Archives for Puppy or dog

Your dog, Treat Expert

Your dog, Treat Expert

July 1, 2025 | Comments Off on Your dog, Treat Expert

Treats are an important part of teaching your dog new skills, but it can be hard to know what treats to use for your dog. When training, it is important to choose appropriate reinforcement for the learner so that they are motivated to keep learning but still able to think clearly while we are attempting to teach. There are many variables that go into choosing treats, here are a few tips that can get you started on the road to training success. No two dogs will have all of the same preferences. Pay attention to what your dog seems to
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How to introduce guests to your avoidant or reactive dog

How to introduce guests to your avoidant or reactive dog

October 26, 2023 | Comments Off on How to introduce guests to your avoidant or reactive dog

Does your dog avoid or react to strangers? Bark, growl, run away, or hide? Here’s what we suggest. (Note: Please consult with a professional trainer for biting.) Prepare Yourself Make sure you are familiar with the dog’s behavioral history, what has and has not worked in previous introductions. Use correct equipment (collar/harness and non-retractable leash) and have high-value treats with you. Have a helper with you when introducing a dog that may struggle with new people. The helper can assist with handling the dog if there are problems, coach the guest and narrate what they are observing, provide a second
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Holidays not so fun for your pup?

Holidays not so fun for your pup?

October 28, 2021 | Comments Off on Holidays not so fun for your pup?

Many of the “pandemic puppies” who were adopted since March 2020 may be experiencing their first holidays with larger family get-togethers this year now that vaccines are more widespread. 
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What “fine” looks like

What “fine” looks like

May 27, 2021 | Comments Off on What “fine” looks like

When we say our pets are “fine,” we need to explain what “fine” looks like.  Animals can have different fear responses, which include the well-known “fight or flight” behaviors, but also “fret” and “freeze.” 
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Why all the barking?

Why all the barking?

March 2, 2021 | Comments Off on Why all the barking?

“How do I stop my dog from barking?”  is a common question trainers get. To answer that, the first things we need to know are 1) in what type of situations is your dog barking, and 2) what need are they trying to meet? Dogs bark for a lot of reasons: boredom, fear, attention, excitement, etc.  In any of these cases, the focus shouldn’t be on stopping the behavior, but instead, thinking about meeting the dog’s need before the barking starts.  For good tips on addressing different types of barking, check out this blog post: https://positively.com/dog-behavior/nuisance-behaviors/barking/ Avoid devices or methods
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