Paus N Train Agility and Obedience

01/23/2025

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Five-Star Review from Karen H.

“I was so glad I took my dog to Pause N Train Puppy School. Their program is very helpful in learning how to properly train a dog. The homework portal has a huge amount of information that helps you review what is taught in class.

A while after finishing Puppy School, my dog was also having leash reactivity (barking at other dogs and out of control while walking on a leash). I booked a one-to-one session, did the homework in the portal, and then met for a private session. Following their suggestions, my dog is now able to confidently walk on a leash and is able to ignore the other dogs he sees on his walk.

I have been to other training schools, and Pause N Train is absolutely the BEST!”

✨ Thank you, Karen, for your amazing feedback! We’re so proud of your progress and thrilled to see your dog walking confidently and calmly by your side.

Whether you’re looking for foundational puppy skills or need help tackling challenges like leash reactivity, our Puppy Prep School, that includes a One-on-One Private lesson, provides the tools, guidance, and support you need.

🐾 Ready to start your own success story?
📞 Contact us today or visit our website to book your spot!
☎️ 705-740-0774
💻 www.paus-n-train.com

01/22/2025

🎉 Success Story: Team Elvis! 🎉

We’re thrilled to celebrate Team Elvis, a recent graduate of our Dog Manners program and an inspiring Service Dog in training for his Dad! Elvis has been working hard to master his skills, and today, we’re sharing his progress on stage two of his “Wait” cue. 🐾✨

🌟 How We Teach “Wait” 🌟

Stage One:
➡️ Take a few steps and say “WAIT” while presenting your target hand in front of the dog. Reward directly to their mouth.
➡️ Take one step around the dog, return, and reward again.
➡️ Repeat several times and release with “Break.”

Stage Two:
➡️ Toss a reset treat using “FIND IT.”
➡️ Cue “WAIT” with a stop hand signal and back away, changing the angle each time.
➡️ Mark success, then step into the dog to reward.
➡️ Toss another reset treat to keep it fun and engaging, then release with “Break.”

🎥 Watch Elvis in action, showing incredible focus and determination as he works through stage two of this cue. He’s a superstar in the making! 🌟🐕

We couldn’t be prouder of this dynamic duo and their journey together. Keep up the amazing work, Team Elvis! ❤️

01/21/2025

Winter-Safe Outdoor Adventures! ❄️🐕
Winter is here, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop for you and your furry friend! With a little preparation, you can turn the chilly weather into a season full of exciting outdoor adventures. Here are some winter-safe activities you and your pup will love:

🐾 Snowball Fetch
If you’re blessed with a snowy wonderland, swap out your regular fetch ball for snowballs! Toss them gently for your dog to chase, pounce on, and search for in the snow. Watching them dig through the white fluff is sure to bring smiles to both of you!

🐾 Snow Playtime
Unleash your dog’s inner pup with some unstructured snow play! Roll around and make snow angels together, toss snow into the air for them to catch, or create snow mounds and tunnels for them to explore. It’s a great way to bond while enjoying the beauty of the season.

🐾 Short Winter Hikes
Explore local trails that are safe and maintained during winter. A brisk walk in the fresh, crisp air is not only great exercise but also a sensory delight for your dog, with all the new smells and sights winter brings. Remember to keep the hikes short to avoid overexposure to the cold.

Looking for trails nearby? The AllTrails app is a fantastic tool for finding dog-friendly hiking spots! Use it to discover snowy trails filled with winter’s beauty and plan a magical winter escape with your pup.

Winter Safety Tips for Your Dog:
✔️ Keep an eye on their paws—use booties or paw balm to protect against ice, salt, and cold surfaces.
✔️ Dress your dog in a winter coat if they’re short-haired or sensitive to the cold.
✔️ Always carry fresh water, even in winter, to keep them hydrated.

Winter doesn’t have to keep you indoors—bundle up, grab your leash, and embrace the season with your pup! Share your favorite winter adventure ideas in the comments below.

01/20/2025

Let’s warm up the day with some laugh-out-loud moments! 🎉🐾 Share the funniest, goofiest, or most unexpected photos or videos of your dog! 📸😂 Whether they’ve been caught mid-zoomie 🐕💨, pulling a hilarious face 🤪, or just being their quirky selves, we want to see it all.

Tell us what was happening when you captured the moment — bonus points if it makes us laugh even harder! 🐶✨

😂🐾 🤪 ❤️

01/19/2025

All this time, our dogs are just trying to look out for us during a cold front 😂

01/18/2025

Kyla McNeill: A Life Shaped by Dogs, Dedication, and a Dream
Kyla McNeill’s story is not just about training dogs—it’s about building bridges between two worlds, creating harmony where there was once misunderstanding, and showing what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
Her journey began at just 8 years old when her family brought home a spirited Siberian Husky, a dog with more challenges than they’d anticipated. But where others might have seen frustration, young Kyla found a teacher. That Husky became her greatest companion and the spark that ignited her love for understanding the canine mind. By the age of 12, Kyla’s dream was crystal clear: she wanted to dedicate her life to working with dogs.
Kyla’s path to becoming a professional trainer wasn’t a straight line, but it was paved with determination. Years spent walking dogs, managing doggie daycare pups, and learning from seasoned trainers gave her a deep appreciation for the complexity of canine behavior. When she began training professionally in 2012, she brought with her not just technical knowledge but an empathy honed by years of hands-on experience.
What sets Kyla apart is her ability to see potential where others see problems. Whether she’s leading puppy classes, teaching advanced skills, or helping a dog overcome anxiety in private sessions, her approach is grounded in patience and creativity. Her work isn’t just about teaching dogs to sit or stay—it’s about cultivating a connection between dogs and their people, one built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect.
Kyla’s dedication to her craft extends far beyond the classroom. She constantly seeks to deepen her knowledge, attending workshops, seminars, and courses to stay at the forefront of training techniques. Her passion for learning ensures that every dog and family she works with receives thoughtful, personalized support that’s as dynamic as the challenges they face.
But Kyla’s story doesn’t end with her students—it’s also about the bond she shares with her own dogs. For the past 15 years, Kyla has trained and competed in agility, a sport that demands precision, speed, and a strong partnership between handler and dog. In 2024, Kyla and her border collie Lennan represented Canada at the IFCS World Agility Championships in France, standing among the best in the world. In 2025, they’ll do it again, this time in Switzerland, carrying the hopes of their team and the countless people inspired by their journey.
At home, Kyla’s life is a reflection of the values she brings to her work. Her border collies, Niamh and Lennan, and her senior cats, Smudge and Mitzi, fill her days with companionship and joy. They remind her of why she does what she does: to create a world where every animal feels safe, understood, and loved.
Kyla McNeill’s life is a testament to what can be achieved when passion, hard work, and a deep respect for animals come together. Her journey inspires us to see our dogs not just as pets but as partners, each with their own unique lessons to teach us. Through her work, Kyla transforms lives, one wagging tail at a time.

01/16/2025

🌟 Stay Fit, Stay Strong: Complimentary K9 Fitness for Our Clients! 🌟

Did you know? All of our clients have FREE access to our on-demand K9 Fitness program! Whether you’re looking to keep your pup in peak condition for sports or just want to boost their health and confidence, this program has you covered.

🏋️‍♀️ Featuring:
✅ K9 FitBones
✅ Wobble Boards
✅ Balance Pods
✅ Paw Pads
✅ Cavaletties and more!

Designed for all skill levels and perfect for winter months, these guided exercises will keep your dog healthy, active, and happy.

👉 Log in and get started today! Not a client yet? Reach out to learn more about our training programs and how you can gain access to this exclusive benefit.

https://www.paus-n-train.com/on-demand-courses

💪 Let’s keep tails wagging and paws moving!

01/15/2025

🎓 Congratulations to Team Lucy on Graduating Puppy Prep School! 🎓

Lucy has been an absolute superstar, and her progress has been nothing short of amazing! 🌟 In their private lesson, Lucy and her family focused on:

🐾 Long line walks: Lucy practiced walking on a long line while offering check-ins to her handler. These check-ins were rewarded with treats, occasional recalls, and the exciting “Go Play” cue to build independence and connection both on and off leash.

🐾 Polite greetings: Lucy worked on greeting people without jumping, focusing on calm and polite interactions—an important skill for a friendly pup like her! 🐶

🐾 Watching distractions: Instead of reacting to exciting things around her, Lucy learned to observe calmly while being rewarded for staying focused on her handler. This helps build confidence and impulse control.

In the video, you’ll see Lucy showing off her impressive recall and “Go Play” cue, demonstrating just how far she’s come! 🎥👏 We’re so proud of Lucy and her family for their dedication and hard work.

💬 What skill are you most proud of your dog for mastering? Share in the comments!

01/14/2025

🧠🐶 Mental Stimulation Activities! 🧠🐶
As the weather cools down, it’s essential to keep your pup’s mind and body sharp! Here are some engaging mental and physical games you can play indoors:
• Hide and Seek: Have your dog sit and stay while you hide, or have someone hold their collar. Once you’re hidden, use your release word or call them to find you! This game taps into their natural instincts and is a blast for both of you.
• Training Sessions: Teach new tricks or reinforce commands in short, fun sessions. This not only stimulates their mind but also strengthens your bond.
• Stair Workouts for Endurance: Use indoor stairs for controlled fitness drills. Practice walking or trotting up and down with a focus on control and safety. For an extra challenge, add “wait” commands mid-stair or have your dog retrieve a toy left at the top or bottom.
• Puzzle Toys: Use interactive toys that challenge your dog to think and problem-solve. These toys keep them entertained while providing hours of mental stimulation. Snuffle mats, puzzle boards, a stuffed kong or interactive slow treat dispensing toys are great and available all over!

Check out this video on using a snuffle mat to feed your dog! It doubles the time it takes for them to finish their meal while giving their brain a great workout.

What are your favorite indoor mental stimulation games or exercises for your dog? Share them in the comments below, bonus points for photos or videos—we’d love to hear your ideas!

01/14/2025

https://peterborough.communityvotes.com/

We would appreciate your nominations! You can vote daily! We can be found under the Pet Training category.

Official 2025 Community Voting Awards Platform for Peterborough, ON. Where the community votes for their favourites every year.

01/13/2025

🥶 Brrr, it’s cold out! Winter is the perfect season for cozy moments with our pups! Whether it’s curling up by the fire, snuggling under a blanket, or finding the warmest sunbeam in the house, our dogs know how to embrace those chill vibes.

❄️🐾 We’d love to see your dog’s coziest winter moment! Share a photo or story in the comments. Bonus points if your pup has a favorite blanket, bed, or spot that’s all theirs! 🛋️🦴

Let’s celebrate the warm, fuzzy moments that make winter so special!

01/12/2025

😂

01/10/2025

🐾 Success Story: Team Jagre 🐾

Meet Team Jagre, a gentle giant who recently graduated from our Dog Manners program! 🎓🐕 At just 9 months old, this big guy already has an impressive presence with his sheer size and strength. 💪✨

In this video, you’ll see Jagre showing off his progress in polite loose leash walking 🦮—a key skill for a dog of his stature. He’s also been working hard on no jumping when greeting visitors 👋🐾, which he nailed during his one-on-one lesson with Kyla. 🥳🎉

Jagre’s journey is a testament to the power of patience, consistency, and teamwork. ❤️ We couldn’t be prouder of the progress he’s made, and we know he’s going to continue to be a fantastic companion. Way to go, Team Jagre! 🎉👏

🐾 Have a big dog at home? What are some challenges you’ve faced? Let us know in the comments!

01/08/2025

This month we are talking about adding appropriate weather related exercise and alternate activities for bad weather days.

We offer a FREE fitness program as part of our digital course offerings. It includes recommended exercises that are really easy to teach your dog while using "equipment" from around the house.
Here is the link: https://gwen-s-school-eaca.thinkific.com/courses/at-home-k9-fitness

01/08/2025

Join us this afternoon at 3pm EST for a FREE session with Paus-n-Train owner Gwen Little. 🐾 Hosted on Facebook Live, Gwen will discuss this month’s hot topic - Winter fitness and enrichment, and opens the floor to questions. We want to hear from you! 📚🐶 Continue to foster the best possible relationship you can have with your pup by attending our monthly check-in sessions! We can’t wait to see you!

🐕

01/08/2025

Team Blue’s Success Story! 💙🐾

In their private lesson, Team Blue made incredible strides:

🐕 Casual/ Sniffy Walks: Blue enjoyed exploring at their own pace, building focus and confidence.
🛏️ Confidence Around the Raised Bed: Blue tackled this challenge like a pro!
📦 Cardboard Chaos: Food in boxes + independence = a boost in Blue’s bravery.
🦮 Walking Practice with a Gentle Leader: Stopping for pulling and rewarding calm walking helped refine their leash skills.
👀 DMT with Other Dogs: Marking, treating, and creating distance gave Blue a positive way to navigate distractions.
🌿 Alternate Activities: Sniffing breaks during high-distraction moments made walks even more enriching.

We’re so proud of Blue’s hard work and progress. Keep it up, Team Blue! 🥳💪

01/07/2025

🏋️‍♀️ Indoor Fitness Fun! 🐾

Winter weather can make outdoor activities tricky, but that doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on staying active! With a little creativity, you can turn your home into a fun and stimulating fitness zone. Here are a few ideas to get your pup moving and burning energy indoors:
• Obstacle Course: Use what you have around the house to create a mini agility course! Stack cushions for jumping, line up chairs for weaving, or use a broom as a low bar for them to crawl under. It’s a great way to challenge both their body and mind.
• Tug-of-War: This timeless game is not only entertaining but also helps build strength and trust. Remember to set boundaries for polite play—such as “drop it” or “take it”—to keep it fun and safe.
• Stair Climbing: If your dog’s joints are healthy and you’ve got a staircase at home, have them run up and down a few times under supervision. It’s a simple, effective way to boost muscle tone and cardiovascular health.

Pro tip: Add mental stimulation to these activities by incorporating commands like “wait,” “go,” or “find it” to keep your dog engaged and learning while they exercise!

Want even more ways to keep your dog fit this winter? As part of our Paus-n-Train community, you have complimentary access to our on-demand K9 Fitness program! This program is designed to help you use tools you already have at home—like balance pods, cushions, and household items—to create effective fitness routines for your dog. It’s perfect for all skill levels, and you can work at your own pace from the comfort of home.

Let’s keep those tails wagging and bodies moving all season long! 🎉

Click link and scroll down:

https://www.paus-n-train.com/on-demand-courses

01/06/2025

Join us this Wednesday afternoon at 3pm EST for a FREE session with Paus-n-Train owner Gwen Little. 🐾 Hosted on Facebook Live, Gwen will discuss the contents of this month’s hot topic - Winter fitness and enrichment, and opens the floor to questions. We want to hear from you! 📚🐶 Continue to foster the best possible relationship you can have with your pup by attending our monthly check-in sessions! We can’t wait to see you!

🐕