Southport Pups

08/28/2024

🌍🐾 Here’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately: the importance of sustainable practices in dog training, especially when it comes to working with puppies and using games to teach them.

In my experience, sustainable training isn’t just about using eco-friendly products (though that’s important too!). It’s about creating training methods and routines that are effective in the long run, adaptable, and enjoyable for both you and your dog. 🐕✨

When training puppies, it’s easy to feel the pressure to make fast progress. But real, lasting change comes from a more sustainable approach—one where learning is paced, sessions are kept short and fun, and games are used to build skills in a way that feels natural and engaging for the puppy. 🎉

Games are a wonderful way to make training sustainable. They keep our pups engaged, encourage bonding, and transform training into a playful adventure rather than a chore. But it’s also about knowing when to pause, when to play, and when to let your dog rest. Recognizing that training should be a balanced mix of excitement and calm creates a sustainable path for a lifetime of good behavior and happy moments together. 🌟

So let’s rethink the idea of training as a sprint to the finish. Instead, let’s embrace it as a joyful, ongoing journey where each game, each lesson, and each cuddle brings us one step closer to a deeper bond with our dogs. ❤️

How do you make your training sessions sustainable and fun for you and your pup? 🐶💬

08/25/2024

🤔 Here’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned after being a dog trainer and AKC Evaluator for the last 8 years… 🐶

Basic obedience is the cornerstone of a well-behaved dog—and it can be life-saving. ✨

We all love teaching our dogs the fun stuff— Rollover, Shake and sit. These skills are essential and incredibly useful in everyday life. But when we talk about truly impactful training, it’s the advanced obedience commands like Recall, Out, and Auto Down that can make all the difference in critical moments. 🐕‍🦺

Imagine your dog is off-leash at the park, and suddenly, they spot something that catches their eye—a squirrel, another dog, or worse, traffic. A solid Recall command can bring them right back to you, avoiding potential disaster. Or, picture your dog getting into something dangerous—a quick “Out” command could prevent them from ingesting something harmful. Instant Down, where your dog lies down on cue without hesitation, can stop them in their tracks and keep them safe in a busy environment.

These aren’t just tricks; they’re vital tools that can protect your dog and give you peace of mind. Over the years, I’ve seen how these commands have saved lives, prevented accidents, and strengthened the bond between dog and owner. They build trust, ensure safety, and allow your dog more freedom to explore, knowing they’ll respond reliably when it counts.

So, while we enjoy the fun of teaching all the fundamental skills, let’s not forget the importance of mastering those lifesaving cues and proofing them regularly. With consistency and patience, your dog will be well-behaved, safer, and happier in the long run. 🐾

What obedience skill would you love to master with your dog? Could you drop in the comments? We would love to help you with tips? 🐕

08/22/2024

🚐✨ Looking ahead to the upcoming years, I have big dreams for life and business!

In life, I hope that Mike, Sasha, and I are healthy and thriving as we embark on a grand adventure, traveling around the USA in a van. There’s nothing quite like exploring new places, meeting up with friends and family who are also retired, and creating unforgettable memories through fun activities. 🌟

In business, my vision is to grow an even stronger online presence, connecting with a vibrant community of pet parents who are passionate about adventure and fun. I’m excited to see more pet parents enjoying my online classes, trying out new tricks, or earning fitness titles with their dogs. Together, we can turn training into a joyful experience that enhances the bond with your furry friend. 🐕🌍

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your dog’s skills, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore new ways to make life with our dogs more exciting and fulfilling!

Here’s to the future, filled with exploration, connection, and plenty of tail-wagging fun! What are your dreams for the coming years? Let’s dream big together. 💖

08/20/2024

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10 Steps to Puppy-Proof Your Home: Keep Your Pup Safe and Happy

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring their safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide to puppy-proofing your home, along with the benefits of each step and some helpful resources.

1. Secure Trash Cans**
Step:1-Use bins with secure lids or place trash cans in cabinets.
**Benefit:** Prevents your puppy from ingesting harmful foods, choking hazards, or dangerous objects.
**Resource:** ASPCA’s Toxic Foods for Dogs

2. Remove or Elevate Toxic Plants*
Step:-Identify and remove any plants that are toxic to dogs, or place them out of reach.
**Benefit:** Protects your puppy from accidental poisoning and gastrointestinal issues.
**Resource:** ASPCA’s List of Toxic Plants

3. Cover Electrical Cords
Step:-Use cord covers or tuck cords away behind furniture.
**Benefit:** Reduces the risk of electrocution and injury from chewing on cords.
**Resource:** PetMD’s Tips for Pet-Proofing Cords

4. Install Baby Gates
Step:-Use gates to block off areas that are unsafe or off-limits to your puppy.
**Benefit:** Keeps your puppy in safe, supervised areas of the home, reducing the risk of accidents.
**Resource:** Choosing the Right Baby Gate for Your Pet

5. Store Cleaning Supplies Safely
Step:-Keep all cleaning products in high cabinets or secured behind locked doors.
**Benefit:** Prevents exposure to toxic chemicals that can cause serious health issues.
**Resource:** Pet Poison Helpline on Household Hazards

6. Pick Up Small Objects
Step:-Regularly check for and remove small objects like coins, jewelry, and toys that could be swallowed.
**Benefit:** Prevents choking hazards and accidental ingestion of foreign objects.
**Resource:** AKC’s Guide on Puppy Safety

7.Lock Away Medications
Step:Store all medications in a locked cabinet or drawer out of reach.
**Benefit:** Protects your puppy from accidental poisoning from human medications.
**Resource:** FDA’s Guidelines for Pet Owners

8. Secure Windows and Balconies
Step:Install screens or barriers and ensure windows and balcony doors are securely closed or locked.
**Benefit:** Prevents falls and injuries from high places.
**Resource:** PetMD’s Tips for Window Safety

9. Block Off Hazardous Areas
Step:-Use barriers to prevent access to areas like the garage, laundry room, or basement.
**Benefit:** Keeps your puppy away from potentially dangerous tools, chemicals, or machinery.
**Resource:** Dog-Proofing Dangerous Areas

10. Organize and Secure Cords, Wires, and Blind Cords
Step:-Tie up loose cords or use cord management tools to keep them out of reach.
**Benefit:** Prevents entanglement, strangulation, or chewing hazards.
**Resource:** Safe Setup for Pet Owners

Puppy-proofing your home is essential to creating a safe environment where your puppy can explore, learn, and grow without the risk of accidents. By following these steps, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is a safe haven for your new furry friend.



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08/14/2024

PUP UPDATE -

🐾 Today's session with Yuri was all about mastering the basics amidst distractions—and what a day it was! With my husband Mike stepping in as an extra distraction, Yuri handled it like a champ. We worked on fundamental cues, added a bit of fitness, and introduced some puzzle work to help Yuri start learning how to learn, which will be essential for his next chapter. One of Yuri's standout moments was practicing his pivot on a raised object. Lisa and I went over the essential steps to get started, and we're thrilled to have Yuri join our upcoming class on September 11th, 2024!

Don't miss Lisa's interview on TV to learn more about their journey—show her some love! ❤️ And if you're ready to achieve wins with your dog, let's connect. Visit our website or send me a message for a free call.

https://cdn.field59.com/WWAY/1723209248-3d43ad8fc8a277dbbedbfcb7fe262d1164e8a204_fl9-720p.mp4

08/13/2024

Beau keeps hanging out on his mat💗

🤩 Another epic win from one of our fabulous customers this week! 🤩

"Beau Keeps Hanging out on his mat."
It's incredible how one simple training technique and a little practice have made Beau's life so much easier and more harmonious.

I couldn't be happier for Allison and Beau! 💖

Want to bring more ease and harmony into your life with your dogs like Allison and Beau?

👉 Then learn more about our Private and group lessons here: https://www.southportpups.com

08/13/2024

🐾 A few days ago, I was challenged by one of my dog training mentors to proof Sasha’s sit-down-stand commands on my knees at a distance away from her.

I thought this would be a breeze, especially with our regular training sessions. To help Sasha stay in one place, I used a noodle cut in half as a border and brought out some high-value treats. But to my surprise, Sasha struggled quite a bit. 🐕💨

I had to troubleshoot each of her struggles one at a time, trying to figure out what was causing the issue. I eventually realized it was a combination of her food being too high-value, the environment, and the noodles that were throwing her off. What really helped me figure this out was that I happened to be filming this session. 📹 Watching the video several times allowed me to see where things went wrong and how I could tweak my training to better support Sasha.

Now, I could have let this challenge get the best of me, but I didn’t. Instead, I used it as a learning experience to improve both Sasha’s training and my approach. I always encourage my clients to film their training sessions because it offers so much insight that you might miss in the moment.

This was my 1st try and I will be filming my next session with the tweaks. ✅

When things get tough, never give up—there’s always something to learn. 💖

08/09/2024

Regular vet visits can be less stressful when your dog is familiar with being touched all over. 🐾 Start by gently petting your dog in a calm environment, touching their ears, paws, tail, and belly. Make sure to reward your dog with treats and praise for staying relaxed. Gradually increase the duration of these sessions, always moving at your dog's pace. If your dog shows signs of discomfort, like pulling away or tensing up, pause and go back to where they were comfortable. The goal is to make this a positive experience so your dog feels confident and calm during vet visits. 🩺✨

PHOTO- our student pup, Juniper

Hashtags:
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08/08/2024

Excursion completed successfully. Sasha and I require some outdoor time.❤️🐾☔️❤️✅

08/06/2024

🏅🥈🥉 In Honor of the Olympics: Sasha's Fitness Triumphs! 🌟

As the world celebrates the Olympics, our very own Sasha has been busy earning her gold, silver, and bronze medals in the AKC Fitness program! 🐾🥇🥈🥉

Just like the incredible athletes in the games, Sasha has shown dedication, perseverance, and an unstoppable spirit. She is truly a furry champion! 🏃‍♂️🐶

Check out this adorable picture of Sasha with her hard-earned medals! Let's give her a big round of applause and celebrate her achievements. Who else is inspired to take on the challenge and aim for gold with their pups? 🥇🐕 The pink one is the Spring fitness challenge.

🐾🎉
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08/03/2024

🤔 You’ve gotta love a personal motto. Do you have one? 🤔

One of my favorites is “Every problem has a solution; you just have to find it.”

I love this motto because it moves my brain into action and helps me get unstuck from sitting in the problem. When I find myself stuck, I try to stop, change it up, and think about how to rearrange the problem to find a solution or change the environment to help my dog succeed. It’s like a puzzle, and the answer is somewhere—I need to switch out parts to come up with a solution. 🧩✨

So, what’s a motto or mantra that you love and live by? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

08/01/2024

🌊 Had an amazing day out on the intercoastal waterway with our friends Mike and Jen! 🎣 The boys went fishing, and Mike had a stellar day, catching five fish on his own. Together, the Mikes reeled in a total of six fish! 🐟 Thanks for following along on our adventure! 🌅

07/31/2024

Title: "Pawsome Moments: Capture the Fun!"

Post:
📸🐾 Share Your Dog’s Favorite Moments! 🐾📸

Hey, Southport Pups community! We know you and your pups have tons of fun together, whether it’s playing, exploring, learning new tricks, or simply enjoying each other’s company. We want to see those special moments!

On a scale from 1-10, how much do you agree that your dog has the most pawsome photo? Comment below 👇

Let’s celebrate the joy our dogs bring into our lives. Share your favorite photos of you and your dog enjoying time together, and let’s inspire each other with new ways to bond with our canine companions! 🐶❤️

Sasah - visiting Neo in Winston-Salem and our super cute bookstore trip.

07/29/2024

🤩 Lisa and her amazing dog Yuri from Canine Companions had their first session with us, and their progress is already shining through! 🤩

We worked on various confidence games, and Yuri's wins are worth celebrating:

✨ Yuri easily walked through the box after some practice, even with an added object.
✨ He conquered his nerves walking over the saucer, thanks to a yoga mat for extra comfort.
✨ Yuri confidently walked around my dog Sasha and some stuffed animal dogs.

These wins, achieved with a bit of tweaking to the environment, give me all the warmth and fuzzies! 💖

It's experiences like this that make volunteering my time so rewarding. They're why I jump out of bed every morning, even when my mind and body would rather stay cozy! 😆

Shout out to Lisa and Canine Companions for their hard work and dedication. I can't wait to level up in our next session and introduce some mild distractions!

If you, too, want to experience these fantastic wins with your dog, let's chat.

Check out our website and Text me a message for a free call.

07/22/2024

We love getting updates from our students! 🌟 One of our pups is making amazing progress—he’s now choosing to go to his boundary all on his own! 🐾 Keep up the great work, and we can’t wait to see even more success.



Still Struggling with your dog check out our free resources https://www.southportpups.com/

07/15/2024

https://youtu.be/N45GnVy0PI4?si=w0yVJI6biI6yUkfg

🤔 Here’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned after being a dog trainer and AKC Evaluator for the last 9 years… 🐶

Consistency is key. ✨

Consistency is the foundation of successful dog training. It builds trust, reinforces positive behaviors, and fosters a strong bond between you and your dog.

Over the years, I’ve worked with hundreds of clients and their beloved dogs through Southport Pups. From teaching basic obedience to advanced tricks, I’ve seen firsthand how consistent training can transform even the most unruly pup into a well-behaved companion. The large majority of those clients have been wonderful to work with, showing dedication and love for their furry friends.

However, I’ve also encountered situations where clients struggled with consistency, leading to frustration and slow progress. It’s important to remember that training doesn’t stop after our sessions; it’s an ongoing process that requires daily practice and patience. 🐕‍🦺

Thankfully, these instances have been rare, and I’m grateful for the commitment and enthusiasm my clients bring to the table. This is just a friendly reminder to stay consistent, be patient, and enjoy the journey with your dog. You’re not just training your dog but building a lifelong partnership based on trust and respect. 🐾

07/12/2024

07/10/2024

Sasha and I are thrilled to announce that we completed the 30-mile American Cancer Society walk! 🐾🏅 We are incredibly grateful for all the support and generous donations from our amazing community. Your contributions have made a significant impact, and we couldn't have done it without you. Thank you for standing with us in the fight against cancer! 💪💖

07/06/2024

By 8 weeks, puppies are ready to start absorbing new skills and commands. Early training sets the foundation for a well-behaved and happy dog. At Southport Pups, we specialize in nurturing and elevating your puppy's potential through fun and engaging training sessions.

📚 Why It Matters: Early training helps build confidence, strengthens the bond between you and your pup, and prevents behavioral issues down the road.

🎉 Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn how we can help your puppy become a star student! 🌟

07/01/2024

🐾 COMMUNITY PAWSITIVITY ALERT! 🐾
I wanted to thank all those generous donations, which have been heartwarming for the family who recently lost their home in a fire.
Thanks to your kindness, we've collected an array of items for their beloved dogs:
🦴 Food and Treats
🦺 Leashes and collars
🧸 Toys to lift their spirits
This support shows the true spirit of our community. Together, we're not just training dogs – we're creating a network of compassion that extends beyond our four-legged friends to their human families in times of need.

A special shoutout to all our students and neighbors who contributed. Your generosity made a difference in helping this family and their furry companions recover.

Check out this heartfelt thank you note we received – it's all thanks to YOU!

Proud to be part of such a caring community. Let's keep wagging those tails of kindness! 🐶💖


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06/29/2024

🇺🇸 **4th of July Plans!** 🇺🇸

Hey Southport Pups community! What are your plans for the 4th of July? 🎆 BBQs, beach trips, or some fun in the pool with your pups? 🌭🏖️💦

As the weather heats up, it's crucial to keep our furry friends safe and cool. 🐶🔥 Here are a few tips to ensure your dogs stay comfortable:
- Avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day.
- Always have fresh water available.
- Provide shady spots for your dogs to rest.

To help you keep your pups entertained and refreshed, check out our latest video on fun water games! It's just 10 minutes long and packed with cool activities your dogs will love. 🌊🐕

Stay safe and have a fantastic 4th of July! 🎉 Let us know your plans in the comments below! ⬇️



🐾 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/Uk_cstLMFZs?si=4j2CBzJBGlGJj5oy

Photo- found on FB its so great I had share!

06/28/2024

🐾 Meet Joy: Our Newest Pup Star! 🌟

We're thrilled to welcome Joy, an adorable 3 1/2-month-old puppy, to Southport Pups! 🐶 Joy's parents came to us with some common puppy challenges: biting, walking, and general obedience. But no worries—Joy is in great paws!

In our first session, we set Joy up with some effective biting strategies, introduced more quiet time during the day, and added some super fun enrichment activities. Plus, we recommended a list of healthy chews to keep her busy and happy. 🦴✨

Joy did a fantastic job, and we can't wait to see her progress at her next appointment!

Do you have a pup that could use some guidance and fun activities? Join the Southport Pups family today! 🐾💖

06/27/2024

Share your favorite snapshot of your pup in action! We can't wait to see all the adorable and fun moments you've captured with your furry friend. 🐾📸"

06/25/2024

🐶 Most of my days are filled with training and having fun with Puppies/dogs at Southport Pups. 💖

But when I’m not doing that, you’ll find me working out in a bungee class at Premier Fitness or getting creative with arts and crafts.

I’ve grown a passion for fitness and creativity, and I love the thrill of a good workout and the joy of making something beautiful with my hands. 😍

What about you? What do you love to do when you’re not working? 👇

06/24/2024

How to Know When It’s Time to Hire a Puppy Trainer
🐾 Persistent Nipping and Biting:
Your puppy continues to nip and biting despite your attempts to redirect this behavior.

🐾 House Training Difficulties:
Your puppy struggles with house training and has frequent accidents inside the house.

🐾 Socialization Challenges:
Your puppy shows fear or aggression towards new people, animals, or environments.

🐾 Obedience Training Needs:
Your puppy doesn’t respond to basic commands such as sit, stay, or come.

🐾 Excessive Barking or Whining:
Your puppy barks or whines excessively, causing stress for you and your neighbors.

If you can see yourself in any of the above, it may be time to seek help for you and your puppy.

We’re here to chat if you’d like to learn more about how we can support you in raising a well-behaved and happy pup. 💕
https://www.southportpups.com/

Our Free FB Groups-https://www.facebook.com/share/uHo5Nz4btm28YAAo/?mibextid=K35XfP

06/23/2024

The Downside of Retractable Leashes: What Every Dog Owner Should Know
Hey, dog lovers! 🐾

Today, let's chat about retractable leashes. These gadgets might seem convenient, but they come with a host of concerns for both you and your furry friend. Here's what I've found out:

Injuries to Humans and Dogs

Human Injuries: Retractable leashes can cause serious injuries to dog owners. The thin cord can cause burns, cuts, and even fractures if it gets wrapped around fingers or limbs.

Dog Injuries: Dogs can also get hurt if the cord wraps around their legs, which can lead to cuts, burns, or even severe injuries if they run at high speeds and suddenly reach the end of the leash.
Source: PetMD

Lack of Control
Distance: These leashes can extend up to 26 feet, making it harder to control your dog in traffic or crowded areas. This distance can allow dogs to dart into dangerous situations before you can react.

Training Issues: Dogs on retractable leashes often have a harder time learning proper leash manners. The constant tension and freedom to pull can reinforce bad habits.
Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Safety Concerns
Breakage: The mechanism in retractable leashes can fail, leading to a sudden loss of control. This can be particularly dangerous if your dog is prone to lunging or chasing after animals.

Tangles and Trips: The long cord can easily tangle around you, your dog, or others, leading to trips and falls.
Source: ASPCA

Behavioral Problems
Reactivity: The unpredictability of a retractable leash can increase anxiety and reactivity in some dogs. They may become more prone to barking and lunging at perceived threats.

Reduced Bonding: Using a retractable leash can reduce the amount of control and connection you have with your dog during walks, which can negatively impact your training efforts and relationship.
Source: The Humane Society

So, what's the alternative? Stick with a traditional Flat /round leash! They provide better control, enhance training opportunities, and keep both you and your dog safer.

Share Your Thoughts! What's your non-negotiable when it comes to walking your dog? Do you have a favorite leash or walking accessory? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below! 🐶👇

Stay safe and happy walking! 🌟



Sources:

ASPCA-https://www.google.com/search?q=ASPCA%3A+Retractable+Leashes%3A+Dangerous&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
American Kennel Club-https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/retractable-dog-leashes-use-safely/

PMD- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/retractable-dog-leashes-use-safely/