Q&As

What is a good way to start your puppy’s morning routine?

A bathroom break/mini walk. Their bladder can’t wait but also the walk should be short so that your puppy doesn’t think that walks are the way to use up all their energy.

Come back inside and go into some fun, physical games for 5–10 mins to properly and safely burn physical energy. Via tug and pull games, fetch, light wrestling with you using an old towel etc.

Go into a mental game like hiding pieces of their breakfast inside an old towel for the puppy to have to use their brain, nose and snuffle each piece. Go for another mini walk now that your puppy is feeling mellow.

End it all by going back in and giving your pup a frozen Kong or a licky mat to chew on and settle with as you get your day started.

Why do dogs suddenly bark at nothing?

Dogs can hear and smell things we can’t (as easily and rapidly) sometimes. But that doesn’t guarantee that they’ll exhibit any type of response.

Barking, however, is a normal and common reaction that dogs will practice for various reasons. Most commonly to alert others around and/or to let whatever the trigger was know that the dog is aware of you and it would probably be best to go away.

Growing up I would always hear “Perro queue ladra no muerde.” Which in Spanish means “A dog that barks doesn’t bite.” and that’s because a dog that barks is communicating to you clearly that giving space and staying away is likely the best way you can proceed and avoid any confrontations. I find most bites tend to happen with the quiet, unsure/timid dogs that have used other, not as clear means of communication to…

What are some red flags to look out for when hiring a dog trainer for off-leash training?

5 Red flags:

🚩 They say they can provide you with a specific goal after x amount of time, especially before meeting or working with your dog. Dogs are individuals and much like us, they learn at different paces, especially if they’ve already had past experiences, good or bad.

🚩 They say you need a specific tool, especially if they’re the ones selling it. When it comes to recall, really the only main tool you need is an amazing and wonderful bond with your dog. No other tool will make your dog ACTUALLY want to come to you. Even treats, unless they are being used AFTER the dog has come to you, then they are being used as a lure/bribe, making it so if you’re without treats you risk having your dog not…

How can I make my puppy stop biting, pulling hair, and scratching me without hurting him physically or scaring him off mentally?

You want to prevent these behaviours because reacting in any way will mostly act as a reinforcer.

The usual issue with a puppy biting is them feeling the need to do that as a way to communicate to you that they’re..

Feeling bored: If your pup is awake, that’s their first indicator that they’re ready to go and do things! Biting is usually an indicator that they might’ve been waiting for a bit too long or that the activities they’ve gotten to do need something more. Mental enrichment is what most pet parents I know don’t really practice. I would start there.

Feeling overexcited: in which case you can provide their nose with a scent/treat to help guide their mind towards a different activity like a tug and…