Sage Mode K9's

09/05/2024

Big thanks to Chris H. for sharing her experience with us! 🌟🐾

Jenni and Stewie are such incredible pups, and it was a joy to make sure they have a great time while you were away.

It's clients like you who make our work so rewarding.

Here's to many more fun stays with Jenni and Stewie!

09/03/2024

Is your dog really safe off-leash? Without 100% recall, the answer might shock you.

Lately I have encountered quite a bit of off-leash dogs that didn't have great recall while walking my on-leash reactive pups.

Some of them were extremely close calls where the owner usually laughs it off saying how "my dog is friendly."

That's no excuse.

I have taken every precaution with my dogs and it doesn't matter if your dog is friendly or a small dog and my dog is the one reacting.

There are lots of other reasons besides reactive dogs that are on-leash that you probably aren't aware of.

Learn more about why perfect recall is critical for every off-leash adventure.

Check out my latest blog post on why is so important for your dog to have 100% recall and what could happen if you just shrug it off.

Click the link in my bio to read it now.

Send a message to learn more

06/30/2024

05/07/2024

Wouldn’t this be something!

And what a world it would be! 👌🏽👏🏽

05/02/2024

Where should I walk my reactive dog?

Frustrated with your dog getting triggered on your neighbourhood walks?

Not sure where to walk your reactive dog to avoid triggers and create a positive walking routine?

Not sure which trails to pick for your reactive dog?

When walking a reactive dog, it's essential to select trails that offer ample space to maintain distance from other dogs, providing your furry friend with a sense of security and calmness.

You want to be able to safely distance yourself from oncoming people and dogs to not only allow others to walk by, but to provide the right amount of distance for your reactive pup so they remain calm. Opt for open trails that allow your dog to move freely without feeling overwhelmed.

Avoid narrow, confined spaces and areas with limited visibility around corners, such as winding trails, to ensure a stress-free walking experience for both you and your furry companion.

Trails that don’t allow you to give you and your reactive pup a good amount of distance could result in you having to turn back with you pup looking back constantly at the other dog or person, fixating on them.

If this post was helpful, please like, share, or comment!

05/01/2024

Meet Duke!

Duke has recently join me for some solo walks to ensure he gets the exercise and fresh air that he loves dearly.

Duke is a senior boy who loves all the peoples, but if reactive to other dogs.

WARNING: He will try to kiss your face off if you let him get too close!

Duke is always super excited for out morning trolls, looking forward to his rewards along the way. Smelling EVERYTHING in sight!

Show some love by liking this post and sharing your favorite dog-walking memory in the comments.

04/27/2024

🐾👐 Game #5: Handling All Over! 👐🐾

Hey pup parents! 🌟 Is your furry friend a bit touchy about being handled? It's time to turn handling into a happy game with our fifth and final game: Handling All Over! 🐕

🔍 Game Plan:

1️⃣ Get Those Treats Ready: Have tasty treats handy within arms reach and get ready to work those paws! Gently and briefly touch those paws, mark "yes", let go and immediately give your puppy a treat. Repeat! 🍖

2️⃣ Touch and Treat: Briefly touch each body part such as ears, tail, neck, teeth and reward with a treat immediately after. 🎉

3️⃣ Gradually Increase Duration: Slowly increase the time you spend handling your pup, such as really examining the paw or looking carefully in their ears. Always rewarding good behavior! ⏳

💡 Tip: Watch for signs of discomfort like mouthing, turn head to see what you are doing, or rapid licking. If your pup seems uneasy, take it slow and make each touch brief and rewarding! 🐾

With patience and positive reinforcement, your pup will soon be a handling pro! Let's make vet visits and grooming sessions stress-free for everyone involved! 🐶💼

04/26/2024

🐾🎾🐶 Game #4: Chew on Toys, Not My Stuff! 🐶🎾🐾

Hey fellow puppy parents! 🐾 Are you tired of finding your shoes mysteriously chewed up or your favorite throw pillows in tatters? 😅 It's time to teach your furry friend some good chew-time manners with our fourth game: Chew on Toys, Not My Stuff! 🐕🎮

🔍 How to Play:

1️⃣ Introduce the Toy: Show off those squeaky chew toys and rubber bones like they're the most exciting things in the world! 🎉 Let your pup know these are the goodies for chewing.

2️⃣ Praise Every Pick-Up: Whenever your pup grabs a toy instead of your slippers, shower them with praise! 🎉 Positive reinforcement works wonders.

3️⃣ Keep it Fresh: Rotate the toy selection daily to keep things interesting. 🔄 A variety keeps boredom at bay!

💡 Tip: Scatter toys around your home where your pup hangs out most. 🏠 That way, they'll always have a chance to make the right choice!

Remember, patience and consistency are key! 🗝️ Soon, your pup will be a chew-time champ! 💪 Let's keep our belongings intact and our puppies happy!

Looking for expert dog training? Shannon at Coastal Paws is the dog trainer your looking for! Reach out to her to transform your pip's behavior and unlock their full potential 🐾🌟

04/23/2024

Recently spent a weekend dog sitting for this sweet and goofy boy! We always have a great time from cuddling on the couch, to running around the yard and going on walks

Mikey has been with Raincoast Dog Rescue Society for over a year now, and is currently in a froster to adopt trial!

Fingers crossed that Mikey has finally found his forever home and can live a life full of love, pets, and affection like he deserves ❤🤞🐾

04/13/2024

Are Dog Parks Good for Dogs?

As a responsible pet owner, it's crucial to prioritize your dog's safety and well-being when considering a trip to the dog park. While dog parks can offer valuable opportunities for socialization and exercise, it's essential to be discerning about your furry friend's readiness for this environment.

If your dog is not a good listener, lacks recall skills, is a resource guarder, exhibits signs of anxiety, reactivity, or aggressive behavior, it's imperative to recognize that a dog park is not the best setting for them. The safety and comfort of all dogs and their owners should always be the top priority.

Here are some key points to consider:

The Benefits of Dog Parks:

• Socialization: Dog parks can provide a positive space for well-socialized dogs to interact, play, and build positive relationships with other pups.
• Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Dogs benefit from physical activity and mental stimulation. A dog park can offer ample space for them to run, play, and explore, promoting their overall health and happiness.
• Bonding Time: Visiting a dog park can be a wonderful opportunity to bond with your furry companion, as well as his pup friends, create shared memories, and enjoy quality time together.

The Importance of Caution:

• Safety First: If your dog exhibits behaviors that may pose risks in a social setting, it's crucial to prioritize their safety and the safety of others by exploring alternative ways to provide exercise and enrichment.
• Supervision and Awareness: Close supervision and attentiveness to your dog's behavior and comfort level, as well as other dogs, are essential in any social environment to prevent conflicts and ensure a positive experience.
• Responsible Pet Ownership: Advocating for your dog's well-being means making informed decisions that align with their individual needs and temperament. Your dog's safety and happiness should always come first.

In conclusion, the suitability of a dog park for your furry companion ultimately depends on their individual characteristics and behavior. If your dog exhibits strong recall, good listening skills, is comfortable in social settings, and shows no signs of reactivity or aggression, a dog park can offer a fantastic opportunity for socialization, exercise, and fun. However, if any of these signs are absent, I suggest exploring alternative ways to provide enrichment and exercise tailored to your dog's needs. Remember, prioritizing your dog's safety, well-being, and happiness is key when considering a visit to the dog park.

Your Thoughts: What are your thoughts on dog park visits for dogs with varying temperaments and behaviors? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!

04/10/2024

🐾🎉 Get ready for some puppy fun with our latest game with game #3, “Sharing is Caring”! 🎉🐾

In this exciting game, the goal is simple yet oh-so-important: teach your furry friend the joy of sharing with you, their loving owner. It’s all about channeling those puppy teeth onto a toy for some snuggle time together. Here’s how to play:

Step 1️⃣: Grab a long chew bone and hold one end, leaving plenty of room for your pup to sink their teeth into the other end. This way, you’re showing them that sharing with you is a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Step 2️⃣: Encourage your playful pup to chew on their end of the bone while you hold onto yours, whether they’re nestled in your lap, cuddled next to you on the couch, or wherever is cozy for both of you. Don’t forget to shower them with praise for their efforts! 🌟

💡 Tip: Choose a time when your puppy isn’t too hyperactive, as they’ll be more likely to enjoy the game when they’re in a calm mood.

Get ready for some bonding time and watch as your puppy learns the joy of sharing! 🐾 Have a blast, and don’t forget to share your puppy playtime moments with us! 📸

04/08/2024

🐾✨ Creating Safe Spaces for Reactive Dogs ✨🐾

For our beloved reactive pups, creating a safe and comfortable environment is essential for their well-being. Here are some tips on how to create safe spaces for reactive dogs and manage encounters with other dogs or strangers during walks.

🏡 Safe environments at home: Ensure your home is a sanctuary for your reactive dog by providing them with a quiet, calm space where they can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. This could be a cozy corner with their favorite bed or crate, away from high-traffic areas or noisy distractions.

🚶‍♂️ Managing encounters during walks: When out for a stroll with your reactive dog, it's crucial to be proactive and attentive. Keep a safe distance from other dogs or strangers to prevent triggering your dog's reactive behavior. Consider using visual barriers such as trees or parked cars to create distance if needed.

🧠 Understanding your dog's thresholds: My dog trainer friend Shannon at Coastal Paws taught me this. Every reactive dog has their own threshold – the point at which they become reactive. Pay close attention to your dog's body language and behavior to identify their triggers and threshold levels. By gradually exposing them to triggers at a distance they can handle, you can help desensitize them over time with proper training. Reach out to Coastal Paws if you are looking for a dog trainer!

👫 Educating others: Don't hesitate to educate others about your dog's needs when out in public. Politely inform approaching dog owners or strangers about your dog's reactive behavior and kindly ask for space or cooperation in keeping interactions calm and controlled.

🐾 Positive reinforcement and training: Utilize positive reinforcement training techniques to help your reactive dog build confidence and learn alternative behaviors. Reward calm and relaxed behavior with treats, praise, or favorite toys to reinforce positive associations with triggers and encounters.

Creating a safe space for your reactive dog takes patience, understanding, and dedication. By implementing these tips and techniques, you can help your furry friend feel more secure and confident in navigating the world around them. Together, let's create a supportive and empathetic community for all our four-legged friends! 🐾💖

04/05/2024

🐾 Calling all puppy parents! 🐾

🧠 Engage your furry friend's mind with game number two: "Brain Games"! 🧩

Goal: To engage your puppy's mind and support cognitive growth.

You can purchase a variety of toys for this game or create your own!

🎾 How to play: Simply grab a muffin tin and 12 tennis balls. Hide tasty treats in the muffin cups and cover them with tennis balls. Watch as your pup uses their sniffing skills to uncover the hidden treasures! 🐶💡

🌟 Not only does this game provide mental stimulation, but it also helps build your pup's problem-solving abilities. Plus, it's a ton of fun for both of you! 🐾

Tip: Dogs vary in learning speed, with some grasping concepts swiftly while others may require more time. Practice patience and encourage your puppy's efforts with positive reinforcement!

Give it a try and share your puppy's reactions in the comments below! 📸 Don't forget to tag us in your Brain Games adventures on Instagram too! 🐾

Are you in search of a skilled dog trainer to kickstart your pup's training journey? Look no further! Connect with Coastal Paws today and set your furry friend on the path to manners and joy!

04/03/2024

🌿 Spent a glorious two hours hiking on Broom Hill with my loyal companion, Sophie the German Shepherd.

The fresh air, stunning views, and quality time with my furry friend made for an unforgettable experience. It was refreshing to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Can’t wait for our next outdoor escapade! 🐕🌲



What’s your favorite way to bond with your furry friend during outdoor adventures, and what challenges do you face along the way? Share your go-to activities, cherished moments, and any hurdles you’ve encountered below!

04/02/2024

Exciting News!

🐾 Hey, fellow puppy parents! Get ready for a month of fun and learning with your furry friends! Throughout April, I'll be sharing five engaging and interactive games to play with your puppy.

Game Number One: Know Your Name

Goal: In this game, we'll focus on teaching your puppy his name for attention purposes. The goal is to have your puppy look at you and come running when you call their name. Here's how to get started:

Step 1: Stand close to your puppy when they are not looking at you. Call your puppy's name once. If they look at you, mark "yes" or click with a clicker and give them a treat.

Step 2: Gradually stand further from your puppy so they must come to you to get the treat. Work across the room, then across the house.

Step 3: Practice outdoors on a short leash, then a long one.

Tip: Try not to call them more than once at a time or they won't learn to listen to you the first time.

Stay tuned for more games and tips to strengthen the bond with your puppy and make learning fun! Don't forget to check out Coastal Paws, a fantastic dog training business run by my friend Shannon, for more expert guidance on training your furry companion! 🎾🌟

03/31/2024

🐾 Benefits of Solo Walks for Reactive Dogs 🐾

Is your reactive dog in need of some one-on-one time outdoors? Solo walks could be the perfect solution! 🌳 Here are some benefits:

Personalized Attention: Your furry friend receives dedicated care and tailored activities during solo walks, ensuring a positive and enriching experience.

Reduced Stress: Without the presence of other dogs, your reactive pup can enjoy a peaceful and stress-free walk, promoting relaxation and well-being.

Behavior Improvement: Solo walks provide a focused environment for training and managing reactive behavior effectively, leading to noticeable improvements over time.

Bonding Time: Strengthen the bond between you and your dog through quality one-on-one time outdoors, fostering trust and companionship.

Consider these benefits when deciding on the best approach for your reactive dog's well-being and happiness. Let's prioritize their comfort and enjoyment during every walk!

If you're interested in a comprehensive training experience, Coastal Paws offers a service called Walk & Train that combines the benefits of walking and training in a single session. Reach out for more details!

03/24/2024

Are you feeling overwhelmed with work or a busy family schedule? Let us help alleviate some of that stress by taking care of your furry friend. Our dog walking services cater to all types of dogs - whether they prefer solo walks for reactive pups or group hikes for social butterflies. Give your dog the attention and exercise they need while you free up some time for yourself. Say goodbye to the guilt of not being able to meet your dog's needs and say hello to a happier, healthier pup.

Connect with your furry friend's needs while you focus on your busy schedule. Feel free to contact us today via email, messenger, or by giving us a call! 🐕 🚶

03/21/2024

🐾Meet Mikey!🐾

This lovable pup is searching for his forever home. With his wagging tail and affectionate personality, Mikey is sure to steal your heart.

Ready to make Mikey’s dreams come true? 🏡 🐕

Adoptable Mike hanging with his foster brothers!

Mike is on the far left and is still patiently awaiting his forever home after two years of being with us. For more information on adoptable Mike please go to raincoastdogrescue.com

Thank you! ♥️🐾

03/20/2024

Archie and Oscar, you are warmly welcomed to Sage Mode K9's pack! As two lively Australian Shepherds, it's great to see how much you love to play and go on our walks.