Dog body language Ears

Dog learning to stay on command outdoors.

Dog body language Ears Body Language Ears: Dog’s give us many cues, to let us know what they are feeling, or telling us know what they want or don’t want from us.  Correct interpretation of their body language is essential in understanding what our dog is telling us.  We access the dog’s ears, eyes, mouth, […]

Do dogs really feel guilt?

Owner practicing commands with dog during a private session.

The Guilt Myth: Do Dogs Really Know When They’ve Done Something Wrong? For years, I believed my dog knew when they had done something wrong—even if I didn’t find out about it until hours later. I’d walk into the room, see the chewed-up shoe or garbage strewn across the floor, and there they were: ears […]

Puppy Training Tips

Dog walking politely on a loose leash beside trainer.

Puppy Training Tips Are you Puppy Prepared? Puppy Training Tips: Are You Puppy Prepared? They’re adorable, right? That fluffy face, those little paws… until they keep you up all night, chew everything in sight, and go potty on your living room rug. Raising a puppy is a rewarding journey, but it comes with challenges. That’s […]

Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training

Trainer guiding a dog through a basic agility obstacle.

Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training What Is Positive Reinforcement? By definition, positive reinforcement refers to the addition of a desirable or pleasant stimulus following a behavior, making it more likely that the behavior will occur again. In dog training, this means rewarding the behaviors we want to see more of using things dogs love—like treats, […]

Firework tips for dogs

Dog making eye contact with trainer during focus exercise.

Helping Dogs Cope with Fireworks: Calm, Comfort & Confidence Fireworks may be festive for us, but for many dogs, they’re a source of deep distress. The loud booms, bright flashes, and unpredictable timing can trigger intense anxiety—especially in sensitive or rescue dogs. As a positive reinforcement dog trainer, I’ve supported many dogs, including my own, […]

Dog Walking: Why it’s important

Dog walking politely on a loose leash beside trainer.

Dog Walking: Why It’s Important for Your Dog’s Health and Happiness An exercised dog is a happy dog—and a happy dog makes for a much more peaceful, balanced home. Walking your dog isn’t just about potty breaks or checking off a task on your to-do list.It’s about meeting your dog’s physical and emotional needs, promoting […]