Category: Training

Dec 19
A SMART New Year

For a New Year’s resolution that is as easy to execute as it is to commit to, our trainer approved recommendation is the SMART dog training protocol, or See Mark and Reward Training.  SMART dog training is simple and straightforward – throughout the day, when you see your dog doing something you like, whether it’s […]

Nov 13
What colors do dogs see?

Have you ever thought about your dog’s umwelt? If you’ve never heard of the term, you’re not alone. I only recently encountered the concept for the first time while reading Ed Young’s Immense World. The word “umwelt” describes an animal’s unique perception of the world, shaped by its senses and experiences. In other words, your dog’s umwelt […]

Nov 13
Laundry Day Enrichment: A DIY Way to Entertain Your Dog

You don’t always need shiny new toys or expensive gadgets to keep your dog entertained. Some of the best dog enrichment ideas are right in front of you—like that overflowing laundry basket sitting in the corner. Before you start the wash, turn laundry day into a DIY dog enrichment activity. Simply sprinkle a few dog […]

Nov 11
Can Pet Insurance Cover Dog Training? Here’s What You Should Know

Did you know some pet insurance plans may actually reimburse you for professional dog training? More and more insurance providers now recognize that behavioral training isn’t just a luxury — it’s an essential part of your dog’s overall health, safety, and wellbeing. If your veterinarian recommends training to address a behavioral issue—like separation anxiety, fear, […]

Aug 01
The Reinforcer Buffet: Find the Best Training Treats for Your Dog

Wondering what treats to use during dog training? This simple and fun exercise will help you figure out which training treats your dog finds most motivating. Knowing your dog’s favorite rewards is key to faster learning, better focus, and more effective training sessions—especially in distracting environments. 🐶 Why This Matters: Choosing the right dog treats […]

Jul 24
Monthly Training Tip – Emergency Recall

With summer in full swing, we’re definitely all spending more time outside with our dogs. Even if your dog has a rock solid recall cue, we’ve all had the “oh sh*t!” moment of realizing we left the back door open, or that our dog has taken off after a bunny with no regard for the […]

Dec 06
The Top 5 Gifts for Dogs: Our Ultimate Gift Guide

Look no further for the perfect gifts for dogs this holiday season! We’ve put together a gift guide inspired by the toys and treats our own pups absolutely love. Tested, chewed, and sniff-approved, these are the items that keep tails wagging all year long. 1. The Best Sniff Gift for Dogs: DogNMat Polar Bear Snuffle […]

Nov 15
How to Keep your Dog Calm, Safe, and Happy on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, and for many of us, that includes our beloved pets! However, for many dogs, Thanksgiving can be stressful and overstimulating. Whether you’re planning to bring your dog to the festivities or have guests in your home, it’s essential to consider your pup’s unique personality and needs. […]

Nov 05
Training Senior Dogs: How to Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

  Our Chief Canine Officer, Theo, officially turns double digits at 10 years young this month! Since we began our training journey 5 years ago when Theo was adopted, learning new skills and tricks has been a key part of building Theo’s confidence, his bond with his favorite humans, and his overall goodboy-ness. He’s a […]

Nov 05
What is Positive Reinforcement Dog Training? And How Does It Work?

You’re probably familiar with the term “positive reinforcement,” but it’s important to clear up what it actually means before getting into the technical details. Many trainers who use punishment or aversive methods in their training misunderstand positive reinforcement as pandering to your dog. They maintain that the dog doesn’t learn respect as effectively as when […]