Dog Training Mistakes
Everyone makes handler errors. From novice to expert, everyone makes mistakes… The question is: Is it better to make mistakes in training or during an emergency? Obviously, it is better to make mistakes, and have them fixed, during training. You aren’t going to innovate a new or better skill during an emergency. During emergencies, you […]
Arizona Dog Training In The Summer
When I first moved to the Phoenix, Arizona area I was very concerned about how to train dogs during the summer. After being here for several years, I have it figured out… First, is the handler. I pay attention to the physical location, weather and physical condition of the dog owner. I’ve worked with some […]
Dog Training Are You Too Proud To Learn?
Some students are ready to learn. Some students are there to teach you a lesson. A good dog trainer knows the difference. Most of my students are ready and committed to learn. A handful never learn anything, and the one who does the learning is the teacher… that this isn’t someone who you want as […]
Factor Your Children Into Your Dog Ownership Experience
I have trained a lot of dogs for a lot of families over a lot of years. I am a big believer in getting the kids in the family to participate in the training and care of the family dog. First, I think that dogs offer a lot of positive benefits in the socialization of […]
Having A Dog During Times Of Great Stress Or Tragedy
Do you have a dog, and are you in the midst of a horrible life experience? What can be done? It is always best to prepare for potential emergencies, if at all possible. It’s a good idea to stay in good physical shape, have extra supplies, be part of a healthy and loyal “tribe”, have […]
Can A Dog Be Made Childproof?
Can a dog be trained to be 100% safe around all children, no matter what the child does around or to the dog? I get these inquires in some form or fashion about once a year… Usually a mom calls me to ask me to train their dog to tolerate whatever type of abuse their […]
Dog Training The One Thing
What one thing could you do, starting today, to improve your dog’s behavior? Consider this… Much of dog training isn’t about what the dog is doing. It is what you are, or are not, doing with your dog. Many people tell me that their dog “doesn’t listen”, or is “stubborn”. What they are really saying, […]
Dog Training When Teasing Becomes Aggression
It is never a good idea to tease a dog. Teasing is different than play… It is good and healthy to play with your dog every day. Fetch, tug, hide and seek, swimming, new toys are all good for your dog. However, teasing is something different. Teasing is purposely engaging in activities that frustrate, provoke […]
Dog Training Turning Points
Life has turning points. These are key events, or milestones, in your life that change you forever. Dogs also have turning points. The question is always whether they will turn out for the good or bad… I experienced a number of turning points in my life. As, or after, each incident, I knew something had […]
Maintaining A Proper Mental Attitude During Your Dog Training Lessons
If you don’t learn and practice the proper mental attitude during your dog training lessons, you will not get the most out of the lessons, nor will you be prepared to use the training in real life situations. Similarly, if you don’t help your dog to learn and practice with the proper mental attitude, your […]