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How I Learned to Relax (And Quit Freaking Out My Dog!)
It may sound a little hippy dippy, but it’s important to have a calm, positive mindset and energy around your dog. A little gratitude and chill vibe can go a long way when you’re dealing with an animal who thinks like a toddler! Dogs are incredibly perceptive creatures. They pick up on our emotions, body…
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Positive Reinforcement Training: Benefits and Techniques
When it comes to dog training, positive reinforcement isn’t just a method, it’s a game changer! This approach focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones, making training a more enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Whether you’re working with a new puppy or an older dog, positive reinforcement builds trust,…
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New Year, New You, New Dog
The New Year is a time of fresh starts and bold resolutions. As we set goals for ourselves—exercising more, getting organized, learning new skills—it’s easy to forget that our furry companions can benefit from a bit of self-improvement, too. Training and enrichment don’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. We can integrate these activities into…
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Jake Mechling
Jake Mechling Jake has been an animal lover since he was a boy, absorbing animal facts from Ranger Rick magazine, devouring every episode of Wild Kingdom on Sunday nights and romping with the family St. Bernard, Maggie. Visiting zoos across the country and petting koalas and wombats in Australia were among his favorite family…
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Dog Health
We all want the best possible quality of life for our dogs and there are so many contributing factors to ensuring a fulfilled life, with a big one being your dog’s health. It can feel a bit intimidating being responsible for a dog’s health, with them being so different from us and given that they…
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Preparing for a Dog Training Class: What to Expect
Starting your dog training journey can be exciting and a bit nerve-wracking! Whether you’re a first time dog owner or this isn’t your first rodeo, preparing for a training class can set you and your pup up for success. Here’s what you can expect and how to make the most out of your training experience. …
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The Benefits of Muzzle Training: A Guide for Dog Owners
Muzzles often get misunderstood due to the stigma surrounding them, but they can actually be fantastic training tools that make a significant difference for many dogs. While the mere mention of a muzzle can conjure images of aggressive dogs or harsh training methods, the reality is that many pups could greatly benefit from becoming comfortable…
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Choosing the Right Dog for You and Your Family
It’s important to make sure that you are choosing the right dog that fits your lifestyle and family, and that you are asking the right questions to ensure you are getting the best pup possible! Here are some questions to ask yourself, your family, and the place you are getting your dog from! Should…
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Training Senior Dogs: Challenges and Solutions
Training senior dogs has its own challenges and opportunities. While older dogs may come with established habits and possible physical limits, they also offer a wealth of experiences that can make training rewarding! Here’s a guide to understanding the specific challenges of training senior dogs and solutions to overcome them. Challenges to Consider Habits: Senior…
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The Importance of Doing Nothing
When we think of a well-trained dog, we often think of a dog who knows dozens of tricks, walks on a loose leash, and gets along with everyone, but we don’t always think about dogs who are good at simply doing nothing! One of the most fun parts of having a dog is being able…