Most behavior problems don’t show up overnight. They don’t arrive with flashing warning signs or dramatic moments where you think, “Oh no, this is becoming a problem.” They usually start small. So small they’re easy to brush off. Sometimes even kind of cute. A puppy jumps because they’re excited to see you. They pull on the leash because everything outside feels brand new and fascinating. They ignore you when you call because, in that moment, the leaf, squirrel, or smell was

Luna is a 5-month-old Cockapoo I’m currently working with, and when her family got her, she wasn’t potty trained at all. Like many puppies, she didn’t yet understand that going outside is the “right” place to go. Potty training might sound simple in theory: take your dog outside, they go, everyone celebrates, repeat forever. But if you’ve ever found a little surprise on your carpet or tile and wondered, “But we were just outside?” , you already know the truth: potty training

When people imagine a “difficult dog,” they usually picture a growly, barking, leash-lunging nightmare. But here’s the funny thing: some of the hardest dogs to live with are the friendly ones  — the ones who think every person, every dog, and every leaf on the ground is their best friend. It seems backwards, right? How can a dog who loves everyone and wants nothing more than cuddles and playtime make life feel… complicated? But if you’ve ever tried to enjoy a quiet morning wh

Biscuit is a golden retriever with the sweetest personality — friendly, affectionate, and always happy to be with his people. Like many lovable dogs, though, his manners didn’t quite match how good of a dog he was. When Biscuit first started training, his family had a few big worries: he didn’t reliably come when called he struggled to stay in the yard they worried he might chase something into the woods and not come back Even though Biscuit hadn’t actually chased wildlife ye

Service dogs are becoming more visible, but visibility doesn’t always equal understanding. While most interactions come from curiosity or good intentions, there are many things service dog handlers wish the public knew, not to criticize, but to make daily life a little easier. Here are some of the biggest ones. 1. Distracting a Service Dog Can Be Dangerous, Not Just Rude Whistling, making kissy noises, gesturing, calling the dog’s name, or petting a service dog without permis

Cold weather can be more dangerous for dogs than many owners realize. Hypothermia doesn’t only happen in extreme conditions. It can occur during winter walks, outdoor play, or even short periods outside if the conditions are right. Knowing the signs and what to do can make a serious difference. What Is Hypothermia in Dogs? Hypothermia happens when a dog’s body temperature drops below normal and they can no longer maintain enough heat to function properly. A dog’s normal body

January feels like a reset for a reason, and that applies to your dog, too. After the holidays, many owners notice the same things: more excitement, less listening, routines completely off track. The good news? January is actually one of the best times to start (or restart) training. Here’s why. Fewer Distractions After the Holidays The holidays are chaotic for dogs. Extra guests, irregular schedules, more noise, and less structure can easily undo progress, even for well-tra

A new year often comes with big hopes for our dogs. Maybe this is the year your dog finally listens when you call them, stops jumping on guests, or becomes easier to take places. Those goals are completely valid, but the key to real success in 2026 is setting goals that are realistic, kind to both you and your dog, and built for real life. Training is not about having a “perfect” dog. It is about creating a dog you enjoy living with and feel confident handling in everyday sit

Winter walks can be some of the most beautiful moments you share with your dog — peaceful mornings, crunchy snow, and a pup who seems extra excited by all the new smells. But cold weather also brings a long list of hazards most dog owners never think about until something goes wrong. This Winter Walk Safety Guide breaks down everything you need to know to enjoy safe, relaxed, and enjoyable walks all season long. Salted Sidewalks & Ice Melt: Hidden Culprits That Hurt Paws Salt

The holidays are packed with food, fun, and family, and for many dogs, they’re also full of strange places, loud noises, new people, and tempting snacks that magically appear at nose level. Whether you’re traveling with your dog or hosting at home, a little prep goes a long way toward keeping things stress-free for everyone. Here’s how to set your dog up for success this holiday season. 1. Brush Up on the Basics Before You Go Holiday gatherings get busy fast. A little practic

The holidays are busy – travel, parties, family events, and all the chaos in between. For many dog owners, that means making arrangements for their pup while they’re away. Whether you’re heading out of town or simply need some extra help during the season, boarding can be a safe and stress-free option when done right. Here’s a guide to the different ways you can board your dog, what to look for, and how to help your pup enjoy their stay. Different Ways to Board Your Dog 1. Tr

Winter is on its way! For dog owners, this time of year comes with a mix of excitement and challenges. Cozy walks, snuggly blankets, and holiday time with your pup sound wonderful, but winter also brings cold weather, icy sidewalks, and shorter daylight hours that can make life with a dog a bit trickier. With a little preparation, you can help your dog stay safe, healthy, and happy all season long. Here’s a guide to preparing your dog for winter and making sure both of you en

Who says pumpkin pie is just for people? This Thanksgiving, your dog can enjoy a slice of the holiday fun, too — safely, of course! Traditional pumpkin pies are loaded with sugar, dairy, and spices that aren’t great for dogs. But this easy, pup-approved version keeps things simple, healthy, and just as delicious. Why Pumpkin is Great for Dogs Pumpkin isn’t just festive — it’s packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and can help support your dog’s digestion. A little pumpkin can

When it comes to canine health emergencies, few conditions are as serious, or as misunderstood, as bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV). It can come on suddenly and progress rapidly, turning a normal day into a life-threatening situation for your dog. In this post, we’ll break down what bloat is, why it’s so dangerous, how to spot the signs early, and what you can do to help prevent it. What Is Bloat? Bloat occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with gas, food, o

Thanksgiving is one of the best times of the year — full of family, food, and plenty of reasons to be thankful (especially if you’re a dog hoping for a dropped piece of turkey!). But before you let your pup join the feast, it’s important to know which foods are safe and which can lead to an emergency vet visit. Let’s go over some of the most common holiday dishes and how to keep your dog safe this Thanksgiving. Safe Foods: What Your Dog Can Eat in Moderation Many Thanksgiving

The holidays are right around the corner, which means cozy evenings, family get-togethers, and maybe a few too many leftovers. But for your dog? It can be a whirlwind of new people, sounds, smells, and changes in routine. If you’re hoping for a peaceful, stress-free season (without barking at guests or counter-surfing turkeys), now’s the perfect time to focus on a little holiday dog training. Here’s some holiday tips on how to help your dog stay calm, confident, and well-beha

Halloween brings excitement, candy, and costumes, but it also presents challenges for our furry companions. As dog owners, we play a...

Spooky season is here, and that means pumpkin patches, candy, and of course — costumes! Many dog owners love including their pups in the...

Halloween isn’t just for the kids; your pup can join the fun too! While candy and chocolate are a big no-no for dogs, you can whip up...

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year—cooler weather, colorful leaves, pumpkin spice everything. But while you and your pup...