True Connection Canine Education LLC

01/06/2025

Karen did so much to improve the way we interact with animals. She taught us how smart animals truly are and how to teach them using the power of our intelligence rather than the power of our intimidation.

With profound sadness and immense gratitude, we honor the life and legacy of Karen Pryor, a true pioneer in the fields of animal behavior and positive reinforcement training. Karen’s groundbreaking work revolutionized how we communicate with animals—and each other—leaving an indelible mark on science, education, and the lives of countless species around the world.

Continue reading: https://bit.ly/4214rRG

12/21/2024

Patricia's blog posts are always worth reading.

What's the best gift you could give your dog this year?

I'll go first: More fun. A more calm guardian. Plenty of one on one time with each dog.
You're turn!

What do our dogs want for Christmas? Maybe it’s not a new chew toy or dog bed—maybe it’s for us to be more clear, more patient, less . . . Read more about these thoughts in this week’s blog post, and please, please, add to the list! (No fair listing chicken or dried liver!)
Read on: https://bit.ly/49IT96L

12/19/2024

Training methods matter. The data is clear on that.
I wonder how many US trainers are truly rewards based?

It's true that it takes time for a trainer to truly learn how to apply science backed, reward-based training. There's a learning curve for sure and doing it well takes education combined with experience. Having said that, our clients don't have to be as good at this as we are or even have as deep an understanding of it. A little knowledge goes a long way in a household with a dog. Reward based training builds better skills while also building the relationship (and safety) between people and their pups.

Please share with other dog families who may be interested.

Great news for dogs and their guardians who can access modern, scientific dog training—but people still need to ask questions.

12/16/2024

Excellent advice especially for the hectic holiday season.

Please reach out if you need advice on setting up a safe space in your home or creating one when traveling with your dog.

12/16/2024

Best Holiday Ever!

12/13/2024

Introducing our newest addition to the family. She came to us with the name Harper but we think the name Ava might suit her better. What do you think?

Here is her first attempt at a homemade puzzle toy.

12/11/2024

Always great advice!

We have all seen it happen! 👀

One second, your baby is sitting on the floor in your view practicing tummy time and the next… They are gone and on the move! 👋🏻

The sudden changes in mobility can come as a surprise to not only us as parents and guardians, but also our dogs!

This is where our active, awake, aware adult supervision becomes even more important! Once a baby reaches mobility, we usually need double management (like a baby gate and X pen or a crate) when we aren’t able to actively be supervising to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety!

Another way to help increase success once your baby on the move is implementing this Family Paws Phrase:

“Dog and Baby on the scene, Parent in Between!” 💚

In these moments of change, it is important to remember that this is all new for our dogs too even if they have been around babies in the past!

Each dog and child are unique and require different things to feel safe! Always watch your dog’s body language for clues as to how they may be feeling about a certain situation and adjust accordingly!

✏️

12/11/2024

Today is the day set aside to bring attention to feeding animals in need. This could be the critters at the local shelter or the pup down the street who's person just lost their job.

How do you plan to support an animal in need today?

12/10/2024

Have you and your dog ever had an unfamiliar dog rush up to you? What happened?

Many dogs are great with other dogs when they're off leash and have the freedom to come and go as they feel comfortable. Leashes restrict this and can make many dogs feel anxious or even fearful when approached while on the leash.

Be respectful of other dogs and people. Always ask and don't be judgmental if the answer to your dog's approach is NO.

12/09/2024

I just love this and had to share.

"𝑀𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑠’ ℎ𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡, ‘𝑑𝑜𝑒𝑠𝑛’𝑡 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑎 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑒. 𝑀𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑟𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑠, 𝑝𝑒𝑟ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑠, 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑠 𝑎 𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑙𝑒 𝑏𝑖𝑡 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒!"
Quote from 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' - Dr. Seuss
Artist: Anita Jeram for Two Bad Mice.

12/09/2024

What is one challenging behavior you really want to help your dog overcome?
Do they jump on your guests, pull on the leash, bolt out the door?

Tell me in the comments and you may even get a suggestion on where to start!

12/07/2024

I've probably shared this before but it's worth sharing again. Please consider sharing on your own feed.

The consequences of getting the wrong dog or the right dog at the wrong time are often serious for both the dog and the human.

I’ve shared this before but worthy of sharing again🐾
Please can you share too!
We have got teddies on the Thin Blue Paw Foundation website 🙌

12/07/2024

12/05/2024

Check out this oldie but goodie blog post with some simple ideas to add enrichment to your dog's day.

What are your favorite indoor activities to do with your dog? What about outdoor activities?

My pup and I love to run around the house playing both hide and seek and fetch at the same time. It's fast paced and lots of fun!

https://buff.ly/4fIjQur

12/04/2024

What a great holiday although I don't need an excuse to enjoy cookies! My go to is chocolate chip but they must be soft and warm. Right out of the oven is best!

What is your favorite cookie flavor?

12/04/2024

It's getting chilly outside. Here's how to tell if your dog has hypothermia.

Smaller, shorthaired breeds, puppies, and senior dogs are at high risk. Keep them warm during walks, make them shorter, or skip the walk if it's too cold.

Stay safe out there ❄️

12/02/2024

Let your veterinarian know how much you appreciate them!

Send a message to learn more

12/02/2024

What are the things your dog "must have" this Christmas?

Okay, I admit.... I might love buying things for my dogs as much as or even more than they enjoy getting them. What can I say.. I LOVE spoiling my pups!