WOW BOW WOW-Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant

06/11/2025

Tell me one thing you love about your dog

Ever brought home a new dog and felt like you were failing?

That mix of excitement and "oh no, what have I done?" is a real and common feeling, especially when the reality of being responsible for another living being hits home and training is not going as smoothly as you thought it would.

The training tips that worked for your last dog or the perfect 15-second clips on social media just aren't cutting it.

You may be blindsided by unexpected behaviors like reactivity on your walks, excessive barking, resource guarding or separation anxiety, or the unrelenting time commitment may be leading to burnout.

This can put a strain on your relationships and leave you feeling overwhelmed and even regretful—a feeling known as puppy blues.

The truth is, your dog is an individual with their own needs, and there's no shame in feeling this way.

YOU ARE NOT FAILING.

Here's How to Move Forward:
🐾 Adjust Your Expectations: You've probably realized that "one-size-fits-all" tips won't work. Real, lasting training takes time. Your dog's timeline is their own, not a social media highlight reel.

🐾 Focus on the "Why": Rather than just trying to stop an unwanted behavior, seek to understand its root cause. These are often signs of stress or a lack of clear communication.

🐾 Create a Rhythm: Combat time burnout by building a consistent daily routine. Schedule training, walks, and dedicated quiet time to help both you and your dog thrive.

🐾 Communicate with Your Team: Talk to your partner, roommate, or family to establish clear boundaries and rules for the dog. Everyone needs to be on the same page to reduce confusion.

🐾 Seek Support: You don't have to do this alone. Reach out to a professional trainer or find a community that understands your struggles. A little guidance can build your confidence and make a world of difference.

Remember, the fact that you care enough to feel this overwhelmed means you're already a great dog guardian. You're both learning together.

Did this post hit home for you? Drop a ❤️ below if you've felt this way.

And don't forget to share at least one thing you love about your dog!

05/11/2025

The Real Reason Your Dog Doesn't "Hear" You.

You've watched the YouTube videos, scrolled through countless articles, maybe even bought a class or two. You know what you should be doing. Yet, the training never really starts, or it fizzles out after a few days.

You're not alone. The truth is, both you and your dog are stuck in this rut. For your dog, it's a cycle of unwanted behaviors--pulling on leash, rudely jumping on people, barking at other dogs, not coming when called--that they don't know how to stop. For you, it's a cycle of stress, frustration, and doubt.

This isn't about laziness; it's often about emotional roadblocks:
😔 Overwhelm: There's so much information, you don't know where to start.
😔 Fear of Failure: What if you try, and it still doesn't work? It feels safer not to try at all.
😔 Frustration: You've tried things before, and they haven't stuck, leading to deeper disappointment.
😔 Time: Life is busy, and adding one more "to-do" feels impossible.

These feelings are powerful, and they stop progress in its tracks. You're stuck in a cycle of knowing what to do but feeling paralyzed to begin.

Let's Finally Change This.
Which of these is your biggest roadblock? Overwhelm, Fear, Frustration, or Time? Or is it something else? Please share in the comments!

✔️ My approach is designed to overcome those roadblocks and get both of you moving forward, consistently, with confidence. Here's how we get unstuck together:
⭐ Step-by-Step Clarity: No more overwhelm. I break down complex behaviors into simple, manageable steps so you know exactly what to do next.
⭐ Addressing YOUR Specific Issues: Generic advice rarely works. We'll identify the root cause of your dog's behavior and tailor a strategy that truly fits your life and your dog's unique needs.
⭐ Accountability & Momentum: I'm here to cheer you on, celebrate wins, and gently keep you on track. Consistent progress builds confidence, and confidence fuels more progress.
⭐ Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: You and your dog are a team, and so are we. I'm your partner, providing expert guidance and support every step of the way.

Here's a hard truth: your dog's behavior is not going to get better on its own.

Choose to take the next step to stop feeling stuck and start seeing the transformation you've been dreaming of. Don't find yourself in the same (or worse) situation a year from now. Remember: progress over perfection.

Ready to finally get started (or restart) and see real results? Reach out for a conversation today!

I offer
(1) private training options
as well as
(2) group classes options: https://wowbowwowoc.newzenler.com/courses/rambunctious-pup-training-program

05/11/2025

Dog Training That Translates To Real Life

You've likely invested time teaching "sit" and "stay," aiming for that "well-behaved" dog.

But let's be honest, how does basic obedience really hold up when the doorbell rings, a stranger or dog pops up, or you're in a brand-new environment?

The uncomfortable truth? Traditional obedience often leaves you totally unprepared for the moments that truly matter.

A perfectly executed "sit" won't teach your dog to understand you in a high-stress situation. It won't help them chill out when the mailman arrives or genuinely feel safe when that other dog is barking and lunging on your walk.

This is Where We're Different.
We don't just train dogs. Our programs go way beyond the typical "sit," "down," and "stay." We focus on life skills – the kind that empower your dog and, more importantly, forge unbreakable communication between you two. The result? Your dog genuinely feels safe and secure in any situation . . and listens to you.

Think of it:
⭐ A rock-solid recall: So they come back because your connection is built on you listening to and understanding their needs, even amidst distractions.
⭐ Calmness in chaos: They learn to look to you for reassurance, rather than panicking (no more barking and lunging!), because they feel safe by your side.
⭐ Polite greetings: They learn to greet guests with a calm, 'four-on-the-floor' demeanor, replacing enthusiastic jumping with polite, relaxed behavior.
⭐ Confident, focused walks: Because of clear communication, they stay attuned to you and feel secure, actually enjoying every outing.

We use those foundational cues – yes, even "sit" and "down" – not as an end goal. They're the language through which we build this incredible communication and equip them with the skills to feel safe and secure with you.

The Real Magic? Train for Real Life, Real Challenges.
If you're tired of "training" that doesn't translate to real life, it's time to explore life skills training that builds clear communication.

Check out our "From Rambunctious to Well-Mannered Pup" group classes here as your next step: https://wowbowwowoc.newzenler.com/courses/rambunctious-pup-training-program

03/11/2025

https://greenpawwellness.com/blogs/news/reactive-dogs-what-is-really-going-on

Reactivity isn’t “bad behavior” — it’s your dog’s way of communicating stress. Learn what really causes reactivity to help calm anxious dogs naturally.

01/11/2025

Is Your Dog Barky on Leash? Get Real Help Here.

😔 Who here dreads walks because your dog turns into a "barky monster" every time you see another dog (or person, or squirrel!)?

You know that feeling of embarrassment, frustration, and just wishing you could enjoy a peaceful stroll with your pup.

If your dog is barky on walks, I see you. And I'm here to help.

I'm looking for just 3 dedicated dog guardians in/near Costa Mesa, CA who are ready to transform those stressful walks into enjoyable outings.

I'm opening up a special, focused training session designed to tackle that on-leash barking. This one-hour session is your crucial first step – a powerful kick-start to understand, manage, and begin to see less of your dog's reactivity and barking.

While we won't have a "fixed" dog after just one session (real transformation takes consistent effort!), you will walk away with concrete skills and a clearer path to help your dog feel calmer and more confident so they don’t have to bark excessively.

Here are the details:

What: Focused training to address on-leash barking.

When: Sunday, November 9th from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Where: Costa Mesa, CA (specific location details provided upon qualification)

Investment: A nominal $47

Link with more details about the session: https://wowbowwowoc.newzenler.com/courses/barky-dog-on-walks

01/11/2025

How to Chill your "wild child" pup

Tired of your “wild child” pup acting like a furry, untamed tornado? 🌪️ You know, the one who thinks "chill" is just a setting on the fridge?

Look, your dog isn't ignoring you on purpose. They just haven't learned the art of the calm yet!

But here’s the upside: you can transform that rambunctious energy into a well-mannered companion!

You'll gain the confidence to make it happen!

Our 6-week intimate group classes in Costa Mesa help you:
🐕‍ Settle your pup in any situation with personalized, hands-on guidance.
🏡 Practice in real-life type of scenarios, not just boring drills. More than just ‘sit’ ‘down’ ‘stay’
✨ Consistent weekly classes make practice a new habit that becomes second nature for both of you!

Get better walks, greetings without jumping, and readily comes back.

Ready to finally learn how to train a calmer dog that listens? Click the link to enroll! 👉 https://wowbowwowoc.newzenler.com/courses/rambunctious-pup-training-program

31/10/2025

Dog Training That Translates To Real Life

You've likely invested time teaching "sit" and "stay," aiming for that "well-behaved" dog.

But let's be honest, how does basic obedience really hold up when the doorbell rings, a stranger or dog pops up, or you're in a brand-new environment?

The uncomfortable truth? Traditional obedience often leaves you totally unprepared for the moments that truly matter. A perfectly executed "sit" won't teach your dog to understand you in a high-stress situation. It won't help them chill out when the delivery person stops by or genuinely feel safe when that other dog is barking and lunging on your walk.

This is Where We're Different. We don't just train dogs. We build relationships. Our programs go way beyond the typical "sit," "down," and "stay." We focus on life skills – the kind that empower your dog and, more importantly, forge unbreakable communication between you two. The result? Your dog genuinely feels safe and secure in any situation . . and listens to you.

Think of it:
⭐ A rock-solid recall: So they come back because your connection is built on you listening to and understanding their needs, even amidst distractions.
⭐ Calmness in chaos: They learn to look to you for reassurance, rather than panicking (no more barking and lunging!), because they feel safe by your side.
⭐ Polite greetings: They learn to greet guests with a calm, 'four-on-the-floor' demeanor, replacing enthusiastic jumping with polite, relaxed behavior.
⭐ Confident, focused walks: Because of clear communication, they stay attuned to you and feel secure, actually enjoying every outing.

We use those foundational cues – yes, even "sit" and "down" – not as an end goal. They're the language through which we build this incredible communication and equip them with the skills to feel safe and secure with you.

The Real Magic? Train for Real Life, Real Challenges. If you're tired of "training" that doesn't translate to real life, and you're ready for a dog who's confident, calm, and genuinely happy by your side, it's time to explore life skills training that builds clear communication.

Check out our "From Rambunctious to Well-Mannered Pup" group classes here as your next step: https://wowbowwowoc.newzenler.com/courses/rambunctious-pup-training-program

29/10/2025

🐶👻 The 5 Commandments of Not Ending Up on a First-Name Basis with the ER Vet This Halloween 🎃💀

We all love a good scare, but not when it involves a runaway pup or a 2 a.m. stomach pump. Follow these Absolutely Crucial (and slightly ridiculous) Safety Tips to keep your best friend alive and well.

Here’s the breakdown:
🎃 1. Operation: Canine Containment Protocol
The door is going to open more times than you've checked your phone today. This is prime escape time. Secure your dog behind a gate or in a separate room. They'll thank you for saving them from having to judge all the truly terrible adult costumes.

🎃 2. Create a Cuddle Zone
Trick-or-treaters are noisy, unpredictable tiny humans. Set up a quiet, safe haven with their favorite blanket, a solid chew toy, and maybe some zen music. Let them enjoy the night in glorious, anxiety-free isolation.

🎃 3. ID Tags: The Bat-Signal for Home
If your pup pulls a Houdini, those ID tags can be the only thing standing between them and a life as a stray. Double-check that their tags are current and their microchip information is updated. No one wants their lost dog returned to their old address from 5 years ago.

🎃 4. Guard the Hoard (The Candy)
Chocolate, xylitol, and those cheap plastic wrappers are a one-way ticket to a very expensive, sad night. Treat the candy bowl like it's the Holy Grail, and your dog is Indiana Bones. Keep it all out of reach!

🎃 5. The Costume Conundrum
If your dog looks like they're plotting your demise in that tiny hot dog outfit, they probably are. Ensure their costume is comfortable, doesn't restrict movement, and, most importantly, allows for unrestricted breathing. Comfort over viral-video fame, always. If they are not a fan of putting on the costume, don't.

👻 Have a spooktacular, fun, and safe Halloween!

28/10/2025

Got a "Bouncy" Pup? Transform That Energy into Good Manners! 🐾

Does your dog have endless energy, making every walk an adventure and every guest greeting a full-body experience?

You love their enthusiasm, but you're also dreaming of a pup who knows how to listen, focus, and be a well-mannered member of the family!

Our Rambunctious to Well-Mannered Pup Training Program is designed exactly for dogs (and their humans!) like you.

This isn't just about the basics like Sit, Down, and Stay. While we'll certainly master those, we go deeper! We believe in teaching real-life skills that truly make a difference, especially:
🐾 Calming Skills: Learn how to help your dog settle and focus, even when exciting things are happening around them. A dog who can calm down is a dog who can learn and listen!
🐾 Polite Greetings: Turn those bouncy hellos into calm, controlled introductions.
🐾 Loose-Leash Walking: Enjoy walks without feeling like your arm is being pulled off.
🐾 Reliable Recalls: Gain peace of mind knowing your pup will come back when called.

Transform your energetic friend into a confident, well-behaved companion. Join a community of dedicated dog guardians and discover the joy of effective, real-world training!

Ready to go from rambunctious to refined? Learn more and sign up for our upcoming classes! https://wowbowwowoc.newzenler.com/courses/rambunctious-pup-training-program

25/10/2025

Sweet dreams Jill! ♥️🐶 She had a busy day being the calm dog for reactive dog training sessions today—for Amber and for CJ, Desi & Diva.

My sweet girl has come a long way. She used to be the excessive barker on walks but not so much now. At times, she can still feel uncertain about some people when they’re too close and react.

Dont foget that our dogs are living, sentient beings. Be their biggest advocate. Help them feel safe so they know they can trust you.

Tell Jill she’s such a good girl!

24/10/2025

Raise your hand if you do this!

🙋🏻‍♀️ I go for the toe beans and neck myself