If you’re wondering how to train a dog to accept paw handling, you’re not alone. I’ve been working as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer for years, and one of the most common hurdles new pet parents face is getting their dog comfortable with something as simple as a paw touch. Sounds basic, right? But from a…
When it comes to helping our furry friends cope with anxiety or stressful situations, one of the most effective tools I’ve found as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer is teaching them how to go to a safe space. You might wonder, how to train a dog to go to a safe space during stress—and that’s exactly…
If you’ve ever worked with therapy dogs—or even just tried to train your own furry friend—you know one thing for sure: teaching a dog to stay quiet while working isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. As a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I’ve seen firsthand how important this skill is, especially when dogs need to maintain…
When you’re out and about—maybe grabbing a coffee, running errands, or enjoying a quiet afternoon at the park—the last thing you want is your dog drawing stares with endless whining. Trust me, as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I’ve seen it all. Whining can be more than just annoying; it can be a sign of anxiety,…
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…
Ever had your pup completely freak out during fireworks, parades, or birthday parties? Yeah, me too. One of the most common concerns I hear as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer is how to train a dog to be okay with loud celebrations. Whether it’s the 4th of July or just an impromptu karaoke night, dogs don’t…
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…
Let me tell you — if I had a biscuit for every time someone asked me how to train a dog to stay still for putting on a leash, I’d have to open a bakery by now. I’ve been working as a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer for years, and one of the most overlooked skills in…
If you’ve ever wished your dog could fetch Mr. Squeaky or Banana Bear on command, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into how to train a dog to recognize different toys by name. As a Canine-Assisted Therapy Trainer, I’ve spent more hours than I can count working with pups who not only bring…