Pawsitive Canine Academy

Pawsitive Canine Academy We love your dogs. Communication + Education = Results! Specializing in all breeds and problems

Cold Weather? No Problem! Fun Activities for You Your DogAs the temps start to drop, it’s easy to let outdoor adventure...
01/13/2026

Cold Weather? No Problem! Fun Activities for You Your Dog

As the temps start to drop, it’s easy to let outdoor adventures slow down—but your pup still needs mental physical stimulation! Here are some fun activities to keep those tails wagging this season, whether you’re cuddled up together or your dog’s flying solo for a bit:

Activities You Can Do Together:
Indoor Obstacle Course – Use furniture, pillows, and boxes to create a DIY agility course.
Scent Games – Hide treats around the house and let your dog sniff them out (like a treasure hunt!).
Doggy Puzzles – Invest in or DIY some interactive puzzle toys to challenge their brain.
Snow Walks (if it’s safe) – Bundle up and explore the wintery world together
Training Sessions – Teach a new trick or brush up on old ones. 10–15 minutes a day can make a huge difference!

Activities They Can Do On Their Own:
Frozen Treats – Stuff a Kong with peanut butter kibble, then freeze it for a long-lasting snack.
Snuffle Mats – Great for mental stimulation and feeding time. Keeps them busy and happy!
Self-Play Toys – Try treat-dispensing toys or chew toys that keep them entertained.

👉 Whether it’s playtime or solo-time, keeping your dog active in colder months helps prevent boredom, anxiety, and winter weight gain.

Let’s Talk Dog Food Nutrition! Feeding your dog isn’t just about filling a bowl — it’s about fueling a healthy, balance...
01/09/2026

Let’s Talk Dog Food Nutrition!
Feeding your dog isn’t just about filling a bowl — it’s about fueling a healthy, balanced life. At Pawsitive Canine Academy, we often get asked:

“What should I be feeding my dog?”
“Are there ingredients I should avoid?”

Here’s a quick guide to help you make more confident choices:
Good for Your Dog:
High-Quality Proteins – beef, fish, turkey, lamb (processed chicken is a major cause of allergies)
Whole Fruits Veggies – Blueberries, carrots, pumpkin,
Limited, Digestible Grains – Oats, brown rice, quinoa
Omega-3s Healthy Fats – Great for skin, coat, brain, and joints
Supplements (as needed) – Probiotics, glucosamine, fish oil, etc.

Look for short ingredient lists, human-grade quality, and no unnecessary fillers.

Avoid These Common Offenders:
By-Products Fillers – Like corn, soy, wheat, and meat “meals” of questionable origin
Artificial Colors, Flavors, Preservatives – BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin = big red flags
Excessive Carbs or Sugars – Dogs don’t need them, and they can lead to weight gain
Generic “Meat” Sources – If it doesn’t list the exact meat (like “animal fat” or “meat meal”), skip it
People Food That’s Toxic – Grapes, onions, garlic, chocolate, cooked bones, etc.

Every Dog is Different
Age, breed, activity level, allergies, and health conditions all play a role in what your dog should eat. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help guide you in the right direction.
Need help choosing the best food for your pup?

Ask us during training or message us — we’re here to support your dog’s health inside and out. 🐶❤️

DogNutrition

Think Like a Trainer: Why Is My Dog “Being Bad”?Ever wonder why your dog chews your shoes, barks at the window, or ignor...
01/09/2026

Think Like a Trainer: Why Is My Dog “Being Bad”?
Ever wonder why your dog chews your shoes, barks at the window, or ignores you on walks?

Your dog isn’t being bad; they’re communicating, coping, or simply being… a dog. When you start to think like a trainer, you shift from frustration to understanding.

Let’s break down a few common behaviors:

Barking at the door
Why it happens: Alerting to a “threat” or responding to excitement
Trainer’s mindset: “My dog thinks they’re doing their job. I can teach them a calmer job to do.”

Chewing furniture or shoes
Why it happens: Teething, boredom, or stress
Trainer’s mindset: “My dog needs an appropriate outlet for that chewing urge. Time to redirect and enrich.”

Pulling on leash
Why it happens: They want to explore the world faster than we do
Trainer’s mindset: “Pulling works for them—let’s make loose-leash walking more rewarding.”

Ignoring commands
Why it happens: Distractions, unclear training, or lack of motivation
Trainer’s mindset: “If the dog isn’t responding, I need to re-teach in a simpler way or raise the reward.”

The Trainer’s Golden Rule:
Behavior is information, not disobedience.
Dogs do what works for them, or what they’ve learned to do in certain situations.

Choosing between professional dog training and DIY methods Expertise and ExperienceProfessional trainers understand:Can...
01/07/2026

Choosing between professional dog training and DIY methods

Expertise and Experience
Professional trainers understand:
Canine behavior science
Breed-specific tendencies
How to read subtle body language
The difference between fear-based behavior vs. stubbornness

DIY methods often rely on guesswork or generalized advice that may not fit your dog.

Faster, More Reliable Results
Professionals know what works and what doesn’t.
They tailor training plans to your dog’s learning style and personality.
They keep you on track with structured sessions and homework.

DIY training can take longer and lead to inconsistent outcomes, especially without feedback or accountability.

Safe Handling of Problem Behaviors
Aggression
Reactivity
Separation anxiety
Resource guarding
require specific techniques to manage safely and effectively.

Incorrect DIY approaches can accidentally worsen these behaviors or even lead to injury.

Support for the Human Half
Trainers teach you, not just the dog:
How to give clear, consistent cues
How to correct without punishment
How to read your dog’s stress signals
How to stay calm and lead with confidence

Online videos and articles can’t give real-time guidance, feedback, or encouragement.

Socialization and Distraction Training
In group classes or structured environments, your dog will
learn not to focus on other dogs and people and will
gain practice in real-world settings

DIY training often lacks exposure to controlled distractions, which is crucial for real-life obedience.

Customized Plans for Specific Goals
Whether you want a well-mannered pet, a therapy dog, or help with special needs, a professional:
Builds a step-by-step plan
Adjusts based on progress
Targets your priorities

Generic online programs may miss key nuances for your situation.

Confidence and Peace of Mind
Training with a pro:
Reduces stress and second-guessing
Helps prevent long-term behavioral problems
Builds a confident, happy, well-adjusted dog

You’re investing not just in obedience, but in your long-term relationship!

New BIONIC Toys Now Available for Purchase!We’re thrilled to announce that we now carry BIONIC brand toys — durable, enr...
01/03/2026

New BIONIC Toys Now Available for Purchase!

We’re thrilled to announce that we now carry BIONIC brand toys — durable, enrichment-based toys designed to keep your dog engaged, active, and happy during their boarding or training stay!
These toys are perfect for playtime here and at home.
When you purchase a BIONIC toy for your pup during their stay, they’ll get to enjoy it here and take it home at the end of their visit!

Available BIONIC Toys


BIONIC Treat Shaker
Shake, roll, and play! The BIONIC Treat Shaker is a fun, treat-dispensing toy that challenges your dog to work for their rewards. Its unique shape encourages movement and problem-solving, providing great mental stimulation.


BIONIC Treat Star
This star-shaped treat toy keeps pups engaged as they nudge, paw, and chew to get the treats inside. It’s great for encouraging focus and slowing down treat time while satisfying your dog’s natural foraging instincts.


BIONIC Urban Stick
Built for serious chewers, the Urban Stick doubles as a fetch and chew toy with textured grooves for grip and dental stimulation. It’s a sturdy favorite that can handle even the most determined chewers.


BIONIC Stuffer
Fill it, freeze it, and let the fun begin! The Stuffer can be packed with treats, kibble, or wet food to provide long-lasting enrichment and help calm your pup during downtime.


BIONIC Bone
A classic chew toy re-imagined — the BIONIC Bone is built tough to stand up to strong jaws while still being gentle on teeth. Perfect for independent play and satisfying your dog’s natural urge to chew.


BIONIC Ball
Bounce, roll, and fetch! The BIONIC Ball is lightweight, super tough, and floats in water — making it a great choice for land or pool play. Its unpredictable bounce keeps dogs excited and engaged.


Purchase any BIONIC toy during your dog’s stay.
Your dog will enjoy their new toy during playtime or enrichment sessions.
The toy is theirs to take home at the end of their visit!

Routines can help us know what to expect from day to day, reduce anxiety, and eliminate uncertainty. This is just as tru...
01/01/2026

Routines can help us know what to expect from day to day, reduce anxiety, and eliminate uncertainty. This is just as true for dogs as it is for humans.

Dogs enjoy routine, too!

At Pawsitive Canine Academy, we offer:
Day training + enrichment
Mental workouts
Socialization with structure
Your dog deserves a routine of their own!

Benebone Chews Now Available for Purchase!We’re thrilled to announce that we now carry Benebone toys durable, long-las...
12/31/2025

Benebone Chews Now Available for Purchase!

We’re thrilled to announce that we now carry Benebone toys durable, long-lasting enrichment options designed to keep your dog happy, busy, and satisfied during their boarding or training stay!
When you purchase a Benebone for your dog during their stay, they’ll get to enjoy it here and take it home at the end of their visit!

Available Benebone Toys


Tripe Bone
Loaded with the rich scent and flavor of tripe. It’s designed for powerful chewers and provides hours of chewing enjoyment while helping to promote healthy teeth and gums.


Fishbone
Infused with real fish flavor, the Fishbone’s unique curved shape makes it easy for dogs to hold while they chew. It’s a durable option that encourages natural chewing instincts and keeps pups busy.


Wishbone
A Benebone classic! Its ergonomic wishbone shape makes it easy for dogs to grip and chew, while the real-flavor infusion keeps them coming back for more. Ideal for satisfying your dog’s natural desire to chew.


Ring
Perfect for rolling, tugging, and chewing, the Ring is a great toy for solo play or bonding time. Its tough design holds up to heavy chewing while supporting dental health.


Dental Chew
Designed with ridges to help clean teeth and massage gums, A great choice for dogs who need a chew that supports oral health while keeping them entertained.


Zaggler
This fun, rolling chew toy zigzags as your dog nudges it around, adding movement and excitement to chew time. Perfect for dogs who love both chewing and chasing!


Stick
Inspired by a real stick but far more durable and safe, the Benebone Stick has a natural wood flavor and an easy-to-hold design that makes for hours of satisfying chewing.


Pawplexer
Pawplexer combines durable chewing with treat time! You can wedge treats or bully sticks into the center to make playtime last longer and give your dog an extra mental challenge.


Purchase any Benebone toy or chew during your dog’s stay.
Your dog will enjoy their new chew during rest or enrichment time.
The toy is theirs to take home at the end of their visit!

Here are fun training activities that not only teach useful skills but also build a stronger bond between you and your d...
12/30/2025

Here are fun training activities that not only teach useful skills but also build a stronger bond between you and your dog. These games make training feel like play, boosting obedience, trust, and joy on both sides.


Hide and Seek (Recall Training)
Teach or reinforce your dog’s recall in a fun way.
How to play:
Have your dog “stay” while you hide.
Call your dog’s name with excitement.
When they find you, reward them with praise or treats.
This builds recall reliability and encourages them to see you as the best part of their world.


The “Find It” Game (Nose Work)
Great for mental stimulation and impulse control.
How to play:
Show a treat, then hide it behind furniture or under cups.
Say “Find it!” and let your dog search.
Start easy and build up to harder hiding spots.
Boosts confidence, especially in anxious dogs.


Fetch with a Twist
Instead of just throwing the toy, add obedience cues.
Example:
Ask for a “sit” or “wait” before throwing.
Use “drop it” when they return.
Mix recall or “place” commands into the game.
Fun way to practice commands while excited.


Trick Training
Engage your dog’s brain with fun tricks that also reinforce focus and communication.
Tricks to try:
Shake
Spin
Roll over
Crawl
High five
Bow
Use a clicker or marker word and reward immediately. Short, 5-minute trick sessions are great mental workouts.


5.. Obstacle Course at Home
Create a mini agility course with household items.
Ideas:
Broomstick for jumps
Chairs and blankets for tunnels
Laundry baskets for weaving
Fun way to build trust, confidence, and coordination.


Interactive Toys and Puzzle Feeders
Let your dog “work” for their food using:
KONGs
Snuffle mats
Puzzle bowls
Treat-dispensing balls
Keeps them mentally stimulated and entertained—great on rainy days.


Touch Training
Teach your dog to touch their nose to your hand or a target.
Why it’s great:
Builds focus
Helps with reactivity or distractions
Easy to turn into more advanced tricks later

Incorporate training into your everyday activities!You can incorporate training into mealtimes, walks, or getting ready ...
12/26/2025

Incorporate training into your everyday activities!

You can incorporate training into mealtimes, walks, or getting ready to go outside. Asking your dog to “sit” before meals or “wait” at the door teaches them to focus and builds good manners in real-life situations.

These small, consistent moments reinforce commands naturally and help your dog develop impulse control, making training a regular, stress-free part of their day.

Why Your Dog’s Behavior Changes in WinterEver notice your dog acting a little different when the cold weather hits?More ...
12/26/2025

Why Your Dog’s Behavior Changes in Winter

Ever notice your dog acting a little different when the cold weather hits?
More zoomies in the living room? Barking at every sound? Or maybe they seem less motivated on walks?
You’re not imagining it — winter can have a big impact on your dog’s behavior. Here’s why

Less exercise = more energy to burn
Cold, dark evenings often mean shorter walks… but your dog’s energy doesn’t just disappear! When dogs don’t get enough physical or mental exercise, they find their own outlets — barking, digging, chewing, or bouncing off the walls.

Try this: indoor training games, play sessions, or 5 minutes of “find it” with treats — it adds up!

Less sniffing exploring = less stimulation
Outdoor walks give your dog a mental workout. When those adventures decrease, boredom can increase — and so can unwanted behaviors.

Try this: use snuffle mats, frozen lick mats, or short trick sessions to tire their brain out.

Routines get disrupted
Holiday visitors, decorations, and schedule changes can throw even the most well-trained dogs off balance. Consistency = comfort.

Try this: keep meal, walk, and rest times predictable — and use your dog’s “place” or crate for calm time.

Environmental changes
Cold paws, slippery sidewalks, coats, and salt can make walks uncomfortable — sometimes leading to hesitation, pulling, or reactivity.

Try this: short positive exposures, paw balm, or booties to make winter walks more enjoyable.

Less daylight = lower mood
Just like us, dogs can feel the winter blues. Shorter days and less sunlight can affect mood and energy levels.

Try this: morning walks in the daylight and extra playtime to keep spirits up.

Bottom line:
If your dog’s behavior seems “off” this winter, they’re not being naughty — they’re just adjusting. A few small tweaks to exercise, enrichment, and routine can make a huge difference.

Need help channeling your dog’s winter energy?
DM us to book a session —We will help you turn cabin fever into calm confidence.

Merry Christmas from all of us from PCA! Thank you for a blessed year and for continuing to trust us with your beloved ...
12/25/2025

Merry Christmas from all of us from PCA! Thank you for a blessed year and for continuing to trust us with your beloved pets!

Happy Holidays to all of you!

Winter Gear for Your Dog: What’s Worth It?As the temperatures drop and snowflakes start to fall, it’s important to make ...
12/24/2025

Winter Gear for Your Dog: What’s Worth It?

As the temperatures drop and snowflakes start to fall, it’s important to make sure your dog stays safe, warm, and comfortable during winter walks and training sessions.

Here’s a breakdown of winter gear we recommend — and why it might be worth adding to your pup’s wardrobe:


Dog Boots or Paw Protectors
Why it’s worth it:
Snow, salt, ice, and freezing sidewalks can all irritate your dog’s paws — and even cause cracking or burns.
Boots protect their feet and keep your floors clean afterward.
Trainer Tip:
Start introducing boots early! Let your dog wear them indoors first with treats and praise to get them used to the feeling.


Dog Jackets or Sweaters
Why it’s worth it:
Short-haired breeds, puppies, and seniors may need extra warmth, especially during early morning or evening walks. A well-fitting jacket can help them stay comfortable without restricting movement.
Trainer Tip:
Practice putting the jacket on with lots of treats and a cheerful tone — don’t just toss it on and go. Comfort and confidence go hand-in-paw!


Paw Balm or Wax
Why it’s worth it:
Think of this as moisturizer + barrier protection for your dog’s paws. It can prevent dryness, cracking, and irritation from salt and cold surfaces.
Use it before and after walks — and wipe paws off when you come back inside.


Reflective or LED Gear
Why it’s worth it:
Winter means shorter days and darker walks. A reflective harness, leash, or clip-on LED light helps you and your pup stay visible and safe.
Trainer Tip:
Train your dog to be calm while you put gear on. A simple “sit and stay” makes gearing up easier and less chaotic.


Does Every Dog Need Gear?
Not necessarily — it depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, age, and tolerance to cold. But for many dogs, the right gear makes winter more comfortable, more fun, and more safe.
At Pawsitive Canine Academy, we’re here to help you and your dog feel confident — no matter the weather.

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25119 N Aspen Grove Lane
Colbert, WA
99005

Telephone

(509) 389-8269

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Training With A Purpose

We are Dog Trainers that use Communication and Education to create life changing Results for Dogs and their Owners.

We offer Doggie Day School which is an educational and training program for your Dog unlike your typical Doggy Daycare!

Our 10 Acre Facility in Colbert, WA is only 15 minutes north of Spokane, WA and houses a beautiful kennel and training room, full agility course, tracking field, tons of room to run, play and train, beautiful views and is a working vineyard.

We are able to offer fully customizable dog obedience classes, boarding, board and trains, and lots of fun drop in education classes!