I see it all the time — kids and enthusiastic adults running up, in an erratic and surprising manner, extending their hands right into a dog’s face and hovering there, squealing something about how much they love dogs. What can pet parents do in that instant, crucial moment to avoid disaster? Jump in and shove treats into your dog’s face and tell her how … Read More
Despite the old adage, teaching old dogs new tricks is rewarding, enriching, fun and very, very doable. However, if you are (or will be) in a situation where you’re sharing your life and love with a new puppy, then you have the opportunity to get started on a pawsitive approach for positive results™ even earlier. Wondering where to begin? Here are some of our … Read More
Dogs are always learning. They’re paying attention to their surroundings, trying to figure out how to get more of what they want or less of what they don’t want. So that means many times, even when you aren’t actively engaged in training classes or exercises, you’re passively training your dog. As an outside observer, being both a dog mom and a trainer, I will … Read More
Training your dog can be a simple process. In my years of experience as a certified professional dog trainer, and of observing inquisitive canines and working with their parents, I’d venture to bet that more often than not, in general, dogs enjoy “going to school” and participating in their lessons. Fun and games like tug, fetch, and other forms of enjoyable attention from humans, … Read More
It’s best to teach your inquisitive canine a solid recall before you need the behavior – not when you need it urgently! There are definitely times when getting your dog to come to you is for his or her safety. If you’re interested in learning how to break down the skills needed to teach your dog to come when you call, how to “save … Read More
Congratulations on your new pup! As a compassionate pet parent, you may be wondering how you and your inquisitive canine can start out on the right paw together. In our experience, the key to bringing out the best in your best friend is focusing on preventing problems, rather than having to solve them down the road. So, whether you are a new pet parent … Read More
Did you resolve to spend more quality time with your inquisitive canine this year? You’re not alone! In fact, January is National Train Your Dog Month. So if you’re looking to enhance the human-canine bond and interested in tips to make training your dog a breeze, you’re in the right place. Last year, The Inquisitive Canine provided a series of posts, Fido’s Homeschooling DIY … Read More
On leash walks, dogs often pull to get closer to things they’re interested in – ‘terrific’ scents, new places, other dogs, people to meet. They might even pull to prevent leaving a desired location or to escape something that scares them or that they don’t like. This is all normal! But it can be frustrating for us humans who might have a different vision of … Read More
The ‘Leave it’ cue is extremely versatile. It can be handy as you and your inquisitive canine prepare to enjoy a successful pawliday season together. And it can even be a lifesaving skill to have in your behavior toolbox! A very useful cue, ‘Leave it’ means, “Stop what you’re doing and check in with me for an incredible reward!” Think about the times you would like … Read More
Welcome back to Fido’s Homeschooling DIY Training Program! We left off with tips for training the ‘Go to Your Place’ cue and its many applications. However, what you really want in many of these situations is for your pup to ‘Go to Your Place’ and stay there. So, let’s back up for a moment and explore a pawsitive approach to the Sit and Stay … Read More