Treats and Triumphs Dog Training

13/02/2025

So often we hear the misconception that adolescent dogs are stubborn. They don't respond to our training because they're stubborn. They choose to disobey us because they're stubborn. We're here to tell you, this likely is not the case.

One thing we forget about adolescent dogs is that while they may look like adults, their brains are still developing, just like human teenagers! If your dog isn't listening, it's not a conscious choice they're making. In fact, it's likely they can't respond in that moment without your support, even if they tried!

So if you're feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, don't hack it alone. Get in touch and let's set you and your dog up for success.

10/02/2025

Yessss, listen to Science: Comfort. Your. Dog.

One of the most important things you can teach your clients is that comforting their dog during a trigger doesn’t reinforce fear. The misconception that comfort reinforces fear often leaves pet owners hesitant to provide the reassurance their dog desperately needs during stressful situations.

Here’s the science: Research in humans as well as in dogs* shows that comfort from a preferred social partner can reduce stress in difficult situations. In other words, not only does comforting a dog not reinforce fear, it actually helps reduce it.

* You can find one such study at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1558787817302502?via%3Dihub .

By encouraging your clients to offer calm, steady reassurance during triggers such as thunderstorms or fireworks, you’re empowering them to build trust with their dogs and increase their dogs' sense of security. This approach doesn’t “reward” fear—it helps reduce it.

Do you include this explanation in your training programs? Let us know in the comments!

09/02/2025

New parents with dogs often think about and plan for the first introduction between their newborn and pup, but that first moment is only the beginning of your journey as a parent. Each milestone presents new challenges, and we can't always know which will bother your dog the most. Instead of waiting to see how your dog reacts, we can prepare for the worst ahead of time and adjust if needed.

Remember, the more bad experiences your dog has with your baby, the more their relationship is set up for challenges as your child grows. Prevent negative experiences and foster safe, positive interactions for the best chance of success.

18/12/2024

The calm before the puppy tornado...

We're all set up for our last Puppy Play & Learn of 2024! A fun night of play and talking body language & behavior - does it get any better than that?

(Spoiler: No)

05/12/2024

We had a lovely time at Bond Vet - Fairfax's "Yappy Hour" tonight. Friendly staff, great space, pet portraits, and (most importantly?) free cookies! Welcome to the neighborhood, folks!

28/11/2024

If you think holidays are crazy for us, imagine being a dog! Lots of tempting smells, decorations, new people rushing around the house - and some of them are small and extra unpredictable.

To keep your dog and all your guests (especially the small ones) safe and comfortable tomorrow, encourage visitors to invite your dog in for gentle petting, instead of invading pup's space and restraining her. Check out Family Paws Parent Education to learn how "Invites decrease bites."

If you're expecting or have a young child and a dog in the home, we can help set your family up for a safe, fun winter. Visit the linktree on our page to make your dog a "First-Rate Family Dog!"

Do you think Mr. Wrinkles is enjoying this hug? Share your thoughts in the comments!

25/11/2024

Show of hands - is little Bellina the 𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 puppy you've ever seen, or the cutest puppy you've 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 seen?

This sweet girl is going to learn that there's way better stuff to chew on than mom's arms, and that new dogs, objects, sounds, and places are great news! (She already loooooves people, but we're going to keep up those good experiences too - so she keeps on loving them through adolescence.)

Do you have young puppy? We offer private training, weekly Puppy Play & Learns, and a monthly humans-only hang-out to chat about young dogs. Visit the linktree in our bio to learn more!

09/11/2024

We're having the best time running our SmörgåsBORK at Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic - ARMA's 2nd anniversary party!

22/10/2024

Taking turns isn't just for humans - dogs do it too! It's one way we can tell they're having a great time.

When we monitor play during our "Rover-Achiever" Puppy Play & Learns, we're always watching for "yes" signs and "no" signs. Are both puppies having fun? Is somebody trying to say "I'm done!"?

"Role reversal" is a big ole "yes" sign! Puppy 1 chases Puppy 2, then they switch. Puppy A is on top for wrestling, then Puppy B is. No one gets stuck in one role.

What are your puppy's "yes" and "no" signs? Come to a "Rover-Achiever" Puppy Play & Learn to find out!

🐶 Wednesdays at 6pm & 7:30pm
🐶 Fairfax, VA
🐶 $30
🐶 For puppies up to 4 months old

Visit https://treatsandtriumphs.com/rover-achiever/ to register!

21/10/2024

We're excited to be a vendor at Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic - ARMA's anniversary party! We'll have fun games and lots of tasty treats (of course). We can't wait to spend the day with all those adorable fluffy nubbins*!

*No shade to Aussies with tails. You're all 🔥🤩🤗

04/10/2024

Can you even handle the cuteness? Katie Ledecky and Torri Huske were our Homeward Trails foster puppy guests during this week's "Rover-Achiever" Puppy Play & Learns!

If you have a puppy under 4 months old, join us for fun, education, and socialization on Wednesdays at 6pm and 7:30pm in Fairfax.

Visit https://treatsandtriumphs.com/rover-achiever/ to learn more and register!

27/09/2024

Would you look at the head tilt on Miss Suzie? You know you need it in your life. Suzie is available for adoption at Homeward Trails Animal Rescue - go see her!

P.S. This lady is FOOD. MOTIVATED. She should be fun to train!

26/09/2024

"Rover-Achiever" Puppy Play & Learns start next week! Come for the play, stay for the learnin'!

In addition to puppy play time, Puppy Play & Learns will feature exercises and discussion about puppy body language, play behavior, and proper socialization practices. You and your puppy will have a blast!

For puppies under 4 months old.

Visit https://treatsandtriumphs.com/rover-achiever/ to learn more and register! 🐶

19/08/2024

We're SOOOO excited to offer enhanced puppy socials this fall!

Learn to monitor puppy play and read body language like a pro, and have a ball watching puppy antics!

- When: Wednesdays at 6pm and 7:30pm - starting October 2nd
- Where: Animal Behavior Wellness Center in Fairfax, VA
- Cost: $30 per puppy (advance registration required)
- Age range: 8 weeks - 4 months

Visit https://treatsandtriumphs.com/rover-achiever/ to learn more and register!

15/08/2024

New blog post about our new credential from Family Paws Parent Education! We're ready to help expectant families and families with young children succeed.

Check out the 1-min read, then schedule a free 15-min call!

Treats and Triumphs Dog Training is a licensed Family Paws Parent Educator. We can help you prepare for life with a dog and baby or toddler.