Training
How to Stop a Puppy From Bothering the Cat
To stop a puppy from bothering a cat, you will often need a multi-modal approach, tackling the issue from various angles. Most importantly, you will need to treat the root cause of why your puppy is so drawn to your cat and find alternate ways for engagement.
How to Become a Dog Trainer in Your Spare Time
Learning how to become a dog trainer in your spare time is more than getting a dog to sit or stay. It might mean working with difficult dogs or those with stress, anxiety, or other behavioral issues. But it can be very rewarding! These steps will show you what's involved and how to get started.
How Pet Therapy Heals What Ails Us
Pet therapy has many healing benefits to our mental health and physical health. It all starts with Animal-assisted Therapy (AAT) between dog and handler. And tips on how you can become one.
How Often (and How Long) Should I Train My Dog? Here's What Studies Say
If you're wondering how often and how long you should train your dog, most likely you have big projects. If so, that's great! It's important to be asking questions and gathering as much helpful information as possible to make the most out of your dog's training sessions.
11 Tips for Training Livestock Guardian Dogs
Training livestock guardian dogs requires a specific approach considering that they are quite different from other dogs. In order to train these dogs, it's important to get to know them better at a deeper level.
How to Stop a Labrador Puppy From Jumping and Biting
To stop a Labrador puppy from jumping and biting, you will need to take a multi-faceted approach. Puppies can jump up and bite for various reasons, but the most common one is playing.
Proven Training Method to Stop an Excited Dog From Peeing on the Couch
Teaching a dog to stop urinating when excited is easily done at home. Find out why it is happening and use these tips to stop it.
10 Benefits of Crate Training a Puppy
There are many benefits to crate training a puppy, so more and more breeders are introducing their puppies to the crate from an early age. It makes life much easier for new puppy owners, and on top of that, there are several additional benefits.
What To Expect When Bringing Home a New Puppy
You excitedly bring home a new puppy, sometimes as young as six weeks. This is a new adventure for both you and the puppy. What you can expect and how best to deal with the new challenges facing you and your new family member will be provided in this article.
Pros and Cons of Slip Leads for Dogs
Slip leads for dogs aren't a very popular option among dog owners, but shelters and rescues tend to rely on them because they offer some advantages for particular situations. Before investing in a slip lead, it's important knowing the pros and cons of them.
What Leash to Buy (Pros and Cons of Different Dog Leashes)
From materials to types and use cases, this guide will break down everything you need to know about dog leashes.
Help, My Puppy Is Pooping in the Crate!
When a puppy is pooping in the crate, owners are often desperate to find a solution. A lot of cleaning will be involved, and there are also risks of the puppy regressing in his potty training progress.
Why Does My Dog Not Respond to His Name?
Dealing with a dog who doesn't respond to his name can make you feel unworthy and unimportant, especially when you are ignored by a dog you have cared about and loved. Don't take it personally though; there are many reasons why dogs don't respond to their name.
How to Train Your Dog to Hike/Walk Off-Leash
If you want a safe, leash-free hike with your dog, here are ways to train your dog to go off-leash on the trail and in the outdoors.
How to Stop an Off-Leash Dog From Approaching Your Dog
To stop an off-leash dog from approaching your dog, you will need to utilize some astute strategies to deflect a possible threat. Sometimes, all it takes is outsmarting the approaching dog, but in order to succeed, you often need to intervene quickly.
How to Train Your Small Dog With Treats Without Spoiling Their Appetite
Many owners of small dogs struggle to train with treats because their small dogs get easily filled up. On top of this, some small dogs may start refusing their normal meals because their appetites are spoiled. Here are some strategies to train small dogs without overfilling them.
7 Tips on How to Walk Two Dogs Together
Walking two dogs together at once may seem like an easy task, but there is more than meets the eye. Putting two dogs together often means that they will both feed off each others' emotions, leading to pulling that can easily get out of control.
Help, My Puppy Can't Hold Their Bladder Overnight!
A puppy who can't hold his bladder overnight is something that requires some troubleshooting. Most young puppies cannot hold their pee overnight, but as they mature, they should start to attain better bladder control. Here are some reasons why and what you can do about it.
The Problems With Training Your Dog to Ask to Go Out
Many dog owners are eager to train their dogs to ask to go out to go potty, but this behavior can get out of hand and sometimes backfires. Dog owners are often stuck with dogs who are always by the door because they want to go out to sniff and explore more than a true need to go potty.
How to Introduce a Dog to Your Rabbit
To introduce a dog to your rabbit or vice-versa, safety needs to be your top priority. Not all dogs are created equally, and whether a successful introduction is possible depends on a variety of factors such as your dog's breed and his level of training and responsiveness to you.
Teaching Puppies to Tolerate Touch: 9 Body-Handling Exercises
Did you know that puppies require training to create positive associations with a human touch? Here are nine body-handling exercises you can use on them so they can get used to being handled by the vet or for grooming purposes.
How Can I Keep My Dog Outside Without a Fence?
Many dog owners wonder whether it's possible to keep a dog outside without a fence. The fact is that keeping a dog free to romp comes with many potential dangers. In some places, it's even illegal. Learn what options you have to keep your dog contained.
Guide to German Shepherd Service Dogs
German Shepherds make for excellent service dogs. They have mental and physical abilities to help people with all kinds of tasks and provide emotional support.
10 Impulse Control Games for Dogs
Impulse control games should be fun and pressure-free activities for dogs and their owners. A gradual, lighthearted approach is important to ensure your dog doesn't get frustrated in the process and that you don't feel pressured in attaining quick results.
Australian Cattle Dog: Tips, Tricks and Training Advice for Raising Your Crazy Heeler Into a Good Boy
I wrote an article about my ACD about six years ago. Since that article, I have received countless emails, questions and requests for updates over the years. So I wanted to answer some of those publicly and also give an update on Yusuke. (Original article linked at the bottom of the page).
How to Pick up and Hold a Small Dog or Puppy Correctly
Knowing how to pick up a small dog or puppy correctly is important considering that you may need to reach down for your companion on several occasions. Make sure to keep the process fun and rewarding and involve your dog in the learning process too!
Why Are Small Dogs Harder to Potty Train?
Are small dogs really harder to potty train or is it just a matter of training them the right way? Is a smaller bladder really the main reason why smaller dogs seem to have accidents in the home more often? Let's take a closer look at whether small dogs are really harder to potty train.
Indoor Activities for Your Dog
Dogs like to get in trouble when they're stuck indoors. Here are some ways to keep your home (and your sanity) intact on those rainy days.
How to Train a Dog to Bark on Command or "Speak"
Learning how to train a dog to bark on command can come in handy. It's a cute trick that will impress family and friends and can serve as a starting point to better control your dog's barking.
The Best Training Method for Dogs According to Research
Learn about all the different methods for training dogs and how they compare. A recent study has finally confirmed the best training methods for dogs. Interestingly, these methods prioritize welfare above all else.
Tips for Training a Herd Dog
Learn how positive reinforcement, repetition, commands, and other skills can help you train your dog to herd.
How to Train a Dog That Is Not Food Motivated
Training a dog that is not food motivated can be a challenge for many dog owners. A vet visit is always in order if your dog has little interest in food, but some dogs are simply picky. Take the time to find the right treats or try a new training technique if your dog is not motivated by food.
Dog Won’t Come When Called? Teach This One Effective Trick
Noticing that your dog doesn't come to you when called? Learn more about the best way to get your dog to immediately come when called. It's always worked for me!
Dog Behavior: Will Dog Urine Kill Grass and Plants?
Yes. It is entirely possible that your brown-spotted lawn is caused by your dog’s urine. As for the why, that will take a bit longer to explain. Let's discuss why dog pee is lethal for most plants and what you can do to stop, treat, and prevent damage from happening.
German Shepherd Schutzhund Training Benefits
"Schutzhund" is a very intensive form of dog training that many people associate with police dogs. However, it’s not just police dogs that can benefit from this training practice. Anyone who owns a German Shepherd could experience immense benefits by having their dog learn these skills.
How to Train a Deaf Dog Recall or to Come When Called
Did you know that it's possible to train a deaf dog to come when called? Learn about effective methods and strategies to train a deaf dog "recall" along with important management solutions to protect your deaf dog from any lurking dangers.
Clicker Training for German Shepherd Dogs
Do you want to obedience train your German Shepherd? Have you tried clicker training dogs? Let's have a look at this effective and dog-friendly practice.
How to Start German Shepherd Obedience Training
German Shepherds are very active and bright dogs. They need a handler that likes to train and play with them. Let's look at obedience training for German Shepherd dogs.
What Are Service Dogs? Breeds and Duties of These Fantastic Dogs
Services dogs have different types of training depending on the needs of an individual. There are dogs that can detect cancer due to their sense of smell, dogs for veterans that have PTSD or traumatic injuries (through non-profit agencies), and dogs that are used by the police and in the military.
How to Potty Train a Beagle Puppy
Many dog owners wonder how to potty train Beagle puppies, considering these dogs have a reputation for being difficult to potty train. By better understanding Beagle puppies, it is possible to overcome several potty training difficulties and help these pups succeed.
How to Organize a Puppy Socialization Party
If you got a new puppy, then time is ticking on the puppy socialization clock. Make sure you do not miss out during this critical window of opportunity. Learn how to organize and host a puppy party.
How to Teach a German Shepherd Not to Bark
Does your dog bark a lot or at inappropriate times? Let's look at the causes of barking. German Shepherds are protective, but sometimes too much is too much.
How to Housebreak a German Shepherd Puppy
Nothing can be as frustrating as coming home and having to clean the floors. You'll want your German Shepherd to be housebroken ASAP. Here we provide an easy and peaceful guide to crate training your German Shepherd, and other housebreaking tips.
How to Train a Dog to Use a Ramp
A time may come when you may need to train your dog to use a ramp. Whether it's to get your old dog to climb up into a car or an SUV, training them to use a ramp will require that you take baby steps and use lots of positive reinforcement.
How to Potty Train Your Puppy if You Work All Day
Learning how to potty train your puppy if you work all day requires knowing how long puppies can hold it. If you won't be able to take your puppy out as often as needed, potty training may also take a little bit longer. There are different options for busy pup owners.
How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Muzzle
Training your dog to wear a muzzle is important no matter how friendly and nice they are. Any dog that is painful or nervous can bite. Dogs can also be anxious at the vet's office due to scary procedures and the presence of other fearful dogs. Here's a guide to positive muzzle training for dogs.
Breed-Specific Dog Training for Malamutes
All dogs need training, but it is especially important to train any dog with its particular breed in mind. Every dog breed has strengths and weaknesses when it comes to training. This article focuses on the art of training an Alaskan Malamute or other Northern breeds.
Paper Training Your Puppy to Pee on Newspaper
There are some pros and cons to paper training your puppy to pee on newspaper. It's important to evaluate them to determine whether paper training is the right method for you.
How to Train a German Shepherd to Stay
Teaching a German Shepherd to "stay" can be very handy. Many dogs find staying where they are more difficult than following commands like "sit" or "lie down."
How to Train a German Shepherd to Sit
Teaching a German Shepherd to sit is very important. Often, you'll want a well-behaved dog when going outside, but you'll also want an obedient dog in your home that enjoys training with you.
Dog Facts: The Amazing Powers of Working Dogs
This article explains the history and biology of working dogs. I'll show why they have the remarkable strength and stamina which have made them so important to humans over the millennia.
Help! My Dog Only Listens to Me When I Have Treats!
Does your dog only listen whenever you have treats? No worries, there are several solutions to prevent your dog from developing an over-dependence on treats.
How to Become a Dog Trainer: From Certification to Apprenticeship
Have you always wanted to train dogs? Becoming a dog trainer is very exciting and fun for those who absolutely adore dogs. Here are a number of steps to take to transform the skill of training from just a pastime with your own canine to a full-time occupation.
How to Get Your Puppy to Stop Biting
Puppy won't stop biting? Puppy dog training is the perfect time to start the process of teaching bite inhibition. As with any other behavior problem, prevention is key. Here is how to get a puppy dog to stop biting. It's easy!
How to Train a German Shepherd to Lie Down
Teaching your dog the basic commands such as "lie down" is an excellent way to train appropriate behavior and encourage bonding. Find out what steps to take to train your German Shepherd to lie down on command.
Mastering Dog Training Hand Signals
Combining dog training hand signals with normal training can emphasize commands and make your dog more compliant. Instead of relying on verbal commands, which can fluctuate in tone, hand signals show a more rigid request. This article covers what you need to learn about hand signal training.
Freedom Through Off-Leash Dog Training
Off-leash dog training will give you (and your dog) the right to fully enjoy the benefits of freedom. Just make sure you understand the basics before you start.
How to Stop Dog Aggression With Training
The human-animal bond can easily be damaged by the onset of dog aggression. Here are several techniques to help resolve this problem.
How to Train Your Dog to Walk Without a Leash in 3 Easy Steps
Here's how to train your dog to walk without having to use a leash with step-by-step instructions for building trust and training in a safe way.
How to Stop a Dog From Chasing Cars
Stopping a dog from chasing cars, bicycles, and the like can be quite a challenge, especially when the dog has been performing this behavior for a while. There are several options available to stop it.
How to Get a Dog Used to a Crying Baby
Getting a dog used to a crying baby is something that is best done before the baby has arrived home. If you missed out, remedial exposure may help out.
How to Train Your Dog to Go to His Mat
Learning how to train your dog to go to his mat can be helpful in many different scenarios and situations. Here is some information on how to train your dog to go to his mat.
How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier for Your Large Dog
Finding the best dog carrier for large dogs is not always easy. Here are tips and tricks for finding the right fit.
A Guide to Training a Dog German Commands
Training a dog German commands doesn't need to be complicated. Here are reasons why it's beneficial to train your dog in German, plus words to teach them like "sit" and "down."
7 Problems With Teaching a Dog the Word "No"
Teaching a dog the word "no" can have its repercussions. "No" fails to let your dog know what he needs to do instead of the undesired behavior.
6 German Shepherd Dog-Training Tips
Some dog breeds are more difficult to train than others. One example of an intelligent yet sometimes difficult breed is the German Shepherd. Here are some tips to train this dog breed.
The Best Tips for Training Your Dog How to "Stay"
Are you in the process of teaching your dog the "stay" command? Your success will depend on a variety of factors. Here are some of the best training tips to help you achieve your desired outcome.
How to Teach Your Dog to Be Polite With Impulse Control
Impolite puppies can be hard to live with, and young dogs that are not taught impulse control may act rough and begin to bite. Some dogs that are not trained early may even be relinquished.
How to Deal With a Dog Who Gets Too Excited Before Walks
If your dog gets too excited when it sees the leash, you have several options to help them calm down. Here are some tips for owners of dogs who are too excited when it's time to go for a walk.
How to Potty Train a Puppy With Pee Pads: 4 Easy Steps
Learn how to potty train your puppy in four easy steps using a pee pad.
How to Potty Train a Dog in 7 Days
Learn to successfully potty train your puppy or adult dog in as little as seven days. Your dog will be able to hold it until they are at their approved "potty spot."
Signs Your Puppy Needs to Go Potty
What signs indicate that your puppy needs to go potty? Set your dog up for success and learn how to recognize these signs. Help your puppy to avoid accidents in the house.
How to Train Your Dog for the Canine Good Citizen Test
Learn how to train your dog for the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) with this guide. The CGC test is a great way to promote responsible dog ownership and build the foundation for a well-mannered dog.
5 Ways to Stop Your Dog From Barking at the TV
You are trying to watch your favorite TV show, but Buster keeps barking at the screen. Now you're wondering what to do. Learn the details about my powerful "treat the trigger" method to stop a dog from barking at the TV. I have used this proven method with my clients with success over the years.
How to Teach Your Dog the "Leave It" Command
Teaching your dogs the "leave it" command can be extremely rewarding because it can keep them from grabbing things. It can also be a life-saving command.
How Can I Stop My Dog From Approaching People?
If your dog is a social butterfly, you may be wondering how to stop your dog from running up to people. Here are some tips for dogs who want to greet everyone.
The Basics of German Shepherd Obedience Training
Trying to train your German Shepherd? Don't know where to start? Obedience training ensures that German Shepherds know the commands and signals that will keep them safe—and provide the structure they desire. Learn the basics here.
Starting a Newfoundland Puppy in Water Work
If you introduce the puppy to the water slowly, using a step-by-step approach will help him develop confidence and good training habits to benefit him throughout his water work career.
Socializing Your Puppy With People, Animals, Vehicles, and New Places
Trying to socialize your puppy? Socialization is the primary purpose of puppy class and is the most important thing you as a puppy owner can focus on. Learn the things your puppy will need to get accustomed to, including other dogs, new people, vehicles, and new places.
How to Walk Your Dog on a Leash
Not sure how to start leash training your dog? There are a number of different types of leashes and collars. No matter which tool you choose, learning how to use the leash and collar correctly and teaching your Newfoundland puppy to walk on a leash is important.
How to Teach Attention Training to Dogs in Four Simple Steps
Trying to train your dog, but not sure of the best approach? Everything begins with attention training! If your puppy learns to watch you and listen, teaching him anything else will be much easier. Your dog will be trained in no time with this method!
Mastering the Walk: How to Teach Your Dog to Walk and Heel Calmly
Dogs look great when they are walking to heel with their owners, but so many people struggle with it. Read on to find out how it’s done.
Why I'm Against Retractable Leads
Retractable leads eliminate the need to train the dog and, as a by-product, encourage lazy dog walking etiquette.
Why It's Vital to Use the Right Emotion When Training Your Dog
Are your dog's behavioral issues directly linked to using the wrong emotions when you train? Learn why the emotions you emit when training your dog can make her the dog she was meant to be.
How to Distract/Redirect Dogs Using a Hand-Made Kong
I wanted to share a handy tip for those times when you need to keep your dog's mind occupied and focused on something else. A hand-made Kong has been helpful in several different circumstances.
English Cocker Spaniel Behavior and Obedience Training Tips
Did you know that the English Cocker Spaniel has unique training challenges? Here are some tips on how to successfully accomplish clicker training and treat training with them.
3 Force-Free Methods to Stop Your Dog From Counter-Surfing
Does your dog nab food from the counter? Want him to stop? Dogs tend to counter-surf because they can (and keeping those counters full of tasty tidbits isn't going to help). Here are some force-free methods to stop your dog's counter-surfing.
Fading Prompts in Dog Training
Prompting in dog training aids your dog and makes the training process easier, but all prompts need to be faded so your dog doesn't depend on them to perform. Learn how to gradually remove these aids or transform them into different cues or signals.
Service Dogs: Companions for Independence
Service dogs, also known as assistance dogs, truly are man's best friends. Find out how these amazing creatures are capable of so much more than we realize.
The Role of Behaviorism in Dog Training
What role did behaviorism have in dog training? How did dog training evolve into the discipline we see today? Who are the scientists behind operant conditioning? How dog training developed in the lab
How to Train a Dog to Refuse Food From a Stranger
If your dog is a family member and also a guard, teaching it to refuse food from strangers is important and may save its life. It is not always easy, so find out the best methods and start today.
How to Keep Your Small Dog From Barking Too Much
Small dogs, sometimes with no apparent reason, tend to bark more. Find out why they are more vocal, and learn some effective methods to reduce this undesirable behavior.
8 Ways to Keep Your Dog Out of Trouble When You're Not Home
Does your dog not know his boundaries? Do you have problems keeping your him out of the garden? The refrigerator? The neighbor's lawn? The chicken coop? Luckily, there are plenty of fast and inexpensive ways to ensure your dog remains on his best behavior.
Understanding Dog Behavior Chains
When training your dog, it's important to be aware of behavior chains. Learn how behavior chains affect your dog's performance and training and how to prevent them from establishing.
How to Keep Your Dog off the Furniture
If your dog is lying on the furniture when you don't want him to, you need to train him to stay off it. This article will help you achieve just that.
Four Steps to Train an Aggressive Dog
Poorly socialized dogs need special training; a safety word will allow you to spend more time walking your aggressive dog.
7 Easy Ways to Train a Dog to Get Along With Other Dogs (Interdog Aggression)
A dog-aggressive dog can be trained to like other dogs. What might be setting your dog off is detailed in this article, along with tips on the best ways to control this dangerous form of aggression.
Tips for Dogs Who Won't Come Inside When Called
Does your dog pose a deaf ear when you call him to come inside? Does he run away if you try to get him to come in? You may wonder why your dog dreads the indoors so much and would rather stay outside.
8 Exercises for Training a Dog's Impulse Control and Frustration Tolerance
Does your dog get frustrated when he doesn't get what he wants? Does he bark, whine, and throw a tantrum when he doesn't have it his way? Learn how to build up your dog's frustration tolerance.
How to Housetrain a Puppy in 5 Days Using a Cardboard Box
Did you know that you can use a simple and cheap method to potty train your puppy? Here are some tips on how to spend each day and do it with a cardboard box.