REAL K9 Training LLC

11/05/2025

10/31/2025

10/30/2025

The truth is, behavior struggles aren’t always “just training.” Sometimes it’s sudden changes in a dog you’ve known for years. Other times, it’s a new rescue or young dog who already comes with big behaviors. In both cases, pain or medical issues can be the hidden cause.

💡 The takeaway: Whether it’s new behavior, sudden changes, or problems that have always been there, a thorough veterinary check is the first step. That’s why I ask clients to consult a vet — and, sometimes, a veterinary behaviorist. They combine medical expertise and behavior knowledge to dig deeper.

🙋 I’m not a vet. I don’t diagnose, prescribe, or know all the side effects of medications. What I do know is that training works best when a dog is healthy and pain-free.

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💬 Why It Matters
• Pain = behavior changes.
• Pain = behaviors that look like “training issues.”
• Healthy dogs = successful, fair, and ethical behavior modification.

🐾 Please do yourself and your dog a favor: Whether you’re seeing new challenges or adopting a dog with existing ones, your first step is the vet — not the trainer. Once health is ruled out or treated, training has a true chance to succeed.

10/29/2025

10/27/2025

10/26/2025

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10/23/2025

10/22/2025

I rarely share this part of my story, but this message stopped me in my tracks.

As someone who’s walked through domestic violence, I recognized myself in what she said — how survivors learn to read the slightest signals, tension, or tone because safety once depended on it.

That same awareness is what helps me connect so deeply with dogs who feel anxious, fearful, or unsafe. Their anxiety feels like a vibration to me; their fear makes me want to help them feel secure and understood.

She said everything I could, and probably better — so I’ll let her words speak for themselves.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org. 💜

10/21/2025

🐾 Training Tip Tuesday

🎯 Marker Mechanics Matter!

Clicker training (or using a mouth click / verbal marker) only works if your mechanics are clean. And let’s be honest… human mechanics are tricky! But they make a HUGE difference in how quickly your dog learns.

Here’s the problem I see all the time ⬇️
When you mark a behavior — like sit or nose target — but your hand is already diving into the treat pouch… your dog’s focus shifts. Instead of connecting the marker to the behavior you want, they’re glued to your treat hand.

✨ The Fix:
• Keep your hand in a neutral position — not hovering near the treats.
• Wait until the marker (click / word / mouth click) is fully finished.
• THEN reach for the treat.
💡 Pro Tip: Practice your marker mechanics without your dog first. It feels a little silly, but it saves so much frustration for both of you.

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💬 Do you ever catch your dog staring at your treat hand instead of listening? Drop a ✋ if this has happened to you — you’re not alone!
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