If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of a walk or park visit, trying to wrangle your excited dog while someone asks, “Can I pet them?” — you’re not alone. Teaching your dog to stay calm and well-mannered during greetings isn’t just polite; it’s a foundational piece of responsible dog ownership. As a Canine-Assisted…
When you bring a dog into your life, one of the most exciting (and sometimes challenging) parts of training is learning how to communicate with them. But what happens when excitement turns into nipping? For many dog owners, understanding how to train a dog to stop nipping when excited can be a tricky hurdle. Having…
If you’ve ever wondered how to train a dog to tolerate wearing a costume, you’re not alone. As a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I’ve worked with countless dogs, each with their own personality and quirks. Dressing up dogs can be a fun and adorable way to celebrate holidays or special events, but for many dogs, the…
Training a dog to recognize their own toys is a rewarding experience that strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. As a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I’ve seen firsthand how this kind of training can boost a dog’s confidence and mental stimulation. It’s not just about teaching them how to fetch, but rather helping…
If you’ve ever wrestled with a muddy dog at your front door, you already know why how to train a dog to accept having their paws wiped is a total game-changer. As a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard clients sigh and say, “Tarra, I just can’t get him…
Wondering how to train a dog to wait before going outside? I totally get it. Teaching a dog patience—especially when they’re vibrating with excitement at the front door—isn’t exactly a walk in the park (pun very much intended). I’ve been a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer for years now, and trust me, I’ve seen it all. From…
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of helping people manage high blood pressure, it’s this—consistency, patience, and the right techniques make all the difference. Funny enough, the same can be said about dog training. As someone who juggles a full-time medical practice and life with two spirited dogs, I’ve had my fair share…
When it comes to grooming routines, *how to train a dog to stay still for ear cleaning* is one of the top questions I get from clients—and for good reason. Dogs and ear cleaning? Yeah, not the easiest mix. I’ve been a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer for over a decade, and I’ve worked with pups of…
If you’ve ever found yourself yelling “Come!” across a park while your dog gleefully pretends not to hear you, welcome to the club. Teaching how to train a dog to listen to commands from a distance is one of those game-changing skills that can make life with your pup not just easier, but way more…