From the category archives:

Puppy Training

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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Teach your dog to Roll Over

July 26, 2010
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This trick is great fun for most dogs, but it can be a little scary for some pups to show their belly. Go slow, and if your dog isn’t having fun, you can always try something else. Step One: Step Two: With a treat in one hand and a clicker (if you so choose) in [...]

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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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Why Puppy Kindergarten is vital for your dog

September 11, 2009

Do you have a puppy between eight weeks and three months old? Then there’s not a minute to lose: enroll your new friend in Puppy Kindergarten! The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recently released a position statement recommending puppy socialization classes for puppies three months of age and younger. This recommendation is an exciting [...]

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Is your dog ready for group classes?

July 20, 2009

Dogs must be safe and feel safe around people and other dogs before they are ready to learn obedience and basic manners. Review the categories below to see which best describes your dog: READY – Is safe with all people and dogs. NEEDS IMPROVEMENT – Is safe with all people, but requires caution around other [...]

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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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Tip: What to look for in the parents of your puppy

March 19, 2009

photo credit: janiejonesmt So you’re ready to get your next puppy, and have done your research in choosing a breeder. Or maybe you’re about to pluck a puppy from a out of a litter that arrived with its mother. Of course you will want to know as much about your new puppy’s upbringing as possible, [...]

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Free puppy training download from Dr. Ian Dunbar

January 13, 2009

Dr. Ian Dunbar is giving away his book, “After You Get Your Puppy,” as a free download during the month of January! If you are thinking about getting a puppy, or already have a puppy, be sure to download your copy today.

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‘What do you think of Cesar Millan?’

November 12, 2008

I get asked that question a lot. The short explanation is that it’s a television show — entertaining to some, I’m sure, but not particularly useful to pet owners watching the show, and potentially dangerous to dogs and people alike. The longer explanation is here, or here. For you geeky behavior types, Eric Goebelbecker over [...]

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