Training Walks
Why bother with training walks? Because every walk is a training walk: Your dog will learn something. Why not determine what that will be? Besides, you and your dog will both enjoy your walks far more this way. How to prepare. Step 1. Decide the following: What will you do when another dog crosses your…
Read MoreOut and About
Why bother training for public spaces? So you can confidently and safely take your dog with you anywhere, and make the experience an enjoyable one for you both. How to prepare. Step 1. Think about the types of challenges you are likely to encounter: In a pet store: Bins full of goodies, other dogs, people…
Read MoreGetting Puppy Ready for the Groomer
Grooming can be a stressful experience. Think about it from your puppy’s perspective: She will be left with a stranger for a good part of the day. That stranger will handle her a lot—holding her still, touching her all over. There will be new objects like scissors and nail clippers. Also a bath. And loud,…
Read MoreQualities of a Good Therapy Dog
Size matters. Although many large breed owners might disagree, generally nursing homes prefer dogs that fit into laps or whose size won’t disturb the steady traffic of family, aides, physical therapists, nurses, etc., at the facility. Think 50 pounds maximum. However, small dogs are not always great therapy dogs. They need good impulse control and…
Read MoreThe Lost Art of Leash Walking
AKC has just announced a new fitness incentive program for people and dogs called FIT DOG. Its goals coincide with the recommendation by the American Heart Association that people walk at least 150 minutes per week. People who walk their dogs 30 minutes three times per week receive a car magnet. (Personally, I’d throw in…
Read More