Choosing a dog: research, research and more research

So, you have decided to welcome a dog into your heart and home? How wonderful! Keeping in mind that there are hundreds of breeds of dogs to choose from as well as innumerable mixed breeds, your choice can be a wee bit perplexing. No doubt, your decision will be strongly affected by other dogs withContinue reading …...

Why do dogs roll in poop and other smelly stuff?

Anyone who has spent a Summer in New York City can understand why most urban dwellers anxiously await the coveted invitation to visit a friend in the country for a weekend. While the drive out of the city is sure to be a test of mental stamina for even the most experienced city driver, theContinue reading …...

Stereotypes and generalizations of the pit bull

Generalizations are a tricky business. On the one hand, they are necessary in order for us to more easily understand our complex world. On the other hand, by definition, generalizations don’t provide detailed information, nor are they always accurate. When it comes to dogs, people seem to be wildly fond of generalizing. Trainers frequently hearContinue reading …...

Benefits of being calm and quiet when teaching your dog

Group dog training classes are a superb environment to learn about human behavior. Most run for 6-8 weeks, during which time the ebb and flow of the class dynamic changes dramatically. In the first week or two the enthusiasm and anticipation of both dogs and owners is palpable. Of course, there is often also aContinue reading …...

Teach your dog to come when called

Does your dog glance at you with the equivalent of a canine grin and trot off in the other direction when you call him? Don’t feel too badly, some owners might consider you lucky to have a dog that even acknowledges you with a glance! Unfortunately, it is uncommon to see a dog who boundsContinue reading …...

Five quick tips for teaching your dog to walk nicely on leash

1. Start ASAP. Whether your dog is two months or two years when he arrives in your home you should start teaching him to walk nicely on leash from day one. It is easiest to start with a young pup because they are programmed to be great at playing follow the leader. But, even anContinue reading …...