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Suwanee Dog Mom

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Sugar Hill, GA
Suwanee Dog Mom

Christina McInnis a former service dog trainer and agility trainer. As well as spending time with her husband and children.
(3)

certified by the AKC as an evaluator for AKC Star Puppy, AKC Caninine Good Citizen, CGCU and Community Canine Programs. Committed to providing the most effective, convenient solutions to her clients’ dog training needs, Christina is avidly pursues ongoing continuing education and professional development by attending seminars and keeping current on all industry literature. Suwanee dog mom puts cl

ients first and believes the whole family should be involved with training the dog. When not helping clients to enjoy easier lives with their canine companions, Christina enjoys training their newest addition Ranger.

08/20/2024

Annie is a shy Golden Retriever puppy who started her journey with us needing significant confidence building. Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen her transform from a pup who was terrified of the leash into one who now walks confidently by her owner’s side. She’s even mastered one of the fastest down-stays I’ve ever seen (Sorry, Ranger, we all know you like to take your time with that one).

Today, Annie tackled her first new environment—a quiet park. When working with fearful dogs, building confidence is a gradual process. We start in familiar, low-stress settings and slowly introduce new environments. This approach helps the dog develop trust and a sense of security, preventing them from becoming overwhelmed.

Basic obedience is crucial in this journey. For dogs like Annie, learning commands such as sit, stay, and heel isn’t just about following instructions—it gives them a sense of purpose. By having a job to focus on, Annie is less likely to fixate on her fears. Each successful command boosts her confidence and reinforces her ability to handle different situations.

Counter-conditioning also plays a critical role. By associating previously scary situations with positive experiences, Annie has learned that new environments don’t have to be frightening. Combined with redirection techniques, which guide her focus away from fear and toward more constructive behaviors, she has made incredible strides.

Though she was a bit nervous at first, Annie quickly regained her composure, showing just how much progress she’s made. This is a testament to her owners' consistent work on basic obedience, their commitment to counter-conditioning, and their use of redirection.

08/12/2024

It's been a hectic couple of weeks, so I apologize for the recent lack of posts. I've truly enjoyed meeting all the new pups, though I keep forgetting to snap pictures of them! Things have been non-stop around here. I'm currently booking for the first week of September. With the heat we're experiencing, it's essential to keep our pups cool. Focus on indoor games like "hide and go treat" or using snuffle mats, down stay , place and basic obedience, make sure to walk them during the cooler parts of the day. Feel free to message me if you have any questions.

08/06/2024

Meet Bear, the sweetest boy who had an unfortunate encounter in his neighborhood as a pup, leading to a fear of other dogs. His mom has worked tirelessly using counter-conditioning, redirection, and basic training over the past few months.

Today, Bear walked over 2 miles, passing numerous dogs—some reactive, some not—and he remained calm and unbothered. While we're still working on building more confidence in his own neighborhood, we're seeing continual improvement there as well.

Reactivity is one of the more challenging behaviors to address due to the need for controlled exposure to other dogs, the time it takes, and the precise timing required for corrections, praise, and commands. This is why many people choose board and train programs (which are absolutely beneficial). However, Bear's mom has been working diligently every day for weeks and has achieved remarkable progress.

Every dog progresses at their own pace, and each journey is unique. It's important to celebrate every small victory along the way.

08/05/2024

That time of year again pups send the kids to school pictures !!! Pretty sure Ranger is looking forward to a nice nap after the summer with these wild boys.

08/03/2024

I was asked the other day why Ranger had the “with me “ command and the “heel “ command. No one in my family , but me is actually allowed to use his heel command. It is to easy for them ( as much as a love my house full of boys ) to break the structure of it. This includes my gorgeous husband. Let’s face it Ranger can walk all over that man.

There is a reason I use a different command for a loose leash walk vs. a heel. A true formal heel is a lot different from a loose leash walk or the "with me" command we use. Now, part of this is my old-school training. If someone never wants to train a formal heel and uses the heel command in a loose leash walk, that's okay. But there is a difference in these commands.

A loose leash walk is where the dog can walk slightly beside or behind you, occasionally sniff a little, but still keep the leash free of tension. This type of walk allows the dog some freedom to explore its surroundings while maintaining control and avoiding pulling. It's ideal for casual walks in low-traffic areas, where the dog can enjoy some degree of exploration. The dog is still required to check in with you and follow sudden directional changes. I was trained to use the “with me “ command for this.

A formal heel is more exhausting and requires structure and constant eye contact or check-ins. The dog walks closely and consistently beside the handler's left leg, with its head or shoulder aligned with the handler's leg. This level of precision ensures the dog is focused and under control.

Situations for Each Command:

**Loose Leash Walk**:
- **Daily Walks**: Casual walks around the neighborhood where the dog can sniff and explore.
- **Parks and Trails**: Places where there is space for the dog to roam a bit without pulling.
- **Relaxed Environments**: Any low-traffic area where strict control isn’t necessary.

**Heel**:
- **Crowded Areas**: Busy sidewalks, events, or public places where tight control is essential.
- **Training Sessions**: When working on obedience and advanced training exercises.
- **High-Traffic Areas**: Streets with heavy pedestrian or vehicular traffic where safety is a priority.

I understand that some trainers and even some or my clients ask to train the heel command as a loose leash walk. Once again, nothing is wrong with this. I was just trained differently. Let’s face it most people just want a dog that walks nicely on the leash with no reaction. So in the end it’s mostly about this for most of my clients. The lose leash walk fits the bill. But there is a reason I use two different commands for it.

Just to add, I have clients that we train their dogs with completely different words. I have one that trained the word “pickle” for the down command. Why? Because you can. The specific words don’t matter as much as the consistency and structure of the training.

Unless you’re planning on competition-level training or you love more advanced techniques, the exact commands used don’t really matter. What’s important is that both you and your dog understand the expectations and commands, regardless of the terminology used. This flexibility in training vocabulary allows for a personalized approach that works best for each individual dog and handler.

Below is a picture of Ranger “not working “ just to show that in the end he’s still a beloved member of our family who loves all the snuggles.

07/30/2024

It was a golden evening of pure joy! First up were Bacardi and Bellini, two of the finest ladies around. After just two weeks, their recall, leash training and social manners are already on point. Next, it was baby Ruby’s turn. She worked like a champ, ignoring distractions, nailing an amazing down stay, and even doing a little off-leash work. She’s now home and utterly exhausted, but watching her trot around the football fields was a joy. Not sure how my evening could get any better. Goldens sure know how to boost your spirits.

07/23/2024

Yesterday, after an appointment in Atlanta (don’t worry, this suburban soccer mom dog trainer isn’t venturing ITP) I was there for a special case. I turned onto Northside Drive near Paces Ferry Road and saw a dog running down the middle of the busy intersection. Naturally, I swung open my car door, and she came running, narrowly avoiding a car. She hopped in, all ready for a ride and treats—what are the odds she’d find the dog trainer with a leash and treat bag already on her hip?

She had a collar but no ID tag. My client laughed when I called, saying this would only happen to me. We found a vet and spent over an hour tracking her microchip. Turns out, her owners are out of the country, and the landscapers had accidentally opened the gate, letting her out. Their son had let her out to go potty.

I always tell my clients to keep an ID tag on their dogs' collars. Without it, I couldn't call her owners right away. Please keep your dog's microchip info updated and use a breakaway collar with an ID tag—it keeps everyone more accountable.

When I sent a picture to my husband, his response was, "Poor baby, don’t bring her home." You’d think after 18 years of marriage and 20 years together, he’d know better! You all know that if we hadn’t been able to find her owners, she would be napping right by Ranger right now.

She’s home safe and sound.

07/19/2024

Meet CC. What is she, you ask? She’s a Belgian Malinois or a Dutch shepherd we are waiting on the dna results . I've shared before about how amazing these dogs are, and also how they're not your average family pet.

CC, is a four-month-old rescue Belgian Malinois. Her family knows exactly what they've signed up for. She’s not your typical snuggle-up-and-lay-down family dog. While she has a slightly lower drive for a Malinois, that’s like saying a Ferrari isn’t as fast as a race car.

From the day CC came home, her owners and I have been in constant communication about her training. The level of training she’s receiving is far beyond the norm. She’s hand-fed for NILF (Nothing in Life is Free) training, requires flirt pole work, bite inhibition exercises, impulse control training, and structured activities for nearly everything she does. CC is so intelligent that she’s already achieved a higher level of training than most dogs in just a few weeks. Essentially, take everything I normally do, multiply it by ten, and add even more.

I can spend hours working with CC and her owners, completely absorbed in the process. It’s a joy. Working with breeds like hers and truly becoming partners with them is special. Once you experience it, you don't want to go back. Her owners are doing an amazing job. It’s hours of work each day, and CC is a testament to their dedication. Just yesterday, I got so absorbed in talking and working with them that I stayed for almost two hours.

Once again, I emphasize the importance of knowing your breeds and understanding where your dog is coming from. Backyard breeders are not the place to find any dog, especially breeds like the Belgian Malinois. When people call about such dogs, I usually refer them to a specialist trainer. This trainer works predominantly with these breeds, demonstrating their potential and the amount of work required before purchasing or acquiring the dog. Typically, this includes a boarding and training program with them.

However, CC is a bit different. Her family is fully aware of the breed’s demands and is well-equipped to train her themselves , but also prepared to seek more help if needed. They do not have blinders on.

07/19/2024

Most people think having everyone come up and pet their dog or meeting other dogs in the dog park is socializing their dog. This is actually not the type of socializing you want. All you get is a dog that is very excited to run up to people and other dogs. Or worse, you end up in a situation where your dog has a negative experience and then you will be recovering that negative experience with a trainer. You actually want a dog that will ignore people and other dogs completely.

What You Want:

What you want is a dog that is so used to social situations and being in them that a change in environment does not mean a change in behavior. This is called existence training or desensitizing them to environments.

Existence Training Defined:

"Existence training" for dogs typically refers to a type of training that focuses on teaching dogs to calmly coexist in various situations and environments without exhibiting unwanted behaviors. It involves teaching dogs self-control, impulse management, and appropriate behavior in different contexts.

Key Components of Existence Training:

1. Settle or place command on a Mat or Designated Area:
- Teach your dog to relax on a mat or in a specific area. This helps them learn to settle down and be calm, even when there are distractions around.

2. Ignore Distractions:
- Train your dog to ignore common distractions such as other dogs, people, or loud noises. This enhances their ability to focus on you and remain calm.

3. Calm Presence:
- Encourage your dog to stay calm in the presence of other dogs or people. Gradually expose them to various environments to build their confidence and reduce anxiety.

4. Maintain Focus:
- Practice exercises that require your dog to maintain focus on you despite environmental stimuli. This strengthens your bond and ensures they look to you for guidance in any situation.

Benefits of Existence Training:

Existence training can be particularly beneficial for dogs who struggle with hyperactivity, anxiety, reactivity, or impulse control issues. By teaching dogs to exist calmly in their surroundings, owners can help them navigate the world with confidence and reduce stress for both the dog and themselves.

Conclusion:

Proper socialization through existence training sets the foundation for a well-adjusted, confident dog. By focusing on self-control and desensitization to various environments, you can ensure your dog remains calm and well-behaved, no matter where you are.

(Ranger first learning the place command ) nothing helps training better then another well trained older dog. Forever in our hearts Aubrey girl.

07/18/2024

Tyson goes to work !!! Tyson helped me out with a few clients. He did such an amazing job of ignoring, walking nicely he even worked well for one of my clients children that was with us and walked him most of the way. He’s killing it for his return home this weekend. We are going to miss this kissy face.

07/17/2024

Our hearts are deeply saddened for a sweet family that lost their beloved dog. We recognize the profound impact that dogs have on our lives. They are more than pets—they are loyal companions, confidants, and family members. Our deepest condolences go out to the family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, sweet friend. You will be missed by all who knew you.

07/17/2024

Neither of them made it through the movie!!!

Some of my best childhood memories involve snuggling up with a giant 160-pound mastiff. Nothing ever made me feel safer. I don’t mind adding an extra cover to help with the hair because, to me, it’s worth it. Dogs are still pack animals, and although there is debate on whether they see humans as part of their pack, I believe they know we are different but choose us to be their pack.

If you’ve worked with me or seen my previous posts, you know dogs are allowed on the furniture in my home. However, there are rules and boundaries. I do not allow dogs on the bed without permission and a well-trained "up" and "off" command.

When it comes to dogs with resource-guarding issues, they are not allowed on the furniture at all. Allowing them on the furniture can create a situation where they feel the need to guard it, which can lead to aggression and territorial behavior. By keeping them off the furniture, we can manage and reduce these behaviors, ensuring a safer environment for both the dog and the household. There are also a few more reasons for these boundaries for our resource guarding dogs. Put that is a whole post in itself.

Despite the debate on whether dogs see us as part of their pack, I believe they recognize our differences but still choose us as their family. Creating a loving, structured environment with clear boundaries helps reinforce our bond with them and ensures they feel secure and happy.

Also, if you don’t like dogs up on the furniture that’s ok too !!! I know they are just as loved.

07/16/2024

"Today's training took an unexpected twist when the cat decided to school the dogs on impulse control. Gave him a gentle reminder to 'sit,' and of course, he nailed it! 😸🐾 Cats always think they're the pros, even in dog training! "

Next thing you know I’ll have to change my business name 😂. Not even sure they would deem me good enough. Cats you know how they are.

07/16/2024

Crate training is an essential tool for dog owners that offers a range of benefits for both you and your pup. When done right, a crate becomes a cozy, safe space for your dog, similar to a den. This helps with housebreaking, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, making potty training faster and more effective.

One of the great advantages of crate training is that it encourages your dog to see the entire home as their "den," which can extend their potty training habits to the rest of the house. By preventing accidents in the crate, your dog learns to hold it until they can go outside, gradually applying this behavior to other areas of your home.

Crate training also curbs destructive behaviors when you're not around. It ensures your dog isn’t chewing on furniture or getting into things they shouldn’t, keeping both your belongings and your dog safe. Plus, it provides a retreat during stressful times, like during thunderstorms or when new people visit.

To make crate training successful, use positive reinforcement. Start by making the crate inviting. However, if you have a puppy who’s a chewer, avoid putting a bed inside the crate until they’ve outgrown this phase to prevent them from ingesting bedding material. Make the crate the "magic treat box" by randomly tossing treats inside when your dog isn't looking. This creates a positive association with the crate as a place where good things happen. Additionally, don't shut the door every time your dog goes inside. This way, they won't always associate the crate with being confined.

Knowing how long to leave your puppy in the crate is crucial. As a rule of thumb, puppies can generally hold their bladder for about one hour for each month of age, plus one. For example, a two-month-old puppy should be crated for no more than three hours at a time. Gradually increase the time as your puppy gets older and more accustomed to the crate.

For adult dogs, the maximum time in a crate should generally not exceed eight hours, and this should not be a daily routine. It’s essential to ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental engagement when they’re not in the crate. Regular walks, playtime, and training sessions help keep your dog healthy and happy, making the time they do spend in the crate more restful and less stressful.

Avoid setting your dog up for failure by leaving them in the crate for too long and not providing enough physical and mental engagement. If your dog becomes destructive, hyper, or starts nipping, it’s often a sign they need more activity and interaction. Remember, a well-exercised and mentally stimulated dog is a well-behaved dog.

07/15/2024

Teach the children !! Tyson is making remarkable progress with his leash training, so we decided to involve my 8-year-old son in a training session. Since Tyson lives with young boys, it's crucial that they also learn to handle him properly. In the video, you'll notice me correcting my son, not Tyson. Brooks was unintentionally pulling and maintaining tension on the leash, which isn't ideal. He was not giving Tyson the chance to do his auto sit , with the leash pull he was actually correcting him before Tyson had a chance to even perform the task.

A key principle in leash training is that a loose leash indicates good behavior from the dog, while a tight leash means the dog is experiencing negative pressure, suggesting they need to adjust their actions. Tyson’s performance, especially considering it's only his third day with us, was outstanding. He’s here primarily for confidence building and some fine-tuning of his skills. He has done a board and train program in the past. We're providing him with lots of enthusiastic praise and very gentle corrections.

In contrast, our other dog, Ranger, requires a firmer approach. This highlights an important aspect of dog training: each dog is different, and the training method should be customized to fit the individual dog rather than sticking to a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach. By understanding and adapting to each dog's unique needs, we can achieve better and more effective training outcomes.

07/12/2024

Gorgeous Tyson !! He will be staying with us over the next 10 days. He was in a previous board and train program and just needs a little touch up and some confidence building. He is such a love and such a gentle boy.

07/11/2024

It has been such a busy week playing catch up !! I have not had much time to breath or write up many posts. I have enjoyed meeting all the new pups this week.

During one of the sessions we were discussing high drive vs low drive treats. I decided to give a little information on this and what it means. The goal is always to work your way off the food and your rewards and keep the verbal praise. When we are counter conditioning a behavior such as extreme fear and reactivy we do start with a high drive reward to make a positive association.

Training a dog effectively requires understanding their motivation and using the right rewards to reinforce desired behaviors. High drive and low drive rewards each have their place in a balanced training regimen. Here's a breakdown of when to use each type.

High Drive Rewards

Definition: The High drive rewards are highly motivating and exciting for your dog. These might include favorite toys, high-value treats (like pieces of chicken or cheese), or activities your dog loves, such as playing fetch or tug-of-war.

When to Use:

1. Learning New Behaviors: When teaching your dog a new command or trick, high drive rewards can capture and maintain their attention, making the learning process more engaging and effective.

2. Distractions Present: In environments with a lot of distractions, high drive rewards can help your dog stay focused on you and the task at hand, overriding the temptation to engage with their surroundings.

3. Reinforcing Difficult Commands: For behaviors that are challenging or less naturally rewarding for your dog (like recall in a park full of other dogs), high drive rewards can provide the necessary motivation to comply.

4. Building Enthusiasm:If you want to increase your dog's enthusiasm and energy for training sessions, using high drive rewards can make training feel more like play and less like work.

Low Drive Rewards

Definition: Low drive rewards are less stimulating and exciting but still enjoyable for your dog. These might include regular kibble, verbal praise, or gentle petting.

When to Use:

1. Maintaining Learned Behaviors:** Once your dog reliably performs a behavior, low drive rewards can be used to maintain and reinforce this behavior without overstimulating them.

2.Calm and Focused Training:** When training requires your dog to remain calm and focused, such as during prolonged stays or polite greetings, low drive rewards can help keep their arousal levels in check.

3.Everyday Obedience:** For routine commands and behaviors that your dog has already mastered, low drive rewards are sufficient to acknowledge their good behavior without the need for high excitement.

4. Managing Overarousal: If your dog tends to get overly excited or overstimulated, using low drive rewards can help prevent them from becoming too aroused, which can lead to loss of focus and control.

Balancing Both Types

Balancing high drive and low drive rewards is key to a well-rounded training approach. Here are a few tips:

Start High, Gradually Lower:** When introducing a new behavior, start with high drive rewards and gradually transition to low drive rewards as the behavior becomes more reliable.

Context Matters:** Consider the environment and the specific training scenario when choosing the type of reward.

Know Your Dog:** Every dog is different. Pay attention to what motivates your dog and tailor your reward system to their individual preferences and needs.

07/05/2024

Hope everyone had a happy and safe 4th of July !! We will be back Monday !! Have a great weekend.

07/03/2024

Reposting this one. I have already received a call about a pup that got scared in his own fence the other night from fireworks. They got out. Please take them outside on a leash the next couple days. It seems they are being set off constantly.

Ranger and I are out of town until Monday. However if your dog does get lost please call Top Gun Drone Services LLC asap. The sooner someone is out looking the better. We will do the best we can to help once we return.

07/03/2024

My 5-year-old niece was playing hide and seek with my 8 and 11-year-old sons. To even the odds, she got a 110-pound partner—Ranger. The boys felt it was a bit unfair, but if they hadn't been too lazy to pick up their shoes, I wouldn't have thought to use them as scent items. Ranger followed her lead perfectly, and they didn't win a single round. Lesson learned: clean up your stuff!

There’s nothing more adorable to me than watching a 5-year-old and this beast of a dog listen to every command she gave like a boss. She didn’t even need my help getting him to seek after the first lesson!

He has the seek part of the game down…. The hiding part. Well we will figure it out.

06/28/2024

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. I loved working with both these sibling sets yesterday. These are my two all time favorite family dog breeds !!

Today we celebrated our furry siblings! We started with the Golden Retrievers, followed by the Labrador Retrievers. Both breeds make wonderful family pets, but there are key differences between them. I have outlined some of the differences below. Of coarse this might not apply to everyone of them you meet. But it is a standard of the different personalities.

When choosing a breed, thorough research into the breeder and the specific lineage of your future pup is essential. I'll write a detailed post about breeder research soon, but for now, know that this is crucial.

It's important to understand the distinction between "hunting" or working lines and conformation or companion lines in both breeds. These lines differ significantly in both build and energy levels.

We have some excellent Golden Retriever breeders in our community. While I won't name them directly, I encourage those breeders to share their insights on the correct process of researching and selecting a breeder.

If you're planning to purchase a dog, ensure you're contributing to the betterment of the breed rather than focusing solely on price and availability.

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are both friendly and intelligent, but they do have some distinct personality differences:

1.Golden Retrievers

- Temperament:Typically more gentle and calm.

- Social Behavior: Very people-oriented, often described as "velcro dogs" because they like to stick close to their owners.

- Energy Level:Energetic but can be a bit more laid-back than Labs.

- Trainability: Highly trainable and eager to please, often excelling in therapy and assistance roles.

2. Labrador Retrievers:

Temperament :More exuberant and outgoing.

- Social Behavior: Extremely social and friendly, but may be more independent compared to Goldens.

- Energy Level: High energy, needing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

- Trainability: Also highly trainable and eager to please, often used in service and detection work due to their drive and intelligence.

Both breeds are excellent family pets, but Golden Retrievers might be better suited for those looking for a slightly calmer companion, while Labs are great for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.

06/28/2024

Dogs don’t make judgements they love you underwear hats and all.

06/27/2024

If you're into scent work, here's a video of Ranger doing his thing. Fair warning: it's long, I talk a lot, and I got stung ( in the video I thought it was fire ants 💯 not fire ants ) by something that was clearly having a bad day and decided to take it out on me. It nailed me a couple of times before leaving its stinger behind like a tiny, vengeful ninja. If anyone knows what nasty critter does that, please enlighten me. It burns like the pit of hell!

For the first time, I set the scent line with hamburger grease instead of our usual essential oils or items from clients' dogs. Usually, we keep these scent items in a plastic bag to prevent contact. So, if you have any old doggy blankets that have been well-loved, send them my way!

I was out of breath because I hiked to set the line and then had to run back to get Ranger. Didn’t start filming until we were already in action. Of course, he took less than 10 minutes, including a potty break, to make a mockery of my setup.

Unlike some search dogs, Ranger seems to need more scent resets, but he's great about coming back to ask for a sniff of the bag. Rotties and their ADD! He got distracted by the hamburger grease trail. Note to self: probably won't use that scent again—way too easy.

Oh, and Ranger has to touch the tin to get his reward. The first time, I didn't reward him because he just seemed to find it and then circled the tree like he was debating whether it was worth the effort. Finally, he touched it, and it was like, "Alright, fine, here's your treat."

Anyone up for hiding in the woods?

06/26/2024

Some of you might remember sweet Kahlua. A few months ago, she was a newly rescued pup who got frightened and disappeared into the woods for 10 days. Ranger was sent out to find her, and thankfully, he succeeded. After spending some time settling into her new home with her loving mom and dad, it was time to address her deep-seated fears.

From what we know ,Kahlua had been raised in isolation with only her littermates and no socialization, leaving her both sweet and terrified. Fortunately, she found the perfect environment with her new family. We're starting with gentle, gradual exposure to new experiences, supported by counter-conditioning, basic training and redirecting. Already, she is making remarkable progress compared to where she was just a few months ago. Just by being with her new family.

It’s dedicated owners like these, and the rescues that take them in to be placed into new homes, who make a world of difference in the lives of rescue animals. With patience and love, they nurture these animals, helping them to blossom and thrive. Kahlua's journey is a testament to the power of compassionate care.

Address

Suwanee Dam Road NE, Buford
Sugar Hill, GA
30518

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Telephone

+14044834194

Website

http://www.thesuwaneedogmom.com/

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Videos

"Today's training took an unexpected twist when the cat decided to school the dogs on impulse control. Gave him a gentle reminder to 'sit,' and of course, he nailed it! 😸🐾 Cats always think they're the pros, even in dog training! #CatVsDogTraining" Next thing you know I’ll have to change my business name 😂. Not even sure they would deem me good enough. Cats you know how they are.

Teach the kids …. The pup already gets it.

Teach the children !! Tyson is making remarkable progress with his leash training, so we decided to involve my 8-year-old son in a training session. Since Tyson lives with young boys, it's crucial that they also learn to handle him properly. In the video, you'll notice me correcting my son, not Tyson. Brooks was unintentionally pulling and maintaining tension on the leash, which isn't ideal. He was not giving Tyson the chance to do his auto sit , with the leash pull he was actually correcting him before Tyson had a chance to even perform the task. A key principle in leash training is that a loose leash indicates good behavior from the dog, while a tight leash means the dog is experiencing negative pressure, suggesting they need to adjust their actions. Tyson’s performance, especially considering it's only his third day with us, was outstanding. He’s here primarily for confidence building and some fine-tuning of his skills. He has done a board and train program in the past. We're providing him with lots of enthusiastic praise and very gentle corrections. In contrast, our other dog, Ranger, requires a firmer approach. This highlights an important aspect of dog training: each dog is different, and the training method should be customized to fit the individual dog rather than sticking to a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach. By understanding and adapting to each dog's unique needs, we can achieve better and more effective training outcomes.

A little scent tin work

If you're into scent work, here's a video of Ranger doing his thing. Fair warning: it's long, I talk a lot, and I got stung ( in the video I thought it was fire ants 💯 not fire ants ) by something that was clearly having a bad day and decided to take it out on me. It nailed me a couple of times before leaving its stinger behind like a tiny, vengeful ninja. If anyone knows what nasty critter does that, please enlighten me. It burns like the pit of hell! For the first time, I set the scent line with hamburger grease instead of our usual essential oils or items from clients' dogs. Usually, we keep these scent items in a plastic bag to prevent contact. So, if you have any old doggy blankets that have been well-loved, send them my way! I was out of breath because I hiked to set the line and then had to run back to get Ranger. Didn’t start filming until we were already in action. Of course, he took less than 10 minutes, including a potty break, to make a mockery of my setup. Unlike some search dogs, Ranger seems to need more scent resets, but he's great about coming back to ask for a sniff of the bag. Rotties and their ADD! He got distracted by the hamburger grease trail. Note to self: probably won't use that scent again—way too easy. Oh, and Ranger has to touch the tin to get his reward. The first time, I didn't reward him because he just seemed to find it and then circled the tree like he was debating whether it was worth the effort. Finally, he touched it, and it was like, "Alright, fine, here's your treat." Anyone up for hiding in the woods?

Asking once

Once a command is set in, we do not repeat ourselves. Trust me, unless your dog has a medical issue preventing it, they can hear you. They are just choosing not to comply. Here’s a video of Ranger earning his treat this morning. If you notice on one command, “speak,” he does not do it. I give a very light correction; I do not repeat the command. In order to reinforce this, make sure your dog has a clear understanding of what you’re asking. I am saying the commands very softly. I can whisper them and he will do them. If you notice at the end he gave me a stress yawn. He was over working for that one treat. So I chose to end it on a good note. Know your dogs body language. Why It’s Important 1. **Clarity and Consistency**: Repeating commands can confuse your dog. They might start to think they only need to respond after hearing the command several times, which can delay their reaction. 2. **Effective Training**: Asking a command only once ensures that your dog learns to respond promptly. This reinforces the behavior you want and helps the dog understand that immediate obedience is expected. 3. **Authority and Leadership**: Dogs look for confident and consistent leadership. Repeating commands can make you seem less authoritative, which can weaken your dogs confidence in you. 4. **Behavior Reinforcement**: Consistently asking a command once helps reinforce the desired behavior more effectively. Your dog learns that they must perform the command when asked the first time to receive a reward or avoid a correction. How to Implement This in Your Training 1. **Start Simple**: Begin with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “come.” Ensure you have your dog’s attention before giving the command. 2. **Use Clear Commands**: Say the command in a clear, firm, and calm voice. Make sure your dog is looking at you or is otherwise focused on you. 3. **Be Consistent**: Stick to using the same word or phrase for each command. Con

Some days it’s just cute

Ranger's journey with this command started with a basic touch command, nose to our palm. From there, we started evolving it to opening doors, turning off lights, and indicating items. Teaching Ranger to earn rewards like food and treats has become a natural part of his routine, satisfying his drive to work on days he is not out with mom. Besides look how happy the guy is. And yes he is as squish-able he looks.

Potty bells

Ruby is already a pro at the doorbell to go outside which I love. Her mom, dad and big brothers can do without it at times 😂 Bell training is a great tool for potty training , sometimes it can backfire and you get a pup that just loves to go outside. But isn’t it adorable!! She’s so proud of herself. If your dog rings the bell just to go out for fun, only take them out when they ring it to go potty, not for play. This helps them understand the bell is for potty breaks only. Also, ensure they get enough playtime to prevent boredom and unnecessary bell ringing. Distinguishing between a genuine need to go potty and a desire for attention or play can be tricky. One way is to observe your dog's behavior before ringing the bell. If they've just eaten, woken up, or been active, they're more likely to need to go potty. Also, pay attention to their body language when they ring the bell; if they seem urgent or anxious, it's likely a potty request. With time and consistency, you'll learn to differentiate between the signals. Also if they are ringing it for a party sometimes it a sign that they need more mental stimulation. Rubys parents are excellent and she gets plenty of mental engagement. She just likes the attention 😂 so we are working on that.

What is a snuffle mat and how does it help ?? A snuffle mat is a fantastic tool for engaging your dog's sense of smell and providing mental stimulation. Here's how it helps: 1. **Encourages Natural Foraging Behavior**: Dogs have a natural instinct to forage for food. A snuffle mat mimics this behavior by hiding treats or kibble within its fabric, encouraging dogs to use their noses to search for their food. 2. **Mental Stimulation**: Snuffle mats engage your dog's brain as they sniff and search for hidden treats. This mental stimulation can help alleviate boredom and reduce destructive behaviors caused by lack of mental stimulation. 3. **Slows Down Eating**: For dogs who tend to gulp down their food quickly, a snuffle mat can help slow down their eating pace. The act of sniffing out each piece of food makes mealtime more enjoyable and prevents digestive issues associated with eating too quickly. 4. **Great for Anxiety Relief**: The repetitive sniffing action required to find treats in a snuffle mat can have a calming effect on anxious dogs. It provides them with a productive outlet for their energy and helps them relax. 5. **Suitable for All Ages and Breeds**: Whether you have a young, energetic puppy or a senior dog, a snuffle mat can be enjoyed by dogs of all ages and breeds. It's also a great way to provide mental stimulation for dogs with limited mobility or those recovering from surgery. In summary, a snuffle mat is not just a fun accessory for dogs; it's also a valuable tool for mental enrichment, stress relief, and promoting healthy eating habits.

Bohdi is here visiting as his mom packs up the house for a move. Don’t worry not going far , so I will still get to see the beast baby. We had some fun this morning with the hand command for speak. So here’s a little morning adorable for everyone.

For those that are up to watching it. Here are a couple videos of finding her, it will only allow me to post one in the post so I will post the other in the comments. In normal situations Ranger would be pulled back and then the owners come in. However this one was a little different. She was a very recent rescue that is terrified of people, but loves and trusts other dogs ( I believe she was raised with her siblings). So we allowed Ranger to go in and tag her. From there she built trust in him and every time he came to eat out of my hand she would get a little closer. Ranger is very good with fearful dogs. Not pushy and just hangs around them ( which is what you want ). I never spoke to her or made eye contact. Eventually she also came to eat out of my hand and was fine being petted and having a collar grab.

Look at our boy EZ with his tiny human ( I will not post videos or photos with clients faces in them ) EZ is going amazing. He’s only on a slip lead in this ride down the belt-line in order to stay within the leash laws. He will walk perfectly at your side and ignore all distractions even without one . His training is sticking so well because his family has remained consistent and on top of it. Look at everything going on around him and EZ just going along like none of matters. That is because they have continued with the exposure and training in different environments. A dog can regress after board and train if it is not consistent, when they get home. I’m so proud of them and this adorable floof.

When you have a high energy dog in these cold temps , training a treadmill is a great way to get some work in. Creed is here for a short visit !!! While his mom and dad take a much needed vacation. He went to work with me today and still seems to have some energy. He also has an obsession with the treadmill. My basement is under construction so ignore the mess. Yes. We do have a doggy treadmill. Some dogs prefer it. Creed likes the big boy one. We slowly build up to actually walking on it over a few days using rewards to desensitize them to it while it is off and then when they are stepping on it, and then turning it on at the lowest possible, setting. Most dogs take to it really well . We did start this with a leash on him when he was trained on it. He is one of the few that does not need it at all. Most still need a leash to help make sure they do not step off the tract. Never leave them unattended on a treadmill. Even as good as he is on it , I stand right next to him. Creed will run down to the basement and get on it. Then look at you like you’re an idiot for not already turning it on. He loves it almost to much 😂

We work very hard on learning to respect a threshold. We don’t always do a sit and wait. We also correct them anytime they head out the door with out a command. I do start this when first training with a wait command and then drop the command. I do not want the dog to think that we only wait at the door when under a command. A door if opened does not mean exit. We practice constantly ringing doorbells , opening the door for no reason (this is called desensitizing the door ) it helps the dog to realize that anytime the door opens doesn’t mean it’s excitement. I add to it by walking outside and walking around. Then I have my children or a helpful neighbor walk around in front. It’s actually ideal if another dog walks by. We also start this on a long line to make sure there is control. All this is not done overnight. This is a build up of always setting the expectations that when that door opens it does not mean we exit with out a forward movement command. I suggest starting with a low level distraction doorway if you are able. Not the front door like Im doing in this video. I started this training with him in our basement door, then the back patio door and build up to the front door where there are more distractions. Remember the three D’s. Distance , distraction and duration when first training something new.

Training the place command distance , distraction ( my husband walking by and door opening ) and duration. I begin training this in a down all though dogs are allowed to stand and move just not leave the place. Down is just a relaxing position so helps them relax when beginning. What you did not see is before this I rang the doorbell and knocked on the door. To start desensitizing the sounds while in the place. I kept him on it for just a couple minutes after this. I did not want to set him up to fail. He is after all just a puppy and still new to this. Ranger is an old hat. The mess on the floor is food for more distraction( and Christmas because I’m just as much of a disaster with it as all parents this time of year ) also the 90000 pairs of shoes kids can’t seem to actually take upstairs. I place them there in hopes things will change and they never do. Basically training kids is my failure 😂

I was asked during an appointment if Ranger ever gets to just play. Please remember work for Ranger is play to him. However because I was asked. Here is a video of him being a giant puppy. Also does anyone know why these noisy squeaky toys make dogs crazy ??? It’s because of their prey drive. I will say Ranger was walked and worked this morning and this is not his main exercise also, when I say leave it or give him the off command, he immediately stops, so this is also a fun training exercise for all dogs. Teaching an off switch is so important. As is feeding his prey drive in a healthy way. Off to meet the new batch of fur babies starting this evening.

Ranger has sliced his paws open a couple times on searches. I have continued to try on different hiking boots. And he has hated them all….honestly this is my fault for not desensitizing him sooner to them. We will continue to work with them using lots of counter conditioning and positive praise. Hopefully slowly he will build a tolerance But for now….. here’s my Rottie turned into a Tennessee walker. Thank you to Swanky Paws Pet Spa for allowing us to work on this.

Things that are not in my dog training books are how to herd cows that end up on the road. Ranger and I figured it out though. A long with a couple other people that stopped to help . He was safely put pack into his pasture. Could not take much video because we where constantly moving to keep him safe.

Bodhi and Creed are home with their other pack members. Remember with a board and train. I set a great foundation and the owners has to build it and make it solid in their home and environment. We did extensive training on calming and existence training in home and in public. We also purposely worked with these puppies, and kept them separate to prevent littermate syndrome. She has followed all of her at home training to a T. Settling four dogs two of them being puppies and teaching them to be calm takes a lot of work and daily training. She is so in charge of this pack and putting in the work to keep them settled and calm. She does separate and together training sessions with them. It takes so much work, but she does it raises her children and runs a business. Everyone has time for a well trained dog. If they choose to. This is a video of her home and look at how calm they are. Yes , they get monitored play time. But its not a free for all , she gives them a job and direction through the training and this is the result.

Ranger and I took a hike in the woods. I used the opportunity to do some scent work with him. I had a whole video from start to finish. But 1) I suck at recording things 2) hate the way I looked on it and 3) it got really long. So you get a brief glimpse of it. Because you tube sensation is not my thing. I use scent tins with drops of essential oil todays smell was birch. While Ranger was hiking ahead of me ,chasing his tennis ball and could not see , I randomly dropped the tin ( I actually forgot where I dropped it and hiked much further then I realized). Then continued on with the hike. I had a plastic baggie with the smell in it. When we got pretty far away I asked him to sniff the bag and to seek the scent. For his reward ranger gets a tennis ball. He will touch the tin when he finds it ,as his que. You will notice I keep giving him the seek command as he follows the trail and looks back at me. This is actually air scenting vs trail (tracking) which Ranger also does and uses to track my children ( or wayward pups ) when we hide them deep in the woods. Great way to exhaust children and dogs. Once again Ranger is good at this. But he is not certified in any way. He is not the same as a true search and rescue dog.

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Suwanee Dog Mom

Christina McInnis a former service dog and agility trainer. She entered the corporate world for many years and then stayed at home with her children. She decided to return to her passion and share what she knows with her boys and others. She is currently working on her CPDT- KA certification . Committed to providing the most effective, convenient solutions to her clients’ dog training needs, Christina is avidly pursues ongoing continuing education and professional development by attending seminars and keeping current on all industry literature. Suwanee dog mom puts clients first and believes the whole family should be involved with training the dog. When not helping clients to enjoy easier lives with their canine companions, Christina enjoys training their newest addition ranger to become a certified therapy dog. As well as spending time with her husband and children.