From Chaos to Calm: How to Teach Your Dog to "Settle"

A dog that knows how to settle is a dog that can go more places. Whether it’s a dog-friendly brewery, a family picnic, or just a rainy Sunday afternoon, teaching your dog the art of doing nothing will significantly lower the stress levels for everyone in the house.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm When Holiday Guests Visit

To prevent your dog from begging or searching for dropped food, give them their own special holiday treat. A puzzle toy filled with peanut butter (xylitol-free!), a new chew toy, or a long-lasting dental chew can keep them happily occupied while you enjoy your meal.

Beyond the Kennel: A Simple Guide to Successful Rescue Dog Integration

Remember: These initial rules are about setting a clear framework. Once your dog is settled, confident, and understands their place in the family, you can gradually relax some of these rules, always observing how your dog responds.

dog behavior, dog safety, dog trainer, dog training, rescue dogs, adopted dogsLaura BourhenneOctober 6, 2025rescue dogs, adopted dogs, new dogComment

Stop Bad Habits: How to Use Management to Fast-Track Your Dog's Training

We all want a well-behaved dog, right? One that greets guests calmly, doesn't pull on the leash, and generally makes life more joyful (and less chaotic). We diligently attend training classes, practice commands, and celebrate every little victory. But what happens when you're not actively training? That's where the often-underestimated power of management comes in.

Building Confidence in Shy Dogs: Incremental Exposure Techniques

First, you need to understand what makes your dog nervous. Is it loud noises, new people, other dogs, or certain objects? Keep a journal to track their reactions. Note what happens, where it happens, and how intense their reaction is (e.g., tucking their tail, hiding, trembling, or barking). This will be your roadmap.

behavior modification, dog behavior, dog safety, dog trainingLaura BourhenneJuly 13, 2025shy dogs, dog behavior, dog trainingComment

The Art of Asking Permission: Your Guide to Proper Etiquette for Petting Strange Dogs

In the world of responsible pet ownership and dog interactions, understanding the etiquette of petting strange dogs isn't just polite; it's essential for dog safety, preventing dog bites, and ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved – especially the dog.

Pawsitive Solutions: Navigating Unexpected Dog Encounters

That peaceful stroll in the park, the quiet jog through your neighborhood – sometimes these moments of serenity are punctuated by the sudden appearance of a dog. Whether it's a friendly wagging tail bounding towards you or a more uncertain bark from behind a fence, unexpected dog encounters can be startling. Knowing how to react calmly and safely is crucial for both your well-being and the dog's.