How to Train Your Canine

06/20/2024

I got to attend a wonderful workshop from ZooTampa at Lowry Park and Precision Behavior last week, and a fellow attendee (and a Largo area dog trainer Progress 4 Paws) put together a great summary video. Continuing education is so important, and it was great learning from other dog trainers and zoo professionals!

06/19/2024

Chip and his family absolutely rocked our training session last night! He has big feeling about dogs walking by, and the always enticing neighborhood squirrels that foolishly cross his path. We worked on helping him feel safe and optimistic around dogs, helping him get the space he needs, and practiced how we want him to wait near the door instead of rushing to look for squirrels! Such a good boy!

06/10/2024

Oh my this is SO important. We are lucky to know ahead of time what to expect with our baby’s new milestones and development, or at least have the resources to research and learn more. Our dogs, however do not have a book or app to guide them as our baby grows.

They count on US! Knowing what changes are ahead can help you prepare WITH your dog. Changes in management, parent-guided activities, and enrichment.

Great example: Sitting up on the floor is an exciting milestone but might be confusing or conflicting for your family dog! Prepare and practice with your dog ahead of this new stage. Here are a several of things to think about when approaching this milestone.

❓Does sitting on your floor = excitement or playfulness from your dog?
❓Do you currently play with your dog by getting on the floor?
❓Will your dog respond to your cues while you are sitting on the floor?
❓What would you like your dog to do while you engage with your baby on the floor?

Parents often complain that their dog is “jealous” and tries to “get in between” when they try to engage with their baby on the floor. This leads to frustration and concern by parents and confusion for your family dog. If you used to play on the floor with your dog, this may be very confusing for them as to why you don’t want to play with them now. If playtime with your dog, before the baby, involved sitting on the floor then you can help your dog by teaching them the new rules. Prepare and practice ahead of time where you want your dog to be when you engage with your baby on the floor. Set up a gate or play yard as a boundary.

06/05/2024

⭐️ Thunderstorm season is upon us, and firework season is fast approaching. Keep an eye on this page to learn how to help your pets stay safe and comfortable during this noisy time of year. ⭐️

🐾 All animals need a place where they feel safe and can decompress. A safe zone is a special new area we'll create together for your dog. 🏠

🔇 The important aspects of the safe zone are that it provides a place that:

Avoids sensory overload 🚫🔊
Relatively quiet 🤫
Minimizes smells/odors – if you can smell it (e.g., household cleaners), then it is likely overwhelming for the dog. 🌬️
Not too bright, no flashing lights, no shiny or reflective surfaces 🚫💡
Creates predictability 🔄
This is your dog's space to get away from stressful stimuli 🐶
A place your dog can choose to go to if he or she wants a break from activity 🐾
Gives them quiet time to recover from stress (a key for developing resilience) 💤
Minimizes talking, petting, or training 🙅‍♂️🐕

For more information, email us at
[email protected]

05/30/2024

This is a wonderful set up, and helps keep everyone safe and happy!

When you are raising a child and puppy at the same time, it can feel so hard to catch a break. Sometimes the puppy is over tired and acting out. And sometimes the kids are nervous because of all of the biting and chasing.

This puppy condo is my favorite solution. The pup can learn to chill in a pen with a cozy crate attached. And best of all, they are still nearby, so they can get used to household activities and noises...but can't fail!

I would be happy to share the link to this Toddleroo pen if you want it - it's my favorite! I love the vertical slats that are difficult to climb. The joints between the panels can be tightened so the pen holds its shape. And the door is easy to swing open with one hand.

This photo is one of my clients and it's a true gem! The little girl is happily drawing in her jammies while the pup hangs out.

Management for the win!

05/29/2024

As I’m getting to know all of you, I wanted to share a little about my boys too! This is Roy, Klinker Cat, and Levi.

Please, share your critter photos, and your favorite things about them!