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Do Better Training Science-based training for..... When you know better, you do better

01/03/2025

🐾 Finn LOVES to Jump! 🐾

We get it, Finn! Jumping is one of his favorite things to do—so much excitement and energy! 🐕🎉 But... while jumping is perfectly normal for dogs, it can be a bit much when they greet us with all four paws in the air. 😅

So, how do we help Finn learn better manners? Management! 🛑 We use playpens when he's off-leash to help manage his arousal levels and prevent those enthusiastic jumps from becoming overwhelming. Plus, we take every opportunity to reward those four paws on the floor! 🦴

Management is key to setting our pups up for success! When we give them structure and the right tools, they can learn to stay calm and be the polite dogs we know they can be. 😊

Remember: Positive reinforcement + management = happier, calmer pups! 🐶💚

01/03/2025

🐾 Welcome, Kirby! 🐾

Say hello to Kirby, a 6-month-old Doberman mix from PAWS Chicago who just joined us for a two-week Board & Train!🎉🐶 This handsome pup is here to work on impulse control and managing his big feels about other dogs. 💙 With lots of positive reinforcement, fun training sessions, and plenty of enrichment, we can’t wait to help Kirby build confidence and set him up for success!

Stay tuned for updates on this sweet boy’s progress! 🥰✨

28/02/2025

🐶💛 Macaroni: From Zoomies to Zen Master! 💛🐶

Our most recent Board & Train graduate from PAWS Chicago , Macaroni (aka Big Mac, Mac Attack🍔⚡) came to us with zero chill—but now? He’s an expert-level relaxer! 😎✨

After lots of training, enrichment, and learning to take life at a slower pace, this sweet, goofy boy is heading back to PAWS, then on to a foster home, and finally his forever family! 🏡💖 We couldn’t be prouder of you, Mac! Nothing but the best from here on out, buddy! 🥰

28/02/2025

These two golden boys from As Good as Gold - Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois have made incredible progress in our Board & Train program at Do Better Training, and now they’re ready for the next step—a foster or foster-to-adopt home! 🏡💛

✨ Achilles – Once a nervous, unsure pup, this sweet boy (just over a year old) has blossomed with confidence! He’s eager to explore and would do best with a friendly dog companion to help him navigate the world. Small kids may still be a bit overwhelming for him, so an adult home or one with older children would be ideal. 🐶💕

✨ Charlie – A little over a year old, Charlie is full of personality! 🥰 He thrives in an adult-only home where his family can practice trading to help him feel comfortable sharing his things. When it comes to other dogs? He’s ALL about dog friends and would love a canine companion! 🐕🐾

Both boys must be fostered first before adoption is considered. Could you be the one to help them take the next step? Fostering saves lives! 🏡💖

📩 To foster or foster-to-adopt, contact As Good As Gold Rescue!

26/02/2025

🌟 Achilles the Brave!🌟

Our sweet board & train pup Achilles from As Good as Gold - Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois had a vet visit at Loyal Companions yesterday and he rocked it🎉 From a nervous boy to an active, engaged patient—he showed so much progress! 💛🐾

With patience, positive reinforcement, and a fear-free approach, Achilles went from worried to wagging 🐕✨ Fear free for the win! 🏆

Way to go, Achilles! We’re so proud of you! 🥰👏

26/02/2025

Taking the Time We Need to Say Goodbye

Today, we had planned to say goodbye to Carmen, Dr. Andy’s beloved dog, but ultimately, Dr. Andy and her husband felt she wasn’t quite ready. Saying goodbye to a pet is one of the hardest decisions we face, and sometimes, even when we prepare ourselves, we realize we need just a little more time.

Carmen has been a deeply loved part of their family, and as with all the dogs we hold dear, there’s no single “right” moment—only the moment that feels right for them and for us. Every goodbye is different. Some happen suddenly, while others unfold slowly, with moments of clarity and moments of doubt. What matters most is honoring the love we share and giving ourselves grace to navigate the emotions that come with it.

For now, Carmen will continue to be surrounded by love, comfort, and the little joys that make each day special. To everyone who has supported Dr. Andy and shared kind words—thank you. We know many of you have faced this journey with your own beloved pets, and we hope you can take a moment today to hug them a little tighter.

25/02/2025

Hello Friends,

Today, Dr. Andy is spending this precious day with Carmen, her beloved Brown Dog. Carmen has been part of her life for years, a dog who tested every limit yet gave back love beyond measure. She was not an easy dog, but she was Dr. Andy’s dog—the one who changed everything. Today is Carmen’s last day, and in honor of their journey together, Dr. Andy has written this heartfelt letter to the dog who taught her more than she ever imagined.

💕💕💕

Carmen was never the easy choice. When I met her at DuPage County Animal Care and Control, she was struggling—an anxious, reactive dog who wasn’t thriving in the shelter and faced an uncertain future. Rescues passed her by, and her chances of a positive outcome were slim. But the moment I saw her, I knew. Despite the challenges, despite the unknowns, Rick and I took her home as a foster. And then, of course, she never left.

Carmen was not instantly lovable to everyone. She tested our patience, pushed our limits, and made me question myself more times than I can count. There were days I hid behind a door, crying, thinking I couldn’t help her—that she was beyond me. But through every challenge, she showed us what resilience looks like. With time, careful structure, and a world built to make her feel safe, she began to thrive. She still carried her anxieties, but she also found joy—curled up on the couch, basking in the sun on the deck, adventuring on hikes with her fur siblings.

Carmen taught me to take things as they come, to embrace the small wins, and to appreciate the quiet moments. She showed me that love is not about perfection, but about patience, understanding, and unwavering commitment. She made me a better trainer, a better caretaker, a better person.

Now, her body is failing her. A degenerative condition is slowly taking away the things she once loved. We have fought to give her comfort, to ease her anxiety, to help her find peace. But today, with hearts breaking, we say goodbye. Even as we prepare to let her go, she is teaching me one final lesson—how to love enough to let go.

Rick, our family, and I adore you, Carmen. Thank you for every lesson, every challenge, and every moment of love. You will always be our Brown Dog. Here, now, and forever.

To those who have walked this road before, to those who are facing it now—you are not alone. At Do Better Training, we see you, we grieve with you, and we honor the love that makes these goodbyes so impossibly hard.

Carmen, my dear friend, you will always be with me.

23/02/2025

🐾 Crate Training: A Skill for Comfort & Safety! 🐶💛

Crate training can be a valuable tool for dogs when introduced positively and with choice. While every guardian decides what works best for their dog, all dogs can benefit from crate training in case they ever need it.

✔️ Supports recovery after an injury or surgery 🏥
✔️ Helps with housetraining and routine building 🚽
✔️ Prevents unwanted chewing when unsupervised 🦴
✔️ Creates a comfortable, secure space for rest💤

When done with positive reinforcement, crate training helps dogs feel relaxed and safe rather than confined. A well-introduced crate can be a place of comfort, not stress.

🐶 Meet Macaroni! This sweet pup, available for adoption from , is showing just how cozy crate time can be! Could he be your new best friend?

Let’s help our dogs build skills that set them up for success! 🐕✨

22/02/2025

🐾 Muzzle Up: A Life Skill for Every Dog! 🐶💛

Muzzles aren’t just useful—they’re empowering!🎉 Teaching your dog to wear a muzzle comfortably can:

✔️ Reduce stress in emergencies🚑
✔️ Prevent them from eating unsafe things 🍂🚫
✔️ Keep everyone safe during vet or grooming visits 🐾
✔️ Set them up for success in new situations**

With positive reinforcement training, muzzles become just another tool—like a harness or leash!

✅ No fear, no stigma, just confidence and safety.

Want to learn more? Check out The Muzzle Up Project for great resources! 📚

🔗https://muzzleupproject.com/

Let’s normalize muzzles and help every dog feel safe, secure, and stress-free! 💙

21/02/2025

🐾 Why Mat Work Matters! 🧘‍♂️🐶

At Do Better Training, mat work is one of our favorite tools for creating a safe, calm space for our dogs. 🛋️ It’s a positive, structured way to help dogs manage their impulses and build self-control! ✨

Why do we love it?
✔️ Reduces jumping – teaches dogs to stay grounded 🦵
✔️ Prevents door darting – helps them wait calmly at the door 🚪
✔️ Promotes impulse control – because good things come to those who wait! ⏳
✔️ Improves frustration management – helps dogs chill out and focus 😌
✔️ Creates a safe, cozy space– a "mat" becomes their happy place! 🛏️

Mat work teaches our dogs to relax, focus, and make better decisions—**all while reducing unwanted behaviors**. 🐾 Whether they’re waiting for a meal, a toy, or just a snuggle, **mat work helps dogs settle and find their calm**. 💛

20/02/2025

🐾 Throwback Thursday: Fist Bump Fun with Gabbana! 🐾

Throwing it back to a fun training moment with Gabbana! 🙌 Dr. Andy taught her the classic fist bump, and let us tell you—Gabbana was an EXCELLENT student! 🎓✨

Training is always about more than just teaching commands—it’s about building focus, trust, and fun along the way. 😄 Whether we’re teaching a trick or working on core skills, we focus on growth, play, and positive connections with every dog. 🐾💛

Check out this adorable video of Gabbana nailing her fist bump! 👇 Let's all keep learning and growing! 🐶

19/02/2025

Training doesn’t have to be stiff—at Do Better Training, we believe in learning through play! 🎉 Agility isn’t just about cool tricks; it’s a fantastic way to build physical fitness, focus, and confidence in dogs of all ages! 💪✨

Whether it’s conquering obstacles, weaving through poles, or sprinting through tunnels, agility helps pups:
✔️ Burn energy in a fun, structured way 🏃‍♀️
✔️ Strengthen their minds & bodies 🧠💪
✔️ Build confidence by mastering new challenges 🎯
✔️ Deepen their bond with their people ❤️🐾

Watching dogs light up with joy as they move, learn, and grow is what it’s all about! 🥰 Who’s ready to play? 🎾🐶

18/02/2025

At Do Better Training, we’re all about cheering on our dogs as they take on new challenges—big or small! 💛 Today, we’re celebrating Willow, who finally conquered the playground stairs during group play! 🏆🐶

With patience, encouragement, and support, Willow found her confidence, and Dr. Andy was *right there* to celebrate her success! 🎊🐾 Moments like these remind us why we do what we do—helping dogs feel safe, strong, and capable in their world. 💪✨

Drop some 🎉 for Willow and all the pups working hard to be their **best, most confident selves!**

18/02/2025

At Do Better Training, we believe in making every day a little more fun! ✨ When our tiny friends visit, Dr. Andy is always ready with her snuggle hoodie, offering a cozy ride (with their comfort & consent, of course! 😉).

Because training is about **trust, comfort, and connection**—and sometimes, extra cuddles too! 🥰🐶

17/02/2025

🐭Mouse is the most dedicated lunch supervisor at Do Better Training. 🍕🥪 Here he is, watching Dr. Andy eat with the **focus of a scholar, the patience of a saint, and the hope of a dog who knows* snacks exist. 🤞😂

Mouse is available for adoption through City of Aurora IL Animal Care and Control and, in addition to being an expert-level food observer, he’s also a sweet, smart, and loyal companion looking for his forever home! 💛🏡

If you’re in need of a **lunch accountability partner** (or just an all-around amazing pup), Mouse is your guy! 🐾

16/02/2025

🐾🩺 Cooperative Care: Building Trust, Reducing Stress! 🩺🐾

Cooperative care is all about teaching dogs to participate in their own care—whether it’s nail trims, vet exams, or grooming. By using fear-free, force-free*techniques, we help dogs feel safe, confident, and in control. 💛🐶

We’re so fortunate to be connected with Loyal Companions , a Fear Free Certified Veterinary Hospital! Not only do we teach cooperative care skills in our training center, but we also get to put them into action in a real-world vet setting! 🙌✨

Less stress. More trust. Better care. That’s what cooperative care is all about! 🐾💙

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http://www.dobettertraining.com/

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🐾 Throwback Thursday: Fist Bump Fun with Gabbana! 🐾 Throwing it back to a fun training moment with Gabbana! 🙌 Dr. Andy taught her the classic fist bump, and let us tell you—Gabbana was an EXCELLENT student! 🎓✨ Training is always about more than just teaching commands—it’s about building focus, trust, and fun along the way. 😄 Whether we’re teaching a trick or working on core skills, we focus on growth, play, and positive connections with every dog. 🐾💛 Check out this adorable video of Gabbana nailing her fist bump! 👇 Let's all keep learning and growing! 🐶 #dobettertraining #positivereinforcementdogtraining #forcefree #fearfree #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #throwbackthursday #dogtrainingfun #fistbump #buildingconfidence #learningthroughplay #happydoghappytrainer

✨ Before there can be learning, there has to be security. ✨ Our dogs need to feel safe in their environment, safe with their people, and safe in the world before we can ask anything more of them. 💕🐾 Lily is an anxious pup working on building that sense of safety at the training center. The first time she visited, she was too nervous to stray more than a foot or two from Mom and Dad. Now, look at this confident queen 👑 navigating simple obstacles! We’re so proud of Lily’s progress and love seeing her confidence grow! 🌟🐕 #DoBetterTraining #PositiveReinforcementTraining #FearFree #ForceFree #FearFreeCertifiedProfessional

Happy Thanksgiving 🦃 from all of us at Do Better Training! 💕 We are thankful 🙏 for all of our wonderful and supportive clients and the fact that we get to spend each and every day with dogs 🐶 from sun up to sundown! ☀️ #dobettertraining #positivereinforcementdogtraining #fearfreetraining #fearfreecertified #fearfreetrainingprofessional #forcefree #enrichmentboarding #doggydayschool #holidqy #turkeyday🦃 #happythanksgiving

🎉🎈 Happy 1st Birthday, Willow! 🎈🎉 Today we’re celebrating one of our sweetest Day School regulars as she turns the big ONE 🎉! Willow brings so much joy, curiosity, and just the right amount of chaos 😜 to Do Better Training, and we’re thrilled to watch her grow into a confident and happy pup! 🥳🐾 All the best birthday sniffs and wags for our lovely birthday girl! 🌸💖 #HappyBirthdayWillow #DoBetterTraining #PositiveReinforcementTraining #FearFree #FearFreeCertifiedProfessional #ForceFree #EnrichmentForDogs #BirthdayGirl

🌟 Just look at Rio RUNNING to Dr. Andy! After 26 years together, their bond is still pure magic 🦄💖. The love, trust, and connection they share is what inspires Dr. Andy every single day—it's that special bond we all dream of having with our animals. 🐾💫 Rio’s taught her so much about patience, joy, and learning together, and she carries that inspiration into her work as a trainer and behavior consultant! We’d LOVE to see the heart animals that light up YOUR life! 🥰🐕🐴 Drop a photo in the comments and tell us what makes your bond so special! #dobettertraining #positivereinforcementtraining #fearfree #fearfreecertified #professional #forcefree #hearthorse #ponypower

🐾 Scoop loves shredding things, so Dr. Andy decided to embrace this natural behavior instead of fighting it. 🐶💥 When Scoop managed to plow through a few shoes during a brief unsupervised moment (oops! 😅), Dr. Andy didn’t get upset—she found a better solution: managing her shoes and giving him safe, **legal** shredding opportunities! Now, she scouts pet stores for discounted stuffed toys specifically for Scoop to unleash his shredding superpowers. 🧸💣 But shredding fun doesn’t stop at toys! It can include stuffed toys, packing paper, or even cardboard boxes. 🎁📦 As long as it’s **safe** and your dog is having a blast, it’s a perfect way to satisfy their natural instincts! At Do Better Training, we build moments like these into our everyday programs—whether it’s through Doggy Day School or our Board & Train options. Enrichment is a core part of what we do, allowing dogs to explore, play, and just be dogs! 💖 From shredding to puzzle-solving, we make sure your pup has plenty of "Yes moments" to reduce stress and boost happiness. Want to give your dog safe, enriching experiences like Scoop? Join our Doggy Day School or check out our Board & Train programs to see how we let dogs be dogs! 🌟 #KnowBetterDoBetter #PositiveReinforcementTraining #FearFree #ForceFree #EnrichmentBoarding #DoggyDaySchool #BoardAndTrain #DoBetterTraining

Guess 🤷 who has a meet and greet today! 🎉 Keep fingers crossed 🤞 for our girl Jenny 🦄❤️ #dobettertraining #positivereinforcementdogtraining #enrichmentboarding #boardandtrain #doggydayschool #fosterdog #fosteringsaveslives❤️🐶 #adoptfosterdonatevolunteer

🐾💦 How has this precious angel *not* found her forever home yet?! Jenny is playful, sweet, and ready to fill your life with joy! 🐕💛 Available for adoption through DuPage County Animal Services—could she be the missing piece in your family? 🏡✨ #DoBetterTraining #PositiveReinforcementTraining #EnrichmentBoarding #BoardAndTrain #DoggyDaySchool #FearFree #ForceFree #FosterDog #FosterSavesLives #AdoptResponsibly #RescueDog #JennyNeedsAHome

🐾✨ On this National Dog Day, we pause to honor the unconditional love, loyalty, and joy that dogs bring into our lives. They give so much of themselves, asking only for our care and compassion in return. At Do Better Training, we believe that our dogs deserve the very best we can offer—patience, understanding, and positive guidance that helps them grow, thrive, and feel safe. "To know better is to do better." By embracing positive reinforcement, fear-free methods, and enrichment-based learning, we show our dogs the love they deserve in ways that truly support their emotional and physical well-being. Today, let’s celebrate the incredible bond we share with our dogs and commit to always choosing a path that lifts them up. 💛🐕‍🦺 Because when we do better by our dogs, they do better by us, and together, the love we share knows no bounds. 🐕❤️ #DoBetterTraining #KnowBetterDoBetter #PositiveReinforcementTraining #EnrichmentBoarding #BoardAndTrain #DoggyDaySchool #FearFree #ForceFree #DogLove #NationalDogAppreciationDay #CelebrateDogs

🐾💖 Healthy Playtime Fun! 💖🐾 We love seeing healthy play between dogs! 🎉 In this adorable video, Koji, our lanky husky mix, and Corky, a petite mini poodle, are having a blast! 🐕🐩 Koji is showing excellent handicapping—this is when a dog adjusts their play style to accommodate the size or abilities of their playmate. 🙌 Koji stays low to the ground and lays on his side to invite Corky into the play in a way that feels safe and fun for him! 🥰 Check out Koji demonstrating this beautiful play style! 🎥👇 #HealthyPlay #DoBetterTraining #PositiveReinforcement #DoggyDaySchool #EnrichmentBoarding #ForceFree #FearFree

📹 **Video of the Day—Something Special!** 📹 We're excited to introduce Tinsel, an adoptable pup from Aurora Animal Control! Tinsel is spending time at Do Better Training, learning basic skills and building his dog social abilities. He’s having a blast and loves to tippy tap around after Dr. Andy. Here's to a bright future for this sweet boy! #DoBetterTraining #PositiveReinforcementTraining #FearFree #ForceFree #Fostering #FosteringSavesLives

Training isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress, patience, and a whole lot of fun! 😄 Check out this video of Dr. Andy working with Stanley on his "middle" behavior. They've been practicing using just a verbal cue, and while Stanley didn’t get it right on the first try, that’s totally okay! 🐕✨ When dogs make mistakes, we just laugh it off, give them a moment, and try again. Learning should be a positive experience filled with celebrations of every victory, big or small! 🥳 Stanley's persistence paid off, and his happy tail wag says it all—training with us is always fun! 🎉 Remember, it’s not about getting it perfect on the first try; it’s about enjoying the journey and growing together. 🌟 #DoBetterTraining #PositiveReinforcementDogTraining #LearningShouldBeFun #CelebratingVictories #ForceFree #FearFree #HappyPups

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01/03/2025

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