Ever caught your pup going in dizzy circles chasing its tail like it’s the most exciting game in the world? You’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer is how to train a dog to stop chasing their tail. While it might seem like harmless play at…
Training your dog to wait for a release command is one of the most important skills you can teach them. It not only helps with impulse control but also ensures safety in various situations. Whether you’re a seasoned dog trainer or a dog parent just starting out, this is a command that will come in…
Ever feel like your dog has an internal motor that just won’t quit? Whether you’ve got a high-energy shepherd, a nosy beagle, or a velcro pittie who follows you everywhere, knowing how to teach your dog to relax on a mat can be a game changer. Trust me, as someone who’s spent years in vet…
When people ask me how to train a dog to respect crate time, I get it—you’re not trying to lock your dog away. You’re looking for peace, structure, and maybe just five minutes to drink your coffee while it’s still hot. As a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I’ve seen how crate training, when done right, can…
So, picture this—you’re relaxing at home, finally sipping your coffee, and then knock knock… instantly, your dog’s inner security guard flips on like a switch. Barking. Lunging. Total chaos. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. One of the most common issues I deal with as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer is teaching owners how to train a…
If you’ve ever wondered how to train a dog to respond to a hand signal, you’re in the right place. I’ve spent years in the world of canine-assisted therapy, and let me tell you—there’s nothing quite like watching a dog respond to a silent cue with confidence and joy. Teaching dogs to understand hand signals…
If you’ve ever watched a full-grown dog roughhouse with a tiny pup and felt your heart skip a beat, you’re not alone. One of the most important skills I teach through my work as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer is how to train a dog to play gently with puppies. It’s not just about preventing accidental…
When I first started as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, one of the first behaviors I taught every dog—before fancy tricks or task work—was how to be gentle when taking treats. It might sound simple, but if you’ve ever had your fingers mistaken for a snack by an overexcited pup, you know how crucial it is…
If you’ve ever tried to teach your dog not to yank you down the street on walks, or begged them not to jump on guests like an overexcited kangaroo, you’re not alone—I’ve been there too. As an internal medicine physician who spends most of her days helping patients manage high blood pressure, I’ve learned firsthand…