From the category archives:

Adolescent Dogs

How a shelter dog is made

August 24, 2010
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Ian Dunbar talks about how dogs become shelter dogs. The message in this short video is vital for anyone who is getting or has a puppy, works with shelter or rescue dogs, or anyone considering adopting a shelter or rescue dog. (Photo credit: bk2000)

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Teach your dog to Shake Hands

July 30, 2010
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This is a great trick to teach your canine companion; what better way for him to greet a new human friend than with the shake of a paw? Shaking hands is a relatively easy trick to train, but as with everything else it may take a little patience. There are a few ways to train [...]

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Best Pets Guide to Crate Training Your Dog

April 30, 2010

Guess what? Dogs have to be taught to like their crates! Here are a few ways we get new dogs settled into their crate homes: Feed all of your dog’s meals and special treats in the crate. This includes stuffed Kongs, bully sticks, bones and chews, as well as any “just because” treats or table [...]

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The best toys for young, strong dogs

January 7, 2010
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Most dogs between five and 18 months, large or small, play hard — so it’s up to us to locate toys that are both safe and last more than 20 seconds once the dog starts using them! Soft latex or plush toys aren’t suitable for most growing dogs (although some dogs enjoy carrying a fleecy [...]

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The 15-minute feeding schedule

April 7, 2009

What is the 15-minute feeding schedule?

It’s the simplest way to alter the way your dog interacts with you, with the least effort on your part.

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Roundup: Your adolescent dog

September 23, 2008

A roundup of articles to help you and your pup sail through the choppy waters of adolescent months. “Adolescent Changes” From Dog Star Daily. No, you’re not losing your mind — the cute puppy who would never leave your side is now blowing you off and stealing from the trash. Learn what to expect, and [...]

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Teach your dog to lie down

July 26, 2008

Teaching your dog to lie down is a relatively simple task. Start with some tasty treats your dog loves, and in a location your dog is already comfortable. Smaller dogs can first learn this task on a sofa or soft chair, if need be. Grab a big handful of treats. Ask your dog to sit [...]

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Three simple strategies for training your dog not to jump up

June 11, 2008
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Teaching your dog not to jump up on you or your guests may seem like an impossible task, especially if you have a dog who loves people (and people who love dogs)! How many times have your guests been greeted at the door by your overenthusiastic canine’s nose and front feet, while you haplessly shout [...]

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Doggie Zen

February 9, 2008

“Doggie Zen” is an exercise I learned from clicker trainer Shirley Chong. This exercise is particularly effective in teaching your dog to focus on you amidst distraction. Before you begin, remember… A click is a promise that a treat is coming. Always offer your dog a reward after you click, even if you have made [...]

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Keep your dog from counter-surfing

January 10, 2008

If you’ve been a victim of the disappearing roast trick, you will identify with a recent episode at my house. I left a sandwich unattended on the table to answer the phone. The conversation was short — less than a minute — but alas, it was too long. I returned to the room to find [...]

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