A Message of Gratitude
A few years ago, I was driving a broken-down minivan I was lucky when it got me from point A to B, it broke down so often! I couldn’t even dream of something as professional as a vinyl wrap for my business. Back then, it was a process of trial and error, fueled by determination and hope. Eventually, I found the Chattanooga Library and spent time on the fourth floor designing my own logo and decals—an experience I will forever be grateful for.
Today, thanks to your support and belief in me, PAWSitive Transformations has grown beyond anything I could have imagined! Your trust in my with your beloved canine companions doesn’t just support my family; it also helps uplift our on-house community through our nonprofit Atypical Place For Transformations. Together, we’re transforming lives, one step at a time.
As I reflect on this journey, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for every single one of you who has been part of this. Thank you for being a part of all these transformations—my own and the lives we continue to touch.
Wishing you all the happiest of holidays. Here’s to hope, growth, and the incredible power of community.
With gratitude,
Kat Zwitter, family, & our unhoused community
PAWSitive Transformations
Remi’s Journey
Remi is a pound rescue who came to me with severe anxiety. She was scared to go in her crate, jumped on people, and had a strong fear of the family’s 4x4 side-by-side vehicle. Her family wanted her to feel comfortable and confident riding along on farm chores like collecting eggs, cooling off in the water, and being part of their daily lives.
Graduation day was nothing short of magical. Together, during Remi’s two-week stay, Flint and I worked with her step by step. We gradually introduced her to the crate in a calm and positive way, helping her see it as a safe space. We addressed her habit of jumping on people, teaching her new ways to channel her excitement. Finally, we tackled her biggest hurdle—her fear of the 4x4. With patience and encouragement, we guided her through the sounds and vibrations until she was comfortable loading up and riding along with ease.
Seeing Remi splash in the water, explore the farm, and join her family’s adventures filled my heart with joy. It reminded me why I started Pawsitive Transformations in the first place: to help dogs overcome their fears, build stronger bonds with their humans, and live their happiest, most fulfilled lives. But it’s also about keeping my small business personal and focused, where every dog receives detailed, tailored, and customized training. Creating a space where each family feels supported and every dog is understood is what makes this work so rewarding.
#PositiveReinforcement #ForceFreeTraining #RewardBasedTraining #ClickerTraining #DogTrainingTips #HoundDog #HoundLife #ScentHound #HoundLove #HoundsofInstagram #RescueDog #AdoptDontShop #RescueDogLove #SecondChanceDogs #RescuedIsMyFavoriteBreed #OffRoadAdventures #4x4Life #FarmLife #CountryLiving #FarmDogs #DogTraining #ObedienceTraining #PuppyTraining #DogBehavior #CanineEducation #Chattanooga #ChattanoogaDogs #ChattanoogaLife #ScenicCity #ChattanoogaBusiness
As a dog trainer, I emphasize the importance of working at your dog’s pace, especially when they are feeling anxious. Rushing progress can overwhelm them, making it harder to build trust and confidence. Instead, we use the method of successive approximation, which involves breaking goals into small, achievable steps and rewarding your dog for each success along the way. This approach helps them associate new experiences with positive outcomes and fosters a sense of security. By respecting your dog’s comfort level and celebrating every little victory, you create a foundation for lasting behavioral change.
#DogTraining #PositiveReinforcement #AnxiousDogs #FearFreeTraining #DogBehavior #BuildingTrust #DogTrainingTips #RewardBasedTraining #DogsOfInstagram #TrainYourDog
Engagement and play are essential tools for helping an anxious dog build confidence and trust. Interactive play stimulates their mind, strengthens the bond between you and your dog, and provides a healthy outlet for pent-up energy that can fuel anxiety. By engaging your dog in positive, structured activities, you’re not only distracting them from their fears but also teaching them to focus on you as a source of safety and fun. Over time, these moments of connection can transform an anxious dog’s mindset, creating a calmer, more secure companion.
#positivereinforcement #dogtrainingvideos #play #move #fun
Using successive approximation, or shaping, is a powerful technique in dog training because it allows us to break down complex behaviors into small, manageable steps. By rewarding small improvements along the way, we help the dog understand exactly what we want, reducing frustration and increasing learning efficiency. This method encourages confidence and motivation, as the dog sees gradual progress and receives consistent reinforcement for each step. It’s particularly helpful for teaching new behaviors or modifying existing ones, ensuring that the learning process is clear and achievable for the dog.
Training dogs in public and new surroundings is essential because it helps them learn to focus and respond to commands despite distractions. When a dog is only trained in the comfort of home, they may struggle to maintain good behavior in more stimulating environments. By exposing them to different sights, sounds, and smells, you’re helping them build confidence and better adapt to real-world situations. This not only strengthens their obedience but also ensures they remain calm and well-behaved in various settings, whether it’s on a walk, at the park, or around other people and dogs.
#positivereinforcement #dog #dogs #dogoftheday #dogsofinstagram #doglover #dogtrainer #chattlove #chattanooga
Teaching Door Car Boundaries: Why It’s Crucial for Your Dog’s Safety and Behavior
As a professional dog trainer, one of the most common concerns I address with dog owners is how to ensure their dogs behave safely and respectfully around the car, especially when it comes to entering and exiting the vehicle. Teaching your dog to respect “car door boundaries” isn’t just about creating a well-behaved companion during trips — it’s about safety, calmness, and promoting positive experiences for your dog. In this article, I’ll discuss why teaching door car boundaries is essential and how it can benefit both you and your dog in the long run.
1. Safety First: Preventing Accidents
2. Prevents Car Anxiety and Promotes Calmness
3. Promotes Good Leash and Impulse Control
4. Reduces Risk of Escape and Escalated Situations
5. Sets the Tone for Good Behavior in Other Settings
6. Strengthens the Human-Dog Relationship
How to Teach Car Door Boundaries
1. Start with Calmness at the Car
When you approach the car, keep your dog on a leash. Before opening the door, ask them to sit and wait. Do not open the door until they’re calm and in the correct position. If they try to jump or rush towards the door, calmly redirect them back into position and wait for them to settle before giving the release command.
2. Use the “Wait” or “Stay” Command
Teach your dog the “wait” or “stay” command specifically at the car door. Only reward them when they remain inin a seated position or calm stance until you say it’s time to enter the car.
3. Control Entry and Exit
When it’s time to enter the car, open the door but don’t allow your dog to jump in immediately. Wait for them to remain calm before inviting them into the vehicle. Repeat the same behavior when it’s time to exit: wait until they are calm and in position before letting them out.
4. Practice Consistently
Like any training, consistency is key. Practice car door boundaries every time you ge
Welcome to our home! In Stay & Play Training your dogs get fully immersed into real life… including little boys having nerf gun fights!
#dog #dogs #dogtrainer #training #exposure #chattanooga #nerf #nerfwar
Welcome Remi into Stay & Play Training! Here is a video from the very start of training.
Understanding Successive Approximation in Dog Training: Mastering Distance, Duration, and Distractions
As dog trainers, we are constantly seeking the most effective ways to shape behavior in our canine companions. One of the most powerful techniques we use is successive approximation—a strategy that breaks down complex behaviors into small, manageable steps.
What is Successive Approximation?
Successive approximation, often referred to as “shaping,” involves reinforcing small, incremental steps toward a target behavior. Instead of waiting for the dog to perform the behavior in its entirety, we reinforce progressively closer versions of it. This allows us to teach complex behaviors in a way that is clear and attainable for the dog.
For example, if we want to teach a dog to hold a sit/down for longer periods, we wouldn’t immediately expect the dog to stay in place for 10 minutes. Instead, we would reinforce shorter durations first, gradually increasing the duration and distance simultaneously until the dog can hold the behavior reliably. Then adding in distractions.
The Importance of Teaching Dogs Door Boundaries
As a dog trainer, one of the most common behavioral issues I encounter is dogs rushing out the door. Whether it’s during walks, when guests arrive, or just out of excitement, this behavior can quickly lead to unsafe situations or frustration. That’s why teaching dogs door boundaries is an essential part of training. Not only does it improve safety, but it also strengthens your dog’s overall manners and impulse control.
Why Door Boundaries Matter
A dog’s instinct is to explore, and for many, the door represents the gateway to excitement, freedom, or even danger. Without clear boundaries, a dog may bolt out the door without hesitation, risking injury from traffic or running into unsafe situations. For dogs that are overly excitable or have a tendency to be overly protective, door boundaries can prevent unwanted behaviors like jumping on visitors or acting out of anxiety.
#doorboundaries #boundaries #dogtraining #dog #dogtrainer #dogs #chattanoogadogtrainer #dogsofinstagram
We had a 1 on 1 yesterday, there was no peace in their house. The three dogs were fighting for attention and the puppy would get over a roused and too playful. We worked on setting boundaries, expectations, and teaching bed.
The Importance of Training the “Bed” Command for Your Dog
As a dog trainer, one of the most essential commands I encourage pet owners to teach their dogs is the “Bed” command, or “Go to your bed” command. While it may seem like a simple request, this command offers a variety of benefits for both you and your dog, creating a calmer, more structured home environment.
1. Promotes Calmness and Rest
The “Bed” command teaches your dog to associate a specific space with relaxation and downtime. This is especially helpful in high-energy or busy households, as it gives your dog a designated place to settle when things get overwhelming. Curbing undesirable behaviors like jumping, barking, or pacing.
2. Helps with Behavior Management
Dogs thrive on structure and routine. The “Bed” command provides a clear expectation of where your dog should be during certain activities—whether you’re eating dinner, entertaining guests, or simply unwinding. By having a consistent place to go, your dog learns boundaries, helping to create a more peaceful living space.
3. Training Flexibility
Once your dog understands the “Bed” command, you can use it to create space and calm during various situations. For instance, it’s an excellent tool for managing interactions with guests or other animals, or when you need your dog to stay put while you handle other tasks. This simple command can make training and daily management much more efficient.
4. Strengthens the Bond Between You and Your Dog
Training your dog to go to their bed also fosters a positive bond. It’s an opportunity to reinforce calmness, respect, and consistency. Additionally, rewarding your dog for complying with the command creates a positive association with their bed, making them
