Gratitude in Every “Sit” and “Stay” Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on gratitude, family, and the lessons we learn from those who bring us the most joy. For dog owners, that gratitude often centers around our loyal four-legged companions. Dogs have a way of reminding us what truly matters: consistency, patience, and unconditional … Read more
Living in a multi-dog household can be joyful, but it also brings unique challenges. From feeding time to walks and play, multiple dogs can create competition, chaos, or confusion if structure is missing. Without clear leadership, dogs may develop bad habits, jealousy, or even aggression toward one another. The good news is that with consistency … Read more
A Big Change for Everyone Bringing a new dog home is an exciting milestone, but it is also a major adjustment for both your new companion and the rest of your household. Dogs are territorial and sensitive to change. Without a plan, introductions can quickly lead to stress, jealousy, or even conflict. The key is … Read more
Costumes, decorations, and trick-or-treaters make Halloween exciting for families, but for dogs it can be overwhelming. From candy hazards to noisy doorbells, this holiday often creates confusion and stress. The good news is that with preparation and structure, you can keep Halloween fun for the whole family while ensuring your dog feels safe and confident. … Read more
Leash reactivity is one of the most common frustrations I hear from owners. A dog that barks, lunges, or growls when seeing another dog or person on a walk can make outings stressful and embarrassing. The key to solving this issue is understanding what leash reactivity really is. Contrary to popular belief, it is not … Read more
Many owners think obedience training is something you finish when your dog completes puppy school. The truth is that training is an ongoing process that evolves as your dog grows. A puppy’s needs are not the same as a senior dog’s. Just like people, dogs require structure, consistency, and engagement at every stage of life. … Read more
Ask ten dog owners about dog parks and you will likely hear ten different opinions. Some see them as a great way to burn energy and socialize. Others avoid them altogether, citing risks of fights, overstimulation, or bad habits. As a trainer, I believe the real answer depends on your goals. If you want your … Read more
Why Crate Training Gets a Bad Reputation When I bring up crate training with new clients, I often hear the same concern: “I don’t want my dog to feel like they’re in jail.” It is a common misconception. The truth is that when introduced properly, a crate becomes one of your dog’s favorite safe spaces. … Read more
Fall Is the Perfect Training Season Crisp air, colorful leaves, and cooler temperatures make fall in Delaware one of the best times to get outdoors with your dog. Beyond the beauty, autumn activities provide ideal opportunities to reinforce obedience and strengthen the bond between you and your pup. As a trainer, I like to think … Read more
Back-to-School Blues Aren’t Just for Kids As kids head back to school and routines shift dramatically, many dogs are left confused and stressed by the sudden change in energy, activity, and attention. If your dog has grown used to all-day summer companionship, it’s no surprise that they may whine, act out, or even regress in … Read more
