Sarah Filipiak

dog training

Problems with your dog's recall?

Training your pup to consistently come when called can be a challenge, but by adjusting your training approach, you can help ensure they'll come to you no matter what.

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advanced training

Make sure your dog focuses anywhere you go + PDF handout

I used to be a pet sitter and dog walker. There were two dogs in particular, we'll call them Roxy and Rex, who I took on outings to busy places where there were people and other animals. When I first started walking Roxy and Rex, I was frustrated because they

dog training

What pro dog trainers know about using treats

Discover the power of treats in dog training! Learn the key tips you need to know when using treats as a reward, including how many treats to give and what types make the best rewards.

dog training

How to get your dog's attention fast: Teach an interruptor cue

James and his golden retriever, Emma, had been inseparable ever since James adopted her two years ago. Everywhere James went, Emma followed and thanks to James' dedication to training, he and Emma were able to enjoy a number of adventures together. One sunny day, James decided to take Emma to

dog training

Why your dog only listens when you have food

There's no harm in giving a treat every single time your dog does something you like! But there are times when you might not have a food treat handy, and you want to still reward your dog to keep the behavior going strong.

7 reasons your puppy is acting like a monster

1. She’s hungry. Assuming your puppy is feeling well and has an appetite, she’ll want 3–4 meals per day, maybe with some snacks in between. A hungry puppy will bite and mouth and can be difficult to dissuade. If your pup is acting this way, see if

puppies

My puppy gets too excited around other dogs

My puppy Beatrix is always so excited when she sees other dogs. She starts running, jumping up, and barking non-stop until the other dog moves away. I don't love it when she gets this worked up, because she ends up biting and scratching the other dog. Beatrix loves nothing more

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dog training

The No. 1 mistake people make when teaching their dogs to come when called

dog training

How to get your dog to pay attention to you outside

Your dog needs your help to learn how to focus his attention on you, especially outdoors. After he learns to pay attention, you'll be able to enjoy your walks and outdoor activities together more. The key is teaching him to look at you instead of sniffing or staring. To teach

advanced training

What is the ABA model of behavior change?

Understanding how behavior change works is the key to successful dog training. Having a mental framework provides insight into why certain behaviors occur, which will make it easier to train a dog to do what we want.

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professional trainers

Case study: The terrier terror + PDF handout

Max couldn't help himself. When the 7-month-old terrier mix saw his family come through the front door, he ran  to them and jumped on kids Sam and Grace. They started yelling at him to go away. Their mother Jane stepped between the children and the dog, exasperated. "No, Max! Get

behavior

How to tell if your dog is relaxed: Body language and signs

Do you know how to tell if your dog is relaxed? It can be difficult to decipher what your dog is feeling just by looking at them, but it's important to be aware of the signs that they are comfortable and content. In this post, we will discuss the body

dog training

Teach your dog to focus on you

There's no doubt dogs can be easily distracted. Squirrels, cats, cars, bikes, skateboards, the neighbor -- you name it, they're into it. With a little patience and some simple practice, you can teach your dog to stay focused on you during training sessions or while out on walks. It may

dog trainer certification

How To Become A Dog Trainer

So you want to be a dog trainer? Get the right skills and knowledge to succeed as a professional trainer.

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professional trainers

Case study: The mouthy puppy + PDF handout

Let me tell you about Jonah. Ben and Jonah are sitting on the couch. Susan is doing a few yoga stretches across the room while Ben watches football. Jonah runs to Susan, who coos at him before he jumps up and bites her in the behind. “Jonah!” she says sternly.

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professional trainers

What’s the key to good dog training?

behavior

Management for reactive dogs: How to keep your dog safe and under control on walks

If you have a dog who is reactive to other dogs or people when out on a walk, you are not alone. Many dog handlers find themselves in this situation. It can be frustrating and embarrassing, but there are helpful ways to manage and control a reactive dog.

advanced training

Is dog cloning going viral?

If you've lost a dog, you know the feeling. Who among us doesn't want their dog back?

behavior

Is my dog stressed? Spot the signs of stress in dogs

Do you ever wonder if your dog is stressed? You're not alone! Stress in dogs is a real phenomenon, and can have serious implications on your dog's behavior and quality of life. Fortunately, there are ways to spot the signs of stress in dogs before they become a problem. In

training

Wait at Door

How do we teach our furred friends to wait for permission to go out the door? How do we prevent others from leaving doors open, or pausing at the door while waving good-bye, or letting the screen door fly open when it’s windy?

puppies

Your puppy's first night home: How to make it a success

You've brought your new puppy home and you couldn't be more excited. Soon it'll be time to help settle your puppy for the night. What do you do? Read on for professional training tips on how to have a successful first night with your new pup.

dog training

Qualities you need to become a good therapy dog trainer

Becoming a therapy dog trainer is not an easy task. It takes a lot of dedicated dog training, dedication, and passion for both dogs and people. But if you have those qualities, and are willing to put in the time and effort required, then you can become a successful therapy

puppies

Puppy biting: How to stop it from happening

Ouch! Your puppy's needle teeth are sharp. How do you keep your puppy from biting your hands and feet? Here are a few professional dog training tips to keep your puppy's teeth off your hands, feet, kids, and clothing.

puppies

10 ideas for what to do with your puppy while you're at work

If you're like most people, you worry at the thought of leaving your puppy at home all day long while you go to work. All dogs, but puppies especially, need companionship and exercise. Here are 10 ideas for what to do with your puppy while you're at work.

behavior

Protect your dog from attacks on walks

[http://www.flickr.com/photos/9212250@N03/5672373804/] A few tips for protecting your dog from attacks on walks (especially a smaller dog): * Choose your path deliberately and avoid venturing into unknown territory with your dog. This isn’t a sure-fire way to avoid dog attacks, as accidents happen and