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BELLY UP
DOG TRAINING



Dog Obesity Health Risks: Why "Chonky" Isn't Healthy & How to Help
We’ve all seen the social media trends—"chonky" pups, "absolute units," and "potato" dogs. While a rounder dog might look cuddly, as a dog trainer, I see the hidden cost of those extra pounds every day. In the U.S. alone, nearly 60% of dogs are considered overweight or obese. This isn't just a cosmetic issue; it’s a health and behavior crisis that affects how our dogs move, learn, and live. In this post, we’re going to look at the health risks of dog obesity, how to tell if y
Mackenzie Counts
Apr 177 min read


Choosing the Right Dog Toys: Pros, Cons, and What to Look For
Walk into any pet store and you’ll see walls of dog toys. Squeaky toys, Rope toys, Plush animals, Rubber chews, Puzzle games. It can feel overwhelming, and not every toy is right for every dog. Choosing the right toys isn’t just about fun. It affects safety, behavior, and even how calm your dog feels at home. Let’s break down the most common types of dog toys, their pros and cons, and how to choose what works best for your dog. Common Toy Types Plush Toys (Stuffed Toys) Pros
Mackenzie Counts
Mar 63 min read


When Is It Legal to Deny Entry or Refuse Service to Someone With a Service Dog?
Service dogs can go almost anywhere their handler goes, but there are specific situations where a business may legally deny entry or ask a team to leave. Understanding the difference between a true service dog, an emotional support animal (ESA), and a pet protects both businesses and handlers. It also prevents uncomfortable situations that could easily be avoided with the right information. What Is a Service Dog? Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service dog
Mackenzie Counts
Feb 275 min read


Why Friendly Dogs Are Often the Hardest to Live With
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
Mackenzie Counts
Feb 63 min read


Can Any Dog Be a Service Dog? The Truth About Training and Temperament
If you’ve ever seen a well-behaved service dog calmly walking through a busy store or helping their handler navigate the world, you might...
Mackenzie Counts
Sep 5, 20254 min read


Paws Off: The Do's and Don'ts of Being Around Service Dogs
In a society that values loyalty and companionship, service dogs hold a special place. These remarkable canines provide essential support...
Mackenzie Counts
May 16, 20254 min read


7 Unexpected Hardships Service Dog Handlers Face - A Day in the Life with Your Canine Hero
Every day, countless service dog handlers rely on their remarkable canine companions. These dedicated dogs assist with daily tasks,...
Mackenzie Counts
Apr 25, 20255 min read


Reading Between the Woofs: Understanding Dog Body Language and Communication
Understanding your dog’s body language is like unlocking a new way to communicate. Dogs primarily express themselves through body...
Mackenzie Counts
Apr 18, 20255 min read


Canine Companions: Unraveling the Differences Between Service Dogs, Therapy Dogs, and Emotional Support Animals
In today's world, the connection between humans and dogs has grown deeper than ever before. With a wagging tail or a comforting nuzzle,...
Mackenzie Counts
Feb 7, 20257 min read


5 Common Misconceptions About Service Dogs That'll Make You Rethink Everything You Thought You Knew
When you picture service dogs, what comes to mind? You might envision cute pups in vests helping their owners. While that image is partly...
Mackenzie Counts
Jan 17, 20253 min read

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