Obedience training is one of the most important investments you can make in your dog’s life. It does not matter if you are starting with a rambunctious puppy, an adult dog with ingrained habits, or a senior dog who has never been formally trained. Every stage of life offers unique opportunities to strengthen obedience, improve…
Life gets busy. Between work, school schedules, and travel, it is easy for dog training to fall through the cracks. But the truth is that consistency is the most important part of maintaining good behavior. Even if you do not have hours to dedicate to training, you can still reinforce obedience and prevent bad habits…
When it comes to exercise and socialization, many owners immediately think of the dog park. Wide open spaces, other dogs to play with, and an outlet for energy sound like the perfect recipe for a happy pup. But as a professional trainer, I often hear owners frustrated after repeated trips to dog parks. Instead of…
Many dog owners resist crate training because they think it feels restrictive or unfair to their dog. But as a professional trainer, I can tell you that crate training is one of the most important skills you can teach. When introduced correctly, the crate is not punishment. It becomes a safe, calming space for your…
Fall in St. Louis is one of the best times of year to enjoy time outside with your dog. The cooler air, colorful leaves, and seasonal events create countless opportunities to bond with your pet. But beyond just being fun, many fall activities can double as obedience training. With the right approach, your dog will…
As the weather cools down and fall hiking season approaches, you may be thinking about taking your dog along for more outdoor adventures. Whether it is a local trail, a pumpkin patch, or just long walks through the neighborhood, one skill makes or breaks the experience: leash walking. There is nothing enjoyable about being dragged…
Dog socialization is not just about meeting other dogs. It is about preparing your dog to confidently and calmly handle the world around them. Parks, cafes, patios, walking trails, neighborhood events, and even vet visits all introduce new sounds, smells, people, and distractions that your dog must learn to navigate. As a professional trainer, I…
Back-to-school season can sneak up fast. One week the house is full of activity, and the next it is eerily quiet between the hours of 8 and 3. While many families are busy prepping backpacks and class schedules, they often forget one important member of the household who will feel the change most: the dog….
Welcoming a dog into a home with children can be one of the most rewarding experiences for a family. But without structure, the combination can quickly become chaotic. Kids do not automatically know how to behave around dogs, and dogs often misinterpret children’s energy and movements. That is where structured training comes in. As professional…
Your Backyard: Summer Playground or Hidden Hazard? During the St. Louis summer, backyards become the heart of family fun with BBQs, games with the kids, lawn lounging, and social gatherings. But for your dog, this fun-filled space can also be full of temptations and dangers. Whether your pup is trying to steal burgers off the…
