The “Evolution”
Reflecting on something I saw at the dog show this weekend. Keep in mind I’ve previously trained and shown a dog through utility, trained the “old school way” using choke collars, forced retrieves, and...
Two Paws Up Dog Training Blog
5 Reasons NOT to Take Your Dog to the Parade (or Fireworks)
Okay, I’m going to get on my soapbox! Parades and fireworks displays are NO PLACE for a dog! Please! I am pleading here. Leave your dog at home! Here are five reasons to leave your dog at...
4 Ways to Improve Your Relationship in the New Year
As we look forward to 2019 let’s make one resolution together. To improve the relationship between our dogs and ourselves. Let’s face it, life moves fast. We are all busy and finding “extra” time...
Fairy Godmothers and Magic Wands
We all live in a world that we’d love to change. Dog training is often about “changing” a dog in the opinion of the owners. It is important to look at our dogs and...
Rewarding vs. Bribing
“Eat your vegetables and you can have dessert.” Remember hearing this as a kid? I may have hated green beans as a child but if I knew there was ice cream afterwards I could...
It’s All About the Food
During my 30 years as a dog trainer I have yet to meet an owner who refuses to feed their dog. Many owners feed their dog religiously twice daily. Yet many of these owners are...
My Dog is Stubborn!
As a professional dog trainer I try not to label the dogs I work with. I observe the dog’s behavior and then try to help the owner understand why their dog may be misbehaving...
The Importance of “Tricks”
Full of the Dickens Odds on Favorite, AKA Hans, debuted in the conformation ring Saturday in the 9 to 12-month puppy class. He did extremely well earning a Group 2 Puppy Herding Group placement...
Practice and Proofing Behaviors
The recent controversy involving a German Shepherd on the movie set of “A Dog’s Purpose” has sparked much discussion regarding the treatment of animals in the name of “training” and “entertainment.” The video clearly...
The Importance of Proper Socialization
Have you ever wondered how your dog’s experiences early in life help to shape their behavior as they mature into adulthood? Attached is an excellent article looking at how the culture in the UK...
Fading the Food? Should you?
One question we get asked repeatedly is “When can I get rid of using food?” The answer…Never! At least in our minds. Everyone needs to eat so why not use part of your dog’s...