One of the biggest debates in the dog training world right now is this. Can dogs be fully and reliably trained using only purely positive dog training methods. These methods are also known as force free training. My answer to that is a resounding “No!” Purely positive dog training does not work. Purely Positive Dog Training is a myth I …
Establishing Leadership and respect
Owners need to take responsibility for their dogs. Maintaining health care, exercising their dogs, and play are all part of owning a dog. Additionally, owners need to take time for establishing leadership and respect. It’s black and white Dogs don’t see life the way most humans do. We can see the gray areas of life. With dogs it’s a purely …
Separation Anxiety in Dogs
I get a tremendous number of calls about separation anxiety. The panic in an owner’s voice is clear. “My dog has separation anxiety!” It’s something that both saddens and frustrates us. We want our dogs to be able to go with us but at times we need them to stay home. Obviously, we need them to stay home without barking …
Socialization for Puppies
You got a new puppy and want to give it a great start. I thank you for that decision but please don’t think that means exposing your new puppy to every puppy kindergarten class, person, dog, location, festival, and rocket launch you can find. Socialization for puppies is a more complex thing than you may realize. Socialization for Puppies starts …
I Don’t Like Dog Parks
I don’t like dog parks. There. I said it. The reason is because they are not at all what the average dog owner thinks they are. Many of my customers proudly tell me that they make a special effort to take their dogs to dog parks. Honestly, the very thought makes me cringe. Dog parks are dangerous and encourage just …
The Structured Walk
The structured walk is perhaps the most important thing you will do with your. This is a more-or-less formal walk with your dog and it is an intense bonding exercise. The Structured Walk is the best way to cement your relationship with your dog. The video above shows a 10 year old girl on a Structured Walk with a 100+ …
Choosing a Good Dog Trainer
Continuing Education – The trainer you choose should actively seek to improve his/her abilities by pursuing continuing education in the field. Professional Associations offer continuing education opportunities continually. In addition to continuing education through Professional Associations, the trainer should be able to explain what trainers they admire and why. Choosing a good dog trainer means picking one who keeps …
Is It Safe for My Dog?
I posted a picture on Joyful Dogs of Michigan’s Facebook page and it got a lot of attention. The picture was of a 1-year old dog that had died by choking on a piece of rawhide. And that had a lot of people asking “Is it safe for my dog?” And the question wasn’t just about rawhide. That picture had …
Foods that are bad for dogs
Keeping your dog safe from foods that are bad for dogs is worth the effort!
Prepare Your Dog For Winter
Prepare Your Dog For Winter: It’s something every dog lover should do. As much as I hate the idea cold weather is here. While some parts of the world don’t really have much of a winter in Michigan winter means icy cold and lots of snow. Your dog’s needs are different in winter than in summer. Some dogs don’t spend …