Good puppy socialization requires a bit of creativity. Read on some suggestions for getting your new addition “out and about” in the real world. Always be on the lookout for new people for your puppy to meet! This German Shepherd puppy is learning that people in uniform are a good thing. (Photo by Nicholas [Read more...]

In one of my previous blog posts about self-control versus imposed control for dogs, I explained that I do not teach "leave it" to my dogs. Instead, I train my dogs to wait for permission to take food, objects, or anything else they want. Here is a quick video demonstration of how I train dogs [Read more...]

Behold! One of the most versatile dog training tools known to man. (Photo Credit: Victoria Chilinski) What's your favorite training tool? Dog trainers are always looking for the latest and greatest items to add to their bag of tricks. My answer can be found at any supermarket or convenience store: peanut butter! For Agility [Read more...]

What is loose leash walking? Loose leash walking is an informal leash walking behavior. It’s not “heeling”, which is a precision walking behavior required for obedience competitions, but it can be a precursor to that. While loose leash walking it is acceptable if your dog sniffs, lags behind you, or forges ahead of you a little [Read more...]

You can use any object as your dog's mat! Dog beds are a popular choice, but towels and small blankets work well, too. (Photo Credit: Howard Young) What is “Get on the Mat”? The dog learns to relax on a ‘mat’ – a specific towel, blanket, or dog bed. This mat can be [Read more...]

Is there always a bowl of food on your kitchen floor? If so, you're free-feeding. (Photo by JnL on Flickr.) One of the first management recommendations I make to my clients is to stop "free-feeding" their dog. Free-feeding means leaving a bowl of dog food on the ground for hours at a time, [Read more...]