a family, that we can hardly stand waiting until the blessed day gets here! I tried to get an adult dog from a rescue, however, my female dog was not going to accept an adult dog and she was quite voc > read more

Intermittent Reinforcement Building Your Dog Training Foundation

Published on 2011-03-31 15:22:37

Sometimes I forget to go back to the basics sometimes and discuss the importance of foundation building training.  I assume too much prior knowledge due to my experience, for those please excuse me!  Foundation training refers to the beginning of a > read more

Heartworm Disease Exposed

Published on 2011-03-28 16:56:13

I do my best to read through the comments and address the concerns of the readers as I become aware of them.  Often times, many people have the same concerns and also quite often previous blogs have been written that discuss these topics!  Be sure > read more

Friends

Published on 2011-03-25 17:52:07

My dog needs a boyfriend, or a girlfriend…I really don’t care!  NO I am not looking to breed her, I am looking for some quality social interaction for her. She is a bundle of energy and the older I get the more often I reconsider my affinity for > read more

Trusting Your Instincts Regarding Your Dog’s Health

Published on 2011-03-20 17:59:59

I have been a vet tech on and off for over ten years!  Living a lifestyle of watching animals healthy and sick come and go is a very educating and humbling experience.   I have been blessed to work with several excellent veterinarians who were hap > read more

Lap Monster

Published on 2011-03-17 19:31:23

I have a cat in my lap while I write this…no…wait, it looks like a dog, it smells like a dog and it is definitely poking me in the face like a dog!  It seems as though I have a demanding attention hound on my hands. I have never had a dog that f > read more

We Are Going Viral!

Published on 2011-03-14 15:08:05

Hello everyone!  We are going viral…no, no that doesn’t mean I have a virus, thankfully I kicked that bug a few weeks ago, we are taking our information and knowledge to share on Facebook and Twitter! I know what you are thinking, you have a bus > read more

Help for Submissive Urination!

Published on 2011-03-10 14:52:06

When you come home does your dog flip belly up and urinate?  Submissive urination can be frustrating!  We all want to come home and be greeted by our excited dogs, but the last thing we want is to be peed on after a long hard day!  Some dogs even > read more

Harnessing Your Dog’s Instincts

Published on 2011-03-08 14:59:52

All dogs have natural instincts, some are inherent to all dogs and some are more prevalent in certain breeds.  Pure bred dogs are broken up into certain groups or categories usually because of their instincts and ability to work, or be lap dogs. Her > read more

Geocaching Dogs Unite!

Published on 2011-03-03 17:50:02

If you like nature and enjoy getting out of the house and exploring, I highly recommend it! If you just like hiking with your dog, use the website to help you find some hidden trail systems that you might not have known about! But, either way just > read more

The Irritation Known as Barking

Published on 2011-03-01 11:55:09

Our pets come with the same basic hard wiring that wolves and wild dogs had. Their instincts tell them if in doubt; bark. They may not be living outside worried about getting eaten by another animal, but they still see perceived danger. The proble > read more

Introducing a New Dog to Your Pack

Published on 2011-02-24 17:06:50

Change is difficult for everyone, including our pets and it is important to make sure that their schedules and lives remain as normal as possible when integrating a new animal into their lives.Introducing a New Dog to Your Pack is a post from: Dog Ob > read more

Pets Mourn too

Published on 2011-02-18 12:28:50

I don’t know how animals know, I don’t profess to even come close to understanding their abilities to view us and the world, but I know he knew. He pounced past my fiancée, in the bed and sniffed my shirt before throwing himself down in my arms > read more

Helping Shelter and Rescue Dogs Find Forever Homes

Published on 2011-02-15 11:35:30

Now imagine a family comes to look at him and take him out of his kennel; he has been taught to sit when he gets his leash hooked up in the kennel, he has been taught to sit often as he walks through the kennel, he has been taught to come and sit whe > read more

The Joys of Crate Training

Published on 2011-02-09 15:13:00

Many dogs are alive, simply because crates allow them to be free from destruction and danger. Not only are chewer’s euthanized at an alarming rate throughout this country every day thousands of dogs die because of consuming the wrong things. The > read more

Skijoring with Your Dog

Published on 2011-02-07 08:45:41

If you like skiing, you will probably LOVE skijoring. What is skijoring?, You ask! Skijoring is actually a sport where your dog pulls you on cross country skis. You can use up to three dogs to help propel yourself up those nasty inclines and hills > read more

Are You Rewarding the Wrong Behavior?

Published on 2011-02-03 16:44:25

Rewarding the wrong behavior is easy to do, we ALL do it! The important thing to remember is to bow down to their superiority as trainers, face it, they really are better than us in most instances. But, when you realize you are having a problem, an > read more

Dealing with Destructo, the Not So “Wonder” Dog?

Published on 2011-02-01 16:00:38

This really is a life insurance program for your dog. Not only is chewing some things like batteries, and medications deadly; simply destroying property often leads to relinquishment and an early and avoidable death. Remember, you wouldn’t bring > read more

Does Your Dog Fly Through the Air with the Greatest of Ease?

Published on 2011-01-26 17:16:39

The leash is a tool, not just for outside walking, use it to your advantage and take it off when you don’t need it anymore! But, most importantly teach your dog the response you want him to show, control the behavior and the situation, understand > read more

Desensitizing Your Dog with the Doorbell

Published on 2011-01-24 17:37:34

When someone rings your doorbell, does it sound like World War III is starting at your house? Most people’s dogs go crazy when the doorbell rings and they have a hard time controlling their dogs and the situation when people arrive. Crazy barking > read more

Suffering from Doggy Accidents at Night?

Published on 2011-01-22 14:22:38

Ultimately, if you are having issues, restrict his food at night, exercise him so that he will eliminate prior to going to bed and so that he will be tired and sleep through the night, and close your bedroom door to make the environment smaller and l > read more

The Perfect Dog

Published on 2011-01-19 13:58:19

Each dog is different, and it is sad to compare one to another or to have unrealistic expectations. I am not saying not to worship the special relationships of the dogs you have and those you have had, I am only asking you as you compare your curren > read more

Supporting Our Troops and Their Furry Family!

Published on 2011-01-16 12:21:41

I know and love dozens of members of the military, and I can’t imagine the stress and sadness losing an animal compounded by the stress of going to war must have on their mental stability. Those who fight for our freedoms and our families everyday > read more

Enhancing Your Dog’s Natural Behaviors

Published on 2011-01-13 12:55:19

One of my favorite things about learning the clicker and working one on one with your dog is that you can enhance behaviors your dog naturally shows. Not all dogs show the same behaviors and therefore it is difficult if not impossible to teach all d > read more

Co-Habitating with a Herding Dog?

Published on 2011-01-10 19:11:21

Living with a herding dog can be a bit of a challenge. Understanding is the first matter of business. The herding behavior is modified from the predatory instinct, to hunt and prey on other animals. Through selective breeding man has been able to > read more

Helping Prevent and Treat Canine Obesity

Published on 2011-01-03 13:19:34

I have often found it difficult to maintain my own success when it comes to my relationship with food (although I am proud to announce I am currently training for a half marathon). I wish someone would feed me in small doses and control my access to > read more